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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/155,060, filed Apr. 30, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The embodiments described herein relate to a seed planter and, more particularly, to an automated spring force adjuster for such seed planters.
[0003] Conventional planting implements currently used in farming, commonly referred to as “planters,” utilize a seed channel opener, typically in the form of a disc, that creates a channel or furrow in the soil for seed placement. Due to varying soil conditions of a field being planted, as well as different depths for different types of seeds being planted, it is desirable to adjust a spring force that assists in controlling the seed planting depth achieved during a planting operation.
[0004] Adjustment of the spring force requires manual adjustment by an operator. For example, an operator must exit a tractor to go to each individual planter row unit to manually turn a large retaining nut that is operatively coupled to the spring shaft to set an estimated down force pressure for the row unit. This adjustment system undesirably leads to costly wasted time by the operator. Furthermore, the adjustment of the spring force is subject to operator error, particularly as the operator becomes fatigued throughout the planting operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] According to one aspect of the disclosure, an automated spring force adjustment assembly for a seed planter includes a screw. Also included is a spring wound around an outer surface of the screw. Further included is a nut in threaded engagement with the outer surface of the screw and in contact with the spring. Yet further included is a motor operatively coupled to the screw to rotatably drive the screw, rotation of the screw translating the nut, translation of the screw adjusting the compression of the spring.
[0006] According to another aspect of the disclosure, an automated spring force adjustment system for a seed planter includes a controller unit. Also included is an electric motor in operative communication with the controller unit to receive a signal therefrom. Further included is a gear arrangement operatively coupled to an output shaft of the electric motor. Yet further included is a ball screw operatively coupled to the gear arrangement. Also included is a spring wound around the ball screw, the spring force controlling a seed planting depth. Further included is a ball nut in threaded engagement with the outer surface of the ball screw and in contact with the spring.
[0007] These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a tractor towing a planter;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an automated spring force adjuster for a seed planter; and
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the automated spring force adjuster with a housing removed.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] Referring now to the Figures, where the invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments, without limiting same, an automated spring force adjuster is provided to assist in seed planting operations.
[0013] Referring to FIG. 1 , schematically illustrated is tractor 10 with a planter 12 hitched thereto. Although not illustrated in detail, the planter 12 comprises a fixed main frame having tires attached thereto for movement along the ground. The planter 12 includes a disc assembly that is used to cut a channel for a seed to be placed. The disc assembly is operatively coupled to a gauge wheel that is used to set ground penetration depth during a seed planting operation. The gauge wheel is provided to follow behind the channel and pack the soil to a desired depth. The gauge wheel is mounted to a beam arrangement.
[0014] As shown, the planter 12 includes a plurality of row units 14 that are spaced from each other in a lateral direction. Each of the row units 14 translates over the ground and plants seeds at spaced intervals, and to a desired depth, along the direction of travel of the respective row unit. The desired depth is predetermined by an operator. The beam arrangement is mounted to facilitate seed planting depth control.
[0015] A biasing spring 16 ( FIG. 2 ) is operatively coupled to the beam arrangement and is adjustable to adjust the force exerted by the spring 16 , thereby controlling the beam arrangement, which assists in controlling the seed depth placement, as described above.
[0016] Rather than requiring manual adjustment of the spring force, the embodiments described herein provide an operator the advantages of an automated spring force adjustment system 17 . The automated system includes an electric motor 18 ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) that is position controlled by a controller based on a signal sent from a controller unit 22 . In some embodiments the signal sent to the electric motor controller is sent in a wired manner and in alternative embodiments the signal is sent wirelessly. In one embodiment, the controller unit 22 is located onboard the tractor 10 and includes a monitor that the operator may interact with. Such an embodiment may include a touch screen that allows the operator to input commands with. Alternatively, the controller unit 22 may be operated by a wireless device, such as a tablet, laptop computer, cellular phone or the like. Regardless of the specific type of controller unit interface employed, the operator may adjust all of the spring forces of biasing spring 16 ( FIG. 2 ) for each respective individual row unit 14 at the same time and consistently. Each row unit 14 will have the same loads exerted based on the similar signal being sent to each unit. Alternatively, different rows may be adjusted with a different spring force than adjacent rows.
[0017] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the automated spring force adjustment system 17 is illustrated in greater detail. FIG. 2 illustrates the automated spring force adjustment system 17 with a housing assembly 23 , while the housing assembly 23 is removed in FIG. 3 to better illustrate certain features of the system 17 . The electric motor 18 is illustrated and includes an output shaft 24 . The particular type of electric motor employed may vary depending upon the particular application, but in some embodiments, the electric motor 18 is a 3-phase, 12 Volt DC motor. Irrespective of the type of motor, the output shaft 24 is operatively coupled to a worm gear arrangement 26 that is non-back drivable to drive the worm gear arrangement 26 . More particularly, the output shaft 24 is operatively coupled to a worm 28 of the arrangement 26 , which rotates a worm wheel 30 that the worm 28 is engaged with. The gear ratio of the worm gear arrangement 28 may vary depending upon the particular application, but in some embodiments a 15:1 worm gear box is employed. As shown in FIG. 2 , the housing assembly 23 includes a gearbox housing 32 that environmentally seals the worm gear arrangement 26 to maintain operational integrity of the worm gear arrangement 26 .
[0018] The worm wheel 30 is operatively coupled to, or integrally formed with, a screw (shown as a ball screw 34 ). The ball screw 34 is a hollow screw having a hollowed portion 37 that is fitted over an existing shock for dampening of the overall system in some embodiments. The biasing spring 16 is disposed about, and in contact with, an outer surface 36 of the ball screw 34 . As discussed above, adjustment (e.g., compression) of the biasing spring 16 adjusts the planting depth of seeds or the like. Adjustment of the biasing spring 16 is achieved by interaction of a nut (shown as a ball nut 38 ) with the biasing spring 16 . The ball nut 38 is in threaded engagement with the outer surface 36 of the ball screw 34 .
[0019] In operation, an operator provides an input with the controller unit 22 ( FIG. 1 ) to send a signal to the electric motor 18 , which drives the worm gear arrangement 26 to rotate the ball screw 34 . Rotation of the ball screw 34 results in linear movement of the ball nut 38 in a longitudinal direction 40 of the ball screw 34 . The linear movement of the ball nut 38 compresses or relaxes the biasing spring 16 to a desired compression, which controls the planting depth.
[0020] As shown in FIG. 2 , the housing assembly 23 also includes a screw housing 42 to environmentally seal the ball screw 34 , ball nut 38 and biasing spring 16 . The screw housing 42 maintains operational integrity of the sealed components. In some embodiments, the screw housing 42 and the gearbox housing 32 are separate components. Alternatively, the screw housing 42 and the gearbox housing 32 are integrally formed to define a single, unitary housing assembly 23 .
[0021] A corrugated boot 44 surrounds a portion of the ball screw 34 to allow movement of the automated spring force adjustment system 17 in a flexible manner. Based on the environmentally sealed system, a breathing feature 46 is provided proximate an end of the corrugated boot 44 to provide air exchange. This relieves pressure within the sealed regions
[0022] Advantageously, the automated spring force adjustment system reduces operator time by completely eliminating manual adjustment time required by other planter systems. Furthermore, the opportunity for operator error generally, and particularly between row units, is greatly reduced.
[0023] While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description.
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An automated spring force adjustment assembly for a seed planter includes a screw. Also included is a spring wound around an outer surface of the screw. Further included is a nut in threaded engagement with the outer surface of the screw and in contact with the spring. Yet further included is a motor operatively coupled to the screw to rotatably drive the screw, rotation of the screw translating the nut, translation of the screw adjusting the compression of the spring.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] A novel computing approach for non-systematic hypothesis generation forms the basis of a trend or pattern analyzer embodied in a device or system that typically creates an automatic triggering event, such as an alarm, telephone call, electronic transaction, etc.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Hypothesis generators of various kinds are known in the art—indeed, hypothesis generation is the very basis of the scientific method. Prior art hypothesis generation has inevitably been rational or at least systematic, so that a plausible potential connection between an envisionable trend and a possible outcome of that trend is first postulated and the postulation is tested. As a single illustrative example of prior art techniques, a financial professional may realize that, based on initial principles, a particular type of stock should move in a particular way. He or she then traditionally tested the idea based on empirical records (or perhaps by investing a small amount of money) to see whether the theory panned out. In other words, there has typically been a traditional path from a plausible or reasonable idea to a reasonable, tested idea which finally leads, when verifiable, to a useful and validated idea for (in this example) stock market investing. This same prior art path has traditionally played out in an unlimited number of fields in which trends are important, thus by definition including without limitation any dynamic system such as weather prediction, celestial dynamics, voter registration and election outcomes, economic forecasting including stock price changes and corporate profitability prognostics, and possibly most importantly medical diagnostics and prognostics based on patient data sets and their dynamic trends.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention implements, in a trend or pattern trigger device or system, hypothesis generation while removing the heretofore unappreciated “you only ever find what you are looking for” fallacy of prior art hypothesis generation paths. The invention accomplishes this result by automating hypothesis generation with templates or charts to allow—and typically to require—consideration of trends or patterns that might or might not otherwise rationally or plausibly occur to an investigator to consider. The removal of the “you only ever find what you are looking for” fallacy is specifically accomplished by the use of trend or pattern examination templates or charts that register the presence, absence or value of nominal data and/or contain quantifiable thresholds for data or change in data without a priori specific postulation as to which data, thresholds, trends or patterns will prove important. In this way, computational analysis of data sets analyzed parameter thresholds yields trend or pattern analysis results independent of anyone's being able to, or having had to, postulate a potentially significant trend—because the computational analysis not only identifies the trend or pattern but likewise identifies which parameters or indicia are actually important. The invention is not just a computational method, however—the invention is a trend or pattern trigger device or system that takes an analytical approach applied to any given data set which then, upon identification of one or more trends, also reacts to real-world occurrence of events matching those trends by generating a further event, such as an alarm, telephone call or other concrete transaction. The implementation of this novel approach may occur in a wide variety of fields, described more particularly in the ensuing description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention is in part a hypothesis generator in which templates or charts provide the thresholds for various indicia or parameters for analytical software and computational analysis to identify trends in data sets representing dynamic systems. Apart from the above general description of the inventive approach, the following initial examples is illustrative. From a financial perspective, one can use notation like Parsons codes or randomly generated charts to probe whether “stocks whose immediate past history looks like THIS (<insert chart>) will perform better/worse than average or better/worse than stocks that look like THAT (<insert chart>).” It is also possible to use financial data to perform fundamental analysis: “stocks whose value of INDICATOR is between THRESHOLD and THRESHOLD will perform better than average,” and any term in ALL CAPITALS can be filled in from a list of standard and not-so-standard financial measurements, or even randomly generated expressions or derived quantities, such as “market capitalization divided by number of employees”. The standard and not-so-standard financial measurements may or may not eliminate the seemingly ridiculous and may or may not include empirical or derived terms such as stock price divided by number of employees; sales volume divided by number of doors in factory; change in sales price divided by number of active web pages currently being maintained by the company; and even more far reaching parameters such as sales volume divided by, say, average employee age. The point of the invention is to make sure not to presuppose what the important data and thresholds are, but to investigate a wide variety of data trends or patterns in dynamic or static systems to identify, via templates and a broad if not shot-gun investigation, those trends or patterns that are statistically significant as to one or more outcomes.
[0007] At this writing, the inventors have identified approximately 3600 dynamic financial data trends that are all indicators of “buy” or “sell” for the stocks represented in the data sets. Some of these patterns (by no means the majority) are fifteen day patterns that occurred only 13 times in the particular data set. The patterns were tracked by “Parsons code” tracking, but any objective tracking system may be used. Parsons code is a tracking approach originally developed for music which allows for identification of pitch with indicators such as “up a little;” “up a lot;” “down a little;” “down a lot;” “neutral change” and so forth. More detail regarding Parsons code appears in the next paragraph. These particular fifteen day patterns of stock prices—whether up or down a little or a lot or not at all for fifteen consecutive days in the pattern identified—were strong “buy” or “sell” trend signals. However, each and every one of the approximately 3600 trends identified in the software and data set employed by the inventors—out of thousands more possible combinations—was a trend indicating a “buy” or “sell,” and thus in the context of a system or device constituted a “buy” or “sell” trigger. In other words, embodied in the system or device of the present invention, the identified trend triggers an event—an alarm, an automatic sale via electronic communication, or some other real world transformational event.
[0008] The Parsons code was technically invented for music, but can be applied to any sequence that rises and falls (like stock prices, blood glucose levels, asteroid acceleration, crop growth cycles, human IQ hour by hour throughout a single day, and limitless other examples) at discrete intervals (like musical note value lengths, or hours or days or weeks, without limitation). Each datum is either the same as the one before it (r), is higher (u), or is lower (d). For example, the song “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” in the key of A major has the following initial pitches: A, A, E, E, F ♯ , F ♯ , E. The starting note is ignored for coding purposes (which the inventors notate with an asterisk) followed by a repeat of the A, followed by an “up” transition to the E, and so forth. The final code for the above listed pitches is therefore “* R U R U R D.” A particularly useful aspect of Parsons codes is that they are scale invariant, or in other words if one wrote the song in D major instead of A major, the assigned codes would be the same. Parsons codes can also be assigned to any time values, thus making the codes potentially time invariant also. Parsons codes are also easily computable and can be easily generated at random when desired. For example, the inventors extended the Parsons code for a second set of experiments to include a richer set of transitions. Instead of just “up and “down”, the inventors allow for “up a lot” (larger than an arbitrary threshold set at 0.23%), “down a lot,” and so forth. So the final set of permitted changes is for stock price trend tracking is: *—ignore; U—up; u—up “a little;” ̂—up “a lot;” D—down; d—down “a little;” and v—down “a lot” (‘r’ is not particularly useful for stock transactions because stock prices generally don't repeat exactly). The results from the first and second experiments discussed in this paragraph appear in the attachment hereto entitled, “Exemplary Resulting Data.” The data are exemplary only and identify the trend and the analysis of the significance of the trend (including standard deviation) together with the indicator of action necessary consonant with the identified trend. More particularly, the columns in the data represent, in order, Parsons code, average % change in price, # times occurring, (average change +/standard deviation), and t-test score. The action indicator in the data governs—in the trend trigger device—the ultimate action of alarm, telephone transaction or other real world event. Please bear in mind that all the data represented on the attachment represent either “buy” or “sell” triggers—the trends that did not have enough significance to prompt an event were eliminated completely (or, more precisely, were not derived in the first place) during the computational analysis that forms a part of the present invention.
[0009] The invention is by no means limited to financial trends for stock price forecasting, however, and the invention as alluded to above is not really limited to dynamic systems at all. The template-queried data sets can analyze static systems also, such as text analysis—for authorship attribution or even for biological taxonomic or other categorization. For example, by ignoring a priori hypotheses regarding the differences between how men and women speak or write, and using the present invention, the inventors discovered that, empirically, women authors use “scent adjectives” (“fragrant,” “stinky,” “pungent” and so forth) with greater frequency than men authors do. A posteriori this finding is not surprising, because there is existing evidence that overall women have better olefactory sensitivity and acuity than men, but up until the present invention authorship attribution software did not consider or include the parameter of extent of incidence of scent adjectives as an author sex indicator. Similarly, traditional biological wisdom held that there were two species of elephant—the Asian elephant and the African elephant. Without even plumbing the genetic code of elephants, however, but just by examining various historic textual descriptions of elephants and objectively probing the patterns in the words used to describe them, it is possible to identify three trends of descriptions matching the three actual species of elephant—Asian, African Saharan and African Forest. Armed with trends identified in the textual descriptions, a researcher may then further probe the actual species' genetics for further pattern information consistent with this inventive approach. The point about authorship attribution, biological taxonomic research and other examples in this category is that they do not need to involve change over time. In the case of a static system, therefore, what would be a trend in a dynamic system is a pattern in a static system, with various indications' or parameters' being considered for pattern without the consideration of a time lapse element. Throughout this text, any reference to “trend” may be understood to refer to a pattern in a static system. Trend analysis of dynamic systems virtually always if not always includes a time lapse analysis, by contrast.
[0010] As used herein, a template or chart is a collection of one or more data field definitions in which a datum from a database is defined as to registration (presence or absence) of nominal data and/or as to threshold quantity or rate of change of quantifiable data. The template or chart is therefore useful to probe and analyze data in the database as to the presence or absence of data, various threshold quantities or rates of change (or derived quantities or rates of change) of data, and optimally there are more rather than fewer registration or threshold values in the template or chart—to reduce presumption error by having defined too few data or threshold values defined. The choice of fewer and then more threshold values is apparent in the stock price example described above and in the two sets of results shown in the accompanying attachment.
[0011] As a single non-limiting example of medical application of the present trend trigger device, the template for heart attack prediction in women over age 50, say, could include any or all of the parameters or thresholds of average blood glucose level, blood glucose level 30 minutes postprandial, average resting pulse, average blood pressure, average blood pressure on rising, length of typical work day in hours, average hours slept, genetic racial makeup, age at prima gravidae and so on. Indeed, the template parameters in this or any other example will often be dictated by the available data in the dataset—patient data that does not include length of a typical work day in hours cannot be probed for trends in which work day length is significant. However, and critically, the invention suggests that all available data be analyzed for trends rather than deciding, before analysis, which data should be considered. In the instant example, then, a patient monitor in a hospital that is cued by the software and analysis of the present invention will monitor the patient and, when the patient's indicator data patterns match a trend identified as critical by the software and device, an alarm will sound to indicate that the patient is at imminent risk of heart attack. Presumably the “alarm” is not styled to be upsetting enough to precipitate heart attack based on adrenaline surge or reaction to the alarm—instead, the “alarm” is the professional informing event or notification that motivates appropriate medical intervention, such as without limitation administration of an appropriate medicine, environmental change and/or treatment designed to intervene and to remove the patient's vital and other signs from matching the alerted trend.
[0012] The actual software or algorithm(s) used to probe and track trends or patterns are not critical in the practice of the invention. Any codes, such as the above-described Parsons code, that provide trend or pattern tracking may be used in the software portion of the present invention, and Parsons code is particularly suitable for use for actual trends that include a time element. Patterns, as opposed by trends, can be searched and matched using other software known in the art. The key to the invention is in trending or patterning a wide variety of indicia or parameters, ideally at multiple thresholds, with minimized or no human decision in advance which indicia, parameters or thresholds or even data types are important. Generally speaking, the trend or pattern trigger system or device considers and analyzes at least three indicia or parameters and more preferably at least four indicia or parameters (empiric events or derived parameters, such as stock sales price divided by number of employees). More preferably, for trend triggers the indicia or parameters are tracked and analyzed over at least four and most preferably at least five consecutive repeating time units, such as hours or days. This is not to say that an identified trend will always occur with three or more parameters or over four or more repeating time units, but the present invention will preferably consider such parameters and time units in identifying the triggering trend—which trend may be more simple than three parameters or four time units or may be much more complex.
[0013] It is also possible to implement the above analysis and trend or pattern triggering with the partial participation of a human intellect at any point throughout the process. The point of the analytical trend identification and triggering is to remove at least some of the a priori human prejudice from the trend identification, if not all of it.
[0014] Finally, it should be borne in mind that the present invention has application to virtually any database. Typically in the prior art, databases are queried with the desired output in mind. In the present invention the software and computational analysis look for trends or patterns in all available data as tied to an outcome (stock price increase or decrease, imminent onset of heart attack, etc.) By extension, then, it will always be possible to design a database as to which the computational analysis of the invention is deployed. In keeping with the idea of the invention, database design of this type is best conducted in an inductive way—including all available data types or fields rather than trying to rationalize which data fields will prove important. This implementation requires a change of mindset from traditional database design. Heretofore, data was included in a database in fields already determined to be important and relevant. In the present invention, however, virtually always any database should be compiled to include all available data or derived data—for example not just the batting histories and ages of the players on the Little League team, say, but also each player's hair color, shoe size, grade point average, runs batted in divided by years on the League, and whatever else in the way of data and thresholds is available. In other words, in order to implement the present invention all potentially available data is analyzed for trends or patterns, not just the data a priori believed to be important. At a macro level, the software and computational analysis of the present invention becomes a hypothesis generator in a way that substitutes for human hypothesis generation. At a practical, real world level the invention institutes pattern or trend identification without limiting human prejudice and deploys such pattern or trend identification to match real world patterns or trends to prompt action in the event of a pattern or trend match. Such a trend or pattern trigger device or system can thus intelligently govern buy or sell orders in an investment portfolio, predict and precipitate the averting of asteroid strikes, or prevent heart attacks or strokes—to name just a few.
[0000]
EXEMPLARY RESULTING DATA
*DDDDDDDDDUDUU 0.580928% (2) (0.005809 +/− 0.001645) 3.532051!
*DDDDDDDUDUUDU −1.249766% (2) (−0.012498 +/− 0.004544) −2.750236!
*DDDUUUUDDDDDD 2.339151% (3) (0.023392 +/− 0.006189) 3.779422!
*DDUUUUUDUDDDD −1.012965% (2) (−0.010130 +/− 0.001773) −5.712390!
*DUDDDDUDUDUDD −1.042046% (2) (−0.010420 +/− 0.000229) −45.599210!
*UDDDDDDUUUDUU 0.676106% (2) (0.006761 +/− 0.001111) 6.086344!
*UDDUDUUDDUDUD −1.075682% (3) (−0.010757 +/− 0.003985) −2.699416!
*UDUUDDUUDUUUD −0.829228% (13) (−0.008292 +/− 0.003258) −2.545589!
*UUUDDDUDDDDDD 1.788045% (3) (0.017880 +/− 0.001927) 9.279175!
and the more complex version
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud −2.129542% (2) (−0.021295 +/− 0.005188) −4.104903!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UUdD{circumflex over ( )}dvuUdD 3.228126% (2) (0.032281 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuvDUU{circumflex over ( )}v −0.811544% (3) (−0.008115 +/− 0.002257) −3.594943!
*DdDUuU*{circumflex over ( )}*vv 6.150688% (2) (0.061507 +/− 0.004585) 13.413372!
*DdduvdvDD 1.564246% (2) (0.015642 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UduUuvvvU −0.409838% (2) (−0.004098 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}uvDDD{circumflex over ( )} −1.594968% (3) (−0.015950 +/− 0.006892) −2.314108!
*vv*D{circumflex over ( )}UUvDddd −2.277629% (2) (−0.022776 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uvv*{circumflex over ( )}DDuuU 2.501327% (2) (0.025013 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvvdduUDvud 2.850777% (2) (0.028508 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}*U 2.163893% (2) (0.021639 +/− 0.002359) 9.174693!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuD*v{circumflex over ( )}U 3.683082% (3) (0.036831 +/− 0.007558) 4.873194!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}dDUdUD* 1.129646% (2) (0.011296 +/− 0.001599) 7.066081!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvDvvUu −5.572418% (2) (−0.055724 +/− 0.012893) −4.321968!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}dDUvDdv −3.574746% (2) (−0.035747 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UDUU{circumflex over ( )}dvUD −2.365054% (3) (−0.023651 +/− 0.007865) −3.006926!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}uDDDDUDDuD 0.214284% (2) (0.002143 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuDvUud*udd 2.234371% (2) (0.022344 +/− 0.003578) 6.244253!
*DUUuvdu{circumflex over ( )}UU 0.363948% (3) (0.003639 +/− 0.001223) 2.975516!
*dUd{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DuuD 1.220289% (2) (0.012203 +/− 0.002584) 4.722238!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvDd{circumflex over ( )}ddU 1.176251% (2) (0.011763 +/− 0.002044) 5.753518!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvu{circumflex over ( )} −2.393024% (2) (−0.023930 +/− 0.005207) −4.595372!
*U*U{circumflex over ( )}uvv{circumflex over ( )}u* −0.929436% (2) (−0.009294 +/− 0.003072) −3.025584!
*DudU{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}u 1.273916% (2) (0.012739 +/− 0.001016) 12.538801!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DDU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −14.484040% (2) (−0.144840 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uuv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DdUDd −3.092789% (2) (−0.030928 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duddd*{circumflex over ( )}UUv −0.718076% (2) (−0.007181 +/− 0.000686) −10.461654!
*DDUdUDUU*Udu{circumflex over ( )} 3.740645% (2) (0.037406 +/− 0.008895) 4.205127!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} −0.849009% (2) (−0.008490 +/− 0.002696) −3.149208!
*vuDudU{circumflex over ( )}UuU −2.837238% (2) (−0.028372 +/− 0.010318) −2.749818!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUd{circumflex over ( )}ddu −1.997914% (6) (−0.019979 +/− 0.007947) −2.513968!
*uDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −4.719481% (2) (−0.047195 +/− 0.004976) −9.483893!
*Dddd{circumflex over ( )}UDU{circumflex over ( )} 4.900698% (2) (0.049007 +/− 0.004864) 10.075914!
*vUU{circumflex over ( )}*DDUUUu −2.412074% (2) (−0.024121 +/− 0.004928) −4.894262!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}U −0.893707% (2) (−0.008937 +/− 0.001111) −8.045953!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vdv 3.047411% (3) (0.030474 +/− 0.003361) 9.067386!
*Dvvd{circumflex over ( )}Dv*U 2.547215% (3) (0.025472 +/− 0.010243) 2.486871!
*UuU*DvuU{circumflex over ( )}D 0.341163% (2) (0.003412 +/− 0.000943) 3.618484!
*DUU{circumflex over ( )}vduv −0.596993% (2) (−0.005970 +/− 0.002116) −2.821043!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUv*dudDv 2.525066% (2) (0.025251 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDuduUv{circumflex over ( )}ud 0.726465% (2) (0.007265 +/− 0.000140) 51.798494!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DvUv 3.394098% (2) (0.033941 +/− 0.005533) 6.134744!
*uuvu{circumflex over ( )}Ddud* −1.228816% (3) (−0.012288 +/− 0.004688) −2.620942!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvDDUddUD −2.987777% (2) (−0.029878 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}DudUdv −4.111112% (2) (−0.041111 +/− 0.011526) −3.566870!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}UvvDuu 2.773372% (2) (0.027734 +/− 0.010292) 2.694817!
*dUUdvdD{circumflex over ( )}D 1.743936% (2) (0.017439 +/− 0.000776) 22.487187!
*Uvv*UUdvDU*u{circumflex over ( )} −2.781938% (2) (−0.027819 +/− 0.004506) −6.173343!
*Udu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddu 1.486769% (2) (0.014868 +/− 0.005163) 2.879628!
*vud{circumflex over ( )}*DduD 1.565329% (4) (0.015653 +/− 0.002584) 6.057408!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.074696% (2) (−0.010747 +/− 0.001216) −8.834334!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UDvU{circumflex over ( )}UD 0.948752% (2) (0.009488 +/− 0.001742) 5.447607!
*uuvu{circumflex over ( )}ddv −2.547548% (3) (−0.025475 +/− 0.003454) −7.376562!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uUDu{circumflex over ( )}Dvd 4.537906% (2) (0.045379 +/− 0.005662) 8.014532!
*uUd{circumflex over ( )}v*uUudU −0.255534% (2) (−0.002555 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUu{circumflex over ( )} −1.005478% (2) (−0.010055 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUUU*dUvuD −0.824843% (2) (−0.008248 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}UvUvU 4.042723% (3) (0.040427 +/− 0.002898) 13.949946!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}d*v −1.718524% (2) (−0.017185 +/− 0.002570) −6.687422!
*DDDDvDvdv −1.303183% (2) (−0.013032 +/− 0.003505) −3.717805!
*vUvUDd*D{circumflex over ( )} 1.460443% (3) (0.014604 +/− 0.004201) 3.476637!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −2.815324% (5) (−0.028153 +/− 0.011072) −2.542746!
*D{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}vD*UUudU −3.656852% (2) (−0.036569 +/− 0.008134) −4.495751!
*ddUduvuuddv 5.733550% (2) (0.057335 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DduUuvUD −2.807967% (3) (−0.028080 +/− 0.010807) −2.598171!
*U*DdDDu*vv{circumflex over ( )} 2.275771% (3) (0.022758 +/− 0.008895) 2.558493!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u −2.955524% (2) (−0.029555 +/− 0.007264) −4.068793!
*UduDvdU{circumflex over ( )}UU −1.794906% (2) (−0.017949 +/− 0.002620) −6.849543!
*vud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddu −4.513458% (2) (−0.045135 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uDvD −2.824520% (2) (−0.028245 +/− 0.009844) −2.869266!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vUDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −4.335396% (4) (−0.043354 +/− 0.014533) −2.983065!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}udUudv 2.777060% (2) (0.027771 +/− 0.003134) 8.861745!
*vvvvUU*UU 4.204719% (2) (0.042047 +/− 0.010251) 4.101723!
*ud*Ddu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −1.479936% (3) (−0.014799 +/− 0.002052) −7.212642!
*v*DddDUdU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −0.510302% (2) (−0.005103 +/− 0.000118) −43.099451!
*vvuvD{circumflex over ( )}DUU* 3.473973% (2) (0.034740 +/− 0.001063) 32.689785!
*DUvu*vU{circumflex over ( )}U −5.192828% (2) (−0.051928 +/− 0.008514) −6.099382!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −1.560692% (3) (−0.015607 +/− 0.001690) −9.232356!
*UvDUddDUvv 2.381321% (4) (0.023813 +/− 0.008554) 2.783863!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}UDvU*{circumflex over ( )}U −1.357331% (2) (−0.013573 +/− 0.001587) −8.550927!
*Dvvv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Udd −4.661885% (2) (−0.046619 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*du*duvd*DdDDD 1.881932% (2) (0.018819 +/− 0.005660) 3.324998!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuduuvDd 2.088355% (2) (0.020884 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DD*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDdD −1.307631% (2) (−0.013076 +/− 0.001492) −8.762501!
*uDdU{circumflex over ( )}vuu −2.640933% (3) (−0.026409 +/− 0.002029) −13.012769!
*uvduDvudu −1.853300% (2) (−0.018533 +/− 0.006748) −2.746469!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U*uD*D 4.632853% (5) (0.046329 +/− 0.010107) 4.583623!
*UUD{circumflex over ( )}vvUu −0.940974% (4) (−0.009410 +/− 0.002069) −4.547291!
*DdDvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.396395% (3) (−0.013964 +/− 0.004536) −3.078358!
*vDD{circumflex over ( )}dUu{circumflex over ( )} 1.895880% (2) (0.018959 +/− 0.007170) 2.644219!
*vvDDv*du −0.585684% (2) (−0.005857 +/− 0.001494) −3.920749!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}DDv*du −2.658856% (2) (−0.026589 +/− 0.002583) −10.292497!
*UuvUUUDvU −0.876736% (2) (−0.008767 +/− 0.002750) −3.187902!
*uduvDU{circumflex over ( )}DDU −0.674877% (2) (−0.006749 +/− 0.001119) −6.032627!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}vD*{circumflex over ( )}v 1.396797% (2) (0.013968 +/− 0.003442) 4.058623!
*U*D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}*v{circumflex over ( )}Dv 10.422117% (7) (0.104221 +/− 0.042774) 2.436569!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDddv* −0.862660% (2) (−0.008627 +/− 0.000455) −18.944873!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}UvUUU{circumflex over ( )}*v −4.267614% (2) (−0.042676 +/− 0.013098) −3.258160!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vvU*UUu**{circumflex over ( )} −4.746315% (2) (−0.047463 +/− 0.005065) −9.370674!
*Uudvd{circumflex over ( )}duUU{circumflex over ( )} −1.811572% (2) (−0.018116 +/− 0.001745) −10.383581!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uU*v{circumflex over ( )}Uu** −1.616422% (2) (−0.016164 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvvu{circumflex over ( )}U*uD 5.659500% (2) (0.056595 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUdDduuUD{circumflex over ( )} −1.969190% (3) (−0.019692 +/− 0.004442) −4.433426!
*UDddd{circumflex over ( )}*dUdUD 1.520907% (2) (0.015209 +/− 0.002883) 5.274967!
**{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}UUDu −0.610834% (2) (−0.006108 +/− 0.000350) −17.448836!
*Uuv*vDUuvu −0.651470% (2) (−0.006515 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ddd{circumflex over ( )}UUDduuDUd −0.598323% (2) (−0.005983 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U*d{circumflex over ( )}UdUDuDDD −3.395185% (2) (−0.033952 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuvdvvdd 3.126190% (2) (0.031262 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uUDUd** −3.297958% (3) (−0.032980 +/− 0.013055) −2.526282!
*UDddu{circumflex over ( )}vUu 3.604067% (3) (0.036041 +/− 0.013394) 2.690888!
*ddDUUuuuv 1.536054% (2) (0.015361 +/− 0.000265) 57.863428!
*UUUUDvvddU −5.336622% (2) (−0.053366 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuUuDv{circumflex over ( )}dU*d −0.412042% (2) (−0.004120 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dD*vud 1.719190% (2) (0.017192 +/− 0.006864) 2.504608!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}vvuuuD 1.793177% (2) (0.017932 +/− 0.003787) 4.735627!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}DUDuvDU −1.232321% (3) (−0.012323 +/− 0.002635) −4.676796!
*uvDu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vUU −1.941362% (2) (−0.019414 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DdvuD{circumflex over ( )}dUu 1.868691% (2) (0.018687 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*U*d{circumflex over ( )}DUvU{circumflex over ( )} 4.254911% (2) (0.042549 +/− 0.004626) 9.198597!
*vDUDUv{circumflex over ( )}vUD 3.841063% (2) (0.038411 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDdUu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}UUdU 1.464033% (2) (0.014640 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUvdudduuD −0.680188% (2) (−0.006802 +/− 0.002725) −2.496488!
*DUd{circumflex over ( )}UuddUUuU −1.026772% (2) (−0.010268 +/− 0.002448) −4.194514!
**udUUuvU{circumflex over ( )}dd 1.440348% (3) (0.014403 +/− 0.004454) 3.234122!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDuddDUDdD 2.518132% (3) (0.025181 +/− 0.001482) 16.996831!
*vDd{circumflex over ( )}vDDd −6.482636% (2) (−0.064826 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uUUduvDv 3.206386% (2) (0.032064 +/− 0.010548) 3.039816!
*vvu{circumflex over ( )}UvDDv 1.529500% (2) (0.015295 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u*dvd*vDU −2.167402% (3) (−0.021674 +/− 0.002425) −8.937988!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDd{circumflex over ( )}dv 8.415809% (2) (0.084158 +/− 0.028145) 2.990146!
*uDvv{circumflex over ( )}vuv 2.854152% (2) (0.028542 +/− 0.001153) 24.760399!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DvdUD −2.012458% (2) (−0.020125 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vuv{circumflex over ( )}vU*d 3.278712% (4) (0.032787 +/− 0.012058) 2.719130!
*dvuuvD*v −4.292474% (2) (−0.042925 +/− 0.012564) −3.416421!
*D{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D*vdv 3.510379% (2) (0.035104 +/− 0.012428) 2.824559!
*vUvduvuU −5.879889% (3) (−0.058799 +/− 0.006580) −8.936021!
*ddD{circumflex over ( )}vUDDDD −0.088685% (2) (−0.000887 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}dDU −2.467634% (2) (−0.024676 +/− 0.004798) −5.143316!
*DdDvDvdvd 1.747408% (2) (0.017474 +/− 0.006886) 2.537666!
*UdU*uDu{circumflex over ( )}Uv −2.063941% (3) (−0.020639 +/− 0.003868) −5.336177!
*vDd{circumflex over ( )}uv*v 1.476326% (2) (0.014763 +/− 0.004689) 3.148659!
*dUDuvD*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.535311% (2) (−0.025353 +/− 0.008726) −2.905334!
*uUDUvvUDDv{circumflex over ( )} −5.626658% (2) (−0.056267 +/− 0.009947) −5.656462!
*Dvd{circumflex over ( )}v*{circumflex over ( )}u −4.362662% (2) (−0.043627 +/− 0.008424) −5.178784!
*DuvdudddDu 1.252730% (2) (0.012527 +/− 0.002754) 4.548410!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUduuvd 1.598828% (2) (0.015988 +/− 0.005660) 2.824919!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}dUDU{circumflex over ( )}dv* 2.073749% (2) (0.020737 +/− 0.000820) 25.291944!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}UUDu*vuU 0.086470% (2) (0.000865 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UduDuu{circumflex over ( )}*v −2.862388% (2) (−0.028624 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuuvuUuduv 1.062614% (2) (0.010626 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udUvD{circumflex over ( )}DUDvD 4.648865% (2) (0.046489 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuDUvu*{circumflex over ( )}vD 3.000043% (2) (0.030000 +/− 0.005838) 5.138812!
*u{circumflex over ( )}Uv*UuvD 1.853211% (2) (0.018532 +/− 0.007395) 2.505906!
*UUvuvd*Uud 4.064076% (2) (0.040641 +/− 0.001510) 26.909004!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUvu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −2.195948% (2) (−0.021959 +/− 0.009445) −2.325003!
*vDdD*UDDDv{circumflex over ( )} −4.004722% (3) (−0.040047 +/− 0.010821) −3.700791!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}uudUuu −2.326706% (2) (−0.023267 +/− 0.006909) −3.367740!
*{circumflex over ( )}duuduvdU 0.811412% (2) (0.008114 +/− 0.003264) 2.486036!
*vd*Dv{circumflex over ( )}DDU{circumflex over ( )} 1.819245% (2) (0.018192 +/− 0.004385) 4.148485!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DduU*uDvd 1.098606% (2) (0.010986 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDUUvDuddDU −6.858755% (2) (−0.068588 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuDU 0.890191% (5) (0.008902 +/− 0.003106) 2.866380!
*uvUdDUu*dv 0.673049% (2) (0.006730 +/− 0.002906) 2.316179!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uudv{circumflex over ( )}UdU −2.757028% (2) (−0.027570 +/− 0.001809) −15.236562!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}uv*d{circumflex over ( )} −0.722975% (2) (−0.007230 +/− 0.001147) −6.301750!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uDD*Dvv 3.478186% (2) (0.034782 +/− 0.011312) 3.074730!
*{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}d*{circumflex over ( )}U −3.597942% (3) (−0.035979 +/− 0.005629) −6.391938!
*D{circumflex over ( )}uUvvvuD{circumflex over ( )} 1.366285% (2) (0.013663 +/− 0.005489) 2.489299!
*ud*dDvUvUdU 1.681396% (2) (0.016814 +/− 0.000170) 98.969683!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}Dd*U*U 2.447183% (2) (0.024472 +/− 0.000263) 93.162534!
*dv*{circumflex over ( )}vuuvD −3.996225% (2) (−0.039962 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}duvuddu 0.559041% (2) (0.005590 +/− 0.001810) 3.088242!
**DDuvvUvDd 7.008097% (2) (0.070081 +/− 0.030019) 2.334562!
*uddUDuUUdDv −0.321100% (2) (−0.003211 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UudDvD −2.903820% (2) (−0.029038 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUDv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uu −1.950391% (3) (−0.019504 +/− 0.008130) −2.399131!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvdU{circumflex over ( )}*UD{circumflex over ( )}U* −1.090911% (2) (−0.010909 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUvduUvuv 1.623109% (2) (0.016231 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UuDU{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )} −3.022952% (2) (−0.030230 +/− 0.006261) −4.828354!
*Uvd*udd{circumflex over ( )}d 4.391744% (2) (0.043917 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DdDv*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} −1.658291% (2) (−0.016583 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*U{circumflex over ( )}U 1.859133% (2) (0.018591 +/− 0.005275) 3.524299!
*vDdDuvduu −3.632594% (2) (−0.036326 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvD*UUD{circumflex over ( )}DUu*u −4.038208% (2) (−0.040382 +/− 0.007078) −5.705406!
*UUudDvvvD{circumflex over ( )}U 0.952887% (2) (0.009529 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDUvvdUDD 2.151486% (2) (0.021515 +/− 0.005749) 3.742348!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}v*DU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 4.626947% (2) (0.046269 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UUv{circumflex over ( )}DDvUDuD 1.676949% (2) (0.016769 +/− 0.006038) 2.777330!
*u*UD{circumflex over ( )}vUU*DDD 3.057350% (3) (0.030573 +/− 0.008933) 3.422455!
*d{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}v*vUu −1.072299% (2) (−0.010723 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dudUUdd**dUuv −0.969971% (2) (−0.009700 +/− 0.002787) −3.479940!
*{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}vUuUvvU* −1.028810% (2) (−0.010288 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udDUvUDdD{circumflex over ( )}* −2.524660% (2) (−0.025247 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udUUDuDu −0.270948% (2) (−0.002709 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ddUvUDU{circumflex over ( )}Du −1.413133% (2) (−0.014131 +/− 0.000058) −242.240903!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUDUDvUDD 12.660883% (2) (0.126609 +/− 0.007589) 16.682871!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}dUvuD 0.433089% (2) (0.004331 +/− 0.001810) 2.392906!
*ddduD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD 4.282178% (2) (0.042822 +/− 0.008092) 5.291849!
*Uvu{circumflex over ( )}dd*vu −2.335338% (2) (−0.023353 +/− 0.009172) −2.546038!
*vDUD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}U −5.662806% (2) (−0.056628 +/− 0.004745) −11.933092!
*v*u{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*d 1.626823% (2) (0.016268 +/− 0.003530) 4.608874!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D*D*dD{circumflex over ( )}Dd 0.986972% (2) (0.009870 +/− 0.000749) 13.173601!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uUudU −0.749559% (2) (−0.007496 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*vvvdv 13.038371% (2) (0.130384 +/− 0.007155) 18.223957!
*DUuDvu{circumflex over ( )}dvu 1.809684% (2) (0.018097 +/− 0.005197) 3.482077!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*dDuu{circumflex over ( )}dUudud 1.872702% (2) (0.018727 +/− 0.005216) 3.590266!
*u{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vdDd* −1.530012% (2) (−0.015300 +/− 0.005351) −2.859222!
*Uvudud{circumflex over ( )}U −1.580219% (2) (−0.015802 +/− 0.005322) −2.969431!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*vdd −1.879521% (2) (−0.018795 +/− 0.007311) −2.570643!
*u*uuvv{circumflex over ( )}UuU{circumflex over ( )}d −3.331566% (2) (−0.033316 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvDud*UUv* 3.218129% (4) (0.032181 +/− 0.011926) 2.698473!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uuv{circumflex over ( )}D 3.505594% (2) (0.035056 +/− 0.008274) 4.237075!
*dvuUvDud −2.779337% (2) (−0.027793 +/− 0.009894) −2.809071!
*duv{circumflex over ( )}dv 0.208957% (2) (0.002090 +/− 0.000370) 5.642134!
*UDuUvdd*vUD 0.249122% (2) (0.002491 +/− 0.000708) 3.517452!
*UuUuU{circumflex over ( )}*vuD −1.646654% (2) (−0.016467 +/− 0.006974) −2.361077!
*U{circumflex over ( )}duU{circumflex over ( )}UDd{circumflex over ( )} −0.811286% (2) (−0.008113 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}udv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.732582% (2) (−0.017326 +/− 0.000790) −21.933999!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}UU*dvv{circumflex over ( )} −0.464398% (2) (−0.004644 +/− 0.001607) −2.889578!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DduuUdvD 0.310556% (2) (0.003106 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**{circumflex over ( )}ddDd*UUdvv 3.508202% (2) (0.035082 +/− 0.009683) 3.623140!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}Du*uudv 4.353597% (2) (0.043536 +/− 0.010317) 4.219634!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UvvUu{circumflex over ( )} −2.003952% (2) (−0.020040 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*vuu*vu −1.127389% (2) (−0.011274 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uuv{circumflex over ( )}vdUD 0.753901% (2) (0.007539 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v*Uu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DvuU −3.555044% (2) (−0.035550 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*DDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.736323% (2) (−0.027363 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdUvuddddu{circumflex over ( )}u −2.476193% (2) (−0.024762 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUUD{circumflex over ( )} 2.413153% (2) (0.024132 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDDDvuu{circumflex over ( )} −1.556928% (7) (−0.015569 +/− 0.006365) −2.446103!
*uUUuUuuDv{circumflex over ( )} 0.261863% (2)(0.002619 +/− 0.000540) 4.853203!
*D{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}uUvDvU −6.516317% (2) (−0.065163 +/− 0.012215) −5.334530!
*vUuDd{circumflex over ( )}*Uuu −1.207892% (2) (−0.012079 +/− 0.000404) −29.887845!
*uud*uDuDvuDdu −1.306748% (3) (−0.013067 +/− 0.005362) −2.437156!
*dU*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd* 5.006677% (2) (0.050067 +/− 0.000850) 58.891364!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDv{circumflex over ( )}D −2.956132% (4) (−0.029561 +/− 0.008496) −3.479297!
*d*uuu{circumflex over ( )}uUD{circumflex over ( )} 0.266318% (2) (0.002663 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDdU{circumflex over ( )}uvDuD* −3.234105% (2) (−0.032341 +/− 0.006007) −5.383989!
*du*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} 0.439000% (3) (0.004390 +/− 0.000237) 18.543629!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 2.316300% (2) (0.023163 +/− 0.007226) 3.205729!
*DUu*dUUvu{circumflex over ( )}v −0.200032% (2) (−0.002000 +/− 0.000263) −7.599526!
*vduUvv*{circumflex over ( )} −0.224011% (2) (−0.002240 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}udu{circumflex over ( )}dvU*u 3.278739% (2) (0.032787 +/− 0.004171) 7.859975!
*U*Uuvv{circumflex over ( )}Ud −1.013207% (2) (−0.010132 +/− 0.001887) −5.368771!
*UUvDduvv 1.144276% (2) (0.011443 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}uUd{circumflex over ( )}d 2.730734% (2) (0.027307 +/− 0.005456) 5.004566!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}UdUvu −2.973048% (2) (−0.029730 +/− 0.010916) −2.723599!
*vvUUuUUD{circumflex over ( )}v 1.858567% (2) (0.018586 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udUvvdUu 2.162480% (2) (0.021625 +/− 0.007950) 2.720154!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDDDd*uduu 0.703592% (3) (0.007036 +/− 0.000582) 12.084245!
*vUvvDDuv −3.103320% (2) (−0.031033 +/− 0.000451) −68.812927!
*UUUvvD{circumflex over ( )}ddu −0.450655% (2) (−0.004507 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vdddUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.046137% (2) (0.000461 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUDUvU{circumflex over ( )}uD 3.554069% (2) (0.035541 +/− 0.003454) 10.289476!
*UDdUDUu{circumflex over ( )}ddvd −1.288536% (2) (−0.012885 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUUvdvvUu 4.459862% (2) (0.044599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vUU*uddU −2.244110% (2) (−0.022441 +/− 0.006350) −3.534177!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Uvdvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.271739% (2) (0.002717 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uud{circumflex over ( )}UUudduUD −1.150763% (2) (−0.011508 +/− 0.003972) −2.897412!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uvu*uU* −1.914469% (2) (−0.019145 +/− 0.002778) −6.890460!
*UdD{circumflex over ( )}*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uD −3.100921% (2) (−0.031009 +/− 0.011005) −2.817834!
*vvddvv 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DDDDu{circumflex over ( )}v*U 7.064687% (2) (0.070647 +/− 0.014971) 4.718824!
*Udu{circumflex over ( )}vDDd 2.733548% (3) (0.027335 +/− 0.002151) 12.707215!
*v*dvvuvv 13.705359% (3) (0.137054 +/− 0.015664) 8.749754!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}D 4.633172% (3) (0.046332 +/− 0.011329) 4.089516!
*UuDD{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Du −4.760803% (2) (−0.047608 +/− 0.012899) −3.690829!
*uUUDdv{circumflex over ( )}v* 1.975854% (2) (0.019759 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDdDudvUu −1.041345% (3) (−0.010413 +/− 0.003027) −3.439989!
*DvdU{circumflex over ( )}Uu*v 1.038519% (2) (0.010385 +/− 0.001150) 9.033004!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}UDvu −1.967872% (3) (−0.019679 +/− 0.005278) −3.728124!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )} −3.565060% (4) (−0.035651 +/− 0.009692) −3.678352!
**UuvDvudd{circumflex over ( )} 2.967616% (3) (0.029676 +/− 0.011664) 2.544282!
*DUuDUUvdv{circumflex over ( )} −1.555284% (2) (−0.015553 +/− 0.000008) −1870.207956!
*{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}DDD{circumflex over ( )}u 2.527087% (3) (0.025271 +/− 0.008271) 3.055464!
*uuvUvdvD −5.345686% (2) (−0.053457 +/− 0.000610) −87.648694!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Uud 1.173025% (4) (0.011730 +/− 0.002668) 4.397411!
*ddD{circumflex over ( )}dDUuv −0.682854% (2) (−0.006829 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uU*vD{circumflex over ( )}vuv 3.023571% (4) (0.030236 +/− 0.002642) 11.446249!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dd 2.171651% (2) (0.021717 +/− 0.008720) 2.490523!
*uu*dDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −1.650736% (2) (−0.016507 +/− 0.006058) −2.724945!
*vdu{circumflex over ( )}uud{circumflex over ( )}u 0.424729% (2) (0.004247 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuUvdvv 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}uDuU{circumflex over ( )}v −4.083416% (2) (−0.040834 +/− 0.007523) −5.427763!
*DUDdv{circumflex over ( )}dv −2.077705% (2) (−0.020777 +/− 0.004184) −4.965931!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDDDdd 0.998169% (2) (0.009982 +/− 0.002932) 3.403822!
*udDdDuuuvUU 0.307097% (2) (0.003071 +/− 0.000426) 7.217098!
*ududd{circumflex over ( )}UDu*UUu −2.609730% (2) (−0.026097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uUvUvDuDu* −5.879889% (3) (−0.058799 +/− 0.006580) −8.936021!
*uUDdvvDDU 7.374882% (4) (0.073749 +/− 0.017112) 4.309858!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDDuDd −1.886381% (2) (−0.018864 +/− 0.002677) −7.045960!
*Dd**{circumflex over ( )}duv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.444445% (2) (0.004444 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDDUDUdU{circumflex over ( )}U −2.532188% (5) (−0.025322 +/− 0.006272) −4.037116!
**DU{circumflex over ( )}UDvDd{circumflex over ( )}uu −0.400200% (2) (−0.004002 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}*DddUd{circumflex over ( )} −1.735839% (2) (−0.017358 +/− 0.002798) −6.203451!
*UUDd{circumflex over ( )}UDDd{circumflex over ( )}D 1.216417% (2) (0.012164 +/− 0.001870) 6.504519!
*vddD*Dd{circumflex over ( )}U −1.345671% (2) (−0.013457 +/− 0.002236) −6.018691!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDdv{circumflex over ( )}vud −1.956793% (2) (−0.019568 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DvuU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}Ud −3.342415% (2) (−0.033424 +/− 0.009102) −3.672209!
*uuvuudUv −1.578197% (3) (−0.015782 +/− 0.003323) −4.749537!
*DDuuU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}*d 0.903112% (2) (0.009031 +/− 0.001277) 7.073965!
*UUd{circumflex over ( )}vUdd −1.722269% (3) (−0.017223 +/− 0.003226) −5.338874!
*vDdUDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u 0.869892% (2) (0.008699 +/− 0.003103) 2.803228!
*uvD{circumflex over ( )}UD*d*DvU 3.129293% (6) (0.031293 +/− 0.011471) 2.728076!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UuDvd 1.480176% (2) (0.014802 +/− 0.005860) 2.526053!
*DvdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uv −3.526286% (2) (−0.035263 +/− 0.002107) −16.733039!
*UUvDv{circumflex over ( )}dU*U{circumflex over ( )}U −8.726859% (2) (−0.087269 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*duuuvUDUDv −2.606988% (2) (−0.026070 +/− 0.007110) −3.666684!
*DuuDdduuUu*D{circumflex over ( )} −3.014820% (2) (−0.030148 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}DDuuDvUudU 1.321801% (2) (0.013218 +/− 0.002231) 5.925209!
*Dvvdvd*d 2.230517% (2) (0.022305 +/− 0.000054) 415.434835!
*UDDdDUv{circumflex over ( )}Dd 1.017062% (2) (0.010171 +/− 0.000467) 21.757764!
*{circumflex over ( )}udUvuu{circumflex over ( )}* −5.250349% (2) (−0.052503 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}UUdDD 1.874644% (2) (0.018746 +/− 0.000281) 66.706521!
*UUv*vDUu{circumflex over ( )}dUd 1.047805% (2) (0.010478 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**vdDvudDUd*d 2.707858% (2) (0.027079 +/− 0.004651) 5.821903!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvu{circumflex over ( )} 1.848269% (3) (0.018483 +/− 0.005243) 3.525449!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
**DUDvd*UuvDU 3.437383% (2) (0.034374 +/− 0.013974) 2.459832!
*{circumflex over ( )}*uv{circumflex over ( )}UDuD 4.723311% (2) (0.047233 +/− 0.004996) 9.454325!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDvu{circumflex over ( )}Dv 3.158891% (2) (0.031589 +/− 0.008736) 3.616053!
*uUDudDuDDDDUv 0.990609% (2) (0.009906 +/− 0.003713) 2.668193!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvuDD*UDU* −8.602575% (4) (−0.086026 +/− 0.008047) −10.690357!
*DuUUdDD{circumflex over ( )}vdUd 0.884336% (2) (0.008843 +/− 0.000743) 11.901508!
*UuD{circumflex over ( )}*d*u{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} 4.626947% (2) (0.046269 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )} 1.464033% (2) (0.014640 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**D{circumflex over ( )}dduuDuv 1.486203% (2) (0.014862 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uvd{circumflex over ( )}dddu 1.689927% (2) (0.016899 +/− 0.005904) 2.862275!
**dvduvUvU* 1.612931% (3) (0.016129 +/− 0.001729) 9.331011!
*vUD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vu −0.174220% (2) (−0.001742 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ddd{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}udU −0.847493% (2) (−0.008475 +/− 0.002475) −3.424352!
*dvvDU*Dvv 1.893326% (2) (0.018933 +/− 0.001857) 10.194318!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuDdUD{circumflex over ( )} 1.526894% (2) (0.015269 +/− 0.003147) 4.851403!
**uvU{circumflex over ( )}dvDU −2.653851% (3) (−0.026539 +/− 0.008876) −2.989796!
*uvU*UU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −2.370444% (2) (−0.023704 +/− 0.001781) −13.310172!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuUuvdD 1.931523% (3) (0.019315 +/− 0.007347) 2.629049!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}ud −3.646239% (2) (−0.036462 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}duuuU{circumflex over ( )} −8.726859% (2) (−0.087269 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )}DDdvd −3.931777% (2) (−0.039318 +/− 0.013701) −2.869690!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UduD{circumflex over ( )}DUD −2.461323% (2) (−0.024613 +/− 0.009659) −2.548287!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DUuDD −0.653594% (2) (−0.006536 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UDUU{circumflex over ( )}dvU{circumflex over ( )} −3.101696% (3) (−0.031017 +/− 0.007852) −3.950085!
*uD*v{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} −4.863515% (2) (−0.048635 +/− 0.003776) −12.880746!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDUUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.855131% (2) (0.008551 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v*v −0.426990% (2) (−0.004270 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}duD{circumflex over ( )}UU 3.982298% (2) (0.039823 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DU −2.614254% (2) (−0.026143 +/− 0.001679) −15.572063!
*UvddUuUDDU −1.726941% (2) (−0.017269 +/− 0.000210) −82.361599!
*ddvvD{circumflex over ( )}Du −1.208134% (2) (−0.012081 +/− 0.002237) −5.400569!
**DuD*{circumflex over ( )}UddDv 1.375248% (2) (0.013752 +/− 0.003948) 3.483477!
**UuDddv{circumflex over ( )}Uu 0.835478% (2) (0.008355 +/− 0.003086) 2.707570!
*U**UUD{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Uu −1.953947% (2) (−0.019539 +/− 0.007659) −2.551061!
*vDvdvD{circumflex over ( )}U −5.550456% (2) (−0.055505 +/− 0.002145) −25.870557!
*vvv{circumflex over ( )}dvDUU −1.866991% (2) (−0.018670 +/− 0.001162) −16.066983!
*DUuddu{circumflex over ( )}vUUDU 2.944421% (2) (0.029444 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvDU{circumflex over ( )}udv −11.381753% (2) (−0.113818 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDvuD{circumflex over ( )}d*d −0.894937% (2) (−0.008949 +/− 0.003047) −2.936908!
*DDdDuUddDv 2.867119% (2) (0.028671 +/− 0.009399) 3.050493!
*vuDDuddDD 1.254574% (4) (0.012546 +/− 0.003509) 3.575750!
*{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}DUUdvu*u* 3.418463% (2) (0.034185 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDDUddUdDv 2.369527% (2) (0.023695 +/− 0.009495) 2.495503!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}vuddDd −0.088685% (2) (−0.000887 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Duuduu{circumflex over ( )}Ddd −0.750441% (3) (−0.007504 +/− 0.000466) −16.119091!
*DUdDD{circumflex over ( )}dvDU 1.175307% (2) (0.011753 +/− 0.001424) 8.253900!
**dUuvvU{circumflex over ( )}D −2.849575% (3) (−0.028496 +/− 0.010303) −2.765780!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDuU{circumflex over ( )}dU 3.938292% (2) (0.039383 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuuuuvdDv −0.558249% (2) (−0.005582 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvu{circumflex over ( )} −2.393024% (2) (−0.023930 +/− 0.005207) −4.595372!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −1.761896% (2) (−0.017619 +/− 0.005239) −3.363211!
*duDd{circumflex over ( )}Uvd −1.019151% (5) (−0.010192 +/− 0.004025) −2.532104!
*DDUvd{circumflex over ( )}dDv{circumflex over ( )} −0.874101% (2) (−0.008741 +/− 0.003118) −2.803017!
*DuvDvvvu 1.519782% (2) (0.015198 +/− 0.004855) 3.130253!
*uUDUuvddd −2.636507% (2) (−0.026365 +/− 0.004638) −5.685116!
*dv*Duv{circumflex over ( )}DdD −5.264499% (2) (−0.052645 +/− 0.006892) −7.638930!
*udduDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 1.491419% (2) (0.014914 +/− 0.001566) 9.521918!
*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*D*Duu 1.104631% (2) (0.011046 +/− 0.001625) 6.798838!
*v{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vuu −3.472512% (2) (−0.034725 +/− 0.000760) −45.715196!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvDdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.319201% (2) (−0.023192 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*vduvd 1.543871% (3) (0.015439 +/− 0.005566) 2.773966!
**{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −5.047020% (4) (−0.050470 +/− 0.014716) −3.429628!
*D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DUDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U*D 2.883352% (2) (0.028834 +/− 0.006685) 4.313340!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vd* 2.659993% (2) (0.026600 +/− 0.000402) 66.204889!
**uvUDU*UDU{circumflex over ( )}dd 1.183220% (2) (0.011832 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UdDvduD −4.018797% (2) (−0.040188 +/− 0.012227) −3.286797!
*{circumflex over ( )}*UduuUvDU 1.615650% (2) (0.016157 +/− 0.004431) 3.646592!
**DU*dD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 4.229499% (4) (0.042295 +/− 0.009651) 4.382616!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}uUU*U{circumflex over ( )}uDU −2.125865% (2) (−0.021259 +/− 0.007998) −2.658129!
**Dddu{circumflex over ( )}Duv 1.049457% (2) (0.010495 +/− 0.000977) 10.745260!
*UddUuduDvD 1.796899% (4) (0.017969 +/− 0.006688) 2.686821!
*uuu*{circumflex over ( )}uvUD −0.901076% (3) (−0.009011 +/− 0.002186) −4.121834!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DdDU{circumflex over ( )}v 3.397965% (3) (0.033980 +/− 0.004527) 7.506772!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*DUvUU*dDuvUvD −2.552678% (2) (−0.025527 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}uD*u{circumflex over ( )}DD* 2.556611% (2) (0.025566 +/− 0.009800) 2.608901!
*{circumflex over ( )}u**D{circumflex over ( )}Ddu{circumflex over ( )} −0.463684% (2) (−0.004637 +/− 0.000220) −21.084806!
*UD*D*uv{circumflex over ( )}du −1.472404% (3) (−0.014724 +/− 0.002531) −5.816346!
*vddDD{circumflex over ( )}Dv −2.546789% (4) (−0.025468 +/− 0.010110) −2.519159!
*dvUUvDuu −3.395917% (2) (−0.033959 +/− 0.010937) −3.104907!
*DDvu{circumflex over ( )}UD*DUD 0.380109% (2) (0.003801 +/− 0.000346) 10.979726!
*u{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.708855% (2) (−0.027089 +/− 0.008138) −3.328560!
**DuuU{circumflex over ( )}ddUDUv −0.103791% (2) (−0.001038 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUuuvUDuDv −2.606988% (2) (−0.026070 +/− 0.007110) −3.666684!
*DUDuvDDDuD 1.893809% (2) (0.018938 +/− 0.007651) 2.475199!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}uv{circumflex over ( )}DD −4.169231% (2) (−0.041692 +/− 0.014306) −2.914396!
**u{circumflex over ( )}duUuUdUd −3.010073% (2) (−0.030101 +/− 0.005028) −5.986239!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUdvuuUDUD −2.471537% (2) (−0.024715 +/− 0.007902) −3.127714!
*UvDuv{circumflex over ( )}dU 0.988408% (2) (0.009884 +/− 0.001238) 7.987004!
*uD*{circumflex over ( )}vuDu*Dd 0.926394% (3) (0.009264 +/− 0.001344) 6.892161!
*d{circumflex over ( )}duUuU**Uud 2.463882% (2) (0.024639 +/− 0.008022) 3.071274!
*uUUUdUdDuvU −3.180004% (3) (−0.031800 +/− 0.003092) −10.283302!
*UduU*UuudDvD 1.911408% (3) (0.019114 +/− 0.006672) 2.864750!
*uvDUUU*uudUv 0.733334% (4) (0.007333 +/− 0.002156) 3.401837!
*u{circumflex over ( )}v*{circumflex over ( )}Ddduu 3.174485% (2) (0.031745 +/− 0.001373) 23.114370!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}uv 2.399976% (2) (0.024000 +/− 0.001168) 20.541582!
*vDU{circumflex over ( )}vudUdDDU −1.702122% (2) (−0.017021 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvu{circumflex over ( )} −2.393024% (2) (−0.023930 +/− 0.005207) −4.595372!
**{circumflex over ( )}Uuddv{circumflex over ( )}U* −1.757335% (2) (−0.017573 +/− 0.003469) −5.065613!
*uvuUuvvdu* −5.187834% (2) (−0.051878 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v**duUuvDd −1.760903% (2) (−0.017609 +/− 0.006943) −2.536281!
*DUdUUud*vDD 0.794703% (2) (0.007947 +/− 0.000360) 22.064047!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )}*DU 4.671844% (2) (0.046718 +/− 0.003941) 11.855044!
*vDudDdduu 0.832030% (3) (0.008320 +/− 0.002945) 2.824867!
*U*UuDvD*{circumflex over ( )}dDu −1.581935% (4) (−0.015819 +/− 0.004657) −3.397020!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vvdUU 2.162480% (2) (0.021625 +/− 0.007950) 2.720154!
*Uuu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}ddU −5.350120% (2) (−0.053501 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvvDdd*vD{circumflex over ( )}* 0.550377% (2) (0.005504 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvUuDv{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )} −1.915383% (2) (−0.019154 +/− 0.007968) −2.403866!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}vuDuuU −0.705530% (2) (−0.007055 +/− 0.001683) −4.191436!
*uvvud{circumflex over ( )}*dd 0.624998% (2) (0.006250 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}uDd 0.769444% (3) (0.007694 +/− 0.002801) 2.747102!
*DdUdUdDu{circumflex over ( )}Ud −1.598400% (2) (−0.015984 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DDDUU 1.050852% (2) (0.010509 +/− 0.003782) 2.778650!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uD 2.746898% (2) (0.027469 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}*duuu{circumflex over ( )} 2.340654% (2) (0.023407 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUv{circumflex over ( )}d*DDD{circumflex over ( )}U 2.848417% (2) (0.028484 +/− 0.001810) 15.739534!
*dduduDDu{circumflex over ( )}u 3.111335% (4) (0.031113 +/− 0.010205) 3.048752!
**{circumflex over ( )}udd{circumflex over ( )}udud 0.955371% (2) (0.009554 +/− 0.002861) 3.339391!
**{circumflex over ( )}Udu{circumflex over ( )}vdU −2.850274% (2) (−0.028503 +/− 0.002226) −12.803093!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}ddDuu −2.184762% (4) (−0.021848 +/− 0.005208) −4.195087!
*vdduvv{circumflex over ( )}D 1.522417% (3) (0.015224 +/− 0.003180) 4.786968!
*{circumflex over ( )}duuDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 3.007311% (3) (0.030073 +/− 0.006571) 4.576888!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*du{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}v 1.976099% (2) (0.019761 +/− 0.003440) 5.744978!
**{circumflex over ( )}Ddvdvv 4.149029% (2) (0.041490 +/− 0.017213) 2.410454!
*udDUu{circumflex over ( )}dudUduU −1.026880% (2) (−0.010269 +/− 0.003896) −2.635750!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DvvDv{circumflex over ( )} 5.086808% (5) (0.050868 +/− 0.012641) 4.024158!
*vdDDdUuUddu* −0.940739% (2) (−0.009407 +/− 0.000186) −50.555705!
*uuUdUvU{circumflex over ( )} −2.395190% (2) (−0.023952 +/− 0.009716) −2.465267!
*dvvD{circumflex over ( )}Dvd 3.428192% (2) (0.034282 +/− 0.014503) 2.363742!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}*vd*uUvv 0.659919% (2) (0.006599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvUdDU{circumflex over ( )}DvU −2.510684% (2) (−0.025107 +/− 0.000316) −79.430852!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvDUdddU −6.858755% (2) (−0.068588 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuUuD*uUuUudv −1.277821% (2) (−0.012778 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DduvuUv{circumflex over ( )}vU 2.510461% (2) (0.025105 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dd*DDdvDvd 1.747408% (2) (0.017474 +/− 0.006886) 2.537666!
*UUvuUDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}d 0.236636% (2) (0.002366 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}dudDuUU −0.657974% (4) (−0.006580 +/− 0.002251) −2.922902!
*U{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*dDdvd −2.903820% (2) (−0.029038 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUDUddvDDd 1.816214% (3) (0.018162 +/− 0.007750) 2.343560!
*dvvud{circumflex over ( )} −2.319020% (2) (−0.023190 +/− 0.005010) −4.628905!
*UvddUd*DuDUdd 2.223598% (2) (0.022236 +/− 0.008637) 2.574623!
*Dv*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdUu −1.755401% (4) (−0.017554 +/− 0.006589) −2.664028!
*UDDvud{circumflex over ( )}vd 3.842749% (3) (0.038427 +/− 0.001064) 36.123455!
*dUuUUuduDvu 1.790013% (3) (0.017900 +/− 0.000252) 70.961922!
*dUvduvvv* −3.191168% (2) (−0.031912 +/− 0.006254) −5.102516!
*udvdvv 4.780590% (4) (0.047806 +/− 0.014368) 3.327176!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUuUDvu −2.166104% (3) (−0.021661 +/− 0.002018) −10.735850!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddD*uudUdd{circumflex over ( )} −3.741868% (2) (−0.037419 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u*vDuuDu −2.837033% (2) (−0.028370 +/− 0.007987) −3.551920!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vDv{circumflex over ( )}Duv 0.962076% (3) (0.009621 +/− 0.002519) 3.819248!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvDuu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} 0.478471% (2) (0.004785 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDd{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}*D −3.339939% (2) (−0.033399 +/− 0.011024) −3.029833!
*dudvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 1.052431% (2) (0.010524 +/− 0.003112) 3.382262!
*DduuUDUdDDdvD −1.662454% (2) (−0.016625 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDvuDdUv 2.202553% (2) (0.022026 +/− 0.001868) 11.792409!
*vvdD{circumflex over ( )}vv*{circumflex over ( )} 0.550377% (2) (0.005504 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDd*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*DUDU −3.928568% (3) (−0.039286 +/− 0.012925) −3.039484!
**dDUv{circumflex over ( )}DddUu 1.298813% (2) (0.012988 +/− 0.004532) 2.866108!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUUD −4.183232% (2) (−0.041832 +/− 0.001360) −30.766334!
**D{circumflex over ( )}D*uvv*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −13.258434% (2) (−0.132584 +/− 0.035164) −3.770503!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dv 3.473249% (4) (0.034732 +/− 0.012497) 2.779294!
*UdvDdU*ud{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −2.726869% (2) (−0.027269 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −5.532028% (2) (−0.055320 +/− 0.013016) −4.250176!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*uv{circumflex over ( )}DUDU −4.854371% (2) (−0.048544 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdUv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −1.897518% (2) (−0.018975 +/− 0.003477) −5.457214!
*vu*DU*vUDDUUD 3.978438% (3) (0.039784 +/− 0.000894) 44.516725!
**vDuvduDUDUu 2.825740% (2) (0.028257 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DuvuDvDUv −1.132267% (2) (−0.011323 +/− 0.003524) −3.212677!
*{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}u −1.582478% (2) (−0.015825 +/− 0.001320) −11.992323!
*{circumflex over ( )}ud*vDUvv{circumflex over ( )}v 4.122058% (2) (0.041221 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −0.255489% (2) (−0.002555 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDuvUDvu{circumflex over ( )} −3.010762% (2) (−0.030108 +/− 0.012489) −2.410724!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vuv{circumflex over ( )}dU −0.105630% (2) (−0.001056 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu −4.408754% (3) (−0.044088 +/− 0.009617) −4.584414!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DDuu{circumflex over ( )}UD −2.703257% (2) (−0.027033 +/− 0.001425) −18.965555!
*{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}UudUDU −0.913455% (2) (−0.009135 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dUvd{circumflex over ( )}dDud −2.116609% (2) (−0.021166 +/− 0.002265) −9.344535!
*dDDduvu{circumflex over ( )}UU −1.803551% (2) (−0.018036 +/− 0.007630) −2.363674!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuDv*vu −2.675902% (2) (−0.026759 +/− 0.010589) −2.527049!
*uUDud*uDUv{circumflex over ( )}D −1.220249% (2) (−0.012202 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvDdUuU*U 1.374570% (3) (0.013746 +/− 0.001713) 8.026247!
*u*dvu{circumflex over ( )}UUuu*d −2.650970% (4) (−0.026510 +/− 0.009597) −2.762338!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*Ud{circumflex over ( )}dDD 2.295378% (2) (0.022954 +/− 0.001866) 12.303568!
*vDvvUd{circumflex over ( )}* −0.936123% (2) (−0.009361 +/− 0.002217) −4.222185!
*UvU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )} −3.423375% (2) (−0.034234 +/− 0.004138) −8.272669!
*DudDvD{circumflex over ( )}Dv 2.610017% (2) (0.026100 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}d*UDuUv −3.284030% (2) (−0.032840 +/− 0.000472) −69.649222!
*vvddvv 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Duv{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}D 2.456648% (2) (0.024566 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −4.719481% (2) (−0.047195 +/− 0.004976) −9.483893!
*u*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vUD 0.977315% (2) (0.009773 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**dDvDUddDudUD 0.286447% (2) (0.002864 +/− 0.000517) 5.541155!
*v*v{circumflex over ( )}D*DDvv*U 3.893331% (2) (0.038933 +/− 0.014930) 2.607688!
*UvUd{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} −2.439782% (2) (−0.024398 +/− 0.002445) −9.978362!
*u{circumflex over ( )}ddDuUUUU 1.459494% (5) (0.014595 +/− 0.005200) 2.806465!
*UUUvDdvuU 1.172093% (2) (0.011721 +/− 0.003443) 3.404388!
*{circumflex over ( )}*D*DDd{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −1.936838% (2) (−0.019368 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vDU −3.073356% (3) (−0.030734 +/− 0.011847) −2.594254!
*Uu*uuuUuv*u{circumflex over ( )}U 1.464608% (2) (0.014646 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v*Dd{circumflex over ( )}Uudd −1.670175% (3) (−0.016702 +/− 0.005855) −2.852500!
*UdUvdu*{circumflex over ( )}Dv 2.717740% (2) (0.027177 +/− 0.001515) 17.940000!
*vvddvD 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*DDdudvU{circumflex over ( )}u −2.876744% (2) (−0.028767 +/− 0.007541) −3.814851!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
**{circumflex over ( )}Uuv{circumflex over ( )}U*u*u −0.789427% (3) (−0.007894 +/− 0.003358) −2.350792!
*vvUUDuUuU −1.837802% (2) (−0.018378 +/− 0.002104) −8.733112!
*UUDvu{circumflex over ( )}Udud −3.254087% (2) (−0.032541 +/− 0.009070) −3.587551!
*vuuuU{circumflex over ( )}D*dU 0.958645% (3) (0.009586 +/− 0.003910) 2.451527!
*UdU{circumflex over ( )}Uvvv 2.823431% (2) (0.028234 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDv*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDvDu 10.481589% (2) (0.104816 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Dv −2.497912% (2) (−0.024979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vvUvdD 7.067914% (2) (0.070679 +/− 0.004455) 15.866832!
*uUd{circumflex over ( )}ddvDu 1.736264% (2) (0.017363 +/− 0.000311) 55.867189!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDvvDuv 2.829966% (2) (0.028300 +/− 0.001203) 23.527227!
*vdduUd{circumflex over ( )}dUU 3.534045% (2) (0.035340 +/− 0.011047) 3.199200!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vUudduU 2.576863% (2) (0.025769 +/− 0.008100) 3.181387!
*vuvUDvv{circumflex over ( )}d 6.412787% (2) (0.064128 +/− 0.019739) 3.248741!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}ddUuU{circumflex over ( )} 2.340654% (2) (0.023407 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DuddUuduDDv 1.214015% (2) (0.012140 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}vDUdd{circumflex over ( )} −1.307040% (2) (−0.013070 +/− 0.002782) −4.697971!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}uuUUDD 3.344660% (2) (0.033447 +/− 0.000012) 2771.702528!
**Uv{circumflex over ( )}Dvvd 3.090392% (3) (0.030904 +/− 0.008367) 3.693476!
*UDu{circumflex over ( )}uvuDduUD 1.180995% (2) (0.011810 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUuDUuUUdD{circumflex over ( )} −1.576312% (3) (−0.015763 +/− 0.004989) −3.159405!
*d{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}UvdUd 0.248632% (2) (0.002486 +/− 0.000064) 38.786021!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}Uduv{circumflex over ( )}u −2.759296% (2) (−0.027593 +/− 0.005439) −5.072815!
*uDvd{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}U −2.196552% (2) (−0.021966 +/− 0.000518) −42.431192!
*ddudvdv*u{circumflex over ( )} −1.532375% (2) (−0.015324 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUvDdvUv*Dd 5.174573% (2) (0.051746 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvUD{circumflex over ( )}vUd{circumflex over ( )} 2.739620% (2) (0.027396 +/− 0.011008) 2.488741!
*v{circumflex over ( )}DvdDUu 0.176364% (2) (0.001764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDu −3.423957% (2) (−0.034240 +/− 0.007812) −4.383083!
*Udd{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}ud 1.671165% (2) (0.016712 +/− 0.007168) 2.331360!
*DUUD*UvuvddU −2.839378% (2) (−0.028394 +/− 0.004385) −6.475542!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}vDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 3.250519% (2) (0.032505 +/− 0.008392) 3.873195!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uDDdDUv 1.014415% (2) (0.010144 +/− 0.004346) 2.334109!
*Dd*uududv{circumflex over ( )} −0.452754% (2) (−0.004528 +/− 0.000045) −100.876312!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}u* −1.507612% (2) (−0.015076 +/− 0.003595) −4.194173!
*UDDdDuvuvD −4.165245% (2) (−0.041652 +/− 0.005244) −7.943612!
*dvvdDUvU 2.692903% (3) (0.026929 +/− 0.009920) 2.714529!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDd{circumflex over ( )}d −9.703341% (2) (−0.097033 +/− 0.016508) −5.878042!
*{circumflex over ( )}d*u{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vD −2.497912% (2) (−0.024979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duduDd{circumflex over ( )}v 1.407481% (2) (0.014075 +/− 0.004049) 3.475903!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}*DdDD{circumflex over ( )}U 2.607552% (2) (0.026076 +/− 0.000084) 311.003219!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUuD*uvDd −0.436995% (2) (−0.004370 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUDUDUvDD{circumflex over ( )}U 3.349089% (5) (0.033491 +/− 0.011849) 2.826386!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UDU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −1.213943% (2) (−0.012139 +/− 0.002353) −5.158501!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}dUu*dudU 0.797213% (2) (0.007972 +/− 0.001846) 4.318017!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuUU{circumflex over ( )}U*d 1.215422% (3) (0.012154 +/− 0.004800) 2.532152!
*u*dvuUv{circumflex over ( )}vv −2.497912% (2) (−0.024979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUud*vUDv 1.988533% (2) (0.019885 +/− 0.002078) 9.567945!
*dDDUduDDD{circumflex over ( )}U 0.875297% (3) (0.008753 +/− 0.002373) 3.688870!
*UUdudDUUv{circumflex over ( )}* 0.998931% (3) (0.009989 +/− 0.002682) 3.724183!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddUdv*{circumflex over ( )}D 2.578405% (4) (0.025784 +/− 0.004500) 5.729869!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*UdUuUD{circumflex over ( )} 1.114302% (3) (0.011143 +/− 0.001084) 10.278051!
*uuUvvUDuD 2.710126% (2) (0.027101 +/− 0.009679) 2.800044!
*Uudu*dd{circumflex over ( )}v 3.112968% (2) (0.031130 +/− 0.012638) 2.463169!
*duDD*dduDvD* −2.072390% (3) (−0.020724 +/− 0.006620) −3.130362!
**vU{circumflex over ( )}ddvDu −1.738149% (2) (−0.017381 +/− 0.000727) −23.911582!
*UUvUUDvdduU −2.002627% (2) (−0.020026 +/− 0.007267) −2.755661!
*Uvddvuvd −0.497876% (2) (−0.004979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v*DuDDDudvv −9.467149% (2) (−0.094671 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vdUd{circumflex over ( )}Udu −0.204764% (2) (−0.002048 +/− 0.000558) −3.667661!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UdUuuUdd 0.228055% (2) (0.002281 +/− 0.000080) 28.454477!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Udv −11.381753% (2) (−0.113818 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuddvdvD 3.456583% (3) (0.034566 +/− 0.002281) 15.152405!
*DvuudDuuuUD −1.117125% (2) (−0.011171 +/− 0.002685) −4.160197!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}v*vU{circumflex over ( )} −2.520525% (2) (−0.025205 +/− 0.004064) −6.202537!
*udDUu{circumflex over ( )}dvD 2.489948% (2) (0.024899 +/− 0.004331) 5.748890!
*uDUDuuudUD{circumflex over ( )}uD 0.776811% (2) (0.007768 +/− 0.002124) 3.658013!
*uDdv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDdd 2.230966% (2) (0.022310 +/− 0.008827) 2.527446!
*UDUv{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.644363% (2) (−0.036444 +/− 0.005843) −6.236885!
*u*vDD*uuUdv −1.616699% (2) (−0.016167 +/− 0.005075) −3.185747!
*dvu{circumflex over ( )}dUD{circumflex over ( )}u −1.916337% (2) (−0.019163 +/− 0.006238) −3.072172!
*duDuudUvv* −1.335803% (3) (−0.013358 +/− 0.002808) −4.757134!
*vvUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −5.540925% (2) (−0.055409 +/− 0.007840) −7.067150!
*UuuDuU{circumflex over ( )}vu −2.681125% (2) (−0.026811 +/− 0.000589) −45.519161!
*DUU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUdD −2.609567% (3) (−0.026096 +/− 0.007677) −3.399393!
*UuUudDDUd*uvu 1.824809% (2) (0.018248 +/− 0.000790) 23.086169!
**uUdUvv*ddv 0.544635% (2) (0.005446 +/− 0.000580) 9.391328!
*vvvD*uvdU −0.402098% (2) (−0.004021 +/− 0.001685) −2.386151!
*D*DdDUDUUv{circumflex over ( )} 2.617855% (2) (0.026179 +/− 0.002608) 10.039067!
*vDdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} −2.736323% (2) (−0.027363 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}DUUdU*udUd −2.073879% (2) (−0.020739 +/− 0.002879) −7.204281!
**u{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}Ddv{circumflex over ( )}* −3.109188% (3) (−0.031092 +/− 0.010496) −2.962301!
*uuDuvuv*uD 3.440158% (2) (0.034402 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdUUdU −0.935927% (3) (−0.009359 +/− 0.003883) −2.410210!
*{circumflex over ( )}udDvdUu 1.865142% (3) (0.018651 +/− 0.006808) 2.739592!
*Uvd*dvu*Ud −3.988876% (3) (−0.039889 +/− 0.014153) −2.818443!
*duv{circumflex over ( )}dv 0.208957% (2) (0.002090 +/− 0.000370) 5.642134!
*uvvddD*d −1.190405% (2) (−0.011904 +/− 0.000427) −27.846680!
*vu*dvdD*vu 2.208201% (2) (0.022082 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dd*D 1.344325% (2) (0.013443 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udD 0.638037% (2) (0.006380 +/− 0.002494) 2.558426!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}DUUvUUd −0.613306% (3) (−0.006133 +/− 0.002535) −2.419525!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}*vU 1.867449% (2) (0.018674 +/− 0.002793) 6.685038!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}DUvDuD −1.796952% (3) (−0.017970 +/− 0.005227) −3.437834!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDDu{circumflex over ( )}UUU −2.736323% (2) (−0.027363 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDuu{circumflex over ( )}vD −1.775251% (2) (−0.017753 +/− 0.005212) −3.406372!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}dU* −1.931761% (4) (−0.019318 +/− 0.004612) −4.188961!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}uuDuuv 1.076242% (2) (0.010762 +/− 0.000747) 14.398232!
*DuvUu{circumflex over ( )}dvD −5.931000% (2) (−0.059310 +/− 0.004718) −12.570185!
**{circumflex over ( )}*Uu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}d 6.174170% (2) (0.061742 +/− 0.024488) 2.521264!
*u{circumflex over ( )}*vDdvdUd* −0.950543% (2) (−0.009505 +/− 0.003044) −3.122499!
*uduvuuv*Uu −2.581189% (2) (−0.025812 +/− 0.008484) −3.042398!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}UvduUd −1.108676% (2) (−0.011087 +/− 0.002795) −3.966650!
*UvUvDDdU*UD 1.002143% (2) (0.010021 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Du*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUU −3.701937% (2) (−0.037019 +/− 0.005029) −7.361145!
*uUvvuuUDu*DuU 3.700336% (2) (0.037003 +/− 0.002721) 13.601520!
*DvvUuD{circumflex over ( )}uu 1.525611% (2) (0.015256 +/− 0.006310) 2.417581!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dd −2.887184% (3) (−0.028872 +/− 0.006754) −4.275000!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UuUUu{circumflex over ( )} −2.717487% (2) (−0.027175 +/− 0.003641) −7.463530!
*DDDuU{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )}uDU 1.464033% (2) (0.014640 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uUDU{circumflex over ( )}UvdvUDD −2.010386% (2) (−0.020104 +/− 0.000924) −21.767887!
*uDuU*d{circumflex over ( )}UvuU −2.869377% (2) (−0.028694 +/− 0.006545) −4.384185!
*uvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}d −7.934891% (2) (−0.079349 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Dd 3.250283% (5) (0.032503 +/− 0.012254) 2.652399!
*uDuudu*U{circumflex over ( )}uv 1.149432% (2) (0.011494 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvDvuUUU*dDUU 1.997092% (2) (0.019971 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vdv 3.047411% (3) (0.030474 +/− 0.003361) 9.067386!
**ddUDuvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} 0.425332% (2) (0.004253 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUDUuUvDu 4.828222% (2) (0.048282 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvUvuuu −0.794249% (2) (−0.007942 +/− 0.001691) −4.696391!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDdvDd −2.249705% (2) (−0.022497 +/− 0.008172) −2.752881!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUudd −2.084326% (2) (−0.020843 +/− 0.007267) −2.868397!
*DvduuvvU 0.636649% (2) (0.006366 +/− 0.000736) 8.655901!
*UvDDvu{circumflex over ( )}DDUu 7.309641% (2) (0.073096 +/− 0.020464) 3.572013!
*uUvUuuUvud 0.621345% (2) (0.006213 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*dU{circumflex over ( )}UDvDuu 3.114984% (2) (0.031150 +/− 0.003000) 10.383385!
*uv**vu*{circumflex over ( )}uU 1.305771% (2) (0.013058 +/− 0.000374) 34.906843!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}UDUDv{circumflex over ( )}D −1.608137% (2) (−0.016081 +/− 0.004675) −3.440067!
*dUud*UUvvD −2.095051% (3) (−0.020951 +/− 0.007317) −2.863390!
*uvvUdUUduu −0.355735% (3) (−0.003557 +/− 0.000895) −3.973612!
*uvvU{circumflex over ( )}*d*{circumflex over ( )}D 3.543727% (2) (0.035437 +/− 0.004468) 7.931554!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUvDvud 3.932117% (2) (0.039321 +/− 0.010413) 3.776143!
*uud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udU −0.595589% (2) (−0.005956 +/− 0.001696) −3.511769!
*UDv{circumflex over ( )}Dud{circumflex over ( )}d −1.874618% (2) (−0.018746 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ddd*v*UuU{circumflex over ( )}U* −2.707422% (2) (−0.027074 +/− 0.008358) −3.239214!
*uUDuv{circumflex over ( )}vU −1.855704% (2) (−0.018557 +/− 0.000562) −33.035406!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvvuu 3.858323% (2) (0.038583 +/− 0.005052) 7.637178!
*vUvUu{circumflex over ( )}udU 3.168100% (2) (0.031681 +/− 0.005303) 5.973845!
*vuv{circumflex over ( )}vUuD{circumflex over ( )} −0.709727% (2) (−0.007097 +/− 0.002549) −2.783794!
*ududvuU{circumflex over ( )} −4.237583% (2) (−0.042376 +/− 0.003766) −11.253408!
*dDDdDv*uUu 1.785757% (2) (0.017858 +/− 0.005098) 3.502961!
**{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −1.952558% (2) (−0.019526 +/− 0.006328) −3.085701!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.307757% (2) (−0.033078 +/− 0.010692) −3.093695!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UudDv 2.125033% (5) (0.021250 +/− 0.006779) 3.134721!
*{circumflex over ( )}*vUuU{circumflex over ( )}dd −2.781532% (3) (−0.027815 +/− 0.001563) −17.796400!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDvv{circumflex over ( )}dUu 1.139604% (2) (0.011396 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}udDDUUv{circumflex over ( )} 2.816849% (2) (0.028168 +/− 0.005075) 5.550719!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUdv{circumflex over ( )} 3.759392% (2) (0.037594 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*du{circumflex over ( )}*uDuvUdD 3.503886% (2) (0.035039 +/− 0.011114) 3.152664!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD*d* −1.637244% (2) (−0.016372 +/− 0.003167) −5.169528!
*uUdv{circumflex over ( )}UDvdd 4.488551% (2) (0.044886 +/− 0.001901) 23.612287!
*dUu{circumflex over ( )}dvU{circumflex over ( )} −3.555044% (2) (−0.035550 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuDDvUUdDdud* −0.646789% (2) (−0.006468 +/− 0.001340) −4.827749!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDvDd{circumflex over ( )}U 1.472076% (2) (0.014721 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UvvD*{circumflex over ( )}Dv 0.638050% (2) (0.006380 +/− 0.000315) 20.242796!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dvdvvD −8.310188% (4) (−0.083102 +/− 0.027655) −3.004926!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}Du{circumflex over ( )}dD*vU −1.378766% (3) (−0.013788 +/− 0.000366) −37.644255!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}DUdv{circumflex over ( )}u −2.576298% (5) (−0.025763 +/− 0.010726) −2.401893!
*vddUDv{circumflex over ( )}D 1.884820% (4) (0.018848 +/− 0.007699) 2.448078!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}vud* 0.623623% (2) (0.006236 +/− 0.002522) 2.472378!
*DvDvu{circumflex over ( )}uD 0.880034% (2) (0.008800 +/− 0.003137) 2.805559!
*vdvu*{circumflex over ( )}Uv −1.389123% (4) (−0.013891 +/− 0.005258) −2.641700!
*UvuUUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*vv 0.284313% (2) (0.002843 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**dvdDDu*d*DdU 1.120608% (2) (0.011206 +/− 0.002701) 4.149631!
**{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUDUDUdUvu −0.174220% (2) (−0.001742 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvDDDDddDdu 4.303796% (2) (0.043038 +/− 0.010088) 4.266386!
**duddDud{circumflex over ( )}du 1.065171% (3) (0.010652 +/− 0.002065) 5.158254!
*dvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*Uu 6.686737% (3) (0.066867 +/− 0.017155) 3.897894!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvd*UDUUu −0.935561% (3) (−0.009356 +/− 0.003545) −2.638857!
*vDDvu{circumflex over ( )}vdD 7.470555% (3) (0.074706 +/− 0.031955) 2.337827!
*u{circumflex over ( )}ddUD{circumflex over ( )}d*u 0.694443% (2) (0.006944 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*duD{circumflex over ( )}uDvdU −0.281028% (2) (−0.002810 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDvDUdDDuDDU −1.949458% (2) (−0.019495 +/− 0.004127) −4.723465!
*v*uDdDUUu{circumflex over ( )}du −0.776050% (2) (−0.007760 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**vvUuv*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.228484% (2) (−0.032285 +/− 0.000523) −61.704899!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dudu{circumflex over ( )}D 0.330071% (2) (0.003301 +/− 0.000372) 8.882401!
*UuD{circumflex over ( )}uvdud* −0.934292% (2) (−0.009343 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUd*d*vuu −2.215930% (3) (−0.022159 +/− 0.004626) −4.789931!
*uD*u{circumflex over ( )}vu*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −0.464781% (2) (−0.004648 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DvuUDvudu −4.541026% (3) (−0.045410 +/− 0.002022) −22.455093!
*udU*{circumflex over ( )}UvUU −2.331736% (3) (−0.023317 +/− 0.010013) −2.328644!
*U{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )} −4.426137% (2) (−0.044261 +/− 0.006841) −6.470254!
**u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUv{circumflex over ( )} 1.766965% (2) (0.017670 +/− 0.001154) 15.317101!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}*uU{circumflex over ( )}U −1.025104% (4) (−0.010251 +/− 0.003127) −3.278308!
*DuuUvvuv 2.620029% (2) (0.026200 +/− 0.006195) 4.229129!
*UdUU{circumflex over ( )}uvu −2.058323% (2) (−0.020583 +/− 0.005642) −3.648324!
*DuvvdDdv 0.544635% (2) (0.005446 +/− 0.000580) 9.391328!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDu*DdU{circumflex over ( )}d 1.345564% (2) (0.013456 +/− 0.003352) 4.014782!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*v{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}UvD{circumflex over ( )}U 1.697605% (2) (0.016976 +/− 0.006059) 2.801787!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuDUuUDu{circumflex over ( )} 0.798607% (2) (0.007986 +/− 0.001221) 6.539568!
*U*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU −2.484183% (2) (−0.024842 +/− 0.000955) −26.008119!
*v{circumflex over ( )}*dd*UdDUD −3.378982% (3) (−0.033790 +/− 0.013465) −2.509440!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UUdD{circumflex over ( )}**{circumflex over ( )} 1.070720% (2) (0.010707 +/− 0.003964) 2.700982!
*DUUvuUvUU{circumflex over ( )} −0.943567% (2) (−0.009436 +/− 0.000481) −19.619446!
*uuDdDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −4.713424% (2) (−0.047134 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDUuvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 6.542770% (2) (0.065428 +/− 0.026301) 2.487631!
*UvDuU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.640590% (2) (0.026406 +/− 0.007690) 3.433796!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uDvvU 2.655760% (3) (0.026558 +/− 0.007557) 3.514473!
**vUvdDDuDd 0.529808% (3) (0.005298 +/− 0.001006) 5.263989!
*{circumflex over ( )}vdDvUuDd −2.155487% (3) (−0.021555 +/− 0.007899) −2.728810!
*dvDvuDUUd 2.093511% (3) (0.020935 +/− 0.002223) 9.417692!
*UddudUddvUu −0.310747% (2) (−0.003107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvdvDUDu 0.972597% (2) (0.009726 +/− 0.000024) 399.342527!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}UvvUv 3.183636% (2) (0.031836 +/− 0.002556) 12.454555!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDdduUvD 0.659919% (2) (0.006599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDUudUu{circumflex over ( )}u −1.430395% (2) (−0.014304 +/− 0.001134) −12.615042!
*UuuvDDu{circumflex over ( )} −5.260469% (4) (−0.052605 +/− 0.006260) −8.402915!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UUUUvUu*u −3.285083% (2) (−0.032851 +/− 0.003844) −8.546264!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDdU{circumflex over ( )}duv 1.976977% (2) (0.019770 +/− 0.008303) 2.380985!
*uUDv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Dd* −2.781295% (2) (−0.027813 +/− 0.001566) −17.757465!
*vuuuv*{circumflex over ( )}d 0.787336% (2) (0.007873 +/− 0.000984) 8.003034!
*vvDuvuUuv −3.216515% (2) (−0.032165 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDvDuvD{circumflex over ( )} −3.141861% (2) (−0.031419 +/− 0.012621) −2.489313!
*UDD*uduu*D{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.051744% (2) (−0.020517 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dddDu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}U −1.368621% (2) (−0.013686 +/− 0.002065) −6.628595!
*vUdU**vvu 5.784729% (2) (0.057847 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}DUUvdv −2.851527% (2) (−0.028515 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**vUvUvvuvv 12.063017% (2) (0.120630 +/− 0.020707) 5.825502!
*DUdDuvvduDU 0.047060% (2) (0.000471 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUdUD{circumflex over ( )}UvdD* 3.253653% (2) (0.032537 +/− 0.008310) 3.915203!
*uUvd{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}d −1.825292% (2) (−0.018253 +/− 0.000543) −33.599693!
*ddUdvD*vD{circumflex over ( )} −1.115651% (3) (−0.011157 +/− 0.002958) −3.771834!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −7.825244% (2) (−0.078252 +/− 0.012440) −6.290375!
*vvd**uUuuD −4.021455% (2) (−0.040215 +/− 0.016871) −2.383695!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dDdUDuuv 1.773349% (2) (0.017733 +/− 0.004827) 3.674118!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuUvuD{circumflex over ( )} −4.121329% (3) (−0.041213 +/− 0.013256) −3.109094!
*D*vvddd*d −1.190405% (2) (−0.011904 +/− 0.000427) −27.846680!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}UDUU{circumflex over ( )}U −2.378303% (2) (−0.023783 +/− 0.000899) −26.447620!
*ddUDUu*dD*Dv −1.875522% (3) (−0.018755 +/− 0.004784) −3.920654!
*d*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*dvv 1.330547% (2) (0.013305 +/− 0.004544) 2.928256!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DUud −2.284309% (2) (−0.022843 +/− 0.002762) −8.269838!
*{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −3.103725% (3) (−0.031037 +/− 0.011283) −2.750895!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuvDvUD 0.397654% (2) (0.003977 +/− 0.000056) 71.134764!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDuddUdv 3.190251% (2) (0.031903 +/− 0.002873) 11.104568!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*uDDuUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u 2.435018% (2) (0.024350 +/− 0.004221) 5.768847!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}DUu**UD{circumflex over ( )} 4.090942% (2) (0.040909 +/− 0.004135) 9.892504!
*d{circumflex over ( )}dUvUvDv 1.583302% (2) (0.015833 +/− 0.005681) 2.786854!
*DDDdvdUuv 3.561315% (3) (0.035613 +/− 0.012113) 2.940032!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*UuDu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v −5.328403% (2) (−0.053284 +/− 0.009650) −5.521447!
*DUDDU*Du{circumflex over ( )}ddv −2.702777% (2) (−0.027028 +/− 0.003065) −8.817026!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDuddUdu*d 0.765897% (3) (0.007659 +/− 0.002592) 2.955401!
*UuD*dDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDD 1.483177% (2) (0.014832 +/− 0.003056) 4.853293!
*uDvDdDUdDv 4.689284% (2) (0.046893 +/− 0.000829) 56.552641!
*D*Dd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UD*Uu 2.406732% (4) (0.024067 +/− 0.009579) 2.512610!
*vUvv{circumflex over ( )}dvU 2.580506% (2) (0.025805 +/− 0.006900) 3.740104!
*udUDvvuD*v −1.280365% (2) (−0.012804 +/− 0.000198) −64.824652!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uv*UD{circumflex over ( )}DUD* −2.663303% (2) (−0.026633 +/− 0.002279) −11.687673!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUuUu −3.172734% (2) (−0.031727 +/− 0.009765) −3.249197!
*DudDv{circumflex over ( )}UD*vd −1.242790% (2) (−0.012428 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vddUuDud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −2.160868% (2) (−0.021609 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUdvduD{circumflex over ( )}du −2.585650% (2) (−0.025856 +/− 0.005398) −4.789942!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuU{circumflex over ( )}d −3.069986% (3) (−0.030700 +/− 0.005728) −5.360077!
*dvUUDU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D 0.691927% (3) (0.006919 +/− 0.000162) 42.790506!
*uUuUDuvDu*d*d −0.375286% (2) (−0.003753 +/− 0.001540) −2.436403!
*dDDdvduUv −0.575813% (2) (−0.005758 +/− 0.002008) −2.867828!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}DvuUdD 0.152418% (3) (0.001524 +/− 0.000294) 5.181844!
*udu*d*udvvvU −5.968613% (3) (−0.059686 +/− 0.024614) −2.424920!
*uDDuU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UU −0.175781% (2) (−0.001758 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Ddddd −2.277629% (2) (−0.022776 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d*dd{circumflex over ( )}udDv 0.803047% (2) (0.008030 +/− 0.000525) 15.299335!
*Uud{circumflex over ( )}dDdUDUu 2.749925% (2) (0.027499 +/− 0.003803) 7.230036!
*UvUU{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}D −1.785635% (2) (−0.017856 +/− 0.003388) −5.270592!
*DvDUduUdd{circumflex over ( )} 3.523629% (2) (0.035236 +/− 0.014829) 2.376228!
*UdU*v{circumflex over ( )}vUuU −1.052961% (2) (−0.010530 +/− 0.002381) −4.422503!
*vdUvUvDD* 2.813558% (2) (0.028136 +/− 0.007913) 3.555458!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}*ddU −1.301793% (2) (−0.013018 +/− 0.003419) −3.808075!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dUD{circumflex over ( )}U −1.854103% (2) (−0.018541 +/− 0.007405) −2.503830!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v*d{circumflex over ( )}Uudu 0.988703% (2) (0.009887 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddu{circumflex over ( )} −1.310555% (2) (−0.013106 +/− 0.000296) −44.281734!
*d{circumflex over ( )}Ddduv*{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )} 0.576604% (2) (0.005766 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uu*vvDU{circumflex over ( )}v** 4.153053% (2) (0.041531 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDd*UvvdUD* −1.368959% (3) (−0.013690 +/− 0.001497) −9.145013!
***uUDD{circumflex over ( )}vuu −1.086210% (3) (−0.010862 +/− 0.002095) −5.185333!
*vuUUuuDuUdD 3.559319% (2) (0.035593 +/− 0.008025) 4.435087!
*uu*dv{circumflex over ( )}DUddDd 2.933591% (2) (0.029336 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.569904% (2) (0.025699 +/− 0.002940) 8.741909!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUUdUvU −1.142640% (2) (−0.011426 +/− 0.003674) −3.110324!
*dvU*Dd{circumflex over ( )}uv*U −1.495339% (2) (−0.014953 +/− 0.000087) −171.392214!
*uu*{circumflex over ( )}Uvdv{circumflex over ( )} −1.555284% (2) (−0.015553 +/− 0.000008) −1870.207956!
*dDddd{circumflex over ( )}*UDDuu 1.248552% (2) (0.012486 +/− 0.004090) 3.052377!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.946462% (2) (−0.049465 +/− 0.003390) −14.593420!
*udDU{circumflex over ( )}UDuDDvD 0.790009% (2) (0.007900 +/− 0.003336) 2.368023!
*vUu*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}U 0.685132% (2) (0.006851 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUvvddUUv 1.960138% (2) (0.019601 +/− 0.002119) 9.249057!
*dDuvdvuuvD −1.174448% (2) (−0.011744 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuvddDv{circumflex over ( )} 1.757381% (2) (0.017574 +/− 0.004258) 4.127347!
*uuuUvUUdd{circumflex over ( )} −0.248182% (2) (−0.002482 +/− 0.000225) −11.037228!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}vUvUU 2.645104% (2) (0.026451 +/− 0.004774) 5.540557!
*u*uddUduvdDUu −1.052264% (2) (−0.010523 +/− 0.002000) −5.262237!
*vdu{circumflex over ( )}DUDddD −1.329783% (2) (−0.013298 +/− 0.004568) −2.911209!
**dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.228423% (3) (−0.032284 +/− 0.008341) −3.870712!
*vDD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU 1.220914% (2) (0.012209 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UUdDu{circumflex over ( )}DUDvvD 3.573471% (2) (0.035735 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**uudv{circumflex over ( )}vd 2.381863% (4) (0.023819 +/− 0.004682) 5.087421!
*dUuDDdv{circumflex over ( )}v 1.384073% (2) (0.013841 +/− 0.000882) 15.697785!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}D −2.828395% (3) (−0.028284 +/− 0.009269) −3.051419!
*uUUudDUdDvdu 2.134785% (2) (0.021348 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vv*{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}v −1.481734% (2) (−0.014817 +/− 0.001087) −13.628157!
*uUDD{circumflex over ( )}u*d{circumflex over ( )}u −0.791219% (2) (−0.007912 +/− 0.001720) −4.599116!
*vUuvuDdvD −5.345686% (2) (−0.053457 +/− 0.000610) −87.648694!
*DvvddUDv 2.498838% (2) (0.024988 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UDDvdUU 1.712848% (4) (0.017128 +/− 0.006339) 2.702259!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUuu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}* −0.791096% (2) (−0.007911 +/− 0.001435) −5.514361!
*UDUU*{circumflex over ( )}vu{circumflex over ( )}uuD −2.805385% (2) (−0.028054 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v*DDuDddd 5.174573% (2) (0.051746 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDd*UddD{circumflex over ( )}** 0.917743% (2) (0.009177 +/− 0.003276) 2.800988!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DuUUvU*UUUD −0.633020% (2) (−0.006330 +/− 0.001866) −3.393151!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DDdD{circumflex over ( )}uD 1.653424% (2) (0.016534 +/− 0.006457) 2.560717!
*UUUv{circumflex over ( )}uUUd*dUD −5.147430% (2) (−0.051474 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdUUvu{circumflex over ( )}duDD 2.994538% (2) (0.029945 +/− 0.012103) 2.474230!
*dUv{circumflex over ( )}DvD{circumflex over ( )}d −2.012458% (2) (−0.020125 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUv{circumflex over ( )}uUU −2.058903% (3) (−0.020589 +/− 0.003723) −5.530577!
*UDUuUdDuvuu 1.278240% (3) (0.012782 +/− 0.002311) 5.531768!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}vDudu 10.523469% (2) (0.105235 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdUuvUUduv −1.386352% (2) (−0.013864 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*d*uuvvuD 2.850777% (2) (0.028508 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDudvdD 2.290022% (2) (0.022900 +/−0.003939) 5.813705!
**D{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Uv*vU 3.875406% (2) (0.038754 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdD{circumflex over ( )}UDDUUv{circumflex over ( )} 1.025660% (2) (0.010257 +/− 0.002346) 4.371338!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )}U 0.908358% (2) (0.009084 +/− 0.002053) 4.423597!
*vDvdDddU* 3.533020% (2) (0.035330 +/− 0.000938) 37.649845!
*DUvdv{circumflex over ( )}dUvuD 2.133010% (2) (0.021330 +/− 0.004648) 4.589314!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )} −1.796879% (2) (−0.017969 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uudu* 0.533808% (2) (0.005338 +/− 0.001109) 4.812387!
*Uu*v{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DU −0.300859% (2) (−0.003009 +/− 0.000054) −55.564529!
*vdUUd*UuudU −1.377665% (3) (−0.013777 +/− 0.004710) −2.925065!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vUdDdu −0.241073% (2) (−0.002411 +/− 0.000116) −20.805838!
**ud{circumflex over ( )}DvuvD −2.644846% (4) (−0.026448 +/− 0.008018) −3.298766!
*UuDvuvuuU*D −0.623699% (2) (−0.006237 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dUUv{circumflex over ( )}DUu{circumflex over ( )} −1.052961% (2) (−0.010530 +/− 0.002381) −4.422503!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vdUdv* 1.742501% (2) (0.017425 +/− 0.006878) 2.533305!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dduUu{circumflex over ( )} 2.340654% (2) (0.023407 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**ddDUvDvddu −1.210121% (2) (−0.012101 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUuvU*Dvd 1.459660% (3) (0.014597 +/− 0.005758) 2.534900!
*DUD{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}Uv −0.433166% (2) (−0.004332 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Udvd{circumflex over ( )}vdUD 0.960332% (2) (0.009603 +/− 0.001818) 5.282933!
**D{circumflex over ( )}vDv{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}vdD 0.158482% (2) (0.001585 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuDUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vU 1.490966% (2) (0.014910 +/− 0.001917) 7.778177!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvUUUDUv −1.276912% (4) (−0.012769 +/− 0.004811) −2.653911!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 2.316300% (2) (0.023163 +/− 0.007226) 3.205729!
*uDDvvDv{circumflex over ( )}* 0.807970% (3) (0.008080 +/− 0.002510) 3.218965!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Dddv −6.588563% (2) (−0.065886 +/− 0.001997) −32.994884!
*vvuvdUUd 2.238403% (2) (0.022384 +/− 0.001269) 17.642635!
*UuDU{circumflex over ( )}Udvu 2.616527% (2) (0.026165 +/− 0.002239) 11.688519!
*DuuUdvvUU −1.866540% (3) (−0.018665 +/− 0.007479) −2.495564!
**DduUdUD{circumflex over ( )}Uv −2.395056% (2) (−0.023951 +/− 0.000125) −191.025334!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}Udud{circumflex over ( )}u −1.569923% (4) (−0.015699 +/− 0.005445) −2.882976!
*UduvuuD{circumflex over ( )}d*U −1.909028% (2) (−0.019090 +/− 0.004356) −4.382946!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUdd{circumflex over ( )} 2.587909% (2) (0.025879 +/− 0.002834) 9.132651!
*uDDuuvdu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}* −0.548696% (2) (−0.005487 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvdvDUvv*D{circumflex over ( )} −5.485760% (2) (−0.054858 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdudDDdDD{circumflex over ( )}d −0.667730% (2) (−0.006677 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuUvuDvv 1.408938% (3) (0.014089 +/− 0.005908) 2.384751!
*UUUDU{circumflex over ( )}uuddv −2.218278% (2) (−0.022183 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dudD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD 2.737087% (2) (0.027371 +/− 0.011200) 2.443741!
*dDvUDvud*{circumflex over ( )}D −2.302298% (2) (−0.023023 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuDD{circumflex over ( )}ddvv −0.776742% (2) (−0.007767 +/− 0.001070) −7.259248!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDuDvDvuU −3.895575% (2) (−0.038956 +/− 0.001518) −25.670515!
*uDUvuUv{circumflex over ( )}D −1.700828% (2) (−0.017008 +/− 0.007164) −2.374053!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}uD*Uv −2.876250% (2) (−0.028762 +/− 0.004623) −6.222011!
*udvdvv 4.780590% (4) (0.047806 +/− 0.014368) 3.327176!
*uddudDdD{circumflex over ( )}UUd −0.200077% (2) (−0.002001 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUvdD 5.615545% (2) (0.056155 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUudd{circumflex over ( )}Ddud −1.264914% (2) (−0.012649 +/− 0.001792) −7.057223!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vvUvD{circumflex over ( )}u 3.792118% (2) (0.037921 +/− 0.013134) 2.887356!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}d −1.674640% (4) (−0.016746 +/− 0.001446) −11.577363!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D*UdUu −4.108039% (4) (−0.041080 +/− 0.010176) −4.037073!
*UDdUD*v{circumflex over ( )}Ud 3.947375% (2) (0.039474 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DDdUD −1.895795% (3) (−0.018958 +/− 0.002021) −9.382013!
*duDDUduduUU{circumflex over ( )}D −1.598400% (2) (−0.015984 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UvDUdUvU 1.876783% (3) (0.018768 +/− 0.003726) 5.036657!
*DvDvvuDv 13.311661% (2) (0.133117 +/− 0.019943) 6.675011!
*dUdu*dvUd*Uv −3.891551% (2) (−0.038916 +/− 0.009378) −4.149507!
*vuddv{circumflex over ( )}vU 5.007620% (2) (0.050076 +/− 0.000963) 51.991377!
*Duduu{circumflex over ( )}UDd 1.822467% (5) (0.018225 +/− 0.004630) 3.936471!
**U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*vuDUU*D −2.465729% (2) (−0.024657 +/− 0.002542) −9.698499!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvDu{circumflex over ( )}D 2.818630% (2) (0.028186 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuUDvUuDd{circumflex over ( )} 2.411827% (2) (0.024118 +/− 0.004727) 5.102022!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vdv 4.886654% (2) (0.048867 +/− 0.007403) 6.601344!
*vdduDvu{circumflex over ( )} 0.475966% (2) (0.004760 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**ddDDUvUd*v*D 0.310695% (2) (0.003107 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DduDU −2.102054% (3) (−0.021021 +/− 0.004831) −4.351543!
**DUd*dDuUUu{circumflex over ( )}U 1.652027% (3) (0.016520 +/− 0.006169) 2.678120!
**U{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}vdd −1.813995% (2) (−0.018140 +/− 0.001472) −12.327052!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}udv 2.390558%(4) (0.023906 +/− 0.006463) 3.698873!
*DDD{circumflex over ( )}DuUvuu 0.143010% (2) (0.001430 +/− 0.000370) 3.868573!
*uvDuUdvd{circumflex over ( )} −0.941715% (2) (−0.009417 +/− 0.001913) −4.923168!
*D*vDDuv*DDDUd 2.252140% (2) (0.022521 +/− 0.004631) 4.863354!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}UDddDUvd −0.497876% (2) (−0.004979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}udd{circumflex over ( )}U 1.532443% (3) (0.015324 +/− 0.006564) 2.334455!
*{circumflex over ( )}vddvuUd −1.231316% (2) (−0.012313 +/− 0.001263) −9.747323!
*DD*d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uD −3.336082% (5) (−0.033361 +/− 0.013989) −2.384857!
*dDDUud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUD 0.682591% (2) (0.006826 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vDDu 2.493449% (3) (0.024934 +/− 0.006090) 4.094161!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDDuuvUuu 0.404665% (3) (0.004047 +/− 0.001477) 2.739323!
*{circumflex over ( )}v*vvDdU −3.367379% (2) (−0.033674 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}udv 2.390558% (4) (0.023906 +/− 0.006463) 3.698873!
*{circumflex over ( )}dU*uDdDvDU −0.447908% (2) (−0.004479 +/− 0.001680) −2.665369!
**uvU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}* −2.275747% (3) (−0.022757 +/− 0.009406) −2.419514!
*Duv{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}dD −3.763843% (2) (−0.037638 +/− 0.001542) −24.413506!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dUvvvd −6.603955% (2) (−0.066040 +/− 0.014970) −4.411386!
*vvUUUdUvU 0.365452% (2) (0.003655 +/− 0.000990) 3.691385!
*DDdvUvUddvd −0.088685% (2) (−0.000887 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuD*ddv{circumflex over ( )}Dd −2.437445% (2) (−0.024374 +/− 0.001655) −14.726099!
*vu*Ddv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 3.023518% (3) (0.030235 +/− 0.007119) 4.247345!
*DvvvD{circumflex over ( )}DvUUUDD 1.170460% (2) (0.011705 +/− 0.004865) 2.405814!
*U*uDD{circumflex over ( )}vDvD −7.768339% (2) (−0.077683 +/− 0.014315) −5.426603!
*vvvuUU*v −1.709042% (2) (−0.017090 +/− 0.001360) −12.570336!
*UvduU*vU*ud −3.304727% (2) (−0.033047 +/− 0.010738) −3.077670!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vuDDu −4.885324% (4) (−0.048853 +/− 0.010477) −4.662997!
*uDDuuvuUu*v 1.141382% (2) (0.011414 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DuddUvU 1.361076% (3) (0.013611 +/− 0.005561) 2.447350!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uDddDU*ddu −0.274429% (2) (−0.002744 +/− 0.000060) −45.770984!
*v*U{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}dd −3.696919% (2) (−0.036969 +/− 0.010406) −3.552818!
*UuvDvUdUud −3.730337% (2) (−0.037303 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duvuUv{circumflex over ( )}U 0.696587% (2) (0.006966 +/− 0.001008) 6.909227!
*UvDUUuDDUuD −2.261335% (2) (−0.022613 +/− 0.000851) −26.581024!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vuDU{circumflex over ( )}u −3.852463% (4) (−0.038525 +/− 0.011875) −3.244104!
*UDDU{circumflex over ( )}*Uuud{circumflex over ( )}D 0.953714% (2) (0.009537 +/− 0.000070) 136.421931!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUd{circumflex over ( )} −2.024072% (2) (−0.020241 +/− 0.007281) −2.779860!
*u**dDdu{circumflex over ( )}vUU 6.742393% (2) (0.067424 +/− 0.023860) 2.825756!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*vvduD*d{circumflex over ( )}* −0.951420% (3) (−0.009514 +/− 0.003991) −2.384165!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UUU*Du{circumflex over ( )}D 3.765558% (2) (0.037656 +/− 0.000860) 43.773560!
*U*uuvU*ddduvd −0.854699% (2) (−0.008547 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuvuvU*{circumflex over ( )}UU 1.458340% (4) (0.014583 +/− 0.004435) 3.288536!
*dvuDvuuu −1.540014% (2) (−0.015400 +/− 0.000418) −36.821910!
*Uv*ddUUDvuD 2.850777% (2) (0.028508 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuDduUd{circumflex over ( )}d −0.201068% (2) (−0.002011 +/− 0.000380) −5.286158!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuvUDUd{circumflex over ( )}DuD* −1.832011% (2) (−0.018320 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UD*vuDDdUDv −5.465192% (2) (−0.054652 +/− 0.014229) −3.840763!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDvvU{circumflex over ( )}Du −1.699836% (2) (−0.016998 +/− 0.005785) −2.938276!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*dUuD{circumflex over ( )}vDu 1.383492% (2) (0.013835 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Du*dD*uDudvD 1.129105% (4) (0.011291 +/− 0.001789) 6.312644!
*UdUudvuU{circumflex over ( )}u −0.811833% (2) (−0.008118 +/− 0.000398) −20.405909!
*uDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −4.719481% (2) (−0.047195 +/− 0.004976) −9.483893!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UvUd{circumflex over ( )}d* −1.639801% (2) (−0.016398 +/− 0.003371) −4.864797!
*vUUv{circumflex over ( )}UvUD 2.152718% (2) (0.021527 +/− 0.002034) 10.584393!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uvdu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v 2.405219% (2) (0.024052 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}u −1.469385% (2) (−0.014694 +/− 0.004849) −3.030118!
*{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}uvdu −0.459130% (2) (−0.004591 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udvdvv 4.780590% (4) (0.047806 +/− 0.014368) 3.327176!
*vUUDU{circumflex over ( )}duvdd 5.615545% (2) (0.056155 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUvDdDd*DdU 2.215872% (2) (0.022159 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*duU{circumflex over ( )}uDuD{circumflex over ( )} −0.293398% (2) (−0.002934 +/− 0.001193) −2.460016!
*d{circumflex over ( )}Dv*Ddu*d 2.469192% (5) (0.024692 +/− 0.009379) 2.632707!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}vdUD*d −3.231259% (3) (−0.032313 +/− 0.010880) −2.970032!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDvU*v 1.003909% (2) (0.010039 +/− 0.000523) 19.193264!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}UdvdUdDd −0.386473% (2) (−0.003865 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*Udvdd{circumflex over ( )} −0.715423% (2) (−0.007154 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Udvu*ddddd 1.740394% (2) (0.017404 +/− 0.006651) 2.616887!
*vUUDUu{circumflex over ( )}d*uD −0.958228% (3) (−0.009582 +/− 0.003509) −2.731059!
*UdvUudvuD 0.430721% (3) (0.004307 +/− 0.001427) 3.018586!
*uuUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Duv −0.655256% (2) (−0.006553 +/− 0.000677) −9.679013!
**vDuDUuD{circumflex over ( )}D 3.557566% (2) (0.035576 +/− 0.002466) 14.428412!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dDU{circumflex over ( )}*uDu −0.757751% (2) (−0.007578 +/− 0.002439) −3.106411!
*udUuuvDdDU 1.616851% (2) (0.016169 +/− 0.005392) 2.998809!
*DvD{circumflex over ( )}d*UU{circumflex over ( )}dUUu −0.944278% (2) (−0.009443 +/− 0.000453) −20.860436!
*dvDvUuUv −3.321878% (3) (−0.033219 +/− 0.014064) −2.362021!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )} −3.565060% (4) (−0.035651 +/− 0.009692) −3.678352!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuvv{circumflex over ( )} −1.060761% (3) (−0.010608 +/− 0.003745) −2.832468!
*udDU{circumflex over ( )}*u*{circumflex over ( )}dU −2.976875% (2) (−0.029769 +/− 0.000521) −57.169698!
*DUuuvudDUD 1.958174% (5) (0.019582 +/− 0.008016) 2.442815!
**dU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Dudd −0.997179% (3) (−0.009972 +/− 0.004169) −2.391857!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*UDDDdvD 3.588289% (2) (0.035883 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}DUvDDu 2.594118% (2) (0.025941 +/− 0.010563) 2.455927!
**uUuuUvD{circumflex over ( )}U −2.881257% (2) (−0.028813 +/− 0.004766) −6.045987!
*ddddvdvUv* 1.497052% (2) (0.014971 +/− 0.002798) 5.349929!
*vuU{circumflex over ( )}uDdu 1.243331% (2) (0.012433 +/− 0.002142) 5.805863!
*UvdUDUvuDDd* −2.840408% (2) (−0.028404 +/− 0.003830) −7.416255!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvUvUUU* −2.935222% (2) (−0.029352 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dUvvuvUd{circumflex over ( )} 0.971670% (2) (0.009717 +/− 0.001001) 9.708822!
*DUDu{circumflex over ( )}UuduUUDD 0.788247% (2) (0.007882 +/− 0.002636) 2.990081!
*uDv*UuUddvdD* 4.279659% (2) (0.042797 +/− 0.015365) 2.785284!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}UDDvu −5.214930% (2) (−0.052149 +/− 0.004341) −12.013028!
**UUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 0.977782% (2) (0.009778 +/− 0.001534) 6.375707!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUuu{circumflex over ( )} −2.860249% (2) (−0.028602 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}UduuUU −1.697865% (2) (−0.016979 +/− 0.006495) −2.613929!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D 2.390559% (2) (0.023906 +/− 0.010150) 2.355295!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*ud{circumflex over ( )}U −1.573278% (2) (−0.015733 +/− 0.000892) −17.633654!
*ddDd*d{circumflex over ( )}uvU 2.141639% (2) (0.021416 +/− 0.000037) 581.621695!
*vUdv{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v −7.567166% (3) (−0.075672 +/− 0.021235) −3.563485!
*vdUUdUvU{circumflex over ( )}D −1.923784% (2) (−0.019238 +/− 0.006539) −2.941831!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*uddD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −0.861939% (3) (−0.008619 +/− 0.000213) 40.485753!
*UDvDdUUu*uuDu 5.863765% (2) (0.058638 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDUDudU{circumflex over ( )}UuDD 1.577621% (6) (0.015776 +/− 0.005974) 2.640633!
*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −3.222702% (3) (−0.032227 +/− 0.008424) −3.825467!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UduvdD{circumflex over ( )} −2.249482% (2) (−0.022495 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvduUuud −1.051452% (3) (−0.010515 +/− 0.002921) −3.600017!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdDduD −1.578688% (2) (−0.015787 +/− 0.005367) −2.941450!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uvu{circumflex over ( )} 1.848269% (3) (0.018483 +/− 0.005243) 3.525449!
*vUvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*u{circumflex over ( )}Dv 2.341771% (2) (0.023418 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUv*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 4.117643% (2) (0.041176 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddd*uuuUuU −1.057798% (3) (−0.010578 +/− 0.003730) −2.835872!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvvD{circumflex over ( )}DD 1.817041% (2) (0.018170 +/− 0.002639) 6.885355!
*dvv**uddDd −2.610591% (3) (−0.026106 +/− 0.004500) −5.800906!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}*dDuDU 1.513785% (3) (0.015138 +/− 0.005015) 3.018291!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*Uddvuvdd 0.861179% (2) (0.008612 +/− 0.000531) 16.230475!
*ddu{circumflex over ( )}vdUUD 1.224524% (2) (0.012245 +/− 0.005297) 2.311878!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu −1.268514% (3) (−0.012685 +/− 0.002954) −4.294342!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}uUuuUu −0.834972% (2) (−0.008350 +/− 0.001026) −8.138703!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}UuUDdu{circumflex over ( )} 1.615593% (2) (0.016156 +/− 0.002285) 7.070979!
*v{circumflex over ( )}duvuD*D 2.944778% (2) (0.029448 +/− 0.012273) 2.399342!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dd*Uvd{circumflex over ( )}UD −4.632024% (2) (−0.046320 +/− 0.018420) −2.514671!
*d*D{circumflex over ( )}UUUv{circumflex over ( )}uu 1.002613% (2) (0.010026 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUDvUD*DvDU −3.853254% (2) (−0.038533 +/− 0.005962) −6.462845!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*UuDUduv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU 0.692047% (2) (0.006920 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUd{circumflex over ( )}Dvu 2.626279% (2) (0.026263 +/− 0.005172) 5.078029!
*uvD*Dvv**UuuU 3.305763% (2) (0.033058 +/− 0.002462) 13.426855!
*DdDDvDvdu 3.558345% (2) (0.035583 +/− 0.009261) 3.842158!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}Uvu{circumflex over ( )}u 2.843418% (3) (0.028434 +/− 0.006998) 4.063284!
*DdDUuUvUUv −4.185959% (2) (−0.041860 +/− 0.015092) −2.773578!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}vDuDDU −1.493297% (2) (−0.014933 +/− 0.005416) −2.757089!
*duDduvuv{circumflex over ( )} −0.334450% (2) (−0.003345 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UDD*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )} 6.195134% (2) (0.061951 +/− 0.022484) 2.755333!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}v* −0.174220% (2) (−0.001742 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDd{circumflex over ( )}v*D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U −1.043315% (2) (−0.010433 +/− 0.004279) −2.438158!
*UUdUu{circumflex over ( )}vDu 3.909249% (3) (0.039092 +/− 0.015917) 2.456009!
*uDDU{circumflex over ( )}vdUd 1.836007% (2) (0.018360 +/− 0.002835) 6.475319!
*UvdDDdDDv 1.886546% (2) (0.018865 +/− 0.005595) 3.372027!
*uDuddu{circumflex over ( )}D*uDD* 0.170624% (2) (0.001706 +/− 0.000638) 2.675261!
*vDuddU{circumflex over ( )}U* 4.484445% (4) (0.044844 +/− 0.011502) 3.898807!
*UuD{circumflex over ( )}vd*d*u −1.057196% (2) (−0.010572 +/− 0.000495) −21.362991!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}UDUDd*d 1.331094% (2) (0.013311 +/− 0.004288) 3.104395!
*uvD{circumflex over ( )}uDuDU 0.725692% (2) (0.007257 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vd*uUDDud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −0.330169% (2) (−0.003302 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvUdDDU −3.701760% (3) (−0.037018 +/− 0.013504) −2.741153!
*Dd*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUuu −1.313204% (2) (−0.013132 +/− 0.001959) −6.703610!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDdU{circumflex over ( )}Ud 1.070661% (2) (0.010707 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vddDu{circumflex over ( )}uDudD −2.012495% (2) (−0.020125 +/− 0.001677) −12.003946!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uUUvUuU 2.436104% (3) (0.024361 +/− 0.009926) 2.454355!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uvddUD −2.453262% (3) (−0.024533 +/− 0.008525) −2.877857!
*udD{circumflex over ( )}*dUDuvU −1.908308% (2) (−0.019083 +/− 0.001895) −10.072227!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Dvud*{circumflex over ( )}v −2.302298% (2) (−0.023023 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DddDddvv 6.794911% (2) (0.067949 +/− 0.024028) 2.827942!
*vdUuvuvu 2.730533% (4) (0.027305 +/− 0.001736) 15.731269!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )}DvudU 1.633349% (2) (0.016333 +/− 0.000799) 20.449689!
**{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U*u −0.610834% (2) (−0.006108 +/− 0.000350) −17.448836!
*Uuddvdvd 3.313783% (4) (0.033138 +/− 0.003410) 9.718678!
*DUDDuDUDUuUv −1.018838% (2) (−0.010188 +/− 0.001017) −10.014172!
*D*uuuuvDvD −0.558249% (2) (−0.005582 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDUv{circumflex over ( )}udU −2.029585% (2) (−0.020296 +/− 0.005034) −4.031917!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvvv{circumflex over ( )}DuU 1.139604% (2) (0.011396 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vUuD{circumflex over ( )}d 3.878452% (5) (0.038785 +/− 0.011934) 3.249959!
*DUDvDU{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )} 4.601550% (3) (0.046015 +/− 0.008285) 5.554210!
*Dvvuv{circumflex over ( )}dD 2.341483% (2) (0.023415 +/− 0.006559) 3.569822!
*uDuUdvu{circumflex over ( )} −1.807514% (2) (−0.018075 +/− 0.004083) −4.427409!
**D*UddvdvdU −2.206632% (2) (−0.022066 +/− 0.001477) −14.937806!
**{circumflex over ( )}vu{circumflex over ( )}Ddu −2.482092% (3) (−0.024821 +/− 0.007214) −3.440653!
*vDDvuuuD −2.503151% (2) (−0.025032 +/− 0.000369) −67.838803!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u −2.969095% (2) (−0.029691 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDdUvuuvD −6.267158% (2) (−0.062672 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vUvDuDu 4.792075% (2) (0.047921 +/− 0.017445) 2.746913!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}dvuUD{circumflex over ( )}* −2.516235% (2) (−0.025162 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdudUUd{circumflex over ( )}D 0.961308% (6) (0.009613 +/− 0.002502) 3.841917!
*vvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uv{circumflex over ( )} −0.868752% (2) (−0.008688 +/− 0.000617) −14.089202!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}Dudd −1.569537% (2) (−0.015695 +/− 0.004132) −3.798663!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vdv 4.886654% (2) (0.048867 +/− 0.007403) 6.601344!
*dvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D*U −0.987962% (2) (−0.009880 +/− 0.001171) −8.433951!
*vuuv**vUu 4.459862% (2) (0.044599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdvUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 1.669380% (2) (0.016694 +/− 0.004823) 3.461481!
*v*du{circumflex over ( )}U*vU −0.403764% (2) (−0.004038 +/− 0.000512) −7.878578!
*{circumflex over ( )}UD**UdUUvuu* 0.751101% (2) (0.007511 +/− 0.001185) 6.339336!
*DDDuUDU{circumflex over ( )}vv −4.683655% (2) (−0.046837 +/− 0.005995) −7.812500!
*UvvduvuuU −2.935691% (2) (−0.029357 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDuvu{circumflex over ( )}DUvu 2.510461% (2) (0.025105 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}uuvDD −0.991848% (2) (−0.009918 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}UUvdD 3.297677% (2) (0.032977 +/− 0.007649) 4.311339!
*vDvUuuuvuU 3.764864% (2) (0.037649 +/− 0.014428) 2.609476!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuvdvU{circumflex over ( )} 4.935873% (2) (0.049359 +/− 0.001143) 43.170103!
*ddddDUuuvUuu −1.655871% (2) (−0.016559 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUD{circumflex over ( )}uDud* −1.510520% (4) (−0.015105 +/− 0.002929) −5.156572!
*vd*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdUU −1.983684% (2) (−0.019837 +/− 0.007882) −2.516578!
*vuU**Duu{circumflex over ( )}v* −2.100557% (3) (−0.021006 +/− 0.005632) −3.729444!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUvd −1.242790% (2) (−0.012428 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ddUD{circumflex over ( )}udUddd −1.175359% (2) (−0.011754 +/− 0.004614) −2.547440!
*udUuDduD{circumflex over ( )}UdD 1.997998% (2) (0.019980 +/− 0.000468) 42.719918!
*DvuUd{circumflex over ( )}UuUDu 4.697343% (2) (0.046973 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uvUUD{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )} −4.794678% (2) (−0.047947 +/− 0.006027) −7.954716!
*UvvvvD{circumflex over ( )}u 0.963661% (2) (0.009637 +/− 0.002627) 3.668206!
*u*UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}d*{circumflex over ( )} −1.748223% (2) (−0.017482 +/− 0.004954) −3.529152!
*dd*{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )}vU −1.789921% (2) (−0.017899 +/− 0.004090) −4.375847!
*Dvv{circumflex over ( )}DvUdUu 2.344196% (2) (0.023442 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}ddvDud 1.311352% (2) (0.013114 +/− 0.001096) 11.960479!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.874514% (3) (−0.038745 +/− 0.012837) −3.018227!
*UUvuvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.524697% (2) (−0.025247 +/− 0.010909) −2.314257!
*uU*d*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 2.901206% (2) (0.029012 +/− 0.007503) 3.866890!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D 1.870142% (2) (0.018701 +/− 0.007958) 2.349895!
*udvud{circumflex over ( )}v* −2.675820% (2) (−0.026758 +/− 0.009040) −2.959953!
*DUudvUuuUv −2.908046% (2) (−0.029080 +/− 0.012505) −2.325591!
*{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )}uDU{circumflex over ( )}vU 3.316103% (2) (0.033161 +/− 0.002373) 13.976512!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDud{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −2.228191% (2) (−0.022282 +/− 0.002049) −10.876212!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )}duvU −1.142640% (2) (−0.011426 +/− 0.003674) −3.110324!
**{circumflex over ( )}UvDuuUDd 2.118006% (2) (0.021180 +/− 0.006473) 3.272145!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDUUD{circumflex over ( )}dudU −2.663303% (2) (−0.026633 +/− 0.002279) −11.687673!
*{circumflex over ( )}udv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.732582% (2) (−0.017326 +/− 0.000790) −21.933999!
*uvdD{circumflex over ( )}vuUU 5.391740% (2) (0.053917 +/− 0.002453) 21.976700!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DDdvvvd 0.985620% (2) (0.009856 +/− 0.001939) 5.081993!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UvDduuu −4.046666% (2) (−0.040467 +/− 0.006281) −6.442977!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DuUU −1.089087% (3) (−0.010891 +/− 0.002726) −3.994923!
*DvvDddud 2.956976% (2) (0.029570 +/− 0.000705) 41.945529!
*vUU{circumflex over ( )}vuv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.625819% (2) (−0.016258 +/− 0.003453) −4.708421!
*Uduvdd{circumflex over ( )}vD −0.958979% (2) (−0.009590 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DuDUvDdUDUduu 1.220644% (2) (0.012206 +/− 0.000881) 13.862782!
*uUUduvUUD{circumflex over ( )}*u −1.527031% (2) (−0.015270 +/− 0.004093) −3.730968!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DdD*{circumflex over ( )}DUDDvd −0.088685% (2) (−0.000887 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uU*dvDuU{circumflex over ( )}D 0.374378% (3) (0.003744 +/− 0.000758) 4.939347!
*dU*D{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Dv −2.082326% (2) (−0.020823 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUduU{circumflex over ( )}vuD −1.274246% (2) (−0.012742 +/− 0.002412) −5.283314!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uU −2.258931% (6) (−0.022589 +/− 0.007482) −3.019161!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*DDudv*U{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v −0.309733% (2) (−0.003097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udDvU{circumflex over ( )}**d 5.876444% (2) (0.058764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Dvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uuu 6.686737% (3) (0.066867 +/− 0.017155) 3.897894!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*dUdUvDu −0.672188% (2) (−0.006722 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDvUvuuv −3.259161% (2) (−0.032592 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUDuvdD{circumflex over ( )}u −2.524660% (2) (−0.025247 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}*vduUDd{circumflex over ( )} 2.683662% (2) (0.026837 +/− 0.006632) 4.046384!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ddDU −0.212488% (2) (−0.002125 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDu{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*d 1.626823% (2) (0.016268 +/− 0.003530) 4.608874!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vUvvu*U 4.792075% (2) (0.047921 +/− 0.017445) 2.746913!
*d*UdUDv{circumflex over ( )}dvv 3.256291% (2) (0.032563 +/− 0.002586) 12.591485!
*Dduvd{circumflex over ( )}UdD 2.159833% (3) (0.021598 +/− 0.006652) 3.246724!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DU −2.614254% (2) (−0.026143 +/− 0.001679) −15.572063!
*UUduuu{circumflex over ( )}uuDd −2.115382% (2) (−0.021154 +/− 0.006932) −3.051770!
*DuD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Dv 0.236235% (2) (0.002362 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uuuuu{circumflex over ( )}DuD −2.327529% (2) (−0.023275 +/− 0.000165) −141.189993!
*ddDvUuvdD 2.070334% (2) (0.020703 +/− 0.007871) 2.630355!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}DUDvDUD 3.291295% (3) (0.032913 +/− 0.008189) 4.019407!
*vuU{circumflex over ( )}dUUddd −2.021881% (2) (−0.020219 +/− 0.002197) −9.202877!
*dddvvu**uUvD −0.853510% (2) (−0.008535 +/− 0.000569) −15.011502!
*DvDdUduDdd 0.814483% (2) (0.008145 +/− 0.001817) 4.481706!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}dUDDUu 1.749795% (2) (0.017498 +/− 0.003764) 4.648389!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}vD 0.643890% (2) (0.006439 +/− 0.001091) 5.901099!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuDD{circumflex over ( )}dv 1.076005% (3) (0.010760 +/− 0.002141) 5.025201!
*{circumflex over ( )}*UDU*UdUU{circumflex over ( )}U 0.395153% (2) (0.003952 +/− 0.001513) 2.612015!
*UD*UddUvvD −2.103809% (2) (−0.021038 +/− 0.000669) −31.455820!
*dDd{circumflex over ( )}UuUUv 1.397307% (3) (0.013973 +/− 0.002410) 5.796804!
*duDvUU**uu{circumflex over ( )}U −1.160714% (2) (−0.011607 +/− 0.003896) −2.979159!
*{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}DDvD{circumflex over ( )} −4.571668% (2) (−0.045717 +/− 0.011084) −4.124405!
*D*vDUudddUv 2.019006% (2) (0.020190 +/− 0.000403) 50.090689!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuD*{circumflex over ( )}U**duDU −0.699944% (2) (−0.006999 +/− 0.002511) −2.787751!
*vuDuUdDuDu*d 0.266115% (2) (0.002661 +/− 0.000824) 3.227837!
*vUDdudUvUU −0.606785% (3) (−0.006068 +/− 0.001391) −4.361955!
*UUv*d{circumflex over ( )}ddudD 1.721002% (2) (0.017210 +/− 0.001898) 9.069184!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUdudu*Duv 1.916568% (2) (0.019166 +/− 0.006379) 3.004483!
*dvU*uudDUDu −1.279412% (4) (−0.012794 +/− 0.005389) −2.374229!
**u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uv 3.590742% (2) (0.035907 +/− 0.013015) 2.758925!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*v*{circumflex over ( )}ddUdDD{circumflex over ( )} 4.733732% (2) (0.047337 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDuuvdu{circumflex over ( )}* −1.377628% (2) (−0.013776 +/− 0.001544) −8.922258!
*dvU{circumflex over ( )}uUvdD 2.553385% (2) (0.025534 +/− 0.002877) 8.875079!
*uvDvDdUvv 2.498838% (2) (0.024988 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vUvDU* −5.046716% (2) (−0.050467 +/− 0.021513) −2.345896!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUudu 1.692115% (2) (0.016921 +/− 0.006595) 2.565756!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUdDDd 1.959788% (3) (0.019598 +/− 0.004602) 4.258139!
*D*uDUDu{circumflex over ( )}udD*U −0.528322% (2) (−0.005283 +/− 0.000873) −6.048596!
*vuvuUD{circumflex over ( )}dddud 0.046818% (2) (0.000468 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUD*vdd{circumflex over ( )} 3.072455% (2) (0.030725 +/− 0.004252) 7.225921!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}uvu 3.192232% (2) (0.031922 +/− 0.006900) 4.626675!
*UdUvuDUUvu −1.965707% (2) (−0.019657 +/− 0.006694) −2.936660!
*DdvUUDuUUd −1.232045% (3) (−0.012320 +/− 0.004403) −2.798469!
*UuuvDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.602512% (2) (−0.026025 +/− 0.005699) −4.566896!
*UDD*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*uvUU 2.321420% (2) (0.023214 +/− 0.004167) 5.571016!
**{circumflex over ( )}vUDdudd −0.279424% (2) (−0.002794 +/− 0.000183) −15.229173!
*uDvUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU −4.977448% (4) (−0.049774 +/− 0.018690) −2.663149!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D −2.671200% (3) (−0.026712 +/− 0.009009) −2.965105!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}uvu 3.192232% (2) (0.031922 +/− 0.006900) 4.626675!
*Uv*vvdDU*UD 1.002143% (2) (0.010021 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UdvUvd{circumflex over ( )} −3.148468% (2) (−0.031485 +/− 0.009471) −3.324491!
*vdDDvdUv −3.957859% (2) (−0.039579 +/− 0.001960) −20.192674!
*DDUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuuDUU 0.087300% (2) (0.000873 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDdUUvDuuD −1.228147% (2) (−0.012281 +/− 0.004485) −2.738606!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )} 3.981966% (2) (0.039820 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udUvddU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 4.626947% (2) (0.046269 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**ud{circumflex over ( )}duvU{circumflex over ( )}D 3.698593% (2) (0.036986 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.708855% (2) (−0.027089 +/− 0.008138) −3.328560!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uvu{circumflex over ( )} 1.848269% (3) (0.018483 +/− 0.005243) 3.525449!
*UUD*vvvvU{circumflex over ( )}u −0.943893% (2) (−0.009439 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DuD{circumflex over ( )}UDdUvu 3.465980% (2) (0.034660 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uu*{circumflex over ( )}vuUuDDdd 2.127808% (2) (0.021278 +/− 0.008967) 2.373015!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDUvddUd** −1.337038% (2) (−0.013370 +/− 0.001695) −7.889170!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}vd −4.659715% (2) (−0.046597 +/− 0.009800) −4.754668!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vDvU{circumflex over ( )}UuD −2.051007% (2) (−0.020510 +/− 0.006396) −3.206547!
*dUDvUu*DvUU 2.132007% (2) (0.021320 +/− 0.005676) 3.756424!
*DDd*Uv{circumflex over ( )}UDD*U 1.413341% (2) (0.014133 +/− 0.001279) 11.052304!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UdUuDUuUd −1.106462% (4) (−0.011065 +/− 0.003802) −2.910317!
*dvvDDuDDd 5.785650% (2) (0.057857 +/− 0.011668) 4.958758!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdUv*d −1.849040% (2) (−0.018490 +/− 0.001967) −9.399486!
*{circumflex over ( )}*v{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DUvU{circumflex over ( )} −2.259508% (2) (−0.022595 +/− 0.003919) −5.765300!
*uvvD*D{circumflex over ( )}UuvU −2.088485% (2) (−0.020885 +/− 0.003871) −5.395286!
*UvuduD{circumflex over ( )}u −1.580219% (2) (−0.015802 +/− 0.005322) −2.969431!
*UUvu*U*{circumflex over ( )}vd 3.000043% (2) (0.030000 +/− 0.005838) 5.138812!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −1.761896% (2) (−0.017619 +/− 0.005239) −3.363211!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}vUDDUu 2.248350% (2) (0.022483 +/− 0.001720) 13.070472!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dud* −2.389594% (3) (−0.023896 +/− 0.010169) −2.349775!
*uDUv*duv{circumflex over ( )}d 2.020633% (2) (0.020206 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDvDd{circumflex over ( )}Dv*U{circumflex over ( )} −1.236889% (2) (−0.012369 +/− 0.000211) −58.722326!
*vUvDvduv −3.103320% (2) (−0.031033 +/− 0.000451) −68.812927!
*uDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −4.719481% (2) (−0.047195 +/− 0.004976) −9.483893!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uDudvUuuU** 1.536548% (2) (0.015365 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Dd*UvdUdvd 1.638845% (2) (0.016388 +/− 0.005412) 3.027916!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*dd{circumflex over ( )} 5.074406% (2) (0.050744 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**d*UuUdDvDv −1.205283% (4) (−0.012053 +/− 0.002952) −4.082658!
*U*uU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdD 2.592714% (2) (0.025927 +/− 0.010841) 2.391616!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDvud*{circumflex over ( )} −2.732202% (2) (−0.027322 +/− 0.006942) −3.935477!
*{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.603708% (3) (−0.016037 +/− 0.006193) −2.589567!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Dvduuv −0.654274% (2) (−0.006543 +/− 0.001562) −4.189575!
*u*{circumflex over ( )}ddDvdd 1.854406% (5) (0.018544 +/− 0.007886) 2.351408!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}vduU*d −4.085806% (2) (−0.040858 +/− 0.003803) −10.744808!
*vvDuDdudd 2.075839% (2) (0.020758 +/− 0.002391) 8.682570!
*dU*dd{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Uu 1.932432% (4) (0.019324 +/− 0.005524) 3.498114!
*DduduuDU{circumflex over ( )}DU 0.851311% (2) (0.008513 +/− 0.003505) 2.429168!
*uUvUvudd −2.541276% (2) (−0.025413 +/− 0.002771) −9.172079!
*UDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vuv 2.873899% (3) (0.028739 +/− 0.009907) 2.900918!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}uDd*uU −1.420273% (2) (−0.014203 +/− 0.000968) −14.666060!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}**UUUudU −2.714148% (2) (−0.027141 +/− 0.005571) −4.871532!
*DdU*Uv{circumflex over ( )}UdDu* −1.900110% (2) (−0.019001 +/− 0.006337) −2.998306!
*d*udv{circumflex over ( )}U*uU 1.726358% (2) (0.017264 +/− 0.004468) 3.863407!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuuDDUvD 3.108409% (3) (0.031084 +/− 0.012444) 2.497940!
*vudUuvdDd 0.130070% (2) (0.001301 +/− 0.000512) 2.539270!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vv 2.520080% (2) (0.025201 +/− 0.009040) 2.787810!
**uu{circumflex over ( )}*vuu{circumflex over ( )} 0.449533% (2) (0.004495 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UUUDuUd*{circumflex over ( )} −1.081754% (2) (−0.010818 +/− 0.002941) −3.678778!
**UuU{circumflex over ( )}DvUUv −5.367790% (2) (−0.053678 +/− 0.022816) −2.352623!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vDuvuUD* −1.180913% (2) (−0.011809 +/− 0.000142) −83.170640!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}uDUD{circumflex over ( )}U −3.249047% (2) (−0.032490 +/− 0.000300) −108.482089!
*{circumflex over ( )}vd*vuud −1.231316% (2) (−0.012313 +/− 0.001263) −9.747323!
*{circumflex over ( )}vv*Uvv*u −2.819739% (2) (−0.028197 +/− 0.012141) −2.322425!
**uUv{circumflex over ( )}uvvD −4.697565% (2) (−0.046976 +/− 0.019143) −2.453941!
**duvuUUDuvd 0.567719% (2) (0.005677 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uvdv{circumflex over ( )}UDDd −1.453672% (2) (−0.014537 +/− 0.003392) −4.285568!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dUdUd{circumflex over ( )}DU −3.123705% (2) (−0.031237 +/− 0.003050) −10.240352!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvUuvd{circumflex over ( )} −2.188474% (2) (−0.021885 +/− 0.003426) −6.387189!
*DuuU*{circumflex over ( )}DD*Uv{circumflex over ( )} −3.169895% (2) (−0.031699 +/− 0.005711) −5.550693!
*vdu*Udu{circumflex over ( )}DD −2.841032% (4) (−0.028410 +/− 0.005125) −5.543473!
*uvD*DuUUvD −0.868813% (2) (−0.008688 +/− 0.000785) −11.067849!
*dvUv{circumflex over ( )}D*DUd 2.864434% (2) (0.028644 +/− 0.004028) 7.110767!
**U{circumflex over ( )}Uu*Ud{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.954121% (2) (−0.009541 +/− 0.003140) −3.038819!
*DUDDuU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}u −1.883958% (2) (−0.018840 +/− 0.000393) −47.900025!
*DuU{circumflex over ( )}uvU* 1.556835% (2) (0.015568 +/− 0.004625) 3.365915!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}DuUDD{circumflex over ( )}d −1.559616% (2) (−0.015596 +/− 0.006690) −2.331290!
*v*DU{circumflex over ( )}vDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU 7.611152% (2) (0.076112 +/− 0.019114) 3.982055!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}dDUvu −1.600674% (2) (−0.016007 +/− 0.000370) −43.254935!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvUUUvu* −0.995165% (2) (−0.009952 +/− 0.003552) −2.801641!
*Dd*d*vd{circumflex over ( )}d*Uu 3.522715% (3) (0.035227 +/− 0.010304) 3.418631!
**u{circumflex over ( )}vUu{circumflex over ( )}d 2.928925% (3) (0.029289 +/− 0.012014) 2.437928!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UduUDv 2.351638% (2) (0.023516 +/− 0.002869) 8.196323!
*{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}vUdU −1.443343% (2) (−0.014433 +/− 0.000202) −71.444481!
*U*UuvUvdd{circumflex over ( )} −3.284166% (2) (−0.032842 +/− 0.001905) −17.235325!
*DDvuU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDd{circumflex over ( )} 5.074406% (2) (0.050744 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}vv*DUuu −2.419752% (2) (−0.024198 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dudUvud{circumflex over ( )}D −1.940307% (2) (−0.019403 +/− 0.003083) −6.294478!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}Ud*DD{circumflex over ( )}dv* −3.926730% (2) (−0.039267 +/− 0.004835) −8.121752!
*vDuUvUUuD −2.306968% (3) (−0.023070 +/− 0.006995) −3.297841!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuUDU{circumflex over ( )}v*U −1.147169% (2) (−0.011472 +/− 0.000148) −77.551135!
*udUvdD{circumflex over ( )}u*v 0.371579% (2) (0.003716 +/− 0.000187) 19.863061!
**vDduvuUvd −6.267158% (2) (−0.062672 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUdu{circumflex over ( )}D*vuUU 2.480243% (2) (0.024802 +/− 0.008359) 2.967001!
*uuDdUv{circumflex over ( )}UU 1.025393% (2) (0.010254 +/− 0.000400) 25.641466!
*dvDd{circumflex over ( )}UD*dd −1.082245% (2) (−0.010822 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ddvd*{circumflex over ( )}dDDu 2.907597% (2) (0.029076 +/− 0.008978) 3.238432!
*vvDu*dvvU −3.280195% (2) (−0.032802 +/− 0.006080) −5.395286!
*uuuvUu{circumflex over ( )}v*v 1.563356% (2) (0.015634 +/− 0.004117) 3.797655!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}DvDv{circumflex over ( )} −3.827684% (3) (−0.038277 +/− 0.015083) −2.537808!
*DuuvUvUd −2.759451% (3) (−0.027595 +/− 0.004465) −6.180017!
*u{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dUDdv 1.345334% (2) (0.013453 +/− 0.005717) 2.353055!
*UDDUddvDDDUU* 7.312033% (2) (0.073120 +/− 0.001977) 36.988001!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD −10.455056% (2) (−0.104551 +/− 0.003313) −31.554704!
*vvvddv 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*duDvDUv{circumflex over ( )} −1.873401% (3) (−0.018734 +/− 0.006514) −2.876001!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}dduduuu −0.347827% (2) (−0.003478 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}d*Uu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} 1.965472% (2) (0.019655 +/− 0.001802) 10.909169!
*UdvuvUvDv{circumflex over ( )} 0.435819% (2) (0.004358 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvU{circumflex over ( )}vu 8.339608% (2) (0.083396 +/− 0.035956) 2.319368!
*v*U{circumflex over ( )}uv*UDUd{circumflex over ( )} 0.478471% (2) (0.004785 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.074696% (2) (−0.010747 +/− 0.001216) −8.834334!
*vUvDdv*{circumflex over ( )}vd* 8.789163% (2) (0.087892 +/− 0.031607) 2.780735!
*UUuv*vuUUUUU 7.677166% (2) (0.076772 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uuv*uDUv{circumflex over ( )} −2.663750% (2) (−0.026637 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}udUDDvv*D 2.495216% (2) (0.024952 +/− 0.009708) 2.570378!
*DuuD{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}v −2.364902% (2) (−0.023649 +/− 0.001900) −12.447819!
*d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −1.897518% (2) (−0.018975 +/− 0.003477) −5.457214!
*uvuuDdv{circumflex over ( )} −1.382245% (2) (−0.013822 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDu*Udvdd −0.821760% (2) (−0.008218 +/− 0.001690) −4.862307!
*UDDdd*v*D*UvU −2.310311% (2) (−0.023103 +/− 0.004497) −5.136987!
*{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}Uvvu −1.499973% (2) (−0.015000 +/− 0.005416) −2.769571!
*uDuduUddU{circumflex over ( )}v 0.793947% (2) (0.007939 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDvU{circumflex over ( )}vu −0.035753% (2) (−0.000358 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uD −2.959620% (2) (−0.029596 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DU*DduDd{circumflex over ( )}dv −0.657503% (2) (−0.006575 +/− 0.000585) −11.238970!
*D{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D 3.978438% (3) (0.039784 +/− 0.000894) 44.516725!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}*uudUdu 2.202028% (2) (0.022020 +/− 0.005739) 3.836855!
*vuUvU{circumflex over ( )}dDdu −2.442530% (2) (−0.024425 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUDD{circumflex over ( )}dUd{circumflex over ( )}ddU 1.305801% (2) (0.013058 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvu*DvuU{circumflex over ( )}U 1.722905% (2) (0.017229 +/− 0.002094) 8.226035!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UuUvUv −5.224054% (3) (−0.052241 +/− 0.021893) −2.386163!
*vDD{circumflex over ( )}UuDDu −1.415079% (2) (−0.014151 +/− 0.004620) −3.062892!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vdUDvDd 1.777718% (2) (0.017777 +/− 0.003306) 5.377145!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}vUDduvD −1.219125% (3) (−0.012191 +/− 0.004907) −2.484581!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}*UUUudv −1.702640% (2) (−0.017026 +/− 0.005407) −3.149053!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}uuvuDu* 0.871663% (3) (0.008717 +/− 0.002476) 3.520488!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}dUDvvD 3.964526% (2) (0.039645 +/− 0.010900) 3.637250!
*DUDvUDUd*Ddv −2.286436% (2) (−0.022864 +/− 0.000881) −25.961640!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdD{circumflex over ( )}dDDv −0.755000% (2) (−0.007550 +/− 0.000744) −10.149202!
*Dddd*v{circumflex over ( )}Dv 3.611189% (2) (0.036112 +/− 0.005042) 7.162022!
*U*v{circumflex over ( )}vU*vuvv 12.063017% (2) (0.120630 +/− 0.020707) 5.825502!
*UuuUUdDUv{circumflex over ( )} 3.309287% (2) (0.033093 +/− 0.013396) 2.470317!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uuDddu −0.666341% (2) (−0.006663 +/− 0.000839) −7.945438!
*dudDv{circumflex over ( )}vU 2.878732% (2) (0.028787 +/− 0.004726) 6.090861!
*v*UUUDUduUUvu 3.263658% (2) (0.032637 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uvd*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.271739% (2) (0.002717 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu −1.268514% (3) (−0.012685 +/− 0.002954) −4.294342!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dudUDd −1.111800% (3) (−0.011118 +/− 0.003003) −3.702662!
*DUUUuUDDdvuU 1.353119% (2) (0.013531 +/− 0.000883) 15.327828!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*DDUud{circumflex over ( )}dDD 2.573482% (2) (0.025735 +/− 0.007628) 3.373872!
*d{circumflex over ( )}ddUdDDDd 1.315547% (2) (0.013155 +/− 0.003880) 3.390432!
*UDu{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )}v* −1.362005% (2) (−0.013620 +/− 0.000832) −16.364209!
*vDDuvuuuDD* 2.200589% (3) (0.022006 +/− 0.008343) 2.637664!
*dudDUD{circumflex over ( )}vDd 1.075600% (4) (0.010756 +/− 0.003344) 3.216240!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}uuU 2.742524% (2) (0.027425 +/− 0.005987) 4.580844!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vU 8.339608% (2) (0.083396 +/− 0.035956) 2.319368!
*UvuUv{circumflex over ( )}du 0.670289% (2) (0.006703 +/− 0.000270) 24.803766!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UddUDudD 1.758133% (2) (0.017581 +/− 0.005603) 3.137594!
*{circumflex over ( )}vudd{circumflex over ( )} −3.925500% (2) (−0.039255 +/− 0.010601) −3.702874!
*uDvUU*Uuu{circumflex over ( )} 1.820108% (3) (0.018201 +/− 0.006277) 2.899786!
*{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v 3.574288% (2) (0.035743 +/− 0.004036) 8.856702!
*dvdv*udUuD 3.138265% (2) (0.031383 +/− 0.003172) 9.893359!
*D{circumflex over ( )}uvdD{circumflex over ( )}D −1.616206% (3) (−0.016162 +/− 0.001472) −10.980143!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}Uvv{circumflex over ( )} −0.737696% (2) (−0.007377 +/− 0.002368) −3.115435!
*UdDu{circumflex over ( )}dvd −2.052265% (2) (−0.020523 +/− 0.006707) −3.060099!
*ud*v*d{circumflex over ( )}uUv 0.312328% (2) (0.003123 +/− 0.001025) 3.047053!
*UDu{circumflex over ( )}U*Du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ud −1.008648% (2) (−0.010086 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**vU*vuD{circumflex over ( )}v*d 5.205319% (2) (0.052053 +/− 0.019910) 2.614419!
*DdUDddUvudD 1.556004% (4) (0.015560 +/− 0.004616) 3.371155!
*{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}U −6.694292% (2) (−0.066943 +/− 0.010974) −6.099990!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud 2.746898% (2) (0.027469 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uv*D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}DuD 0.977315% (2) (0.009773 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UdduU{circumflex over ( )}D −0.525815% (2) (−0.005258 +/− 0.000599) −8.775861!
*Dddduvu{circumflex over ( )} 0.902711% (2) (0.009027 +/− 0.002381) 3.791145!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDvDd 3.856906% (2) (0.038569 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUUUDDd{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}D 0.884336% (2) (0.008843 +/− 0.000743) 11.901508!
*ddduD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −1.876139% (2) (−0.018761 +/− 0.006865) −2.732734!
*udv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.569904% (2) (0.025699 +/− 0.002940) 8.741909!
*uUUddvudv 2.315798% (3) (0.023158 +/− 0.006618) 3.499378!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UU 1.079949% (3) (0.010799 +/− 0.003312) 3.260362!
**d{circumflex over ( )}uvdUUdDu 2.488967% (2) (0.024890 +/− 0.000266) 93.715674!
*vuDU{circumflex over ( )}uuuv −1.508014% (2) (−0.015080 +/− 0.000731) −20.624180!
*UdvUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 1.669380% (2) (0.016694 +/− 0.004823) 3.461481!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Uvv{circumflex over ( )}*UU 3.245120% (2) (0.032451 +/− 0.002237) 14.504193!
*DuUUDdvDUDd 1.739235% (3) (0.017392 +/− 0.005825) 2.985766!
*vvDuduDu 1.368793% (2) (0.013688 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvDd{circumflex over ( )}DU −1.413095% (3) (−0.014131 +/− 0.003075) −4.595321!
*u{circumflex over ( )}Ud*u{circumflex over ( )}Dd −1.805240% (3) (−0.018052 +/− 0.005406) −3.339314!
*v*Uddd{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}*u 2.264810% (2) (0.022648 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvvUuuUv −2.214962% (2) (−0.022150 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuuvdUv −1.219095% (2) (−0.012191 +/− 0.004869) −2.503857!
*vDu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UuU 5.329713% (2) (0.053297 +/− 0.007816) 6.819344!
*Uvu*UUvvd 3.819254% (2) (0.038193 +/− 0.010529) 3.627396!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDvU*UDDv −1.999135% (2) (−0.019991 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duvDUD{circumflex over ( )}uD 1.467557% (2) (0.014676 +/− 0.004305) 3.408991!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdDu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} 4.145668% (2) (0.041457 +/− 0.013587) 3.051283!
*uDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} −1.145450% (2) (−0.011454 +/− 0.002217) −5.166405!
*DDvUvUUdd* −2.624503% (4) (−0.026245 +/− 0.007451) −3.522521!
*vvddvD 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dvdd*uD −2.525743% (4) (−0.025257 +/− 0.006538) −3.863294!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}duDU 2.683668% (2) (0.026837 +/− 0.006635) 4.044617!
*uuvvUdDDU −4.810481% (3) (−0.048105 +/− 0.013722) −3.505736!
*vUddDvv{circumflex over ( )} 11.221716% (2) (0.112217 +/− 0.014509) 7.734426!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uu −1.268514% (3) (−0.012685 +/− 0.002954) −4.294342!
*Dd*vdv*DUDu 2.180341% (2) (0.021803 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DdDUuuv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.307097% (2)(0.003071 +/− 0.000426) 7.217098!
*uvdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.456276% (2) (−0.014563 +/− 0.000432) −33.727230!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}UDu{circumflex over ( )}*D −1.548836% (4) (−0.015488 +/− 0.005414) −2.860804!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UdU{circumflex over ( )}DdU 0.440614% (2) (0.004406 +/− 0.000954) 4.616875!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}uUUUd{circumflex over ( )}DU −1.994679% (2) (−0.019947 +/− 0.008272) −2.411442!
*{circumflex over ( )}dduUuuDvD 1.098606% (2) (0.010986 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UudDdDUu −0.339720% (2) (−0.003397 +/− 0.001095) −3.101104!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UDduUdUv 0.780533% (2) (0.007805 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uv* −4.704538% (2) (−0.047045 +/− 0.010760) −4.372060!
*vddDU{circumflex over ( )}Uddu −2.172604% (2) (−0.021726 +/− 0.004063) −5.346715!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}vdUddv 3.665058% (2) (0.036651 +/− 0.012043) 3.043378!
*uDvvdd{circumflex over ( )}v −6.287940% (2) (−0.062879 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UduD{circumflex over ( )}UvuU −1.784278% (2) (−0.017843 +/− 0.004550) −3.921212!
*{circumflex over ( )}vv**v*UuDv −2.507491% (2) (−0.025075 +/− 0.004905) −5.111628!
*uUv{circumflex over ( )}duUu 2.866124% (2) (0.028661 +/− 0.007224) 3.967737!
*UDv{circumflex over ( )}Udvud 1.923946% (3) (0.019239 +/− 0.006277) 3.065170!
**U{circumflex over ( )}*DUvUd*uuD 5.844157% (2) (0.058442 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUuu{circumflex over ( )}uuD{circumflex over ( )}uu 1.028208% (2) (0.010282 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u*vd{circumflex over ( )}Ddu**DD 2.369097% (2) (0.023691 +/− 0.008040) 2.946496!
*vuuuU{circumflex over ( )}Uv −1.936011% (2) (−0.019360 +/− 0.002551) −7.588811!
*vvd*U{circumflex over ( )}du −2.769013% (4) (−0.027690 +/− 0.011812) −2.344327!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vUU{circumflex over ( )} −1.897518% (2) (−0.018975 +/− 0.003477) −5.457214!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}vvU{circumflex over ( )}v* 1.772614% (2) (0.017726 +/− 0.001452) 12.205542!
*DuUUUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −0.931281% (2) (−0.009313 +/− 0.000269) −34.637047!
*Duu*D{circumflex over ( )}uvdd 1.133679% (2) (0.011337 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUd*du{circumflex over ( )}v −5.312143% (3) (−0.053121 +/− 0.002186) −24.301253!
*duvUdvUUdduDD 0.324223% (2) (0.003242 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDUddudDv{circumflex over ( )}U* 3.947375% (2) (0.039474 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vu −3.517609% (3) (−0.035176 +/− 0.006819) −5.158254!
*{circumflex over ( )}*uD{circumflex over ( )}vDvv 4.245714% (2) (0.042457 +/− 0.006707) 6.329869!
*Dvu{circumflex over ( )}dud{circumflex over ( )}u −1.916337% (2) (−0.019163 +/− 0.006238) −3.072172!
*UU*D{circumflex over ( )}UUdvu{circumflex over ( )} −3.555044% (2) (−0.035550 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ddvUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*U* −2.282204% (2) (−0.022822 +/− 0.003705) −6.159308!
*{circumflex over ( )}vdDvuvD −0.497876% (2) (−0.004979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dD*Duv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.395389% (2) (0.013954 +/− 0.004905) 2.844620!
*DdddUD*Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.852805% (2) (0.008528 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*uDdD{circumflex over ( )}vv 2.551915% (4) (0.025519 +/− 0.010631) 2.400549!
**dD{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )}DuU{circumflex over ( )} −1.031997% (2) (−0.010320 +/− 0.003606) −2.861685!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}UvvD*{circumflex over ( )}u −4.436490% (2) (−0.044365 +/− 0.000350) −126.854965!
*DDdddUDvUvd 1.244574% (2) (0.012446 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uuv −2.538062% (3) (−0.025381 +/− 0.006879) −3.689572!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}DUuvv −3.464869% (2) (−0.034649 +/− 0.004748) −7.297736!
*u{circumflex over ( )}DUDUuD{circumflex over ( )}u 4.883746% (2) (0.048837 +/− 0.013079) 3.733967!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}uDUuD{circumflex over ( )}U −3.787120% (2) (−0.037871 +/− 0.001725) −21.958549!
*duv{circumflex over ( )}dv 0.208957% (2) (0.002090 +/− 0.000370) 5.642134!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUvdDd{circumflex over ( )}D 2.578899% (2) (0.025789 +/− 0.009989) 2.581703!
*DdudDDDd{circumflex over ( )}Uu 1.885099% (2) (0.018851 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuUDDvD 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**UuUvuvvud 2.274701% (2) (0.022747 +/− 0.002408) 9.445906!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}dUu**U −2.538820% (2) (−0.025388 +/− 0.003822) −6.642222!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuvv{circumflex over ( )} −1.060761% (3) (−0.010608 +/− 0.003745) −2.832468!
*DUuDvu{circumflex over ( )}**vU** −1.673925% (2) (−0.016739 +/− 0.000575) −29.132613!
*UUv{circumflex over ( )}uUU*UdUD −5.147430% (2) (−0.051474 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDd{circumflex over ( )}uuuv 2.073432% (2) (0.020734 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUudD{circumflex over ( )}UvD 1.239663% (2) (0.012397 +/− 0.003055) 4.058374!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}*Dd{circumflex over ( )}uvUu −1.495339% (2) (−0.014953 +/− 0.000087) −171.392214!
*UdDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udUD −2.181233% (2) (−0.021812 +/− 0.004314) −5.056707!
*UdUDv{circumflex over ( )}UdD{circumflex over ( )}vv 3.065562% (2) (0.030656 +/− 0.009001) 3.405642!
*DUdvUdUDuUUU* −2.658917% (2) (−0.026589 +/− 0.007221) −3.682242!
*vuvUU{circumflex over ( )}*uU{circumflex over ( )}dv 2.341771% (2) (0.023418 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvuU{circumflex over ( )}UD −4.312244% (3) (−0.043122 +/− 0.016735) −2.576851!
*UUuUvu{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.177395% (2) (−0.021774 +/− 0.008262) −2.635329!
*UdU{circumflex over ( )}vdud −2.268670% (2) (−0.022687 +/− 0.005068) −4.476459!
*dUDUDdvvv{circumflex over ( )} −0.447908% (2) (−0.004479 +/− 0.001680) −2.665369!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}dvuvUD 2.069790% (2) (0.020698 +/− 0.001814) 11.408995!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uv*d 5.135810% (2) (0.051358 +/− 0.020940) 2.452647!
*UvDDDvDdUd 6.310225% (2) (0.063102 +/− 0.021138) 2.985300!
*Duv*udU*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D 3.148953% (2) (0.031490 +/− 0.005078) 6.200691!
*DdDv{circumflex over ( )}*uDdvD −0.088685% (2) (−0.000887 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d**UvD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vD 3.653847% (2) (0.036538 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Ddudvdd −3.172589% (2) (−0.031726 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udD{circumflex over ( )}vdDUUd −1.029397% (2) (−0.010294 +/− 0.002566) −4.011986!
*duUduUDU{circumflex over ( )}Uu 0.970883% (2) (0.009709 +/− 0.001820) 5.333822!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vvv*UvDvdv 2.354896% (2) (0.023549 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uu −1.268514% (3) (−0.012685 +/− 0.002954) −4.294342!
*vv*vv*DvUu 5.080668% (3) (0.050807 +/− 0.020220) 2.512745!
*uvDvUv{circumflex over ( )}d 1.045605% (2) (0.010456 +/− 0.003370) 3.103035!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}*ddDv 1.779752% (2) (0.017798 +/− 0.005349) 3.327438!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}UDU{circumflex over ( )}v −0.283263% (2) (−0.002833 +/− 0.000914) −3.099645!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uDdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}* 3.021176% (3) (0.030212 +/− 0.005001) 6.041180!
*Dv*d{circumflex over ( )}vvvd −6.482636% (2) (−0.064826 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}dD*vu −1.869143% (5) (−0.018691 +/− 0.006281) −2.975981!
*vU*{circumflex over ( )}duDD*vv{circumflex over ( )} −0.447908% (2) (−0.004479 +/− 0.001680) −2.665369!
*uuuUUvDU{circumflex over ( )} 0.960581% (2) (0.009606 +/− 0.003427) 2.803236!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvuD{circumflex over ( )} 5.538266% (2) (0.055383 +/− 0.017886) 3.096354!
*DDdDDd{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )} 0.471764% (2) (0.004718 +/− 0.001326) 3.556639!
*Uu*d{circumflex over ( )}Uuvv 2.814535% (2) (0.028145 +/− 0.010385) 2.710309!
**d{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}uuddUD 1.549050% (2) (0.015490 +/− 0.005736) 2.700537!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}dvDDdU 0.838970% (2) (0.008390 +/− 0.001680) 4.994755!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Uuu 2.576744% (2) (0.025767 +/− 0.006285) 4.099913!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}UuU −3.759251% (3) (−0.037593 +/− 0.011009) −3.414747!
**vD*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −6.566278% (2) (−0.065663 +/− 0.004247) −15.459575!
*{circumflex over ( )}UD*{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}Uud 3.125812% (2) (0.031258 +/− 0.005670) 5.513275!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*Duud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.348397% (2) (−0.013484 +/− 0.001114) −12.100909!
*UdDu{circumflex over ( )}uUUDuD −1.378846% (2) (−0.013788 +/− 0.002339) −5.894723!
*dvDd{circumflex over ( )}Uu*{circumflex over ( )} 2.039850% (2) (0.020398 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*DD{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DU 1.687314% (2) (0.016873 +/− 0.004381) 3.851170!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vvDD*vvvdv 2.354896% (2) (0.023549 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dduuUD{circumflex over ( )}U*dU −0.644699% (2) (−0.006447 +/− 0.002367) −2.723731!
*dvDUUUU{circumflex over ( )}UUd 2.746898% (2) (0.027469 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}vuuud 0.876038% (2) (0.008760 +/− 0.001719) 5.095975!
**{circumflex over ( )}UvUD{circumflex over ( )}DUD*{circumflex over ( )}D −6.841748% (2) (−0.068417 +/− 0.025596) −2.672942!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUuvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 3.437735% (2) (0.034377 +/− 0.005776) 5.951929!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUdvDUvd 3.596183% (2) (0.035962 +/− 0.015227) 2.361700!
*uUDuD{circumflex over ( )}Du{circumflex over ( )} −1.016884% (3) (−0.010169 +/− 0.001530) −6.645025!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}DUUDddU 3.530838% (3) (0.035308 +/− 0.007587) 4.653631!
*du{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DUUUU −1.104380% (2) (−0.011044 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}uUD 0.834638% (2) (0.008346 +/− 0.002376) 3.513476!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DUU{circumflex over ( )}uDdU −0.811286% (2) (−0.008113 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dduuU 2.978343% (2) (0.029783 +/− 0.001649) 18.059269!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*Ddvuv −0.618506% (2) (−0.006185 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuduuvdv −3.049382% (3) (−0.030494 +/− 0.011943) −2.553237!
*uDvudDuU*{circumflex over ( )} −0.238566% (2) (−0.002386 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuvDuD*UUuv 0.450877% (2) (0.004509 +/− 0.001110) 4.061106!
*u*duvd{circumflex over ( )}dUU{circumflex over ( )}uU 0.467073% (2) (0.004671 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U*uuvDuU***Dv 1.529500% (2) (0.015295 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvDuUv 2.818630% (2) (0.028186 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}d −1.756722% (2) (−0.017567 +/− 0.000659) −26.644487!
*vuuD*Ddvv −5.345686% (2) (−0.053457 +/− 0.000610) −87.648694!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*DvvUUDUu{circumflex over ( )} −1.443656% (4) (−0.014437 +/− 0.003668) −3.935722!
*udUduUdd{circumflex over ( )}D −0.149895% (2) (−0.001499 +/− 0.000445) −3.372046!
*uDddDuuUUDvuu −1.719886% (2) (−0.017199 +/− 0.000279) −61.628872!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}UdU −2.902302% (2) (−0.029023 +/− 0.005749) −5.048325!
*dUdDDddD{circumflex over ( )}DvU −2.646393% (2) (−0.026464 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*vuu{circumflex over ( )}duuu 0.994524% (2) (0.009945 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}UUddU −0.811286% (2) (−0.008113 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDu{circumflex over ( )}vuDuD −2.479259% (2) (−0.024793 +/− 0.005184) −4.782207!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}D*dv 2.673093% (2) (0.026731 +/− 0.003609) 7.405734!
*Dvu*uU*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*dd 1.306381% (2) (0.013064 +/− 0.003738) 3.495033!
*uvduUvUd{circumflex over ( )} −0.796821% (2) (−0.007968 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDDUv −0.643963% (2) (−0.006440 +/− 0.002625) −2.453469!
**v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdvvvDD 4.680100% (2) (0.046801 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*ddDuUvvD 5.283369% (2) (0.052834 +/− 0.018150) 2.911015!
*uuuDuvvUdU −2.898588% (2) (−0.028986 +/− 0.011740) −2.468886!
*dudD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUu −0.915070% (2) (−0.009151 +/− 0.003915) −2.337362!
*vvddvD 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.074696% (2) (−0.010747 +/− 0.001216) −8.834334!
*vUdD*u{circumflex over ( )}ddu −0.423585% (2) (−0.004236 +/− 0.000062) −67.954879!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}dvUd −4.253994% (2) (−0.042540 +/− 0.000552) −77.059611!
*DdDdDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UD −0.829000% (2) (−0.008290 +/− 0.001998) −4.148641!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDD*U*vd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.779757% (2) (−0.017798 +/− 0.002396) −7.429053!
*uuDD{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}uu −1.375731% (2) (−0.013757 +/− 0.002956) −4.654417!
*uv*Udu*u{circumflex over ( )}Uuv −1.608123% (2) (−0.016081 +/− 0.002657) −6.051354!
*duDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDd 1.468829% (2) (0.014688 +/− 0.006208) 2.366095!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}dUv −7.567166% (3) (−0.075672 +/− 0.021235) −3.563485!
*Udvdud{circumflex over ( )}D* −2.242260% (3) (−0.022423 +/− 0.007067) −3.172795!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvU*DvDuDd 0.631142% (2) (0.006311 +/− 0.000087) 72.643487!
*UdduvUuuDvuD 1.424806% (3) (0.014248 +/− 0.001282) 11.117719!
*{circumflex over ( )}DudUud{circumflex over ( )} 1.659656% (3) (0.016597 +/− 0.006129) 2.707901!
*vUdUUvD*duu −0.900193% (2) (−0.009002 +/− 0.003489) −2.580020!
*vddUu*DDDv −0.633847% (2) (−0.006338 +/− 0.000880) −7.205485!
*uDduu{circumflex over ( )}DvUDu 3.147953% (2) (0.031480 +/− 0.011890) 2.647516!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuvdv{circumflex over ( )}* 3.042963% (2) (0.030430 +/− 0.002747) 11.079411!
*vvdd{circumflex over ( )}UDDu −1.745381% (2) (−0.017454 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuUddDvDUu −1.257412% (2) (−0.012574 +/− 0.004292) −2.929424!
*UUd*uuuvUdudu −0.678816% (2) (−0.006788 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uduu{circumflex over ( )}vuD −1.274246% (2) (−0.012742 +/− 0.002412) −5.283314!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*dvDd 10.481589% (2) (0.104816 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}Dvvuv −5.303494% (2) (−0.053035 +/− 0.022833) −2.322701!
*uUddvu{circumflex over ( )}DUDd −1.969213% (2) (−0.019692 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvdDDDvUUDUD −1.329718% (2) (−0.013297 +/− 0.002635) −5.046499!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvuUdvuDU −4.541026% (3) (−0.045410 +/− 0.002022) −22.455093!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −2.815324% (5) (−0.028153 +/− 0.011072) −2.542746!
*dvd{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uvU 2.199805% (2) (0.021998 +/− 0.000859) 25.596655!
*{circumflex over ( )}vdD*Du{circumflex over ( )}u −4.773326% (2) (−0.047733 +/− 0.002717) −17.569874!
*UUvvDd*dv 0.708927% (3) (0.007089 +/− 0.001370) 5.175049!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vUuuvdV 3.573109% (2) (0.035731 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvDu{circumflex over ( )}vUv{circumflex over ( )} 0.477703% (2) (0.004777 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Duud{circumflex over ( )}DdUUu −1.193516% (2) (−0.011935 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdD*uU{circumflex over ( )}UvDUv 0.799269% (2) (0.007993 +/− 0.002784) 2.870937!
*dvUd{circumflex over ( )}uDuUD −3.106748% (2) (−0.031067 +/− 0.005306) −5.855159!
*uU*UUd{circumflex over ( )}uvvdd 3.072422% (2) (0.030724 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvv*uUDUdUd 0.694907% (2) (0.006949 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DdUDvuUDuDU −2.738129% (3) (−0.027381 +/− 0.011186) −2.447812!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}u*UU −1.460059% (2) (−0.014601 +/− 0.002320) −6.292359!
*uUuuDvDDuD 2.557388% (2) (0.025574 +/− 0.001923) 13.300688!
*DuDDuUvu*{circumflex over ( )}D 1.684737% (3) (0.016847 +/− 0.006063) 2.778501!
*dduUdu*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.444588% (3) (0.004446 +/− 0.000202) 21.965340!
*DduU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}D −2.002051% (3) (−0.020021 +/− 0.008005) −2.500884!
*vUuD{circumflex over ( )}U*Dvv{circumflex over ( )} −1.918343% (2) (−0.019183 +/− 0.003582) −5.355901!
*duUv{circumflex over ( )}uDDD −4.697565% (2) (−0.046976 +/− 0.019143) −2.453941!
*DvudUdDUdU{circumflex over ( )}D −1.766472% (2) (−0.017665 +/− 0.007491) −2.358192!
*uvDUv{circumflex over ( )}Dd −1.034269% (2) (−0.010343 +/− 0.001890) −5.473312!
*UDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}D −3.331566% (2) (−0.033316 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uUvvud{circumflex over ( )}Udd 0.624998% (2) (0.006250 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}vvDU −3.971214% (2) (−0.039712 +/− 0.003040) −13.061544!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vdv 2.659993% (2) (0.026600 +/− 0.000402) 66.204889!
*UDU{circumflex over ( )}Dud{circumflex over ( )}v 4.403092% (2) (0.044031 +/− 0.001138) 38.677105!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}uvvuD −0.070126% (2) (−0.000701 +/− 0.000188) −3.726594!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUvvUUDd 3.666080% (2) (0.036661 +/− 0.005344) 6.860197!
*{circumflex over ( )}udD*DdvD{circumflex over ( )}DDU −0.368660% (2) (−0.003687 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDuU −2.421805% (3) (−0.024218 +/− 0.009614) −2.519108!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}uDdUvvU −1.001775% (2) (−0.010018 +/− 0.002488) −4.025825!
*Dvu{circumflex over ( )}*DDvud −2.784863% (2) (−0.027849 +/− 0.002586) −10.769528!
*{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}du*d −2.431393% (4) (−0.024314 +/− 0.010424) −2.332607!
*DudDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dduduD −0.103791% (2) (−0.001038 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvUUvD*Dd −3.940203% (2) (−0.039402 +/− 0.013650) −2.886497!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuUD*uU{circumflex over ( )}UD 1.316363% (2) (0.013164 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**u*duD{circumflex over ( )}DuUDDv −1.902065% (2) (−0.019021 +/− 0.002689) −7.073427!
*Ddd{circumflex over ( )}v*Uu*Ud 2.376727% (2) (0.023767 +/− 0.000219) 108.625493!
*dUDvdd{circumflex over ( )}DU −1.600996% (2) (−0.016010 +/− 0.000228) −70.264174!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vUdDUvD −0.935833% (2) (−0.009358 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vU*UUv{circumflex over ( )}*Dv{circumflex over ( )} 1.167392% (2) (0.011674 +/− 0.001708) 6.834920!
*DdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*D 2.651015% (5) (0.026510 +/− 0.011118) 2.384337!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*uUvuDU{circumflex over ( )}ddvUu 1.023480% (2) (0.010235 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUUUd{circumflex over ( )}uvd 0.892004% (2) (0.008920 +/− 0.001537) 5.801900!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}d*{circumflex over ( )}vU −1.648566% (3) (−0.016486 +/− 0.001599) −10.312689!
*UvDDvDduDU 2.473457% (2) (0.024735 +/− 0.000138) 179.457812!
*uUDU{circumflex over ( )}DddUuvd −0.682202% (2) (−0.006822 +/− 0.000411) −16.579874!
*uvUDDvDvd −8.194160% (2) (−0.081942 +/− 0.007519) −10.898431!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvddUuU 2.486032% (2) (0.024860 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uv*{circumflex over ( )}uv{circumflex over ( )}U 0.481682% (2) (0.004817 +/− 0.001704) 2.826234!
**{circumflex over ( )}dDuUu{circumflex over ( )}DDD{circumflex over ( )}v −3.460412% (3) (−0.034604 +/− 0.006500) −5.323307!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}d*D −1.197739% (5) (−0.011977 +/− 0.004968) −2.410863!
*UUvuduUUvu 3.263658% (2) (0.032637 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdDuDUdduv 1.131997% (2) (0.011320 +/− 0.000682) 16.588178!
*vuDdvvddD 7.768072% (2) (0.077681 +/− 0.032794) 2.368751!
*uDUdUuUvuUuU 1.660630% (3) (0.016606 +/− 0.003610) 4.600420!
*vuud{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}D** −1.202591% (2) (−0.012026 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vUUdv{circumflex over ( )} 1.129961% (2) (0.011300 +/− 0.002237) 5.050480!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}D* 1.501409% (2) (0.015014 +/− 0.000759) 19.781421!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*DduUDU*udu −1.772261% (2) (−0.017723 +/− 0.003956) −4.480054!
*uDv{circumflex over ( )}DvUv*{circumflex over ( )} 3.970181% (4) (0.039702 +/− 0.016185) 2.452984!
**DuvdvDdu −1.210121% (2) (−0.012101 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}v*udU*{circumflex over ( )} −2.037928% (3) (−0.020379 +/− 0.002476) −8.229644!
*Dvd{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}* 0.960332% (2) (0.009603 +/− 0.001818) 5.282933!
*{circumflex over ( )}*UUD{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )} −2.621515% (3) (−0.026215 +/− 0.005011) −5.231401!
*UuuU{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}*U −0.878938% (2) (−0.008789 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**vUdd*UdvU −3.137823% (2) (−0.031378 +/− 0.008553) −3.668681!
*DDu*v{circumflex over ( )}duDdD 0.726953% (2) (0.007270 +/− 0.000772) 9.421929!
*uvUu*vvDDU 0.715790% (2) (0.007158 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUUUvvdD 2.083040% (2) (0.020830 +/− 0.000388) 53.701918!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDdUU{circumflex over ( )} −3.409760% (2) (−0.034098 +/− 0.001729) −19.721375!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DDvdu*dD −4.230092% (2) (−0.042301 +/− 0.010563) −4.004685!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uD*ud**Dd 5.168035% (2) (0.051680 +/− 0.009930) 5.204639!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dduduU*ud 4.010288% (2) (0.040103 +/− 0.006758) 5.934371!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DduDvD −3.103908% (2) (−0.031039 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U*vdDuuvv 0.659919% (2) (0.006599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuuuDuUvuDU 1.223843% (2) (0.012238 +/− 0.002448) 4.998528!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}ddd{circumflex over ( )}u 0.637482% (2) (0.006375 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDUuuuvvD 1.243853% (2) (0.012439 +/− 0.001535) 8.105129!
*u{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UUdvU 2.757479% (2) (0.027575 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uUvDD −0.898739% (2) (−0.008987 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}uuDU 1.800853% (3) (0.018009 +/− 0.004140) 4.350365!
*vddDd{circumflex over ( )}*vv 2.163725% (2) (0.021637 +/− 0.000661) 32.756464!
*vdDuvud{circumflex over ( )} 0.996141% (2) (0.009961 +/− 0.002000) 4.980025!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*U*{circumflex over ( )}dvdddu 0.761007% (3) (0.007610 +/− 0.001798) 4.231624!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uv 2.095552% (3) (0.020956 +/− 0.005008) 4.184814!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dvD{circumflex over ( )}vd 3.991971% (3) (0.039920 +/− 0.016783) 2.378572!
*uduuUvuUDd 1.682752% (4) (0.016828 +/− 0.006060) 2.776695!
*{circumflex over ( )}vu*vDvv 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DD*uuvDvd −5.416040% (2) (−0.054160 +/− 0.012108) −4.472977!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}u −2.263952% (2) (−0.022640 +/− 0.003282) −6.898065!
*vuUvudUv 1.371966% (2) (0.013720 +/− 0.005478) 2.504335!
*v{circumflex over ( )}ddvd −0.664320% (2) (−0.006643 +/− 0.001418) −4.684072!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vDvud 3.932117% (2) (0.039321 +/− 0.010413) 3.776143!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −2.815324% (5) (−0.028153 +/− 0.011072) −2.542746!
*UDuvv{circumflex over ( )}Du 1.608813% (3) (0.016088 +/− 0.006769) 2.376662!
*uUDdvDvdD 2.263048% (2) (0.022630 +/− 0.008299) 2.726764!
*vvUU{circumflex over ( )}uDUu −1.263642% (2) (−0.012636 +/− 0.005271) −2.397290!
*{circumflex over ( )}duUuUDDud −0.391172% (3) (−0.003912 +/− 0.001489) −2.627764!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Ud*DDu −2.467998% (2) (−0.024680 +/− 0.004400) −5.609654!
*uvuD{circumflex over ( )}du*D 2.629776% (4) (0.026298 +/− 0.009242) 2.845534!
*v{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )}DUu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −3.173548% (2) (−0.031735 +/− 0.012799) −2.479595!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}DUuDdD 2.803721% (2) (0.028037 +/− 0.006594) 4.252134!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}uvdDu −2.474906% (4) (−0.024749 +/− 0.009175) −2.697378!
*U*Ud{circumflex over ( )}UDdvv 2.362406% (5) (0.023624 +/− 0.005283) 4.471448!
*UvdUuUvuuD 2.023678% (2) (0.020237 +/− 0.005028) 4.024603!
*DuvUu*u{circumflex over ( )}dUD 0.657575% (3) (0.006576 +/− 0.000578) 11.378612!
*DdDDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDu* −2.919553% (2) (−0.029196 +/− 0.006016) −4.852707!
*udvD{circumflex over ( )}Ud*v −0.309733% (2) (−0.003097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUDDv{circumflex over ( )}UUU*d 2.137759% (2) (0.021378 +/− 0.004232) 5.050905!
**Ud{circumflex over ( )}UuUuvDvU 3.875406% (2) (0.038754 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vuUDDvvD −3.243463% (2) (−0.032435 +/− 0.009561) −3.392357!
*dudUdvudDu −1.956200% (3) (−0.019562 +/− 0.007657) −2.554870!
*dddD{circumflex over ( )}*duuDD −0.725747% (2) (−0.007257 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}uvu 3.192232% (2) (0.031922 +/− 0.006900) 4.626675!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v −1.650508% (2) (−0.016505 +/− 0.004718) −3.498249!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDDudDUuU 1.479288% (2) (0.014793 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}UU −2.346656% (3) (−0.023467 +/− 0.002292) −10.237874!
*uvdUUdvDU −0.941715% (2) (−0.009417 +/− 0.001913) −4.923168!
*UUuDDuu{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} 0.478471% (2) (0.004785 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdUduvDuv 2.280900% (2) (0.022809 +/− 0.008064) 2.828536!
*uvDdD{circumflex over ( )}DdU −1.565377% (3) (−0.015654 +/− 0.001481) −10.572704!
*uUUdd{circumflex over ( )}uuvU −0.590217% (2) (−0.005902 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvDd{circumflex over ( )}vvv −0.154844% (2) (−0.001548 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuv{circumflex over ( )}*uUU*vd −0.317894% (2) (−0.003179 +/− 0.000129) −24.702944!
*dUUdDv{circumflex over ( )}Du 1.489364% (2) (0.014894 +/− 0.000296) 50.309189!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}vD*Udd 0.642883% (3) (0.006429 +/− 0.002029) 3.168176!
*dUDDuDvdud 0.789815% (2) (0.007898 +/− 0.001416) 5.576046!
*vU*{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}Dv*U −3.944019% (2) (−0.039440 +/− 0.014372) −2.744278!
*vuDu*uUUd{circumflex over ( )} 1.812094% (3) (0.018121 +/− 0.007601) 2.383972!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}udv 2.390558% (4) (0.023906 +/− 0.006463) 3.698873!
*d*dU*dv*DD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} 1.304163% (2) (0.013042 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvDUu{circumflex over ( )}UuDv −4.181530% (2) (−0.041815 +/− 0.007339) −5.697819!
**{circumflex over ( )}uDvuD{circumflex over ( )}U −1.860679% (2) (−0.018607 +/− 0.005069) −3.670437!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Ud −1.530707% (4) (−0.015307 +/− 0.006563) −2.332410!
**u{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}DdDu{circumflex over ( )} 2.356563% (2) (0.023566 +/− 0.001221) 19.296861!
*UuUdduuDUv 0.863227% (2) (0.008632 +/− 0.001791) 4.819154!
*Uvvv*ddudv −4.992999% (2) (−0.049930 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvU*uU*U{circumflex over ( )}uu 1.461630% (3) (0.014616 +/− 0.002842) 5.143575!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}ddD{circumflex over ( )}U 1.099717% (2) (0.010997 +/− 0.001893) 5.810027!
*dvDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD 1.436246% (2) (0.014362 +/− 0.005328) 2.695574!
*vDu{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}Uu 2.865912% (2) (0.028659 +/− 0.003224) 8.890012!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDUdv{circumflex over ( )}d* −1.298441% (3) (−0.012984 +/− 0.000488) −26.595658!
*UDUDUud*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D −1.454927% (2) (−0.014549 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dduvU 3.465980% (2) (0.034660 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}uDvddU −0.532291% (2) (−0.005323 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DU*vDUud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.398831% (2) (−0.013988 +/− 0.000401) −34.878435!
*uvuvvU**DvU 2.006394% (2) (0.020064 +/− 0.008361) 2.399848!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDdDd{circumflex over ( )} 1.223695% (2) (0.012237 +/− 0.000682) 17.934687!
*udvvu{circumflex over ( )}Uu* 5.876444% (2) (0.058764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dv*dDd{circumflex over ( )}vD −3.438209% (2) (−0.034382 +/− 0.014436) −2.381620!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDUU −3.874514% (3) (−0.038745 +/− 0.012837) −3.018227!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vDv 2.155372% (3) (0.021554 +/− 0.008745) 2.464718!
*d*dDDd{circumflex over ( )}Dv*uU 1.273205% (2) (0.012732 +/− 0.003767) 3.379998!
*UUvUdUuu*u{circumflex over ( )}d −0.499469% (2) (−0.004995 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvUU{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}U 1.007866% (2) (0.010079 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDUvv{circumflex over ( )}U*v 0.054467% (2) (0.000545 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dDUvuUv*vuU 19.572452% (2) (0.195725 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*duvDUdUDud −1.328858% (2) (−0.013289 +/− 0.003089) −4.301394!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}vdu*u 2.458584% (2) (0.024586 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}Dud{circumflex over ( )}U −1.780954% (3) (−0.017810 +/− 0.004995) −3.565253!
*UUd{circumflex over ( )}dUvdu −2.053780% (2) (−0.020538 +/− 0.008378) −2.451420!
*Duuv*u{circumflex over ( )}Uvd −2.133577% (2) (−0.021336 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUDDDD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 3.112756% (2) (0.031128 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD*uU{circumflex over ( )}DD −2.691294% (2) (−0.026913 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvvUd{circumflex over ( )}D 5.528903% (2) (0.055289 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvUUuUdDu{circumflex over ( )} −1.612225% (2) (−0.016122 +/− 0.005312) −3.035157!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 2.316300% (2) (0.023163 +/− 0.007226) 3.205729!
*vdD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}duu 0.866941% (2) (0.008669 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DvuU 2.286337% (2) (0.022863 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}* −0.104557% (2) (−0.001046 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udDDU −3.122682% (2) (−0.031227 +/− 0.008561) −3.647378!
*DdduDd*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −1.058006% (2) (−0.010580 +/− 0.003831) −2.761662!
*UvUUDv*u{circumflex over ( )}UU −2.662089% (2) (−0.026621 +/− 0.006747) −3.945776!
*{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}vD*{circumflex over ( )}D −1.809500% (2) (−0.018095 +/− 0.001822) −9.931933!
*vDDU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}DD −0.580547% (2) (−0.005805 +/− 0.000390) −14.880922!
*vvvvDu 2.597584% (2) (0.025976 +/− 0.010387) 2.500737!
*v*dDuu{circumflex over ( )}v −2.927178% (2) (−0.029272 +/− 0.003029) −9.663715!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdDDv −2.218278% (2) (−0.022183 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DdDuvDDUudDu −0.285261% (2) (−0.002853 +/− 0.000974) −2.928500!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDdUDu*d 2.632004% (2) (0.026320 +/− 0.003322) 7.922067!
*D*uv{circumflex over ( )}DvU**UU −0.959416% (2) (−0.009594 +/− 0.002156) −4.450846!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}vvD*dD 1.298854% (2) (0.012989 +/− 0.001705) 7.616174!
*uDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}d −2.816918% (2) (−0.028169 +/− 0.001104) −25.514257!
*DvDvuDDUDU −0.896468% (2) (−0.008965 +/− 0.002436) −3.680417!
*uu*DDu{circumflex over ( )}Du{circumflex over ( )} −1.743562% (2) (−0.017436 +/− 0.007033) −2.478965!
*d*vDUuvvU 0.789806% (3) (0.007898 +/− 0.001777) 4.444372!
*{circumflex over ( )}duvd*{circumflex over ( )}v −1.830546% (2) (−0.018305 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uD*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*UUudu −4.032206% (3) (−0.040322 +/− 0.014008) −2.878548!
*vduUUvUDU −3.147705% (2) (−0.031477 +/− 0.010557) −2.981754!
*uuDdUdUv{circumflex over ( )} −2.344745% (4) (−0.023447 +/− 0.003774) −6.212653!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUdvUvuD 1.370701% (2) (0.013707 +/− 0.000230) 59.482632!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}UvDvUD 2.590259% (3) (0.025903 +/− 0.005989) 4.325190!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvuuDDd 1.459189% (2) (0.014592 +/− 0.005162) 2.826720!
*Dv*UDDDdvud 3.056712% (3) (0.030567 +/− 0.001678) 18.215577!
*dvDuvUdUd 4.188490% (2) (0.041885 +/− 0.003280) 12.769276!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUudvv*dv 1.988533% (2) (0.019885 +/− 0.002078) 9.567945!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dvU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 0.049926% (2) (0.000499 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Duv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}d*Du −0.174220% (2) (−0.001742 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}DvDUUuDU* −0.963436% (2) (−0.009634 +/− 0.002836) −3.397037!
*vd*{circumflex over ( )}vDvd 0.911774% (2) (0.009118 +/− 0.003474) 2.624769!
*UUd*{circumflex over ( )}uDddvdv −1.028031% (2) (−0.010280 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v*vUU{circumflex over ( )}duu 0.099554% (2) (0.000996 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuDv*D{circumflex over ( )} −2.003952% (2) (−0.020040 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ddu{circumflex over ( )}UvUuvu −1.594418% (2) (−0.015944 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*UUDv 5.829544% (2) (0.058295 +/− 0.021833) 2.670049!
*UvvDd{circumflex over ( )}DdUdu 0.392019% (2) (0.003920 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DdvUuDvu 2.190204% (3) (0.021902 +/− 0.009246) 2.368723!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDdd −2.424243% (2) (−0.024242 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u*U{circumflex over ( )}uDuUDd 2.129256% (2) (0.021293 +/− 0.004595) 4.634243!
*UUvvvUDudD 3.800227% (2) (0.038002 +/− 0.007898) 4.811358!
*{circumflex over ( )}Ddd{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}* −2.478125% (2) (−0.024781 +/− 0.010427) −2.376613!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdU{circumflex over ( )}vUv 7.120508% (2) (0.071205 +/− 0.003425) 20.788139!
*D**dvdDUUUDD 0.768014% (3) (0.007680 +/− 0.001479) 5.192192!
*D*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DvuUUD 3.923821% (2) (0.039238 +/− 0.003052) 12.855376!
*DvuUDuvUd −1.869119% (2) (−0.018691 +/− 0.006633) −2.817994!
**DdDuDU{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )} 0.751942% (2) (0.007519 +/− 0.001815) 4.143024!
*UDuuvDDDD*d 0.249122% (2) (0.002491 +/− 0.000708) 3.517452!
*UDuuudv{circumflex over ( )} 0.453208% (2) (0.004532 +/− 0.001572) 2.883655!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}vuU{circumflex over ( )}* −3.520602% (2) (−0.035206 +/− 0.011110) −3.168775!
**D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}v*u{circumflex over ( )} −0.951919% (2) (−0.009519 +/− 0.000717) −13.270477!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdUuv 1.837177% (2) (0.018372 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vdDU 0.865262% (2) (0.008653 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D*UUd −2.409804% (3) (−0.024098 +/− 0.009737) −2.474799!
*dUDdd{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}*u 1.932432% (4) (0.019324 +/− 0.005524) 3.498114!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −2.413694% (2) (−0.024137 +/− 0.000139) −173.280515!
*dDUvvuUUu 1.655631% (2) (0.016556 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uUDdvv*D{circumflex over ( )} 7.902428% (4) (0.079024 +/− 0.008472) 9.328115!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DudvuUDdd 2.203107% (2) (0.022031 +/− 0.009046) 2.435521!
*dvuvDvDd −3.129744% (3) (−0.031297 +/− 0.008931) −3.504277!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}vvvud −6.385381% (2) (−0.063854 +/− 0.006857) −9.312423!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vuUv{circumflex over ( )}Udd −1.190906% (2) (−0.011909 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vuD{circumflex over ( )}dDu{circumflex over ( )} 1.214974% (2) (0.012150 +/− 0.002576) 4.716094!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUdduvu 1.812637% (2) (0.018126 +/− 0.006655) 2.723542!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}dvvDUu 4.712254% (2) (0.047123 +/− 0.005393) 8.737620!
*vuDDUDUUvu −1.584991% (3) (−0.015850 +/− 0.003088) −5.133525!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}DDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.760678% (2) (0.007607 +/− 0.002272) 3.347533!
*vdUdDdvUvU −2.100729% (3) (−0.021007 +/− 0.007912) −2.655206!
*U*{circumflex over ( )}dUDu{circumflex over ( )}DU*v −3.008797% (2) (−0.030088 +/− 0.003421) −8.795412!
**v{circumflex over ( )}*d*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 3.763029% (2) (0.037630 +/− 0.006635) 5.671780!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUddvDvd 3.588289% (2) (0.035883 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdvvv{circumflex over ( )}*U 3.883356% (2) (0.038834 +/− 0.006964) 5.576692!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}dudu{circumflex over ( )}u −1.269009% (4) (−0.012690 +/− 0.005250) −2.417063!
**UduUuvD{circumflex over ( )} 1.884004% (3) (0.018840 +/− 0.005900) 3.193357!
*du*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}u −0.104557% (2) (−0.001046 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}vDUDDU{circumflex over ( )}d 2.828296% (2) (0.028283 +/− 0.010343) 2.734476!
*UDDDvUdvUdU* 1.836483% (2) (0.018365 +/− 0.005089) 3.609051!
*u{circumflex over ( )}Uud{circumflex over ( )}uud 0.986838% (2) (0.009868 +/− 0.000000) inf!
***dvDudUdv 1.113180% (3) (0.011132 +/− 0.003874) 2.873533!
*d*udUUv{circumflex over ( )}uD 0.713667% (3) (0.007137 +/− 0.000243) 29.388038!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uDuvv*{circumflex over ( )} 1.744337% (2) (0.017443 +/− 0.003523) 4.951657!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}vDDv{circumflex over ( )} 2.609621% (2) (0.026096 +/− 0.007348) 3.551441!
*Ddv{circumflex over ( )}dUDu −3.543679% (2) (−0.035437 +/− 0.012084) −2.932541!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud −2.129542% (2) (−0.021295 +/− 0.005188) −4.104903!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuuUvdv{circumflex over ( )} −2.224239% (2) (−0.022242 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.946462% (2) (−0.049465 +/− 0.003390) −14.593420!
*dUUuvvUU 1.679953% (2) (0.016800 +/− 0.003617) 4.644956!
*uUDuUDU{circumflex over ( )}uu 0.970883% (2) (0.009709 +/− 0.001820) 5.333822!
*UDudd{circumflex over ( )}dUDv 1.555469% (2) (0.015555 +/− 0.005242) 2.967523!
*udddUvudv 1.157943% (2) (0.011579 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDDd{circumflex over ( )}UDvUd 1.502713% (2) (0.015027 +/− 0.002571) 5.844307!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uUUD*DdUD 0.309049% (2) (0.003090 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**dd*U{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}D −0.485911% (2) (−0.004859 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vU*vdduDD 1.262900% (4) (0.012629 +/− 0.003836) 3.291820!
*dDDu*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdd 2.573105% (2) (0.025731 +/− 0.005346) 4.812753!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uUd*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 2.350170% (2) (0.023502 +/− 0.005487) 4.282899!
*d*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uu −1.580590% (2) (−0.015806 +/− 0.003954) −3.997118!
*dv*UvDUvUUu −2.231683% (3) (−0.022317 +/− 0.003257) −6.851024!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}v*Uud −3.864949% (2) (−0.038649 +/− 0.008419) −4.590590!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vvDDUu −4.801073% (4) (−0.048011 +/− 0.012126) −3.959463!
*DdUUD*uuuddv 3.172465% (2) (0.031725 +/− 0.004359) 7.277398!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UudvUDD −1.319767% (2) (−0.013198 +/− 0.003585) −3.681526!
*DdDv{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )}DUu 2.282650% (4) (0.022826 +/− 0.000711) 32.119406!
*d*DvudD{circumflex over ( )}ud* −2.152016% (2) (−0.021520 +/− 0.003238) −6.646811!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vDDdU −3.367379% (2) (−0.033674 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}u*dDdD{circumflex over ( )}Dud −0.267233% (2) (−0.002672 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUdv{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )} 1.470076% (2) (0.014701 +/− 0.002889) 5.089310!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vUUvdvD 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*duUduvvD −1.301278% (2) (−0.013013 +/− 0.003880) −3.353795!
*{circumflex over ( )}d*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dDD −2.261505% (2) (−0.022615 +/− 0.003396) −6.660222!
*DvDd*UUdUv 4.853066% (4) (0.048531 +/− 0.020301) 2.390500!
*dD*DvDdvv 6.794911% (2) (0.067949 +/− 0.024028) 2.827942!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vdvUv**v −6.093239% (3) (−0.060932 +/− 0.008155) −7.471342!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUuuDDv{circumflex over ( )}*uU* −3.730337% (2) (−0.037303 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dvvd*{circumflex over ( )}UUUUD −6.081047% (2) (−0.060810 +/− 0.012256) −4.961548!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUUuddDD 2.127808% (2) (0.021278 +/− 0.008967) 2.373015!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}Dv*d −3.782522% (3) (−0.037825 +/− 0.004269) −8.861036!
*vUv{circumflex over ( )}D**{circumflex over ( )}dUD −2.805225% (3) (−0.028052 +/− 0.010250) −2.736823!
*DdUu{circumflex over ( )}uudDd −1.368258% (2) (−0.013683 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}uDu{circumflex over ( )}*v* −1.293332% (2) (−0.012933 +/− 0.003864) −3.346914!
*UUuDudv{circumflex over ( )}u −1.236668% (2) (−0.012367 +/− 0.004455) −2.775940!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDUvUU{circumflex over ( )}d −0.803411% (3) (−0.008034 +/− 0.001570) −5.117583!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dDUuUD{circumflex over ( )} −1.489088% (2) (−0.014891 +/− 0.003128) −4.760699!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vUvUdUd −0.477433% (2) (−0.004774 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −1.897518% (2) (−0.018975 +/− 0.003477) −5.457214!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}u −1.737762% (3) (−0.017378 +/− 0.005538) −3.137969!
*DDvDvD*{circumflex over ( )}ud −4.023294% (2) (−0.040233 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uuUd{circumflex over ( )}vU 0.801069% (2) (0.008011 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDD{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )} 4.027748% (3) (0.040277 +/− 0.014976) 2.689402!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuudUvuU −0.541860% (2) (−0.005419 +/− 0.001353) −4.003537!
*vUuvuUu{circumflex over ( )} −1.632192% (3) (−0.016322 +/− 0.002978) −5.480153!
*UvvU**uU{circumflex over ( )}U 4.996876% (2) (0.049969 +/− 0.008187) 6.103059!
*dvvvuu −1.082584% (2) (−0.010826 +/− 0.004504) −2.403720!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUDDdDd −0.692506% (2) (−0.006925 +/− 0.001383) −5.007060!
*D*vu{circumflex over ( )}uvvD{circumflex over ( )}*dU −0.450655% (2) (−0.004507 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −6.089361% (3) (−0.060894 +/− 0.019940) −3.053819!
*DDUdu{circumflex over ( )}Uuv −2.704441% (2) (−0.027044 +/− 0.006555) −4.125722!
*UuuDuuvduv*D 1.734061% (2) (0.017341 +/− 0.005173) 3.351836!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUDddUuu{circumflex over ( )} 1.090220% (2) (0.010902 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Udv*Uv{circumflex over ( )}v −2.240078% (3) (−0.022401 +/− 0.004783) −4.683254!
*du{circumflex over ( )}v*Uuv 1.211457% (5) (0.012115 +/− 0.004843) 2.501292!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddvdduddd −1.305973% (2) (−0.013060 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uUUu{circumflex over ( )}UuD{circumflex over ( )} 1.936241% (3) (0.019362 +/− 0.008179) 2.367366!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuuUud 0.778507% (2) (0.007785 +/− 0.002788) 2.792817!
*du*DDD{circumflex over ( )}Duu{circumflex over ( )}u −0.731167% (2) (−0.007312 +/− 0.000492) −14.860350!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UdvUUd{circumflex over ( )}d −2.823368% (2) (−0.028234 +/− 0.010993) −2.568277!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UUd{circumflex over ( )}dUDu −0.433846% (2) (−0.004338 +/− 0.000019) −225.368008!
*{circumflex over ( )}vU*Dv{circumflex over ( )}*uu 1.521745% (2) (0.015217 +/− 0.004784) 3.180636!
*DvuU{circumflex over ( )}Dddv 1.529500% (2) (0.015295 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dvuUv{circumflex over ( )} −14.484040% (2) (−0.144840 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uUDvUvuu* 1.725686% (2) (0.017257 +/− 0.003546) 4.866141!
*DvuvUdd*d 2.404915% (2) (0.024049 +/− 0.004565) 5.267758!
*DuDUUu*{circumflex over ( )}uUUd −0.899580% (2) (−0.008996 +/− 0.002132) −4.220224!
*DDu{circumflex over ( )}uUvdd 2.625817% (3) (0.026258 +/− 0.002390) 10.986248!
**uvddu*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.120734% (2) (−0.021207 +/− 0.000306) −69.320100!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDUd 3.005829% (2) (0.030058 +/− 0.009903) 3.035303!
*U*{circumflex over ( )}dDUuu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −1.976701% (2) (−0.019767 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vuDU*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.885125% (2) (0.028851 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dDDUddDv −0.755000% (2) (−0.007550 +/− 0.000744) −10.149202!
*UvuuDdvv 1.673652% (3) (0.016737 +/− 0.005030) 3.327573!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )} −0.891587% (3) (−0.008916 +/− 0.002559) −3.483762!
*vUvvdD{circumflex over ( )}u 0.176364% (2) (0.001764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Ud*uu{circumflex over ( )}dvd 2.489948% (2) (0.024899 +/− 0.004331) 5.748890!
*uudu{circumflex over ( )}UUv* 3.398983% (3) (0.033990 +/− 0.009177) 3.703892!
*v{circumflex over ( )}ddv{circumflex over ( )}vDu −7.283425% (3) (−0.072834 +/− 0.009049) −8.049188!
*vDvduv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −1.694606% (2) (−0.016946 +/− 0.007280) −2.327618!
*UDUdDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 3.825955% (2) (0.038260 +/− 0.016408) 2.331809!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}Dv −3.696816% (2) (−0.036968 +/− 0.015233) −2.426803!
*DuuudUvdUd 1.562497% (2) (0.015625 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DvudUudu* 1.178152% (2) (0.011782 +/− 0.002550) 4.619472!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 12.314658% (3) (0.123147 +/− 0.046341) 2.657429!
**vuvvvDDv 3.072825% (2) (0.030728 +/− 0.000312) 98.524193!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DdUUvddD −2.632613% (2) (−0.026326 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}vUUvd −0.183845% (2) (−0.001838 +/− 0.000454) −4.050253!
*dUDudu*uDd{circumflex over ( )}v 1.407481% (2) (0.014075 +/− 0.004049) 3.475903!
**Uuu{circumflex over ( )}Dduuu{circumflex over ( )} 2.340654% (2) (0.023407 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uv*uu{circumflex over ( )}DDd −1.673793% (2) (−0.016738 +/− 0.005492) −3.047535!
*dDUdvdDvdU −0.944879% (2) (−0.009449 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*DU*DvdDu{circumflex over ( )}*u −1.056747% (2) (−0.010567 +/− 0.001614) −6.547432!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*vddudDDvv 0.401608% (2) (0.004016 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UUD{circumflex over ( )}DvD{circumflex over ( )}U 1.324057% (3) (0.013241 +/− 0.002734) 4.842260!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UdDDv{circumflex over ( )}vD 2.509156% (2) (0.025092 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUuvduD −1.612208% (2) (−0.016122 +/− 0.000849) −18.990464!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDdvv{circumflex over ( )}Ud 1.803472% (2) (0.018035 +/− 0.003382) 5.332362!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*dUdd{circumflex over ( )}d −1.394146% (2) (−0.013941 +/− 0.000187) −74.422365!
*dU*UuvuuDDD 0.612270% (2) (0.006123 +/− 0.001174) 5.215339!
*uudD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}d −2.005843% (2) (−0.020058 +/− 0.002274) −8.819277!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}DuUu*v −1.718105% (3) (−0.017181 +/− 0.005318) −3.231020!
*U{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uDdDvU −2.964046% (2) (−0.029640 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDu{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}Ddv 4.691484% (2) (0.046915 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}*dDUv 2.159698% (3) (0.021597 +/− 0.005202) 4.151405!
*{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}Dduu −1.707503% (3) (−0.017075 +/− 0.003408) −5.010992!
*vuvduUUU 1.899204% (2) (0.018992 +/− 0.000976) 19.462033!
*UdUvDdDuuU −1.009267% (2) (−0.010093 +/− 0.003832) −2.633788!
*U{circumflex over ( )}d*vv*{circumflex over ( )}UUD 0.766477% (2) (0.007665 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*d{circumflex over ( )}uv*UuU 1.318290% (2) (0.013183 +/− 0.003019) 4.365948!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vdv 4.886654% (2) (0.048867 +/− 0.007403) 6.601344!
*DDUddvd{circumflex over ( )}vd −2.283679% (2) (−0.022837 +/− 0.009025) −2.530394!
*Uvd*{circumflex over ( )}dUUdv −2.287581% (2) (−0.022876 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}DDUdU −1.063515% (2) (−0.010635 +/− 0.002525) −4.211755!
*DDdUv{circumflex over ( )}DDDD*u 0.176364% (2) (0.001764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}UuUddU 1.304158% (2) (0.013042 +/− 0.000773) 16.864358!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}UvD*UvD 2.385769% (2) (0.023858 +/− 0.000136) 175.266334!
*ddvvddDD 3.767010% (2) (0.037670 +/− 0.006571) 5.733062!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuU{circumflex over ( )}vUDUdd 0.899961% (2) (0.009000 +/− 0.002165) 4.157676!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUvUu{circumflex over ( )} −1.668868% (3) (−0.016689 +/− 0.004661) −3.580134!
*uvvv{circumflex over ( )}vD*D −7.865019% (2) (−0.078650 +/− 0.002568) −30.624545!
*DUv*UDdD{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} −4.418033% (3) (−0.044180 +/− 0.008165) −5.411050!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}dUdDvvv 5.184742% (2) (0.051847 +/− 0.019235) 2.695532!
*ddvvuDUDDu −3.154214% (3) (−0.031542 +/− 0.011388) −2.769652!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 7.942470% (3) (0.079425 +/− 0.010071) 7.886733!
*dv*duDD{circumflex over ( )}d 2.284571% (2) (0.022846 +/− 0.009722) 2.349866!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UuU{circumflex over ( )}v 1.982032% (2) (0.019820 +/− 0.002616) 7.576269!
*uvvuvD{circumflex over ( )}D −9.861436% (2) (−0.098614 +/− 0.016446) −5.996319!
*dvDUuvd{circumflex over ( )} −2.079173% (2) (−0.020792 +/− 0.002232) −9.315718!
*uDuuUUUd{circumflex over ( )}d 2.730734% (2) (0.027307 +/− 0.005456) 5.004566!
**v{circumflex over ( )}UdUuvU{circumflex over ( )}*D 1.343525% (2) (0.013435 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**uuvvDddU 0.855698% (4) (0.008557 +/− 0.001664) 5.141478!
*u*vUvDDuv −5.744614% (2) (−0.057446 +/− 0.016595) −3.461672!
*udDvudUUUd* 1.301513% (2) (0.013015 +/− 0.004251) 3.061761!
*vdUu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}U*d 2.542502% (3) (0.025425 +/− 0.003540) 7.181708!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}vvUdU{circumflex over ( )} −2.441406% (2) (−0.024414 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dd*Du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.586979% (2) (−0.025870 +/− 0.003736) −6.923750!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DddUu 1.445164% (2) (0.014452 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vddUvdD*v −1.580027% (2) (−0.015800 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvU{circumflex over ( )}DUdu −1.942539% (4) (−0.019425 +/− 0.002417) −8.037209!
*dddu{circumflex over ( )}Uvv −3.133881% (2) (−0.031339 +/− 0.002953) −10.611040!
*uDddUd{circumflex over ( )}Dv 1.432704% (2) (0.014327 +/− 0.005486) 2.611471!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}dDUvv −4.097555% (2) (−0.040976 +/− 0.005725) −7.157267!
*dDuvdUuuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.257447% (2) (−0.022574 +/− 0.000916) −24.650046!
*dDDvUDdDU{circumflex over ( )} −0.599781% (2) (−0.005998 +/− 0.002375) −2.525852!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}d*U{circumflex over ( )} −4.424572% (4) (−0.044246 +/− 0.013773) −3.212586!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}DddvU −3.347684% (2) (−0.033477 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDDDd{circumflex over ( )}uv 3.132974% (3) (0.031330 +/− 0.005874) 5.333628!
*DdU{circumflex over ( )}UDU*d{circumflex over ( )}U −1.753045% (2) (−0.017530 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 2.316300% (2) (0.023163 +/− 0.007226) 3.205729!
*vUDd{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v −1.493617% (4) (−0.014936 +/− 0.005193) −2.876444!
*UvDUuDvuud 1.355782% (2) (0.013558 +/− 0.000235) 57.632061!
*uvUvdDud −1.414182% (3) (−0.014142 +/− 0.002026) −6.981754!
*vuUuUddv 3.822471% (5) (0.038225 +/− 0.015023) 2.544471!
*DvUUDvUddU{circumflex over ( )} 0.953107% (2) (0.009531 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUuv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}*D 3.907109% (2) (0.039071 +/− 0.006271) 6.230482!
*uvvdD{circumflex over ( )}ddu −1.650858% (2) (−0.016509 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**DDvDDUdUuUD 1.861198% (3) (0.018612 +/− 0.003125) 5.955508!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u*u{circumflex over ( )} −2.610356% (2) (−0.026104 +/− 0.002935) −8.893928!
*DU*dv{circumflex over ( )}UdUd −2.242526% (3) (−0.022425 +/− 0.009020) −2.486051!
*vdDd{circumflex over ( )}dDD 0.911558% (3) (0.009116 +/− 0.003251) 2.804007!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DudUd{circumflex over ( )}d 0.516800% (2) (0.005168 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdvDUUUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −2.154441% (2) (−0.021544 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDUUdvuUdvu 2.402369% (2) (0.024024 +/− 0.003185) 7.543485!
*uvduv{circumflex over ( )}Du 1.187307% (2) (0.011873 +/− 0.001575) 7.536792!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvU{circumflex over ( )}DUu −0.784811% (2) (−0.007848 +/− 0.002317) −3.386917!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ddUDv 1.044409% (2) (0.010444 +/− 0.004166) 2.506781!
*vv*UDdDvU −3.020403% (5) (−0.030204 +/− 0.006695) −4.511371!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}u*DUu −0.562329% (2) (−0.005623 +/− 0.001039) −5.414509!
*vdv*Uu*v{circumflex over ( )} −2.285790% (2) (−0.022858 +/− 0.000185) −123.700886!
*dddvDDU{circumflex over ( )}ud 0.035715% (2) (0.000357 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdUvDUv* 5.064509% (4) (0.050645 +/− 0.015558) 3.255208!
**{circumflex over ( )}DuUvuD{circumflex over ( )} −4.121329% (3) (−0.041213 +/− 0.013256) −3.109094!
*dvuDUuUudv{circumflex over ( )} −0.528285% (2) (−0.005283 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}ddD{circumflex over ( )}uUUU 2.264810% (2) (0.022648 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUdDdudvdD 0.560932% (2) (0.005609 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vdv 3.047411% (3) (0.030474 +/− 0.003361) 9.067386!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}UDdU{circumflex over ( )}Du 1.444152% (2) (0.014442 +/− 0.006155) 2.346298!
*vDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v 5.787293% (2) (0.057873 +/− 0.007040) 8.220893!
**{circumflex over ( )}Dd**D*v*v*d 3.188644% (2) (0.031886 +/− 0.008950) 3.562900!
*U*ud{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}dUD 1.000257% (2) (0.010003 +/− 0.002543) 3.933889!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}d*v −7.567166% (3) (−0.075672 +/− 0.021235) −3.563485!
*UuDUu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u −2.861365% (2) (−0.028614 +/− 0.012315) −2.323516!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 2.316300% (2) (0.023163 +/− 0.007226) 3.205729!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}DDuUd{circumflex over ( )} 5.018650% (2) (0.050187 +/− 0.001241) 40.446787!
**{circumflex over ( )}DvUduDv 0.749193% (2) (0.007492 +/− 0.002807) 2.668996!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}Uvv*dd* 1.844348% (2) (0.018443 +/− 0.006638) 2.778644!
**vuUDu*U{circumflex over ( )}UuD −1.642232% (2) (−0.016422 +/− 0.002175) −7.550202!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}DdDUu*u*{circumflex over ( )} 1.937911% (2) (0.019379 +/− 0.005191) 3.733229!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DdD*vdd 2.084589% (3) (0.020846 +/− 0.002846) 7.325774!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UU*{circumflex over ( )}uDvv{circumflex over ( )} 3.557655% (2) (0.035577 +/− 0.002249) 15.821903!
*d*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*dDvv*du*{circumflex over ( )} −1.142590% (3) (−0.011426 +/− 0.002151) −5.311392!
*dud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −2.052066% (3) (−0.020521 +/− 0.005732) −3.580215!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}uDDvu 1.284598% (3) (0.012846 +/− 0.003528) 3.641290!
*v{circumflex over ( )}ddvd −0.664320% (2) (−0.006643 +/− 0.001418) −4.684072!
*UDDvduvd 1.804957% (2) (0.018050 +/− 0.006778) 2.662774!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UUUvUdUDu −1.433123% (2) (−0.014331 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuuDd{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −0.722205% (2) (−0.007222 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdvDvU 2.123791% (2) (0.021238 +/− 0.002305) 9.212835!
*{circumflex over ( )}d*{circumflex over ( )}ddduud 6.714481% (2) (0.067145 +/− 0.028552) 2.351693!
*uv*DDv{circumflex over ( )}**UdUD −7.700198% (4) (−0.077002 +/− 0.001674) −46.011025!
*DUUvvU{circumflex over ( )}Duu −3.598076% (2) (−0.035981 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DuUD*{circumflex over ( )}Ddv 2.255812% (2) (0.022558 +/− 0.007887) 2.860160!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUUv{circumflex over ( )}uD** −5.092922% (3) (−0.050929 +/− 0.012604) −4.040751!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Dvu*{circumflex over ( )}Dd* 1.202297% (2) (0.012023 +/− 0.000955) 12.586886!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*vU{circumflex over ( )}u*u −1.830901% (2) (−0.018309 +/− 0.002689) −6.807749!
*UuUvD*{circumflex over ( )}dDUu −2.953033% (2) (−0.029530 +/− 0.010181) −2.900653!
*d{circumflex over ( )}Dv*udDdu −0.925644% (2) (−0.009256 +/− 0.000153) −60.401470!
**v{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}*dv 5.441140% (2) (0.054411 +/− 0.015244) 3.569336!
*UvdvDDuduU −1.555155% (2) (−0.015552 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duu{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}* −3.492478% (2) (−0.034925 +/− 0.001243) −28.088181!
*dvvvuu −1.082584% (2) (−0.010826 +/− 0.004504) −2.403720!
*vUuU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v −6.024509% (2) (−0.060245 +/− 0.002504) −24.061265!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}duvuvUu −1.905549% (2) (−0.019055 +/− 0.005587) −3.410391!
*d{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}duv 2.804016% (2) (0.028040 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Dv* 3.076856% (3) (0.030769 +/− 0.011822) 2.602682!
*dUu{circumflex over ( )}DUuvd 4.143018% (2) (0.041430 +/− 0.011795) 3.512391!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.116544% (3) (−0.041165 +/− 0.014573) −2.824766!
*UDU**uv{circumflex over ( )}dv −0.659819% (2) (−0.006598 +/− 0.002065) −3.195401!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}u*UvUu 3.999450% (2) (0.039995 +/− 0.011110) 3.599831!
*Uu*{circumflex over ( )}uv{circumflex over ( )}d*DU −3.216343% (2) (−0.032163 +/− 0.005542) −5.803131!
*vu*v{circumflex over ( )}dUDDD 0.726953% (2) (0.007270 +/− 0.000772) 9.421929!
*uudUv{circumflex over ( )}uD* −1.133638% (3) (−0.011336 +/− 0.002726) −4.158070!
*uUdDvdvD 4.152968% (6) (0.041530 +/− 0.013356) 3.109417!
*vDUuU*DdDvU 4.463004% (2) (0.044630 +/− 0.000557) 80.070904!
*{circumflex over ( )}*Dd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v −5.058307% (2) (−0.050583 +/− 0.021200) −2.385988!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUDuu*d{circumflex over ( )} 1.051708% (2) (0.010517 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDDUdvU{circumflex over ( )}uU −1.981116% (2) (−0.019811 +/− 0.000692) −28.647496!
*{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}vvvD{circumflex over ( )}* 5.941276% (2) (0.059413 +/− 0.018163) 3.271162!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUD{circumflex over ( )}Uv 2.278288% (3) (0.022783 +/− 0.008262) 2.757414!
*u*DUvdd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v −3.381631% (2) (−0.033816 +/− 0.010202) −3.314553!
*vv*{circumflex over ( )}**duv*uu 3.982298% (2) (0.039823 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dU 1.983003% (2) (0.019830 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}d 1.781870% (2) (0.017819 +/− 0.004910) 3.628853!
*UDD{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DuU 0.694443% (2) (0.006944 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uU*DUvUvDv*UD −0.809384% (2) (−0.008094 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U*vD*D{circumflex over ( )}*UU 8.357139% (2) (0.083571 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}U*U{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )} 1.123107% (2) (0.011231 +/− 0.002995) 3.749604!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}dDdUdddU −1.359289% (3) (−0.013593 +/− 0.005260) −2.584230!
*dvUvdu{circumflex over ( )}d 2.303895% (2) (0.023039 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vuDdvDdU −3.294356% (3) (−0.032944 +/− 0.014142) −2.329501!
*dvD{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D −4.796206% (2) (−0.047962 +/− 0.018138) −2.644352!
*uDDUv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} 0.842609% (2) (0.008426 +/− 0.000824) 10.221128!
*U{circumflex over ( )}*DdDu{circumflex over ( )}UuuU 7.677166% (2) (0.076772 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}udDdDud −1.529338% (2) (−0.015293 +/− 0.006525) −2.343725!
*ddUdUdUudv −2.169895% (2) (−0.021699 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}u*{circumflex over ( )}vd*{circumflex over ( )}D 1.620969% (2) (0.016210 +/− 0.003418) 4.743019!
*UddDvdDDv 4.089056% (3) (0.040891 +/− 0.016384) 2.495715!
*DDdddvuDUUu 0.771774% (5) (0.007718 +/− 0.003181) 2.426407!
*D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dv 0.236235% (2) (0.002362 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}dDv{circumflex over ( )} −5.396861% (8) (−0.053969 +/− 0.012180) −4.430873!
*{circumflex over ( )}*uuu{circumflex over ( )}vu −0.560191% (3) (−0.005602 +/− 0.000045) −125.767105!
*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.222702% (3) (−0.032227 +/− 0.008424) −3.825467!
*d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −1.897518% (2) (−0.018975 +/− 0.003477) −5.457214!
*dUUuvvDUdd 3.722006% (2) (0.037220 +/− 0.006474) 5.748885!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUvU{circumflex over ( )}Uu −3.133712% (3) (−0.031337 +/− 0.012513) −2.504308!
*DudUdUU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −1.598400% (2) (−0.015984 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}uD*v −3.380232% (2) (−0.033802 +/− 0.008367) −4.039849!
*UuDUu*{circumflex over ( )}*vud 1.175901% (2) (0.011759 +/− 0.001712) 6.868770!
*uUd{circumflex over ( )}dud{circumflex over ( )}D −5.294483% (2) (−0.052945 +/− 0.004084) −12.964864!
**Dvd*UU{circumflex over ( )}*duuu −0.049238% (2) (−0.000492 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Udud{circumflex over ( )}UUdddUD* 0.477202% (2) (0.004772 +/− 0.000233) 20.443757!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uud{circumflex over ( )}Du −0.691880% (2) (−0.006919 +/− 0.002449) −2.825133!
*dvDUUd{circumflex over ( )}v −0.309733% (2) (−0.003097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}vvDu**D* 1.368793% (2) (0.013688 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dduduvDuD −1.978132% (2) (−0.019781 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUuvuDudv 2.429411% (2) (0.024294 +/− 0.005187) 4.683376!
*{circumflex over ( )}*dvdUv{circumflex over ( )} 4.531372% (2) (0.045314 +/− 0.003142) 14.419795!
*{circumflex over ( )}vdu{circumflex over ( )}D**v −0.210753% (2) (−0.002108 +/− 0.000093) −22.566737!
*UuD{circumflex over ( )}UUvD{circumflex over ( )} 2.331814% (2) (0.023318 +/− 0.009152) 2.547879!
*uUDDuUD{circumflex over ( )}v −2.237637% (3) (−0.022376 +/− 0.004825) −4.637159!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )}dDudDu −0.452641% (2) (−0.004526 +/− 0.001362) −3.324386!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUDudUDuD 0.630068% (2) (0.006301 +/− 0.000199) 31.702173!
*vDd{circumflex over ( )}uDddd −1.082245% (2) (−0.010822 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvuddvdDu −2.477874% (2) (−0.024779 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvuDUd{circumflex over ( )}d −1.992893% (4) (−0.019929 +/− 0.007474) −2.666276!
*{circumflex over ( )}uU*UU{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.519242% (2) (−0.005192 +/− 0.000914) −5.681386!
*UDU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}*vUDUU 2.649931% (2) (0.026499 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dvD{circumflex over ( )}D 0.595662% (2) (0.005957 +/− 0.000312) 19.104508!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Duv*{circumflex over ( )}vD 2.710978% (2) (0.027110 +/− 0.000728) 37.256511!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vuD 4.469546% (2) (0.044695 +/− 0.007502) 5.958038!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*DD{circumflex over ( )}DuDv 2.768527% (2) (0.027685 +/− 0.000273) 101.574095!
*uUvvddUu −2.342413% (5) (−0.023424 +/− 0.006071) −3.858656!
*vddUdDdv −3.675051% (2) (−0.036751 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vduu{circumflex over ( )} 4.052707% (2) (0.040527 +/− 0.013905) 2.914473!
*uvduuDUD{circumflex over ( )}dUU 1.258520% (2) (0.012585 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvu −2.562990% (2) (−0.025630 +/− 0.008793) −2.914951!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*Duv{circumflex over ( )}d −1.754249% (2) (−0.017542 +/− 0.001950) −8.997386!
*uvDDdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.065975% (2) (−0.020660 +/− 0.005352) −3.859900!
*{circumflex over ( )}DddU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD* −0.933070% (2) (−0.009331 +/− 0.001365) −6.837633!
*vUU{circumflex over ( )}dUDdud −2.527578% (2) (−0.025276 +/− 0.001092) −23.138624!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}vdv{circumflex over ( )}UU* −0.953930% (3) (−0.009539 +/− 0.004116) −2.317760!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvDUd{circumflex over ( )}Du*U −1.221073% (3) (−0.012211 +/− 0.004689) −2.603906!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}vudu*u −1.476002% (2) (−0.014760 +/− 0.000770) −19.160563!
*DuUDvU*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −0.749647% (3) (−0.007496 +/− 0.002226) −3.367357!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.571691% (2) (0.005717 +/− 0.002393) 2.389007!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −1.761896% (2) (−0.017619 +/− 0.005239) −3.363211!
*vU*vUddDd −0.510310% (3) (−0.005103 +/− 0.000465) −10.968092!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}*UuDDvD 2.439023% (2) (0.024390 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ddUvDUUDvuUu 2.501327% (2) (0.025013 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuvDUDu{circumflex over ( )}*Uuu 0.414665% (2) (0.004147 +/− 0.001412) 2.936892!
*U{circumflex over ( )}*vudddUu −1.322124% (2) (−0.013221 +/− 0.001961) −6.740376!
*d*uUDuuv{circumflex over ( )} 2.346843% (4) (0.023468 +/− 0.009693) 2.421131!
**UUv*u{circumflex over ( )}ddd −1.882437% (2) (−0.018824 +/− 0.006098) −3.086992!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )}vUu 1.167364% (2) (0.011674 +/− 0.001946) 5.999870!
*uUUDduUuUD{circumflex over ( )} 2.691439% (2) (0.026914 +/− 0.008312) 3.237949!
*U{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UduvU −1.142640% (2) (−0.011426 +/− 0.003674) −3.110324!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDD*vd 1.289817% (2) (0.012898 +/− 0.003026) 4.263135!
*dUD{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}*DdU 1.682374% (2) (0.016824 +/− 0.004569) 3.682163!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}uud{circumflex over ( )}dd 5.311253% (2) (0.053113 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Udvudd{circumflex over ( )}UuD −0.844048% (2) (−0.008440 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}dUUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v 6.705301% (2) (0.067053 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvUDu{circumflex over ( )}vDuUd −0.252267% (2) (−0.002523 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuUUdd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −2.106642% (2) (−0.021066 +/− 0.004000) −5.266555!
*u*DDDUvvduDU 6.827600% (2) (0.068276 +/− 0.020988) 3.253071!
*uDdvUd{circumflex over ( )}v −1.092064% (3) (−0.010921 +/− 0.000085) −128.464269!
*UvdudvUDu −1.853300% (2) (−0.018533 +/− 0.006748) −2.746469!
*DvU*uDu{circumflex over ( )}duv 1.447617% (2) (0.014476 +/− 0.002053) 7.051927!
*U{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uvuvu 3.875406% (2) (0.038754 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdUvd*d{circumflex over ( )}U −1.726158% (2) (−0.017262 +/− 0.004076) −4.234723!
*udUDuU{circumflex over ( )}DdU 1.295121% (2) (0.012951 +/− 0.001956) 6.619625!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}*v 1.728328% (2) (0.017283 +/− 0.002537) 6.812038!
*udduv{circumflex over ( )}vvD 1.349789% (2) (0.013498 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvdU{circumflex over ( )}DddU −1.604943% (3) (−0.016049 +/− 0.002649) −6.057801!
*UDDuDu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vu 2.510461% (2) (0.025105 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}dDvUUvD 2.913071% (2) (0.029131 +/− 0.002051) 14.202336!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUDuUU*dv 0.818548% (2) (0.008185 +/− 0.002922) 2.801271!
*uuuvDD{circumflex over ( )}d*u −0.402866% (2) (−0.004029 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uD*uDUu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U 0.862003% (2) (0.008620 +/− 0.002983) 2.889268!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddvU{circumflex over ( )}vu −0.035753% (2) (−0.000358 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )}u*U −1.652213% (4) (−0.016522 +/− 0.006416) −2.575256!
*vdduuvvu −1.879364% (2) (−0.018794 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDD*d{circumflex over ( )}D*uu −1.416883% (2) (−0.014169 +/− 0.005552) −2.551949!
*dvd{circumflex over ( )}dd*dU*U −0.793426% (2) (−0.007934 +/− 0.000656) −12.093075!
**DDu{circumflex over ( )}vvUv 1.272677% (3) (0.012727 +/− 0.005506) 2.311338!
**D*UvddUDuvu −1.482368% (2) (−0.014824 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vduD 1.269152% (2) (0.012692 +/− 0.004156) 3.053675!
*uuUdu{circumflex over ( )}dv 4.233798% (2) (0.042338 +/− 0.014804) 2.859821!
*uDd**{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −0.879214% (3) (−0.008792 +/− 0.003569) −2.463529!
*dDD{circumflex over ( )}udUvd −1.928491% (3) (−0.019285 +/− 0.001140) −16.912940!
**vDD{circumflex over ( )}uUdUU{circumflex over ( )} −2.933327% (3) (−0.029333 +/− 0.003576) −8.202892!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}Dud*DDdUU −1.166902% (2) (−0.011669 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UDDDv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}v −1.607452% (2) (−0.016075 +/− 0.002586) −6.216807!
**DU{circumflex over ( )}v*Dvud −2.558422% (2) (−0.025584 +/− 0.003557) −7.193252!
*D*udDdU{circumflex over ( )}Udd 0.875414% (3) (0.008754 +/− 0.002837) 3.085460!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}vdUvU 2.245365% (2) (0.022454 +/− 0.002197) 10.221509!
*DuuUDddD{circumflex over ( )}*D −1.250518% (3) (−0.012505 +/− 0.004682) −2.671084!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDUdvUDdDuU −1.851840% (2) (−0.018518 +/− 0.005030) −3.681224!
*{circumflex over ( )}duD{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )} 1.234694% (3) (0.012347 +/− 0.001232) 10.025060!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUdd{circumflex over ( )}DD 1.863599% (2) (0.018636 +/− 0.004450) 4.187686!
*vd*Uvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 1.796137% (2) (0.017961 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdDdvUd{circumflex over ( )} −1.034505% (4) (−0.010345 +/− 0.003919) −2.639571!
*uDDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuUu* 0.561695% (2) (0.005617 +/− 0.000715) 7.857372!
*UDdUDvvUUD{circumflex over ( )}D* −1.242790% (2) (−0.012428 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}DvU{circumflex over ( )} −4.681828% (3) (−0.046818 +/− 0.015647) −2.992215!
*UudUd{circumflex over ( )}DdUU 1.712679% (5) (0.017127 +/− 0.006379) 2.684668!
*udvDUdu*vU 1.651330% (2) (0.016513 +/− 0.001663) 9.930216!
*uuuuvdvv −0.558249% (2) (−0.005582 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvDD*dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d 7.892590% (2) (0.078926 +/− 0.032668) 2.416020!
*u{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}udd −0.797538% (3) (−0.007975 +/− 0.002493) −3.198886!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDdvD{circumflex over ( )}Dv 2.509156% (2) (0.025092 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvu{circumflex over ( )} 1.848269% (3) (0.018483 +/− 0.005243) 3.525449!
*udDvU*uvd 1.332243% (2) (0.013322 +/− 0.002477) 5.378665!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvDdD{circumflex over ( )}u 8.876167% (2) (0.088762 +/− 0.034132) 2.600549!
*dUvdvvvU 1.447988% (2) (0.014480 +/− 0.003840) 3.770982!
*{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}*UduUu*{circumflex over ( )} 1.051708% (2) (0.010517 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u*dDuDv*{circumflex over ( )}dd −1.455385% (2) (−0.014554 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uvd*Uuud**DDU 0.615308% (2) (0.006153 +/− 0.001960) 3.138888!
*DvvuuUd{circumflex over ( )} 1.311378% (2) (0.013114 +/− 0.001914) 6.850720!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dDDdd{circumflex over ( )}UDU 1.140270% (4) (0.011403 +/− 0.003865) 2.950411!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUD{circumflex over ( )}Dd −0.803388% (2) (−0.008034 +/− 0.002583) −3.109921!
*D{circumflex over ( )}*UuvvUUv 1.905307% (2) (0.019053 +/− 0.007649) 2.491036!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDvUUuDUU −1.446318% (3) (−0.014463 +/− 0.005947) −2.431864!
*uuDDUdDUv{circumflex over ( )}DD 0.696465% (2) (0.006965 +/− 0.000602) 11.564041!
*UddD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*du 0.837604% (2) (0.008376 +/− 0.003255) 2.573329!
**vDdu{circumflex over ( )}uU −1.672716% (2) (−0.016727 +/− 0.001463) −11.436165!
*U*Dd{circumflex over ( )}UvddUD 1.291265% (3) (0.012913 +/− 0.000652) 19.801203!
**duudu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DU 3.291059% (2) (0.032911 +/− 0.012706) 2.590195!
*UuDuUDuD{circumflex over ( )}uuud 0.857847% (2) (0.008578 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdvDu{circumflex over ( )}dU −1.384425% (2) (−0.013844 +/− 0.001090) −12.701613!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}dUddD 2.089409% (2) (0.020894 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ddvUUv{circumflex over ( )}du −1.720370% (2) (−0.017204 +/− 0.000426) −40.406964!
*UDvD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}U −4.832699% (2) (−0.048327 +/− 0.006994) −6.909756!
*dUv{circumflex over ( )}dvD{circumflex over ( )} −1.370506% (2) (−0.013705 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}u −3.668180% (2) (−0.036682 +/− 0.004090) −8.969513!
*UdduvUUu**Ud 1.213415% (2) (0.012134 +/− 0.005082) 2.387530!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}vvudu 2.954028% (2) (0.029540 +/− 0.012238) 2.413863!
*vud*dUUv −2.471947% (3) (−0.024719 +/− 0.007805) −3.167278!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}***{circumflex over ( )}uuU −1.843969% (2) (−0.018440 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUvUdUuuDv −1.547552% (3) (−0.015476 +/− 0.006314) −2.451038!
*UDU{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 6.032544% (3) (0.060325 +/− 0.020273) 2.975707!
*dDdvdDd*{circumflex over ( )}U 2.082694% (2) (0.020827 +/− 0.006389) 3.259857!
*uvDDdD{circumflex over ( )}vD 2.901129% (5) (0.029011 +/− 0.003674) 7.896984!
*uDuvDuuvUD 2.380121% (3) (0.023801 +/− 0.008465) 2.811645!
*DUudDD{circumflex over ( )}ddudU 1.468703% (2) (0.014687 +/− 0.006261) 2.345860!
*udU*Ud*vuduDd −1.757964% (4) (−0.017580 +/− 0.007435) −2.364426!
*vdUdvuUuu 2.752075% (3) (0.027521 +/− 0.006458) 4.261685!
*vv*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u 2.742787% (2) (0.027428 +/− 0.008823) 3.108537!
*u{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}Uvuu 4.324624% (2) (0.043246 +/− 0.006622) 6.530755!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*v{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −5.992011% (2) (−0.059920 +/− 0.002000) −29.953193!
**U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvdDu 2.141828% (2) (0.021418 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDU*vUvdvuU −3.387057% (2) (−0.033871 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvD*vdd{circumflex over ( )} −2.782592% (2) (−0.027826 +/− 0.003977) −6.996903!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 2.810537% (2) (0.028105 +/− 0.011394) 2.466776!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v*vuuD 3.895129% (2) (0.038951 +/− 0.009670) 4.027879!
*D{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}DduU 3.212955% (3) (0.032130 +/− 0.011431) 2.810852!
*u*ddDuuvDU{circumflex over ( )}d −0.190223% (2) (−0.001902 +/− 0.000325) −5.849462!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}vdD{circumflex over ( )}U 3.081745% (3) (0.030817 +/− 0.006615) 4.658565!
*vvvddD 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*Dvu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vDd 2.553385% (2) (0.025534 +/− 0.002877) 8.875079!
*DvDvvv{circumflex over ( )}Uu −0.943893% (2) (−0.009439 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDvUUv*DdUD 5.115676% (2) (0.051157 +/− 0.012511) 4.088817!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −3.373190% (2) (−0.033732 +/− 0.000120) −282.195630!
*uDUu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}U* 1.297661% (2) (0.012977 +/− 0.000108) 119.613358!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Dvu*Uu 3.364576% (3) (0.033646 +/− 0.009721) 3.461225!
*u*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uvuu 0.399657% (2) (0.003997 +/− 0.001667) 2.397863!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}UdUddUUUu 0.520937% (2) (0.005209 +/− 0.000403) 12.920904!
*vdD*uUd**d{circumflex over ( )} −0.296249% (2) (−0.002962 +/− 0.000857) −3.456598!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*udUUU{circumflex over ( )}U −1.929886% (3) (−0.019299 +/− 0.003914) −4.930625!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}vv 0.608626% (2) (0.006086 +/− 0.000772) 7.881671!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dD*duD{circumflex over ( )}u −1.550985% (3) (−0.015510 +/− 0.005605) −2.766908!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDuuddud −1.143578% (2) (−0.011436 +/− 0.002059) −5.553134!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DuuDdvv 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UUuUu{circumflex over ( )} −2.612598% (3) (−0.026126 +/− 0.003151) −8.291245!
*UD*uuddUU{circumflex over ( )}D −1.706782% (3) (−0.017068 +/− 0.007043) −2.423319!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uUvuvu 1.644562% (2) (0.016446 +/− 0.004691) 3.505585!
*{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}ud* 1.043805% (2) (0.010438 +/− 0.002336) 4.468408!
*DuU{circumflex over ( )}dduddU*u −1.778403% (2) (−0.017784 +/− 0.002002) −8.884192!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDuUD{circumflex over ( )}vvD* 3.573471% (2) (0.035735 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}uUdUudUd −0.499637% (2) (−0.004996 +/− 0.002127) −2.349205!
*dDuDUuvDv 0.146416% (2) (0.001464 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvdDuDD*vU −0.882949% (2) (−0.008829 +/− 0.002245) −3.933685!
*UUDU{circumflex over ( )}vvvvv*{circumflex over ( )} 8.261418% (2) (0.082614 +/− 0.013505) 6.117359!
**d{circumflex over ( )}vUU{circumflex over ( )}vD 0.802934% (2) (0.008029 +/− 0.000025) 321.728958!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}UvDd 2.676237% (2) (0.026762 +/− 0.001842) 14.527370!
*UuUD{circumflex over ( )}vduD 0.753901% (2) (0.007539 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Ddv{circumflex over ( )}UDDduU 1.920787% (2) (0.019208 +/− 0.001766) 10.877266!
*vvddvv 4.159041% (2) (0.041590 +/− 0.001027) 40.515584!
*vuUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −6.010933% (3) (−0.060109 +/− 0.021493) −2.796695!
*uvdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.456276% (2) (−0.014563 +/− 0.000432) −33.727230!
*{circumflex over ( )}*vDvd{circumflex over ( )}u 1.275292% (3) (0.012753 +/− 0.005073) 2.513723!
*DvDUdv{circumflex over ( )}*Du −1.611108% (3) (−0.016111 +/− 0.006799) −2.369452!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vuU*{circumflex over ( )}d −2.513099% (2) (−0.025131 +/− 0.005241) −4.794667!
*vUv*vUUvDdDU 0.955143% (2) (0.009551 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuDd −2.424243% (2) (−0.024242 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvUuDdduv 0.528543% (2) (0.005285 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ud*vD{circumflex over ( )}v**{circumflex over ( )}DU 4.714012% (2) (0.047140 +/− 0.002672) 17.641618!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UvuUDUu −0.821252% (3) (−0.008213 +/− 0.001947) −4.218773!
*vvuu{circumflex over ( )}uU* 1.643214% (2) (0.016432 +/− 0.000767) 21.428132!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUvuD*dD 2.039792% (2) (0.020398 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*D{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdvD 2.579777% (2) (0.025798 +/− 0.005913) 4.363204!
*Uv*Du{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}DD −1.600919% (2) (−0.016009 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vddDUd*dv 3.140487% (2) (0.031405 +/− 0.005533) 5.676059!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdddddudD 0.870171% (2) (0.008702 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udDDvUv*{circumflex over ( )}dd −4.661885% (2) (−0.046619 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}UDDuuD 0.898467% (2) (0.008985 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ddvDv*vv 14.143827% (2) (0.141438 +/− 0.026904) 5.257186!
**vUdduUD{circumflex over ( )}dD −2.163268% (2) (−0.021633 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUUUuUvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −5.487563% (2) (−0.054876 +/− 0.005758) −9.531095!
*UUuvvdu{circumflex over ( )}dD 0.638050% (2) (0.006380 +/− 0.000315) 20.242796!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDU{circumflex over ( )}Dv 3.400052% (6) (0.034001 +/− 0.005545) 6.131481!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUDUdUD 5.287275% (2) (0.052873 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uu*U*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdUDv 1.022675% (2) (0.010227 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**vUuuvDdU{circumflex over ( )} −5.489529% (3) (−0.054895 +/− 0.005226) −10.505262!
*uuvu{circumflex over ( )}U*v{circumflex over ( )} −0.876736% (2) (−0.008767 +/− 0.002750) −3.187902!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udDvDDD 4.680100% (2) (0.046801 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvUdvu*vD 2.352695% (2) (0.023527 +/− 0.010175) 2.312305!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uUuvD{circumflex over ( )}u −2.248471% (2) (−0.022485 +/− 0.004183) −5.374783!
*UUUuddUv{circumflex over ( )}U −2.772632% (3) (−0.027726 +/− 0.006183) −4.484581!
*v{circumflex over ( )}**uD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dU −4.063296% (3) (−0.040633 +/− 0.013702) −2.965514!
*UUDUUUD{circumflex over ( )}dUu −1.406558% (2) (−0.014066 +/− 0.005628) −2.499285!
*UvvUvU{circumflex over ( )}dv −1.308220% (2) (−0.013082 +/− 0.001658) −7.888471!
**{circumflex over ( )}dUudUdDvD −1.150587% (2) (−0.011506 +/− 0.001426) −8.068857!
*DddvDdd{circumflex over ( )} −0.550887% (2) (−0.005509 +/− 0.000495) −11.136367!
*d*vUU{circumflex over ( )}UUUU 0.602072% (2) (0.006021 +/− 0.002176) 2.766916!
*{circumflex over ( )}duuu{circumflex over ( )}UD 6.705301% (2) (0.067053 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**UdUvUDvU{circumflex over ( )} −1.894707% (2) (−0.018947 +/− 0.003294) −5.751359!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vdUv{circumflex over ( )}U −2.587168% (2) (−0.025872 +/− 0.007853) −3.294509!
*vvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Udv −3.295944% (3) (−0.032959 +/− 0.011231) −2.934779!
*DUDD*uduv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −5.177533% (2) (−0.051775 +/− 0.014277) −3.626561!
*DdDddDvUv 2.034665% (3) (0.020347 +/− 0.005252) 3.874137!
*vduu*D{circumflex over ( )}vd 2.272597% (2) (0.022726 +/− 0.007353) 3.090584!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDUu*u{circumflex over ( )}U*D 2.187442% (2) (0.021874 +/− 0.008739) 2.503117!
*DvuD*{circumflex over ( )}vDUv{circumflex over ( )} −5.022306% (2) (−0.050223 +/− 0.000593) −84.627276!
*{circumflex over ( )}v*dUUuDdv 0.818548% (2) (0.008185 +/− 0.002922) 2.801271!
*dUvdDvu{circumflex over ( )} 2.981252% (2) (0.029813 +/− 0.010358) 2.878128!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )} 2.413153% (2) (0.024132 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vUUd −1.591761% (2) (−0.015918 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUd{circumflex over ( )}vuuuv −0.452286% (2) (−0.004523 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}u*{circumflex over ( )}*vv −0.600977% (2) (−0.006010 +/− 0.000097) −62.087683!
*uUvdUdUv{circumflex over ( )} −2.550456% (3) (−0.025505 +/− 0.001962) −12.997285!
*uDud{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )} 2.795572% (2) (0.027956 +/− 0.011279) 2.478483!
*UUdUdvUudU 0.932359% (2) (0.009324 +/− 0.001475) 6.320818!
*vDDddUD{circumflex over ( )}uu −0.823944% (2) (−0.008239 +/− 0.001102) −7.477728!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud −2.129542% (2) (−0.021295 +/− 0.005188) −4.104903!
**{circumflex over ( )}vuD{circumflex over ( )}dUd{circumflex over ( )} −4.854371% (2) (−0.048544 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duuvdduDDuU −4.166966% (2) (−0.041670 +/− 0.016180) −2.575340!
**v{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}dudDD −2.200574% (3) (−0.022006 +/− 0.006421) −3.426885!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )} −6.699541% (2) (−0.066995 +/− 0.018905) −3.543703!
*uuduvDUDu 1.948106% (3) (0.019481 +/− 0.004079) 4.775578!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}Dv 4.102986% (4) (0.041030 +/− 0.014562) 2.817678!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UddU*dDD 1.942735% (2) (0.019427 +/− 0.006656) 2.918910!
*udvvvu −2.384062% (4) (−0.023841 +/− 0.008892) −2.681199!
*U{circumflex over ( )}U*vu{circumflex over ( )}d −1.331416% (3) (−0.013314 +/− 0.004509) −2.952601!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vu −2.425151% (4) (−0.024252 +/− 0.005801) −4.180888!
**Dd{circumflex over ( )}DUvdv 4.151918% (2) (0.041519 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U*d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DUU −2.694771% (3) (−0.026948 +/− 0.011168) −2.412877!
*{circumflex over ( )}duUUU*vv 2.459224% (3) (0.024592 +/− 0.010110) 2.432577!
*UdDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuu 1.419475% (2) (0.014195 +/− 0.004974) 2.853814!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}UUD*uud −1.727944% (2) (−0.017279 +/− 0.001466) −11.786587!
*uUvdvDDu 1.346944% (3) (0.013469 +/− 0.002805) 4.802545!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUD{circumflex over ( )} 2.443888% (2) (0.024439 +/− 0.005734) 4.262431!
*UddduUddD{circumflex over ( )}DD −0.619101% (3) (−0.006191 +/− 0.001997) −3.100613!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}*uvvu −0.256538% (2) (−0.002565 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dUu{circumflex over ( )}dDu{circumflex over ( )} −3.555044% (2) (−0.035550 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*uUuu*{circumflex over ( )}u 1.551373% (4) (0.015514 +/− 0.005889) 2.634242!
*ddUD{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}U −2.339505% (3) (−0.023395 +/− 0.002098) −11.153731!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}uvu 3.192232% (2) (0.031922 +/− 0.006900) 4.626675!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UDdvuUD 3.076708% (2) (0.030767 +/− 0.001904) 16.160896!
*UuDUd{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Du −1.842330% (2) (−0.018423 +/− 0.002206) −8.350948!
*vUd{circumflex over ( )}D*Dvu*D −4.089109% (3) (−0.040891 +/− 0.010564) −3.870674!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}u*vd −0.877809% (2) (−0.008778 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DuUUD{circumflex over ( )} 1.051708% (2) (0.010517 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dv 3.473249% (4) (0.034732 +/− 0.012497) 2.779294!
*UvD{circumflex over ( )}dD*{circumflex over ( )}*uUv* 3.665664% (2) (0.036657 +/− 0.007712) 4.753293!
*UvdDvuu{circumflex over ( )} −1.676156% (2) (−0.016762 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*du{circumflex over ( )}DUu*dv 1.490327% (4) (0.014903 +/− 0.004494) 3.316000!
*vUu{circumflex over ( )}DudUvu −2.310142% (2) (−0.023101 +/− 0.002019) −11.441680!
*vvDDD{circumflex over ( )}uDUd 2.759741% (3) (0.027597 +/− 0.008119) 3.399154!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}UDvv*DD* 7.545215% (2) (0.075452 +/− 0.003376) 22.347971!
**dvd*{circumflex over ( )}duuD 1.239498% (2) (0.012395 +/− 0.001693) 7.323125!
**uDuUv{circumflex over ( )}Duu 1.073489% (2) (0.010735 +/− 0.000830) 12.932987!
*Dd*vddU{circumflex over ( )}d −0.206759% (2) (−0.002068 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDuDUD 1.148495% (2) (0.011485 +/− 0.002843) 4.040291!
*dDuUu{circumflex over ( )}vUuu 0.617826% (2) (0.006178 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v**uuvvdD 2.083040% (2) (0.020830 +/− 0.000388) 53.701918!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UUdu{circumflex over ( )}u −0.377253% (2) (−0.003773 +/− 0.000063) −60.255562!
*{circumflex over ( )}DU*U*UUdUUU{circumflex over ( )} −3.067221% (3) (−0.030672 +/− 0.006060) −5.061279!
*vdUd{circumflex over ( )}Duv −1.299268% (2) (−0.012993 +/− 0.002529) −5.137670!
*dUuvUvud −2.970112% (2) (−0.029701 +/− 0.003640) −8.160253!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuu*{circumflex over ( )}dDuv −2.040774% (2) (−0.020408 +/− 0.001400) −14.572104!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.946462% (2) (−0.049465 +/− 0.003390) −14.593420!
*vuuu*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.878938% (2) (−0.008789 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.307757% (2) (−0.033078 +/− 0.010692) −3.093695!
*vvvddD 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*uUddvuU{circumflex over ( )}U −1.240819% (3) (−0.012408 +/− 0.003035) −4.088803!
*vuuuv{circumflex over ( )}ddd 1.025508% (2) (0.010255 +/− 0.003459) 2.964961!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvDD{circumflex over ( )}uUd 0.809941% (3) (0.008099 +/− 0.003329) 2.432955!
*DD*DuvvuddDD 1.109388% (2) (0.011094 +/− 0.001704) 6.509282!
*vuu{circumflex over ( )}uUUUdU 0.935266% (2) (0.009353 +/− 0.002084) 4.486897!
**d{circumflex over ( )}vu{circumflex over ( )}uu −0.450431% (2) (−0.004504 +/− 0.000289) −15.600238!
*vddUDDvDD −2.010904% (2) (−0.020109 +/− 0.007285) −2.760481!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}dDuuU{circumflex over ( )} −0.415368% (2) (−0.004154 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udU −1.505360% (2) (−0.015054 +/− 0.001928) −7.808007!
*{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}DUuU −3.486414% (4) (−0.034864 +/− 0.012317) −2.830628!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DduUDv 3.206318% (4) (0.032063 +/− 0.011498) 2.788693!
*dDDUUvDDdUUU 1.819858% (2) (0.018199 +/− 0.007748) 2.348757!
*vvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUd{circumflex over ( )}D −6.684244% (2) (−0.066842 +/− 0.012932) −5.168879!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*uDDddDD{circumflex over ( )} −0.944879% (2) (−0.009449 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UDDDDuD*uvUd −2.051502% (3) (−0.020515 +/− 0.004282) −4.790939!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.307757% (2) (−0.033078 +/− 0.010692) −3.093695!
*duDduvvu −2.105645% (2) (−0.021056 +/− 0.004057) −5.189783!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}vUuD{circumflex over ( )}D 3.269272% (3) (0.032693 +/− 0.010253) 3.188457!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 2.851183% (2) (0.028512 +/− 0.001778) 16.033676!
*u{circumflex over ( )}v*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du 0.443202% (3) (0.004432 +/− 0.001492) 2.970708!
*u*udud{circumflex over ( )}Dv 1.474031% (3) (0.014740 +/− 0.000021) 703.636319!
*{circumflex over ( )}UddudDuuDUu −1.806383% (2) (−0.018064 +/− 0.002764) −6.535864!
*udU{circumflex over ( )}uvvD*d*U 1.139604% (2) (0.011396 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UUvDvdD{circumflex over ( )}v −6.287940% (2) (−0.062879 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*udvvD{circumflex over ( )}UDU −1.326190% (2) (−0.013262 +/− 0.005305) −2.499817!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*uD{circumflex over ( )}vD*uDd 0.525728% (2) (0.005257 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vD*{circumflex over ( )}vvuvv 5.865590% (3) (0.058656 +/− 0.024489) 2.395150!
*DUU*uD{circumflex over ( )}*uv{circumflex over ( )} −2.015468% (2) (−0.020155 +/− 0.006436) −3.131384!
*uuuuv{circumflex over ( )} 0.448637% (3) (0.004486 +/− 0.001538) 2.917343!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Ud*d*DUUd 1.249058% (2) (0.012491 +/− 0.000001) 11481.201208!
*{circumflex over ( )}u*DdDUU{circumflex over ( )}dd −1.760562% (2) (−0.017606 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**vUduDu*uuDDd −1.207587% (2) (−0.012076 +/− 0.004833) −2.498875!
*uUudUUuDDUv 1.232303% (3) (0.012323 +/− 0.004208) 2.928610!
*DDuu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 0.702901% (2) (0.007029 +/− 0.002013) 3.492366!
*D{circumflex over ( )}Uddv{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.417173% (2) (−0.004172 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}udd 0.769444% (3) (0.007694 +/− 0.002801) 2.747102!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dvuuU{circumflex over ( )} −0.415368% (2) (−0.004154 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.074696% (2) (−0.010747 +/− 0.001216) −8.834334!
*dvDDvUudd 2.911381% (2) (0.029114 +/− 0.009967) 2.920899!
*ddd{circumflex over ( )}D*UuvDD −2.077718% (2) (−0.020777 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vUDvvuvU −5.108408% (2) (−0.051084 +/− 0.016566) −3.083648!
*DdDdUv{circumflex over ( )}UDD 0.846402% (2) (0.008464 +/− 0.003256) 2.599261!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dUDvUUudv −11.381753% (2) (−0.113818 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UuUu{circumflex over ( )}DUD −1.967790% (2) (−0.019678 +/− 0.005252) −3.746518!
*udv*v{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 6.550283% (3) (0.065503 +/− 0.002678) 24.457441!
*vDDUdUuddUU 1.856003% (2) (0.018560 +/− 0.005552) 3.342857!
*dDvdUvuUUu −1.014984% (2) (−0.010150 +/− 0.003522) −2.882049!
*DUvvdUdD*D{circumflex over ( )}D 1.135445% (2) (0.011354 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*dDD{circumflex over ( )}ddUuUD 1.204580% (2) (0.012046 +/− 0.000372) 32.381993!
*UuuudUvv 2.232585% (3) (0.022326 +/− 0.002001) 11.156329!
*{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUvDD{circumflex over ( )} −2.249482% (2) (−0.022495 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUUvUUUDdDU{circumflex over ( )} −1.145800% (2) (−0.011458 +/− 0.002913) −3.933092!
*uUuDU{circumflex over ( )}DDv 1.545986% (2) (0.015460 +/− 0.001144) 13.511344!
*uDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}UD −3.435745% (2) (−0.034357 +/− 0.011931) −2.879740!
*vvDdvUdu −0.585684% (2) (−0.005857 +/− 0.001494) −3.920749!
*DuDv{circumflex over ( )}duud −2.631779% (3) (−0.026318 +/− 0.005699) −4.618127!
*UvuuDdDdUdDU 1.728678% (2) (0.017287 +/− 0.006462) 2.674947!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uUu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −2.688884% (2) (−0.026889 +/− 0.004046) −6.646547!
**vuv*v*DuvD −7.216463% (2) (−0.072165 +/− 0.008788) −8.212145!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DDd{circumflex over ( )}vD 4.057468% (2) (0.040575 +/− 0.008704) 4.661855!
**v*DU{circumflex over ( )}UU*uD{circumflex over ( )} −1.683137% (2) (−0.016831 +/− 0.002483) −6.777638!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDv*ddU* −0.438650% (2) (−0.004386 +/− 0.001533) −2.860930!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v −6.183409% (3) (−0.061834 +/− 0.009074) −6.814361!
*uuDdvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}* −4.713424% (2) (−0.047134 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.946462% (2) (−0.049465 +/− 0.003390) −14.593420!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vdUuuD*d −2.318559% (2) (−0.023186 +/− 0.003739) −6.201096!
*dDU*{circumflex over ( )}DdUuv 0.486522% (2) (0.004865 +/− 0.001872) 2.599108!
*vUDUUDuDvUDD 1.056342% (2) (0.010563 +/− 0.004350) 2.428333!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvdduuUd 3.023499% (2) (0.030235 +/− 0.002093) 14.443518!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}uDuDvu −0.796502% (2) (−0.007965 +/− 0.000187) −42.622283!
*DDuvU{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}D 3.297861% (2) (0.032979 +/− 0.005532) 5.961710!
*UuuD*uv*u{circumflex over ( )}U* −1.354719% (2) (−0.013547 +/− 0.001677) −8.078602!
*D{circumflex over ( )}*ddUUUuUD −2.113147% (4) (−0.021131 +/− 0.006223) −3.395823!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dDUUuU −3.372932% (2) (−0.033729 +/− 0.011375) −2.965168!
*uD*dU{circumflex over ( )}dU*{circumflex over ( )}U 0.568288% (2) (0.005683 +/− 0.001419) 4.005251!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}d*uDv 1.758011% (2) (0.017580 +/− 0.005526) 3.181343!
*DUd{circumflex over ( )}UDuu*{circumflex over ( )}d −2.909089% (2) (−0.029091 +/− 0.000359) −81.100302!
*u{circumflex over ( )}*DvUduu 2.686522% (2) (0.026865 +/− 0.008352) 3.216803!
*vUdUduUv −3.576478% (3) (−0.035765 +/− 0.013708) −2.609003!
*uuv*DUUU*Ddd{circumflex over ( )} 5.074406% (2) (0.050744 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dvdUddD 2.460630% (2) (0.024606 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDud{circumflex over ( )}v −3.020606% (2) (−0.030206 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDvUvDUDvv −3.335125% (2) (−0.033351 +/− 0.005115) −6.520682!
*uuUUU{circumflex over ( )}dDDUuU −2.297414% (2) (−0.022974 +/− 0.005294) −4.339662!
*UdDU{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}Duv −0.475688% (2) (−0.004757 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dduD{circumflex over ( )}uduv −1.353412% (2) (−0.013534 +/− 0.001723) −7.856894!
*d*uUuvUuuu −1.142243% (3) (−0.011422 +/− 0.001147) −9.958992!
*udDuduu{circumflex over ( )}v 2.617075% (2) (0.026171 +/− 0.010060) 2.601552!
*Duu*uUD{circumflex over ( )}vD 1.866106% (3) (0.018661 +/− 0.001229) 15.182633!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}uvDvDD{circumflex over ( )} −5.336622% (2) (−0.053366 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DudD*Ud*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.817796% (3) (−0.018178 +/− 0.005420) −3.353909!
*U*vU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD 3.569542% (5) (0.035695 +/− 0.014601) 2.444709!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}UuDUv{circumflex over ( )}u −2.746582% (2) (−0.027466 +/− 0.001363) −20.143998!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.622358% (3) (0.026224 +/− 0.004551) 5.761839!
*vdDud{circumflex over ( )}dUU 3.201981% (3) (0.032020 +/− 0.005845) 5.478008!
*uuu**ddd{circumflex over ( )}vd* −1.029586% (3) (−0.010296 +/− 0.004338) −2.373214!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −0.249198% (2) (−0.002492 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**u{circumflex over ( )}uDUDuDuUDD −1.260753% (2) (−0.012608 +/− 0.005121) −2.462106!
*d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )}* 0.652261% (2) (0.006523 +/− 0.000933) 6.993722!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**{circumflex over ( )}uDDdUUD{circumflex over ( )}d 1.725016% (2) (0.017250 +/− 0.004244) 4.064809!
*uuUuvDU*DuU 1.026631% (2) (0.010266 +/− 0.003915) 2.622248!
*uDUuDd{circumflex over ( )}ddDUD* −0.112526% (2) (−0.001125 +/− 0.000153) −7.336246!
*u{circumflex over ( )}u*DuU{circumflex over ( )}duu* −0.149582% (2) (−0.001496 +/− 0.000560) −2.669041!
*Dvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −6.705226% (3) (−0.067052 +/− 0.022308) −3.005812!
*ud*DuDUU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.224815% (2) (0.002248 +/− 0.000896) 2.508776!
*vUdU{circumflex over ( )}uDdDU −1.806969% (3) (−0.018070 +/− 0.005654) −3.195957!
*Uu*DduvvUu −4.753754% (2) (−0.047538 +/− 0.009467) −5.021294!
*uvUUU{circumflex over ( )}DDu*Ud −1.326390% (2) (−0.013264 +/− 0.000027) −498.027779!
*vDdU*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uD −3.414768% (3) (−0.034148 +/− 0.006344) −5.383051!
*DvvUud*d{circumflex over ( )} −3.159767% (2) (−0.031598 +/− 0.004965) −6.363523!
*uvvv*uuu −0.719022% (2) (−0.007190 +/− 0.002779) −2.587329!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*uU{circumflex over ( )}Dvu −2.975371% (2) (−0.029754 +/− 0.003793) −7.843361!
*D{circumflex over ( )}duUUUDvD 1.914575% (2) (0.019146 +/− 0.001626) 11.777768!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuu*ddDd{circumflex over ( )} −5.078681% (3) (−0.050787 +/− 0.019192) −2.646265!
*dU*{circumflex over ( )}dDDu{circumflex over ( )}v 1.931482% (2) (0.019315 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUDduD*U{circumflex over ( )}Dudd 1.355125% (2) (0.013551 +/− 0.001616) 8.384611!
*dvuvuUvDU 4.103965% (2) (0.041040 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uUDuUdduv{circumflex over ( )} −3.291137% (2) (−0.032911 +/− 0.005480) −6.006071!
*DvuUudvdU 1.962025% (2) (0.019620 +/− 0.004563) 4.299480!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}dddDv −5.107602% (2) (−0.051076 +/− 0.012302) −4.151778!
*duUvuvU{circumflex over ( )}Uv 2.495926% (2) (0.024959 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d*DUD −5.524170% (2) (−0.055242 +/− 0.020386) −2.709848!
*{circumflex over ( )}udv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.732582% (2) (−0.017326 +/− 0.000790) −21.933999!
*uvDUuuDD*Udu 1.316033% (2) (0.013160 +/− 0.005618) 2.342527!
*UddduDudd{circumflex over ( )} −1.016460% (2) (−0.010165 +/− 0.002800) −3.630227!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UvDvDDU −1.003622% (3) (−0.010036 +/− 0.004304) −2.332076!
*{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.603708% (3) (−0.016037 +/− 0.006193) −2.589567!
*u{circumflex over ( )}Uvuu{circumflex over ( )}uU 2.044909% (2) (0.020449 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vd*d{circumflex over ( )}DdUduDd −3.346638% (2) (−0.033466 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}dDuvD 2.725489% (2) (0.027255 +/− 0.008281) 3.291177!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu* −2.976821% (2) (−0.029768 +/− 0.009250) −3.218328!
*uuDuvDu{circumflex over ( )}U −2.167732% (2) (−0.021677 +/− 0.002716) −7.980290!
*vUvuUUuUvU 0.958300% (2) (0.009583 +/− 0.003464) 2.766136!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}udu*UUU 1.089629% (2) (0.010896 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUUvud{circumflex over ( )} −1.047563% (3) (−0.010476 +/− 0.004343) −2.412084!
*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −3.222702% (3) (−0.032227 +/− 0.008424) −3.825467!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDDDDd 1.289817% (2) (0.012898 +/− 0.003026) 4.263135!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}vdDvUU −5.766081% (2) (−0.057661 +/− 0.014154) −4.073826!
*uvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuu{circumflex over ( )}d −2.739308% (2) (−0.027393 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUv{circumflex over ( )}uDddU{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.849647% (2) (−0.008496 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}duvuD 2.584384% (3) (0.025844 +/− 0.008481) 3.047366!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}uuUu −2.704408% (2) (−0.027044 +/− 0.006827) −3.961465!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vvU −4.292337% (2) (−0.042923 +/− 0.012921) −3.321958!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}Du{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}D 1.132231% (2) (0.011322 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvvddD 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*DD*U{circumflex over ( )}vdDDuv −0.507665% (3) (−0.005077 +/− 0.001920) −2.644345!
*vdUD*u{circumflex over ( )}*UuU −0.486408% (3) (−0.004864 +/− 0.001281) −3.797973!
*ddv{circumflex over ( )}DDvu 1.936056% (4) (0.019361 +/− 0.003344) 5.789604!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}U −2.587168% (2) (−0.025872 +/− 0.007853) −3.294509!
*UvddddDdDU 1.603302% (2) (0.016033 +/− 0.004661) 3.439484!
*UUUDu*vUvu 1.477594% (3) (0.014776 +/− 0.004945) 2.987883!
*UvuvuD{circumflex over ( )}vD 3.394475% (2) (0.033945 +/− 0.000260) 130.609007!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.571691% (2) (0.005717 +/− 0.002393) 2.389007!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dv 3.473249% (4) (0.034732 +/− 0.012497) 2.779294!
*UDDUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −6.056114% (3) (−0.060561 +/− 0.023058) −2.626517!
*ud*Du{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )} 4.129340% (2) (0.041293 +/− 0.001867) 22.115548!
*vD*{circumflex over ( )}DDdvUDu −1.643945% (2) (−0.016439 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDuvUuvDU 3.348345% (3) (0.033483 +/− 0.013088) 2.558386!
*UDDdu{circumflex over ( )}DudUu 0.189481% (2) (0.001895 +/− 0.000720) 2.631794!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uud*D 0.497158% (2) (0.004972 +/− 0.001628) 3.054634!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dduuD −2.121497% (3) (−0.021215 +/− 0.005464) −3.882849!
*dd*UDUv{circumflex over ( )}v −1.415659% (2) (−0.014157 +/− 0.002728) −5.188790!
*UUDdvuv{circumflex over ( )}*D −1.853326% (3) (−0.018533 +/− 0.006160)73.008754!
*UuDUUUUD{circumflex over ( )}uDUU 1.137468% (2) (0.011375 +/− 0.000703) 16.188906!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DdDdUudD −3.666958% (4) (−0.036670 +/− 0.007834) −4.680584!
*D{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DDuu −0.795123% (2) (−0.007951 +/− 0.000912) −8.719906!
*uuudvDd{circumflex over ( )}v 2.824552% (2) (0.028246 +/− 0.011035) 2.559734!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uvUv*Ud −4.293482% (2) (−0.042935 +/− 0.015043) −2.854233!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )}U*u −1.869618% (3) (−0.018696 +/− 0.005778) −3.235840!
*du{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}d −2.240101% (3) (−0.022401 +/− 0.003216) −6.965383!
*u*dU{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )} 0.845842% (2) (0.008458 +/− 0.000096) 88.179892!
*D*vvd{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.767880% (2) (−0.027679 +/− 0.005882) −4.705812!
**{circumflex over ( )}vdU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du 3.938292% (2) (0.039383 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vdv 4.886654% (2) (0.048867 +/− 0.007403) 6.601344!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.116544% (3) (−0.041165 +/− 0.014573) −2.824766!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*ddu{circumflex over ( )} −2.059708% (3) (−0.020597 +/− 0.002421) −8.508993!
*UuUUuv{circumflex over ( )}u*U −0.626299% (2) (−0.006263 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vD*vUdvD{circumflex over ( )}UU 3.825955% (2) (0.038260 +/− 0.016408) 2.331809!
*d*{circumflex over ( )}uUU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −2.688884% (2) (−0.026889 +/− 0.004046) −6.646547!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvd{circumflex over ( )}d −2.628488% (4) (−0.026285 +/− 0.010782) −2.437840!
*vUD{circumflex over ( )}d*uU{circumflex over ( )} −1.161819% (2) (−0.011618 +/− 0.002864) −4.057323!
*vDDuduvUu −1.345681% (3) (−0.013457 +/− 0.005426) −2.480053!
*udu*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*U 3.111471% (2) (0.031115 +/− 0.004690) 6.634783!
*vdvuvv*U 0.702156% (2) (0.007022 +/− 0.001598) 4.394869!
*{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}DuD{circumflex over ( )}dD 3.131851% (2) (0.031319 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}UUuvv{circumflex over ( )} 2.112454% (2) (0.021125 +/− 0.000839) 25.183960!
*uuuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dU −2.133543% (2) (−0.021335 +/− 0.001862) −11.458404!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUdUdduu −2.150942% (2) (−0.021509 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*UDuD*duv{circumflex over ( )}* 1.477472% (5) (0.014775 +/− 0.006354) 2.325121!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}uvvDd*U**U 6.636574% (2) (0.066366 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uUDDUddd{circumflex over ( )}dUd −2.491003% (2) (−0.024910 +/− 0.002523) −9.873138!
*UUDD{circumflex over ( )}vvUvv 8.728192% (2) (0.087282 +/− 0.010298) 8.475473!
*{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}D*uDudD −1.476466% (2) (−0.014765 +/− 0.001227) −12.031469!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vdU{circumflex over ( )}U −1.410723% (2) (−0.014107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}uDDDvuDD 2.308184% (2) (0.023082 +/− 0.001953) 11.820853!
*UUdvd{circumflex over ( )}vU 6.766296% (2) (0.067663 +/− 0.005021) 13.474716!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDvDDDvD 13.916737% (2) (0.139167 +/− 0.056679) 2.455373!
*UDvU{circumflex over ( )}**{circumflex over ( )}dUd* 2.630826% (2) (0.026308 +/− 0.004207) 6.253109!
*DdvdvUDvD{circumflex over ( )} −1.409200% (2) (−0.014092 +/− 0.000011) −1336.082678!
*ddDudvu{circumflex over ( )}*UD 2.689235% (2) (0.026892 +/− 0.003580) 7.512846!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdUD{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )} −0.712860% (2) (−0.007129 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UddDDvUduDu −1.151620% (2) (−0.011516 +/− 0.000270) −42.604918!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDdvdDUddD 1.097394% (2) (0.010974 +/− 0.001753) 6.260589!
**uUdDDdUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dU 1.220914% (2) (0.012209 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UuDvUDv{circumflex over ( )}D −7.021837% (4) (−0.070218 +/− 0.020855) −3.367042!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UudUu*U 1.026669% (2) (0.010267 +/− 0.000489) 20.980846!
*uDuU{circumflex over ( )}d*Udud 1.481458% (2) (0.014815 +/− 0.003773) 3.926431!
**{circumflex over ( )}vudd*dduv 0.680579% (2) (0.006806 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}du**vDD{circumflex over ( )} −0.447908% (2) (−0.004479 +/− 0.001680) −2.665369!
*UDdvuvvU 5.625024% (2) (0.056250 +/− 0.013754) 4.089723!
*vuvUDUU**vU −5.967714% (3) (−0.059677 +/− 0.023152) −2.577677!
*vDDDDv{circumflex over ( )}u −5.315522% (2) (−0.053155 +/− 0.001177) −45.161580!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}UuvDu −2.251042% (2) (−0.022510 +/− 0.005588) 4.028198!
*U*Dvdvuuud 2.141942% (2) (0.021419 +/− 0.005090) 4.207946!
*uudd{circumflex over ( )}vUu −1.086210% (3) (−0.010862 +/− 0.002095) −5.185333!
*dUu{circumflex over ( )}UUv{circumflex over ( )}v* 1.795143% (2) (0.017951 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}v*uUDdv 3.781454% (5) (0.037815 +/− 0.007185) 5.263058!
**UddUDD{circumflex over ( )}UDuu 0.264878% (4) (0.002649 +/− 0.000932) 2.840958!
**dDd{circumflex over ( )}DvDu 4.473666% (3) (0.044737 +/− 0.008730) 5.124354!
*UDdDu{circumflex over ( )}Ud*v −2.514026% (3) (−0.025140 +/− 0.009146) −2.748656!
*vvuvv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} 2.470023% (3) (0.024700 +/− 0.001436) 17.197364!
*UvvUdUu{circumflex over ( )}vdD −0.898739% (2) (−0.008987 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vdDUvv 9.275916% (2) (0.092759 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DuudUUuvDDD* −1.009725% (2) (−0.010097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −0.989315% (2) (−0.009893 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}dudUUU −1.037384% (2) (−0.010374 +/− 0.000326) −31.805337!
*uud{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}D*u 4.828222% (2) (0.048282 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvU*vDdUuu −4.046666% (2) (−0.040467 +/− 0.006281) −6.442977!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UvvvUdd 1.602566% (2) (0.016026 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuUDDDv 1.161922% (3) (0.011619 +/− 0.003834) 3.030755!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}UvdvUdU −2.979987% (2) (−0.029800 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dUuvdUv*u 1.034331% (2) (0.010343 +/− 0.002862) 3.614383!
*DDduUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −0.349579% (2) (−0.003496 +/− 0.000439) −7.970360!
*UduUvU{circumflex over ( )}dD*u 1.383317% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.004464) 3.098961!
*uDdduvu{circumflex over ( )} 1.372774% (2) (0.013728 +/− 0.001213) 11.317163!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}dUUu 1.573419% (2) (0.015734 +/− 0.001570) 10.024703!
*dvvUd*{circumflex over ( )}Du{circumflex over ( )} 1.727698% (3) (0.017277 +/− 0.006473) 2.668998!
*uUD{circumflex over ( )}vD*Uv 2.574718% (3) (0.025747 +/− 0.007293) 3.530346!
*UDu{circumflex over ( )}dvU{circumflex over ( )} −2.511987% (2) (−0.025120 +/− 0.005880) −4.271939!
*DuDuDdUuvUDu 2.167478% (2) (0.021675 +/− 0.007063) 3.068615!
*vDDUdudduv 1.131997% (2) (0.011320 +/− 0.000682) 16.588178!
*DudDuuUDUD{circumflex over ( )} 0.677565% (2) (0.006776 +/− 0.002451) 2.764461!
*uDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DvU −1.488936% (5) (−0.014889 +/− 0.006315) −2.357954!
*v{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDU −2.888688% (2) (−0.028887 +/− 0.010025) −2.881600!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*uuv{circumflex over ( )}DDdU{circumflex over ( )} 0.842580% (2) (0.008426 +/− 0.002984) 2.823976!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuuD{circumflex over ( )}v* 0.801069% (2) (0.008011 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUvvudUdUU* −0.175781% (2) (−0.001758 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Ud*v*Ud{circumflex over ( )} 3.124920% (2) (0.031249 +/− 0.002550) 12.253766!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −4.253837% (2) (−0.042538 +/− 0.015596) −2.727445!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −6.089361% (3) (−0.060894 +/− 0.019940) −3.053819!
*Dddduu{circumflex over ( )}dUud 1.347558% (3) (0.013476 +/− 0.004193) 3.213669!
*vduuduu{circumflex over ( )}d −0.036431% (2) (−0.000364 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v*Dv*D*U{circumflex over ( )}d −0.657875% (2) (−0.006579 +/− 0.000105) −62.715729!
*vUu{circumflex over ( )}dDDDd* 1.414196% (4) (0.014142 +/− 0.005320) 2.658240!
*uu*d*uU{circumflex over ( )}*vDd 4.377662% (3) (0.043777 +/− 0.013837) 3.163659!
*UdD{circumflex over ( )}dud{circumflex over ( )}d −1.874618% (2) (−0.018746 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uUduD{circumflex over ( )}Uuu{circumflex over ( )}* −0.929814% (2) (−0.009298 +/− 0.002828) −3.288228!
*D{circumflex over ( )}uvuUU{circumflex over ( )}d −1.592559% (2) (−0.015926 +/− 0.001774) −8.976950!
*D*UvD{circumflex over ( )}ddUuuDD 1.361817% (2) (0.013618 +/− 0.004752) 2.865612!
*u{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}uuvD* −0.991848% (2) (−0.009918 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U*DDvdvuUuD −4.020932% (2) (−0.040209 +/− 0.010118) −3.974109!
*DuDUvUDudu −2.112915% (2) (−0.021129 +/− 0.007645) −2.763755!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}DudUUDUuD −0.433166% (2) (−0.004332 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DvDDDvvD 23.244732% (3) (0.232447 +/− 0.074954) 3.101187!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DDUUuDDDvU 1.033458% (2) (0.010335 +/− 0.002352) 4.394097!
*d*vv*d*{circumflex over ( )}Uud −2.050568% (2) (−0.020506 +/− 0.003464) −5.919356!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vuUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −0.584407% (3) (−0.005844 +/− 0.002072) −2.820517!
**duuvvUuu*UD 1.341096% (2) (0.013411 +/− 0.001020) 13.150338!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uuD* 0.618043% (2) (0.006180 +/− 0.001760) 3.511587!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DD*uuDUvDv −3.393624% (2) (−0.033936 +/− 0.009517) −3.565672!
*UvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v*Dv{circumflex over ( )} 3.448178% (3) (0.034482 +/− 0.005390) 6.396908!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v −6.183409% (3) (−0.061834 +/− 0.009074) −6.814361!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu −1.129125% (3) (−0.011291 +/− 0.004333) −2.605653!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDddu* −0.944703% (2) (−0.009447 +/− 0.003599) −2.625015!
*vuv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UU −4.331033% (2) (−0.043310 +/− 0.008492) −5.100202!
*vUuD{circumflex over ( )}DduD −0.608417% (2) (−0.006084 +/− 0.000520) −11.709373!
*dddUD*uDv{circumflex over ( )} −0.225628% (2) (−0.002256 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}UdUuU{circumflex over ( )} −1.104799% (2) (−0.011048 +/− 0.003176) −3.478443!
*UuUUvdvD −0.558249% (2) (−0.005582 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvDDuDv 1.144276% (2) (0.011443 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*vUD{circumflex over ( )}DUvd 0.908339% (3) (0.009083 +/− 0.003923) 2.315378!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}v*{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )} −3.154475% (4) (−0.031545 +/− 0.009100) −3.466480!
*vuuUD{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D −6.823681% (2) (−0.068237 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vuUUv* −3.362107% (2) (−0.033621 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}vDU 2.514099% (2) (0.025141 +/− 0.003676) 6.838888!
*vud{circumflex over ( )}dUuuDD −1.620187% (2) (−0.016202 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DuuvDd 4.348351% (3) (0.043484 +/− 0.010264) 4.236369!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUvUdd 0.623623% (2) (0.006236 +/− 0.002522) 2.472378!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}UDd −2.822433% (2) (−0.028224 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UdvuDU 2.732296% (3) (0.027323 +/− 0.004001) 6.829882!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vUvv*D{circumflex over ( )} −3.187663% (3) (−0.031877 +/− 0.003113) −10.240593!
*uUUdUUdDvduud 1.347901% (2) (0.013479 +/− 0.001955) 6.895635!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}UUddvu −1.681740% (2) (−0.016817 +/− 0.002562) −6.563993!
*DDUvvUUv*v −0.881302% (2) (−0.008813 +/− 0.000416) −21.167683!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDDvuuv 3.942714% (2) (0.039427 +/− 0.010343) 3.811828!
*v{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vvuv −4.273958% (2) (−0.042740 +/− 0.003159) −13.528050!
*vUDdu*vvd −2.931409% (2) (−0.029314 +/− 0.006266) −4.678253!
*udv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.569904% (2) (0.025699 +/− 0.002940) 8.741909!
**U{circumflex over ( )}**uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDDU −2.442530% (2) (−0.024425 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDuvd*ddD{circumflex over ( )}U −0.349515% (2) (−0.003495 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Udv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −0.589654% (2) (−0.005897 +/− 0.000160) −36.799640!
*du{circumflex over ( )}uvDDdd 1.445671% (2) (0.014457 +/− 0.002468) 5.858347!
*v*DDU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −18.315475% (2) (−0.183155 +/− 0.036354) −5.038119!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −4.116544% (3) (−0.041165 +/− 0.014573) −2.824766!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDDd 4.386907% (3) (0.043869 +/− 0.013677) 3.207457!
*DvDDuu{circumflex over ( )}D*U 0.099554% (2) (0.000996 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u*Dd −3.712281% (2) (−0.037123 +/− 0.015896) −2.335374!
*duv{circumflex over ( )}dv 0.208957% (2) (0.002090 +/− 0.000370) 5.642134!
*{circumflex over ( )}Udv{circumflex over ( )}vvUDv 8.728192% (2) (0.087282 +/− 0.010298) 8.475473!
*vvUuUU*v*D −2.737641% (2) (−0.027376 +/− 0.009580) −2.857602!
*DUv{circumflex over ( )}vd*u{circumflex over ( )}D 7.418706% (2) (0.074187 +/− 0.028841) 2.572238!
*vvUdU{circumflex over ( )}dD*U 3.455261% (2) (0.034553 +/− 0.007473) 4.623538!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −1.761896% (2) (−0.017619 +/− 0.005239) −3.363211!
*U*u{circumflex over ( )}*d{circumflex over ( )}uvvd −0.436995% (2) (−0.004370 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uuvdvUuv 1.638037% (2) (0.016380 +/− 0.003212) 5.100169!
*UUUvvd{circumflex over ( )}d* 3.965766% (4) (0.039658 +/− 0.010388) 3.817734!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DUdU*UD{circumflex over ( )}U −1.588462% (2) (−0.015885 +/− 0.005571) −2.851371!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}*DDdDudUDv 0.745941% (2) (0.007459 +/− 0.000381) 19.568607!
*uu*Uuvuvu 1.401944% (2) (0.014019 +/− 0.004967) 2.822440!
*uUUDvD{circumflex over ( )}uu −2.078804% (2) (−0.020788 +/− 0.005228) −3.976557!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}uudDUd −1.117417% (2) (−0.011174 +/− 0.004309) −2.593376!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvDU 2.398567% (2) (0.023986 +/− 0.008208) 2.922249!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}UDUUvUUD 2.053097% (2) (0.020531 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUvUd*{circumflex over ( )}DudU −2.568659% (3) (−0.025687 +/− 0.007385) −3.478299!
*Du*du{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} −0.733753% (2) (−0.007338 +/− 0.000286) −25.648322!
*DUvUDDvddu −2.477874% (2) (−0.024779 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duvUuDv{circumflex over ( )}d −1.492537% (2) (−0.014925 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**DUDDdDuvDd 1.811064% (3) (0.018111 +/− 0.003682) 4.918699!
*udvdUuDDdDu{circumflex over ( )} 1.585284% (2) (0.015853 +/− 0.005575) 2.843761!
*uU*DDv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −1.366754% (2) (−0.013668 +/− 0.001957) −6.984831!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}vd*{circumflex over ( )}*U*u* −3.805229% (3) (−0.038052 +/− 0.015037) −2.530565!
*v{circumflex over ( )}uUvUdv −0.847217% (2) (−0.008472 +/− 0.001624) −5.215859!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUuuv{circumflex over ( )}D 3.505594% (2) (0.035056 +/− 0.008274) 4.237075!
*UuDduuDuvUv 1.317650% (2) (0.013177 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}dUDuuvDD 2.088355% (2) (0.020884 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DDdUDUDvuUvU 3.754979% (2) (0.037550 +/− 0.002406) 15.605803!
*uDDduD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}d −2.214513% (3) (−0.022145 +/− 0.005222) −4.240559!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.140292% (4) (−0.021403 +/− 0.008003) −2.674307!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuv{circumflex over ( )}udud 4.723311% (2) (0.047233 +/− 0.004996) 9.454325!
*UDUdd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −3.825076% (2) (−0.038251 +/− 0.007672) −4.985444!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}UvuU* 2.116677% (2) (0.021167 +/− 0.003472) 6.095802!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DuD{circumflex over ( )}Dd −0.803388% (2) (−0.008034 +/− 0.002583) −3.109921!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdvvdUUU −1.658291% (2) (−0.016583 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvDU{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 1.815882% (2) (0.018159 +/− 0.001095) 16.588363!
*UuUUdUD{circumflex over ( )}v* 0.473984% (2) (0.004740 +/− 0.001765) 2.685116!
*dvDv{circumflex over ( )}UUd 2.155907% (2) (0.021559 +/− 0.000770) 27.993078!
*DvUU{circumflex over ( )}uDDuUuD 1.028952% (2) (0.010290 +/− 0.000607) 16.940623!
*uvdvuU{circumflex over ( )}*uU 7.677166% (2) (0.076772 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdDUuUDdUD{circumflex over ( )}U −1.088339% (2) (−0.010883 +/− 0.004140) −2.628796!
*uduvvuDD 1.690985% (3) (0.016910 +/− 0.007116) 2.376260!
*UDvUD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DD −0.089790% (2) (−0.000898 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uud{circumflex over ( )}vUDv 0.710710% (2) (0.007107 +/− 0.001407) 5.052150!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uUDuUDUv* −0.787949% (2) (−0.007879 +/− 0.002940) −2.679956!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvud*{circumflex over ( )}D −2.353989% (3) (−0.023540 +/− 0.000895) −26.292279!
**D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}*vuv*{circumflex over ( )} 2.649931% (2) (0.026499 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUDvdddvu −3.383608% (2) (−0.033836 +/− 0.006906) −4.899868!
*UDvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDd −3.453215% (2) (−0.034532 +/− 0.008026) −4.302489!
*DuvvUD*u{circumflex over ( )} 1.416942% (3) (0.014169 +/− 0.000887) 15.973735!
*dduvvUdu{circumflex over ( )}u 3.562657% (2) (0.035627 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDduu*v −1.265445% (2) (−0.012654 +/− 0.000246) −51.437954!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvU*udd −1.686535% (3) (−0.016865 +/− 0.003556) −4.743286!
*vv*Uvvdv −6.541270% (3) (−0.065413 +/− 0.010025) −6.524781!
*UDDvvD*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUD 5.856781% (3) (0.058568 +/− 0.003709) 15.790058!
*d{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}ud −4.055277% (5) (−0.040553 +/− 0.011894) −3.409390!
**vuU{circumflex over ( )}dudv 1.713493% (2) (0.017135 +/− 0.004747) 3.609396!
*UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUUDu −2.345992% (3) (−0.023460 +/− 0.008252) −2.842865!
*vud{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}du −0.190209% (2) (−0.001902 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DuvUUDv{circumflex over ( )}UD −2.397238% (2) (−0.023972 +/− 0.002491) −9.622411!
*vDdUv{circumflex over ( )}vu 2.167563% (2) (0.021676 +/− 0.007065) 3.068215!
*ddD*dDuDdvuD 2.329327% (2) (0.023293 +/− 0.005246) 4.440239!
*uvDuvvvD −2.937741% (3) (−0.029377 +/− 0.006231) −4.714774!
*vvUUDuUd*u −2.729288% (3) (−0.027293 +/− 0.011084) −2.462401!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −4.681828% (3) (−0.046818 +/− 0.015647) −2.992215!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UvuUDUd 2.059086% (3) (0.020591 +/− 0.004677) 4.402628!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdvvDDvU −6.726384% (2) (−0.067264 +/− 0.010657) −6.311626!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuuDDvDv −1.028031% (2) (−0.010280 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDuvuvuud 3.440158% (2) (0.034402 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vuUddD{circumflex over ( )}DdvUu −2.240436% (2) (−0.022404 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d*D{circumflex over ( )}DdU{circumflex over ( )}duUD −1.001751% (2) (−0.010018 +/− 0.003110) −3.220990!
*uUU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uD 1.392603% (2) (0.013926 +/− 0.002740) 5.082915!
*UUD{circumflex over ( )}DUuUuDUU 1.484940% (2) (0.014849 +/− 0.003609) 4.115056!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DduU 3.212955% (3) (0.032130 +/− 0.011431) 2.810852!
*duU{circumflex over ( )}UDUD{circumflex over ( )} −0.293398% (2) (−0.002934 +/− 0.001193) −2.460016!
*{circumflex over ( )}v*vvvd{circumflex over ( )} −3.367379% (2) (−0.033674 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v*ddD{circumflex over ( )}Dvu −7.283425% (3) (−0.072834 +/− 0.009049) −8.049188!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UUDvud*u −1.132849% (2) (−0.011328 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdDvUU 1.233547% (3) (0.012335 +/− 0.003601) 3.425592!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vdv 4.886654% (2) (0.048867 +/− 0.007403) 6.601344!
*uDUdU*vD{circumflex over ( )}du −1.656785% (2) (−0.016568 +/− 0.004272) −3.878420!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Uuu*dvu 0.267662% (2) (0.002677 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvUvu{circumflex over ( )}UDdU −0.427359% (2) (−0.004274 +/− 0.001648) −2.592587!
*Dv*dDdUDuuUvu 0.751274% (2) (0.007513 +/− 0.001316) 5.706817!
*UDuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} 1.597198% (2) (0.015972 +/− 0.002312) 6.907244!
*UUDvUDDdU{circumflex over ( )} 2.447121% (3) (0.024471 +/− 0.010584) 2.312120!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.307757% (2) (−0.033078 +/− 0.010692) −3.093695!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dv 3.473249% (4) (0.034732 +/− 0.012497) 2.779294!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}dv* 2.922374% (2) (0.029224 +/− 0.011605) 2.518109!
*vUdv{circumflex over ( )}Du*DD 0.831404% (3) (0.008314 +/− 0.001890) 4.399849!
*ddDduUUvUuv 0.099753% (2) (0.000998 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdvU{circumflex over ( )}vu −4.532510% (2) (−0.045325 +/− 0.002702) −16.772799!
*UvuUdUU*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −0.166602% (2) (−0.001666 +/− 0.000711) −2.343196!
***{circumflex over ( )}uUdUddudUD −0.422809% (2) (−0.004228 +/− 0.000305) −13.873885!
*Uvvu{circumflex over ( )}UDU{circumflex over ( )}* 3.417259% (2) (0.034173 +/− 0.002679) 12.754051!
*{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}DvDUd* −2.918721% (2) (−0.029187 +/− 0.010687) −2.730979!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUvDvDUDD −5.363417% (2) (−0.053634 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud*d −1.027371% (2) (−0.010274 +/− 0.001926) −5.333138!
*vvdu{circumflex over ( )}Ud* 1.599233% (2) (0.015992 +/− 0.001408) 11.358963!
*UDv*DUvDdv*D 0.582148% (2) (0.005821 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vuuvuDdd 0.577351% (2) (0.005774 +/− 0.001937) 2.981410!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdDu*Ud{circumflex over ( )}uD 1.013946% (2) (0.010139 +/− 0.004223) 2.400848!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}DvddU 0.347779% (2) (0.003478 +/− 0.000236) 14.766530!
*udvdvv 4.780590% (4) (0.047806 +/− 0.014368) 3.327176!
*vdDUudd*{circumflex over ( )}* −1.928011% (2) (−0.019280 +/− 0.001626) −11.854280!
**dvvDUDu{circumflex over ( )}D 2.448774% (3) (0.024488 +/− 0.009799) 2.499005!
*duuvUUUuDUD 0.621345% (2) (0.006213 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Dv*dDvUvdd −8.471663% (2) (−0.084717 +/− 0.019812) −4.275921!
*dud{circumflex over ( )}uDvd 0.755072% (2) (0.007551 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdudvuUu 0.470275% (3) (0.004703 +/− 0.001597) 2.944992!
*vv*DDuUDUDD 3.213227% (2) (0.032132 +/− 0.000262) 122.608680!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}udDvD{circumflex over ( )} −2.964046% (2) (−0.029640 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UUU{circumflex over ( )}DUuDv 1.769003% (2) (0.017690 +/− 0.000171) 103.365877!
*DUvUvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dD 4.392340% (2) (0.043923 +/− 0.000579) 75.887691!
*DduDdDu*Dvd 3.891614% (3) (0.038916 +/− 0.015911) 2.445921!
*dDUDudDvud −0.673006% (2) (−0.006730 +/− 0.002501) −2.690913!
*{circumflex over ( )}UvuDD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −2.524697% (2) (−0.025247 +/− 0.010909) −2.314257!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dU 2.180905% (2) (0.021809 +/− 0.003826) 5.699483!
*UDDvduvd 1.804957% (2) (0.018050 +/− 0.006778) 2.662774!
*dUd{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}Duv 2.804016% (2) (0.028040 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvUUvUuvdvvuU 4.459862% (2) (0.044599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvvdduUDv 0.659919% (2) (0.006599 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dd*dudDuv 2.933718% (2) (0.029337 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.140292% (4) (−0.021403 +/− 0.008003) −2.674307!
*UDuDduD{circumflex over ( )}Dvd 1.349789% (2) (0.013498 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvduUd*udU −2.324218% (2) (−0.023242 +/− 0.007489) −3.103426!
*ddUU*UuvdDu −1.902501% (2) (−0.019025 +/− 0.006837) −2.782744!
*vvUu{circumflex over ( )}Ud*v −5.393808% (4) (−0.053938 +/− 0.007957) −6.778832!
*U*{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}*vv 2.246296% (2) (0.022463 +/− 0.009592) 2.341944!
**D{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}du −5.588826% (2) (−0.055888 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}udU −1.505360% (2) (−0.015054 +/− 0.001928) −7.808007!
*UdvUuU{circumflex over ( )}Ddv 4.351662% (3) (0.043517 +/− 0.010102) 4.307560!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}dUuD{circumflex over ( )}* 0.534510% (2) (0.005345 +/− 0.001615) 3.310423!
*UDDUDu{circumflex over ( )}vDuUD −0.252267% (2) (−0.002523 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vdDu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}v 2.218925% (2) (0.022189 +/− 0.001963) 11.304306!
*dvUd{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )} 1.195213% (2) (0.011952 +/− 0.002955) 4.044035!
*vDU*{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}u −1.718645% (3) (−0.017186 +/− 0.005799) −2.963945!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUDv{circumflex over ( )}D −2.508835% (2) (−0.025088 +/− 0.008134) −3.084520!
*UDuv{circumflex over ( )}uuUd 2.267396% (3) (0.022674 +/− 0.003278) 6.917102!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}Udvudu 2.732296% (3) (0.027323 +/− 0.004001) 6.829882!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}uvdDDU 3.129978% (2) (0.031300 +/− 0.010554) 2.965667!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}DddddvU −1.491608% (2) (−0.014916 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvvuu 3.858323% (2) (0.038583 +/− 0.005052) 7.637178!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDud{circumflex over ( )}ud 2.888088% (3) (0.028881 +/− 0.005011) 5.763485!
*DuDd{circumflex over ( )}dvdUDu −1.326131% (2) (−0.013261 +/− 0.004344) −3.052927!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dUu{circumflex over ( )}duuu −0.412466% (2) (−0.004125 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUvudv*vu 1.013704% (2) (0.010137 +/− 0.003192) 3.175487!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ddUvU 3.465980% (2) (0.034660 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*udUvudD{circumflex over ( )}D −0.361533% (2) (−0.003615 +/− 0.000021) −170.747616!
*duvUuudDuv** −0.161808% (2) (−0.001618 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UUv*vv{circumflex over ( )} −0.632455% (2) (−0.006325 +/− 0.000770) −8.218680!
*vdDUdvd{circumflex over ( )} −2.027935% (2) (−0.020279 +/− 0.008761) −2.314787!
*uddd{circumflex over ( )}UudDU −2.940941% (3) (−0.029409 +/− 0.010595) −2.775752!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}Duv{circumflex over ( )}dDU −5.075641% (2) (−0.050756 +/− 0.017357) −2.924300!
*dDdD{circumflex over ( )}Du*udu 0.483115% (2) (0.004831 +/− 0.001073) 4.502352!
*{circumflex over ( )}DuD{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )} −1.710737% (3) (−0.017107 +/− 0.002308) −7.413347!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}dUvuUd −0.762633% (2) (−0.007626 +/− 0.000154) −49.603269!
*uU*UDUDu{circumflex over ( )}v −2.488667% (2) (−0.024887 +/− 0.009872) −2.521021!
**u{circumflex over ( )}DUv{circumflex over ( )}uDDd 3.700656% (2) (0.037007 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**DudvvUUd{circumflex over ( )}v −0.309733% (2) (−0.003097 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDuUvuUd 2.053097% (2) (0.020531 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*uDvuvDDv −3.065793% (2) (−0.030658 +/− 0.008979) −3.414433!
*UUDD{circumflex over ( )}duuv −3.554811% (2) (−0.035548 +/− 0.003358) −10.586386!
*uDdvU{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}D −0.989315% (2) (−0.009893 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}vDvdD{circumflex over ( )} 5.757339% (3) (0.057573 +/− 0.007481) 7.696194!
*u*vDvuuv 2.551450% (3) (0.025514 +/− 0.007229) 3.529339!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dDU{circumflex over ( )}DUDv* −0.426990% (2) (−0.004270 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddudddv 0.904771% (2) (0.009048 +/− 0.002364) 3.827873!
*uvDvUduuU{circumflex over ( )} 2.956049% (2) (0.029560 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dvU 2.757479% (2) (0.027575 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}v*UvD*d 2.985524% (4) (0.029855 +/− 0.012854) 2.322713!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}Uudvvd{circumflex over ( )}U 1.472076% (2) (0.014721 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}*d*D{circumflex over ( )}vD**v −3.412116% (2) (−0.034121 +/− 0.009005) −3.788991!
*vUdUduUd**v −1.714072% (2) (−0.017141 +/− 0.004502) −3.807401!
*Du*dUD{circumflex over ( )}*Uu{circumflex over ( )}D −0.929814% (2) (−0.009298 +/− 0.002828) −3.288228!
*Ud*u{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uDu −1.612262% (2) (−0.016123 +/− 0.000722) −22.319800!
*U*vv{circumflex over ( )}vUUv −9.471420% (3) (−0.094714 +/− 0.017991) −5.264591!
*dvDuu{circumflex over ( )}dUd*D 0.716094% (3) (0.007161 +/− 0.000367) 19.514418!
*DUDd{circumflex over ( )}uD*vdU −2.038222% (2) (−0.020382 +/− 0.001685) −12.093585!
*dduvUd{circumflex over ( )}dU 0.814663% (2) (0.008147 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUd{circumflex over ( )}dDduu −2.135911% (2) (−0.021359 +/− 0.001211) −17.633682!
*vvD{circumflex over ( )}DDUuU −3.348939% (3) (−0.033489 +/− 0.011591) −2.889241!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdDDvDdu −1.609383% (2) (−0.016094 +/− 0.002363) −6.811270!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}DUU*dDUUvD −3.634321% (2) (−0.036343 +/− 0.011591) −3.135401!
**UvUDv{circumflex over ( )}vdv 6.884506% (3) (0.068845 +/− 0.004474) 15.389230!
*dUU{circumflex over ( )}ddudUDdU −0.672188% (2) (−0.006722 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Duv{circumflex over ( )}UdDu 2.573704% (2) (0.025737 +/− 0.007890) 3.261838!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UuvdUD −1.130019% (2) (−0.011300 +/− 0.003609) −3.130988!
*uuUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UdU −0.476497% (2) (−0.004765 +/− 0.000012) −404.958955!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uv*u{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )} −2.848425% (3) (−0.028484 +/− 0.007821) −3.642161!
*vvud{circumflex over ( )}Udd 0.624998% (2) (0.006250 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*duvDUdd{circumflex over ( )} 2.325388% (2) (0.023254 +/− 0.001650) 14.094090!
*UUDDDuuU{circumflex over ( )}Uuv 3.074386% (2) (0.030744 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}*vd 4.229278% (2) (0.042293 +/− 0.002870) 14.736769!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuD{circumflex over ( )}vdUD 0.753901% (2) (0.007539 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DduU{circumflex over ( )}vvUDu 3.147953% (2) (0.031480 +/− 0.011890) 2.647516!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvUdU{circumflex over ( )}D −2.302298% (2) (−0.023023 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vU*Uuv*{circumflex over ( )}UU 2.363864% (3) (0.023639 +/− 0.002708) 8.728406!
*UUDdUd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −2.484635% (3) (−0.024846 +/− 0.003102) −8.008871!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uvuDuu 0.374362% (2) (0.003744 +/− 0.000664) 5.640904!
*{circumflex over ( )}vuvd*DUUUU* 1.365918% (2) (0.013659 +/− 0.001225) 11.153297!
*vUU{circumflex over ( )}dUdUv 1.271146% (2) (0.012711 +/− 0.002319) 5.481649!
*udDv{circumflex over ( )}vUd 1.723156% (3) (0.017232 +/− 0.007300) 2.360453!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}uvd −4.007093% (2) (−0.040071 +/− 0.016492) −2.429673!
*vDdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −2.736323% (2) (−0.027363 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdU{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Dd −0.056582% (2) (−0.000566 +/− 0.000106) −5.318782!
*DUdUD*u*{circumflex over ( )}vDd 1.238950% (3) (0.012389 +/− 0.001920) 6.453543!
*vuuDDd{circumflex over ( )}U −2.040819% (4) (−0.020408 +/− 0.008113) −2.515621!
*DUU*DduUvDDuu 2.144812% (2) (0.021448 +/− 0.003200) 6.701903!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUvU* −2.956688% (2) (−0.029567 +/− 0.007922) −3.732264!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}dvD −1.718524% (2) (−0.017185 +/− 0.002570) −6.687422!
*{circumflex over ( )}ddduDUduU −0.476646% (2) (−0.004766 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dvvud{circumflex over ( )} −2.319020% (2) (−0.023190 +/− 0.005010) −4.628905!
*UDdD*vDu{circumflex over ( )}U 0.142107% (2) (0.001421 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DdU{circumflex over ( )}DUvUudd −0.549940% (3) (−0.005499 +/− 0.001795) −3.063150!
*{circumflex over ( )}duv*Uu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} 1.786550% (2) (0.017865 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UUd 1.316447% (2) (0.013164 +/− 0.001672) 7.874474!
*Uvvud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −0.621116% (2) (−0.006211 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Ddd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −0.311269% (3) (−0.003113 +/− 0.001075) −2.895266!
*Dduvu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −11.724143% (2) (−0.117241 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDdd{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}uuU 2.742524% (2) (0.027425 +/− 0.005987) 4.580844!
*DuddD*du*dd{circumflex over ( )} −1.657279% (2) (−0.016573 +/− 0.000016) −1005.666004!
*DDDuDuDvU{circumflex over ( )} 3.588773% (2) (0.035888 +/− 0.011974) 2.997094!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DUUudv −2.518905% (2) (−0.025189 +/− 0.009620) −2.618273!
*Dvu*uuDUd{circumflex over ( )} 1.335841% (2) (0.013358 +/− 0.005782) 2.310276!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*Du{circumflex over ( )}DdUv{circumflex over ( )} −1.399912% (2) (−0.013999 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**Uduu{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}d −4.099260% (2) (−0.040993 +/− 0.014574) −2.812694!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}UuvvU −0.256538% (2) (−0.002565 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UvvDd{circumflex over ( )} −0.532291% (2) (−0.005323 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vduDUv{circumflex over ( )}D −2.269943% (2) (−0.022699 +/− 0.009137) −2.484374!
*vUuuvDdU{circumflex over ( )} −5.489529% (3) (−0.054895 +/− 0.005226) −10.505262!
*dUvudv*dU 1.284306% (2) (0.012843 +/− 0.002414) 5.319393!
*uu*D{circumflex over ( )}UDD*uv −2.945431% (2) (−0.029454 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.997092% (2) (0.019971 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUUudU{circumflex over ( )}vD −2.140962% (2) (−0.021410 +/− 0.007756) −2.760469!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}dUU{circumflex over ( )}u 3.065510% (2) (0.030655 +/− 0.005459) 5.615924!
*UDuvUUU{circumflex over ( )}d 2.376516% (4) (0.023765 +/− 0.003453) 6.881597!
*v*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}duD{circumflex over ( )}U −0.756546% (2) (−0.007565 +/− 0.000510) −14.826093!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddu*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −3.478162% (2) (−0.034782 +/− 0.002741) −12.687455!
*DUDu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 4.656551% (2) (0.046566 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDuDUvUDUD{circumflex over ( )} −2.040814% (2) (−0.020408 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v*duvvUUu 0.142107% (2) (0.001421 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}uDDuUUd 1.484570% (2) (0.014846 +/− 0.003427) 4.331737!
*uUvddDv{circumflex over ( )} 2.762071% (2) (0.027621 +/− 0.009951) 2.775795!
*u{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}dudD* 1.345334% (2) (0.013453 +/− 0.005717) 2.353055!
*DuD{circumflex over ( )}Dd{circumflex over ( )}v 2.695167% (2) (0.026952 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uduvdd{circumflex over ( )} −2.249482% (2) (−0.022495 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}uDdvu 1.381358% (2) (0.013814 +/− 0.004390) 3.146427!
*Duv{circumflex over ( )}UDu{circumflex over ( )}U 0.891526% (2) (0.008915 +/− 0.001737) 5.132113!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uu −1.268514% (3) (−0.012685 +/− 0.002954) −4.294342!
*DuduvdDvDd 0.582148% (2) (0.005821 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}dvU −0.365783% (3) (−0.003658 +/− 0.000652) −5.613058!
*uvdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.456276% (2) (−0.014563 +/− 0.000432) −33.727230!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDUv*U{circumflex over ( )}Ud −1.756201% (2) (−0.017562 +/− 0.000581) −30.239100!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDvvd 3.856906% (2) (0.038569 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UduuU{circumflex over ( )}DddUd 1.898191% (2) (0.018982 +/− 0.005659) 3.354266!
*Uvudd{circumflex over ( )}UD −0.729023% (3) (−0.007290 +/− 0.002234) −3.263950!
*du{circumflex over ( )}vdvdu 2.346141% (2) (0.023461 +/− 0.005655) 4.148896!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}UuD{circumflex over ( )}DDuD 0.753901% (2) (0.007539 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*vvUuUv 3.491389% (3) (0.034914 +/− 0.007795) 4.479187!
*u{circumflex over ( )}duUduD*du 0.743740% (3) (0.007437 +/− 0.002060) 3.610955!
*uvD*dvvd 1.874034% (2) (0.018740 +/− 0.000941) 19.909364!
**dUUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UD 0.603241% (2) (0.006032 +/− 0.002167) 2.783579!
*{circumflex over ( )}vv*Ud{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}**D* −2.231374% (2) (−0.022314 +/− 0.000427) −52.254074!
*uUvdvu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −4.713424% (2) (−0.047134 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*du{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}udv 2.241943% (3) (0.022419 +/− 0.001178) 19.025451!
*UUuDdduu{circumflex over ( )}d −1.474415% (2) (−0.014744 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uUvUvdUv 0.650844% (3) (0.006508 +/− 0.001785) 3.646199!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDU*DuD 0.283398% (3) (0.002834 +/− 0.001104) 2.566442!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dvvd −1.136790% (2) (−0.011368 +/− 0.002921) −3.891638!
*ddUuuvUUv −4.185959% (2) (−0.041860 +/− 0.015092) −2.773578!
*uDDvDDdUUdu* 0.922242% (2) (0.009222 +/− 0.002946) 3.130336!
*U*d{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}*U{circumflex over ( )} −1.202591% (2) (−0.012026 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vdu{circumflex over ( )}dUu{circumflex over ( )}u 3.065510% (2) (0.030655 +/− 0.005459) 5.615924!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Du*dU{circumflex over ( )}*Dv −1.087273% (2) (−0.010873 +/− 0.002594) −4.191715!
*dvduvU*{circumflex over ( )}uU −3.226372% (2) (−0.032264 +/− 0.004299) −7.505336!
*vDUdUdUvdd 2.703679% (2) (0.027037 +/− 0.004462) 6.059514!
*Dvd*vDDdv 2.354896% (2) (0.023549 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vUd{circumflex over ( )}Dud −1.437213% (2) (−0.014372 +/− 0.001209) −11.888581!
*vUU{circumflex over ( )}*vdu{circumflex over ( )} 2.003499% (2) (0.020035 +/− 0.007226) 2.772600!
*d*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DvU 2.064013% (2) (0.020640 +/− 0.000682) 30.253982!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDdDuuvUu 1.533304% (2) (0.015333 +/− 0.003394) 4.517253!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vUdduD 2.086415% (2) (0.020864 +/− 0.007692) 2.712470!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}UddvDu −1.332367% (3) (−0.013324 +/− 0.004632) −2.876521!
*dDdduUvdUU 1.357493% (3) (0.013575 +/− 0.005179) 2.620971!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}UdDdv{circumflex over ( )} 1.617786% (2) (0.016178 +/− 0.006742) 2.399667!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}v −1.875629% (2) (−0.018756 +/− 0.004468) −4.198341!
*Udv*{circumflex over ( )}UuDvd 2.280526% (2) (0.022805 +/− 0.007454) 3.059494!
*vUv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DD 1.903462% (2) (0.019035 +/− 0.007786) 2.444856!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )} 0.646013% (2) (0.006460 +/− 0.000171) 37.737941!
*DuU*uvvUdDu −0.917341% (2) (−0.009173 +/− 0.001879) −4.881857!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uud{circumflex over ( )}D −5.399870% (2) (−0.053999 +/− 0.008318) −6.492019!
*vuUuuDU*vu −3.105341% (4) (−0.031053 +/− 0.011564) −2.685287!
*uudv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDDD{circumflex over ( )}D −2.424406% (2) (−0.024244 +/− 0.006329) −3.830558!
*vdUu{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}v −3.667588% (2) (−0.036676 +/− 0.001986) −18.466242!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −4.854371% (2) (−0.048544 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −4.820695% (2) (−0.048207 +/− 0.001978) −24.375695!
*UDDDDdvvv 2.459390% (3) (0.024594 +/− 0.003817) 6.442668!
*UDD{circumflex over ( )}DuUDvd 2.884945% (3) (0.028849 +/− 0.005341) 5.401612!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}vUddddd 1.681610% (2) (0.016816 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}uvDduvv* 3.344812% (2) (0.033448 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −2.052066% (3) (−0.020521 +/− 0.005732) −3.580215!
*uudDd{circumflex over ( )}Dvu −2.385911% (3) (−0.023859 +/− 0.009513) −2.508055!
*{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDd −4.598678% (2) (−0.045987 +/− 0.011867) −3.875321!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vDUd −3.536068% (2) (−0.035361 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**Dv{circumflex over ( )}Dvvv{circumflex over ( )}U 4.712254% (2) (0.047123 +/− 0.005393) 8.737620!
*ddUUUUDUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.756677% (2) (−0.017567 +/− 0.006263) −2.804725!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}uuUvu 1.846373% (3) (0.018464 +/− 0.006755) 2.733307!
*DUdDU{circumflex over ( )}UdDdUD 0.247843% (3) (0.002478 +/− 0.000147) 16.857777!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dUUD 3.590742% (2) (0.035907 +/− 0.013015) 2.758925!
*d{circumflex over ( )}Dv*U*DUUDUU 0.899486% (2) (0.008995 +/− 0.003693) 2.435545!
*Duudd{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.256378% (2) (−0.002564 +/− 0.001084) −2.364996!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDdudUvU 1.715555% (4) (0.017156 +/− 0.004173) 4.110870!
*DvUU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DU −5.179404% (2) (−0.051794 +/− 0.013492) −3.838742!
*Uu*vdvdU −1.396603% (4) (−0.013966 +/− 0.004153) −3.362594!
*d{circumflex over ( )}vDDUvD{circumflex over ( )} −0.996100% (2) (−0.009961 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v*UduvuUdv 0.080445% (2) (0.000804 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dDd*vdvdDud 0.445430% (2) (0.004454 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*uuUDvUDuD{circumflex over ( )} −0.804743% (2) (−0.008047 +/− 0.002832) −2.841136!
*duUU{circumflex over ( )}U*uU{circumflex over ( )}D −3.124539% (2) (−0.031245 +/− 0.009795) −3.189999!
*uv*U{circumflex over ( )}uuuDvdD 6.384779% (2) (0.063848 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vvUdU{circumflex over ( )}du 6.617134% (2) (0.066171 +/− 0.001509) 43.847466!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}DdDuDDu 0.314505% (2) (0.003145 +/− 0.000575) 5.472063!
*ddd*{circumflex over ( )}D*v{circumflex over ( )} −2.349379% (2) (−0.023494 +/− 0.008943) −2.627139!
*uD*DDd*{circumflex over ( )}vu 0.529622% (2) (0.005296 +/− 0.001438) 3.682848!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}UuDu −3.874384% (3) (−0.038744 +/− 0.016741) −2.314262!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}vd −1.600919% (2) (−0.016009 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vDUDv{circumflex over ( )}dDDU 3.277308% (3) (0.032773 +/− 0.012993) 2.522373!
*DvuUuuUdv*d 1.315708% (2) (0.013157 +/− 0.004098) 3.210327!
**UvDDuvU{circumflex over ( )}d 1.221037% (3) (0.012210 +/− 0.000636) 19.201455!
*udv{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.569904% (2) (0.025699 +/− 0.002940) 8.741909!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}*Uuv{circumflex over ( )}d 0.965183% (2) (0.009652 +/− 0.001377) 7.007579!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}UdUDUU{circumflex over ( )}U −5.250349% (2) (−0.052503 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DvuD{circumflex over ( )}uddU 1.863461% (2) (0.018635 +/− 0.007135) 2.611703!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DDvUDUd{circumflex over ( )} 1.798522% (3) (0.017985 +/− 0.005920) 3.038222!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvU{circumflex over ( )}d*uU 0.793413% (2) (0.007934 +/− 0.001030) 7.706760!
*Dud*d{circumflex over ( )}UUUuv 1.337320% (2) (0.013373 +/− 0.003076) 4.347610!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*vdud −1.671709% (2) (−0.016717 +/− 0.004052) −4.126141!
*dvd{circumflex over ( )}DUvdu −0.877955% (2) (−0.008780 +/− 0.002371) −3.702505!
*vvD{circumflex over ( )}DuuU 3.460759% (2) (0.034608 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**vdduvvDv 2.213629% (2) (0.022136 +/− 0.009137) 2.422810!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}UvdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ud 1.070661% (2) (0.010707 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uuvvv{circumflex over ( )}du 0.122244% (2) (0.001222 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d*DUvdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −2.037420% (2) (−0.020374 +/− 0.000596) −34.179470!
*D{circumflex over ( )}d*d{circumflex over ( )}dD*{circumflex over ( )}u 2.226629% (3) (0.022266 +/− 0.003358) 6.630796!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dDvv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}* 3.022564% (2) (0.030226 +/− 0.010235) 2.953198!
*uu*vvDUuUuD −1.481692% (2) (−0.014817 +/− 0.003398) −4.360516!
*uudUuduDuv −1.916769% (2) (−0.019168 +/− 0.001818) −10.543482!
*Dvu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.539771% (2) (−0.005398 +/− 0.001911) −2.824115!
*D*dvu*ddD{circumflex over ( )}D 2.779818% (2) (0.027798 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}DUU{circumflex over ( )}*dD*d −2.277629% (2) (−0.022776 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}Dddvv 4.375466% (2) (0.043755 +/− 0.007866) 5.562849!
*Uuvv{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}* 2.457329% (2) (0.024573 +/− 0.004662) 5.270776!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uuuDvUD 1.728790% (2) (0.017288 +/− 0.002403) 7.193039!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}UUUuv 1.757546% (2) (0.017575 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D*{circumflex over ( )}DUUuUd*D{circumflex over ( )} −1.894685% (2) (−0.018947 +/− 0.005475) −3.460539!
*uUUvd{circumflex over ( )}UvD 2.636670% (2) (0.026367 +/− 0.003412) 7.727264!
*uvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud 1.021226% (2) (0.010212 +/− 0.001277) 7.996217!
*DUvuDDUDvU −1.223800% (2) (−0.012238 +/− 0.001850) −6.613790!
*udUU{circumflex over ( )}Duuvv* 4.170131% (2) (0.041701 +/− 0.008259) 5.048899!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
*uUUvUDuU{circumflex over ( )}UU*{circumflex over ( )} −1.005478% (2) (−0.010055 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uvdU{circumflex over ( )}D* −3.209289% (4) (−0.032093 +/− 0.007699) −4.168605!
*u*{circumflex over ( )}dDd{circumflex over ( )}Uu 0.042231% (2) (0.000422 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}duv 2.804016% (2) (0.028040 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUvUDudvv 2.525066% (2) (0.025251 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}du{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}D 2.195246% (2) (0.021952 +/− 0.005409) 4.058472!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}Uuv{circumflex over ( )}D 3.505594% (2) (0.035056 +/− 0.008274) 4.237075!
*DvUvDdDUUv −0.816186% (2) (−0.008162 +/− 0.002770) −2.947003!
*u{circumflex over ( )}vv*UdUUu −4.290015% (2) (−0.042900 +/− 0.005831) −7.357230!
*Uddd{circumflex over ( )}uvUdU −0.921172% (2) (−0.009212 +/− 0.001313) −7.015591!
*v*vvdDUu 0.176364% (2) (0.001764 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}vUvU{circumflex over ( )} −2.395127% (2) (−0.023951 +/− 0.005837) −4.103287!
*dUd{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vu −0.439562% (2) (−0.004396 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uv 2.095552% (3) (0.020956 +/− 0.005008) 4.184814!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vvd{circumflex over ( )} 7.942470% (3) (0.079425 +/− 0.010071) 7.886733!
*uUv{circumflex over ( )}UDdDuvdd 2.248877% (2) (0.022489 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**dvd{circumflex over ( )}vD{circumflex over ( )} −1.844671% (2) (−0.018447 +/− 0.005480) −3.366338!
*{circumflex over ( )}vdDD*dD 2.267511% (4) (0.022675 +/− 0.008551) 2.651847!
*DDDDd{circumflex over ( )}dDUDu −1.133882% (3) (−0.011339 +/− 0.002329) −4.867905!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}*uvDv{circumflex over ( )} 3.233458% (3) (0.032335 +/− 0.010220) 3.163714!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}dvu 2.693467% (3) (0.026935 +/− 0.001109) 24.293625!
*vvduDuU{circumflex over ( )} −0.705389% (2) (−0.007054 +/− 0.000634) −11.133330!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u −2.969095% (2) (−0.029691 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDUvvvUuU 2.998714% (2) (0.029987 +/− 0.009672) 3.100446!
*UvddDd{circumflex over ( )}vd 3.169323% (3) (0.031693 +/− 0.000140) 227.183414!
*Uu*UUDdv{circumflex over ( )}d* −2.076989% (2) (−0.020770 +/− 0.002123) −9.784718!
*uvuUUdv{circumflex over ( )} −0.862625% (3) (−0.008626 +/− 0.001960) −4.401192!
*vvDDDdU*U*UD −0.837708% (2) (−0.008377 +/− 0.000763) −10.973833!
*vuuUU{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.685132% (2) (0.006851 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}uUud*vvU 1.516168% (2) (0.015162 +/− 0.004344) 3.489973!
*u{circumflex over ( )}DuDUvuDU −0.362196% (2) (−0.003622 +/− 0.000535) −6.774384!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}UvUdD 2.872931% (2) (0.028729 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuvDvuuuu −0.719022% (2) (−0.007190 +/− 0.002779) −2.587329!
*uuvuvdD{circumflex over ( )}v 2.214417% (2) (0.022144 +/− 0.004792) 4.620595!
*dUuduUUDvu 1.925532% (2) (0.019255 +/− 0.002062) 9.340381!
*vUuUUvU{circumflex over ( )}D −4.678874% (2) (−0.046789 +/− 0.000087) −534.956979!
*UDuuvDD{circumflex over ( )}du 2.183205% (2) (0.021832 +/− 0.004363) 5.004222!
*udUU*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.375054% (3) (−0.013751 +/− 0.004190) −3.281846!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}uD −2.959620% (2) (−0.029596 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DUuU{circumflex over ( )}DvD{circumflex over ( )} −3.100309% (3) (−0.031003 +/− 0.005064) −6.121920!
*DUvDdUvduD −0.669627% (3) (−0.006696 +/− 0.001898) −3.527724!
*dv{circumflex over ( )}UUuUvv*{circumflex over ( )} −6.637378% (2) (−0.066374 +/− 0.010503) −6.319323!
*v{circumflex over ( )}Dvv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −4.694047% (2) (−0.046940 +/− 0.005759) −8.151320!
*U{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}DDdv −6.588563% (2) (−0.065886 +/− 0.001997) −32.994884!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DuuDddUu 1.533355% (2) (0.015334 +/− 0.004755) 3.224534!
*udDdvdUvU 1.516980% (3) (0.015170 +/− 0.006353) 2.387859!
*Uuv{circumflex over ( )}vUU{circumflex over ( )}D −0.872471% (2) (−0.008725 +/− 0.001438) −6.067513!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDUd{circumflex over ( )}uUu −2.687942% (3) (−0.026879 +/− 0.010142) −2.650266!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}uddduDD −0.133613% (2) (−0.001336 +/− 0.000345) −3.870446!
*DUUv{circumflex over ( )}UvUu −3.896540% (2) (−0.038965 +/− 0.003272) −11.908359!
*dDU*{circumflex over ( )}Uuv{circumflex over ( )}v −0.210743% (2) (−0.002107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvUUUD*Uud −2.086417% (2) (−0.020864 +/− 0.001623) −12.855500!
*u{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vvvD{circumflex over ( )} −3.367379% (2) (−0.033674 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**UD*vUuuv**{circumflex over ( )} −2.224239% (2) (−0.022242 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvdDUUDdDDuud −1.559344% (2) (−0.015593 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uu*UD{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}d −1.343327% (2) (−0.013433 +/− 0.005221) −2.572942!
*vU{circumflex over ( )}dddUvD −0.854699% (2) (−0.008547 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*du{circumflex over ( )}UDdD{circumflex over ( )}dU* 1.944714% (3) (0.019447 +/− 0.005550) 3.504174!
*uUDUv*{circumflex over ( )}uUDD 3.541702% (3) (0.035417 +/− 0.012604) 2.809966!
*UUdudDv{circumflex over ( )}v −1.283290% (2) (−0.012833 +/− 0.003249) −3.949952!
**DdudDu{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )}d −2.404372% (3) (−0.024044 +/− 0.009657) −2.489683!
*dUdddUdud{circumflex over ( )}ud* −0.290502% (2) (−0.002905 +/− 0.000370) −7.853669!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uvUudv −1.255946% (2) (−0.012559 +/− 0.004171) −3.010857!
*vU*{circumflex over ( )}vUudUd 3.324459% (5) (0.033245 +/− 0.012966) 2.563989!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}dvdvd 1.839180% (2) (0.018392 +/− 0.006667) 2.758751!
*DDdD{circumflex over ( )}DdUDUu 2.058928% (2) (0.020589 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDdvv{circumflex over ( )}DD 2.646660% (6) (0.026467 +/− 0.002093) 12.647431!
*u*vU{circumflex over ( )}vuu 1.080671% (2) (0.010807 +/− 0.001405) 7.690896!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}duUDv{circumflex over ( )} 1.707918% (3) (0.017079 +/− 0.006899) 2.475662!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v −6.183409% (3) (−0.061834 +/− 0.009074) −6.814361!
*vDDvUDdDD{circumflex over ( )} −2.053978% (2) (−0.020540 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vDUDd −4.012941% (3) (−0.040129 +/− 0.013173) −3.046426!
*uuduuDUu*DUvD −1.238989% (2) (−0.012390 +/− 0.001756) −7.057726!
*Uvv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dv −1.231160% (2) (−0.012312 +/− 0.004263) −2.888334!
*uUUDuuDdD{circumflex over ( )}U 1.334039% (2) (0.013340 +/− 0.002270) 5.877912!
*vDDd{circumflex over ( )}dUUu 3.112756% (2) (0.031128 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuDu{circumflex over ( )}UUd{circumflex over ( )} −1.198457% (2) (−0.011985 +/− 0.001954) −6.132556!
*ddvUuu{circumflex over ( )}D*v −2.126547% (2) (−0.021265 +/− 0.008340) −2.549788!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDvd*ddd −0.386473% (2) (−0.003865 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uUDUDdud{circumflex over ( )} 1.566558% (2) (0.015666 +/− 0.004326) 3.621122!
*D{circumflex over ( )}dvUDDuU −0.191622% (2) (−0.001916 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*duu{circumflex over ( )}uU*{circumflex over ( )}U −3.425661% (2) (−0.034257 +/− 0.000298) −114.779811!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDdvvvv −3.288957% (2) (−0.032890 +/− 0.012255) −2.683708!
*D{circumflex over ( )}*uDudvv{circumflex over ( )} 1.376310% (2) (0.013763 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}uUuUd{circumflex over ( )} −4.693806% (2) (−0.046938 +/− 0.001720) −27.294425!
*uvdd*d{circumflex over ( )}duu 1.445675% (2) (0.014457 +/− 0.004710) 3.069203!
*d{circumflex over ( )}DDU{circumflex over ( )}dvUdU 2.501327% (2) (0.025013 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uvDU{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )} −1.098332% (2) (−0.010983 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )} −3.366419% (2) (−0.033664 +/− 0.003740) −9.001493!
**{circumflex over ( )}UDvvu{circumflex over ( )}u* −0.400200% (2) (−0.004002 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vv{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}v −2.224168% (2) (−0.022242 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDUDdd**vu*v 1.759042% (2) (0.017590 +/− 0.001681) 10.462001!
*{circumflex over ( )}DUUduuvv 2.028255% (2) (0.020283 +/− 0.001704) 11.901599!
*uUuuDd{circumflex over ( )}uU −2.240764% (5) (−0.022408 +/− 0.005769) −3.884313!
*uvuUd*vuv −2.577129% (2) (−0.025771 +/− 0.000612) −42.128824!
*UDu{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}udv 2.427265% (2) (0.024273 +/− 0.000697) 34.847405!
*vduU{circumflex over ( )}uU{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )} 1.464033% (2) (0.014640 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdDu* 1.445164% (2) (0.014452 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}duduU{circumflex over ( )}U −2.081081% (2) (−0.020811 +/− 0.002529) −8.229586!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuUvdU{circumflex over ( )} 3.224486% (2) (0.032245 +/− 0.002760) 11.682745!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDDUvuuDU −3.704949% (2) (−0.037049 +/− 0.006176) −5.998493!
*UDD{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}dd −1.326628% (2) (−0.013266 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Udv{circumflex over ( )}udD{circumflex over ( )} −4.045575% (2) (−0.040456 +/− 0.008589) −4.710401!
*d{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}udvU −3.120837% (4) (−0.031208 +/− 0.008368) −3.729417!
*{circumflex over ( )}UUvu{circumflex over ( )}UD −2.536905% (3) (−0.025369 +/− 0.008539) −2.971112!
*uddUdUUD{circumflex over ( )}uU −4.740909% (2) (−0.047409 +/− 0.014053) −3.373568!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −2.444474% (3) (−0.024445 +/− 0.005026) −4.863505!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}dvUudDU −1.029493% (3) (−0.010295 +/− 0.001696) −6.071529!
*Dvd{circumflex over ( )}duUU{circumflex over ( )} −1.811572% (2) (−0.018116 +/− 0.001745) −10.383581!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}*Udv −5.952580% (2) (−0.059526 +/− 0.017708) −3.361595!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}udud 0.330933% (3) (0.003309 +/− 0.000790) 4.186599!
**dvdvUDUUudv −4.121816% (2) (−0.041218 +/− 0.009841) −4.188247!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −6.089361% (3) (−0.060894 +/− 0.019940) −3.053819!
*v{circumflex over ( )}ddv{circumflex over ( )}*Du −7.283425% (3) (−0.072834 +/− 0.009049) −8.049188!
*u**UDv{circumflex over ( )}uvD 7.976536% (2) (0.079765 +/− 0.006003) 13.288406!
*vuv*uddDD 1.251895% (2) (0.012519 +/− 0.000311) 40.248786!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vUUdUU{circumflex over ( )}D −5.582251% (2) (−0.055823 +/− 0.013674) −4.082523!
*U{circumflex over ( )}Uuu{circumflex over ( )}dvU −0.865797% (2) (−0.008658 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D**Uuv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.086407% (2) (−0.010864 +/− 0.004169) −2.605794!
*vUUdvDuu 1.862142% (2) (0.018621 +/− 0.000453) 41.136108!
*dDDDuUvuddU 0.592052% (3) (0.005921 +/− 0.001849) 3.201734!
*{circumflex over ( )}du*uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.708075% (2) (0.007081 +/− 0.001756) 4.031541!
*vDu{circumflex over ( )}vDuD 1.832740% (2) (0.018327 +/− 0.002789) 6.570851!
*dUv{circumflex over ( )}uUdU{circumflex over ( )}u −0.377253% (2) (−0.003773 +/− 0.000063) −60.255562!
*UUU*uudUdDuv 0.705359% (3) (0.007054 +/− 0.000611) 11.553510!
*UuUvUduDdduD 0.872354% (2) (0.008724 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uvd{circumflex over ( )}uDuu −0.549025% (2) (−0.005490 +/− 0.000968) −5.669794!
*vdUuv{circumflex over ( )}uDu 0.945986% (2) (0.009460 +/− 0.000352) 26.873739!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}uD*v −5.540973% (2) (−0.055410 +/− 0.011887) −4.661527!
*dUDdd*uDdv{circumflex over ( )} −1.882108% (2) (−0.018821 +/− 0.004879) −3.857586!
*UduvdvUU*DdD 1.820450% (2) (0.018204 +/− 0.003021) 6.025224!
*d*vvUDuU**DU{circumflex over ( )} 3.981966% (2) (0.039820 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuD{circumflex over ( )}uUuDUd{circumflex over ( )}d* 1.475241% (2) (0.014752 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}dDDvdU 3.226150% (4) (0.032261 +/− 0.001433) 22.512612!
*D**{circumflex over ( )}UDvDDdUDv 2.498838% (2) (0.024988 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**{circumflex over ( )}Uvv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −4.689155% (3) (−0.046892 +/− 0.010061) −4.660826!
*uvDUUuDvuU 1.135629% (2) (0.011356 +/− 0.003336) 3.404540!
*uUDU{circumflex over ( )}uUuvUD 1.205792% (2) (0.012058 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*dUu*UUvv 0.199103% (2) (0.001991 +/− 0.000796) 2.501652!
*uvvDDUdDu −1.792226% (3) (−0.017922 +/− 0.002449) −7.319479!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*DddvD −2.903820% (2) (−0.029038 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Duuduv*{circumflex over ( )}udu −2.705590% (2) (−0.027056 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UuD{circumflex over ( )}uUUu −2.275987% (3) (−0.022760 +/− 0.003152) −7.220213!
*vvDUDvDdv 2.354896% (2) (0.023549 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vDuvDU{circumflex over ( )}*D{circumflex over ( )} −1.538859% (2) (−0.015389 +/− 0.002402) −6.407341!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}Udvd −2.824520% (2) (−0.028245 +/− 0.009844) −2.869266!
*vUuuDDvd{circumflex over ( )}DD 1.946030% (2) (0.019460 +/− 0.006497) 2.995493!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}DvU*DD{circumflex over ( )}Uu* −0.558659% (2) (−0.005587 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DdvDvd{circumflex over ( )}dd 0.961531% (2) (0.009615 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDDUdD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Uvdu 2.457698% (2) (0.024577 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvdvvd −9.588281% (2) (−0.095883 +/− 0.040309) −2.378719!
*uDU*uudu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.530777% (2) (−0.015308 +/− 0.000454) −33.747118!
*uv*d{circumflex over ( )}udvD{circumflex over ( )} −1.988115% (2) (−0.019881 +/− 0.007465) −2.663206!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U*{circumflex over ( )}uD 3.826564% (2) (0.038266 +/− 0.009836) 3.890423!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDuDdD{circumflex over ( )}v −1.724704% (3) (−0.017247 +/− 0.001833) −9.407976!
*{circumflex over ( )}duUU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −0.775798% (2) (−0.007758 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*ududuUu{circumflex over ( )}dd 0.038278% (2) (0.000383 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UdduUUdv{circumflex over ( )}D −1.600028% (2) (−0.016000 +/− 0.002215) 17.225197!
*{circumflex over ( )}dD*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −1.503396% (2) (−0.015034 +/− 0.000191) −78.765747!
**DvUD*{circumflex over ( )}DdDvD 3.856906% (2) (0.038569 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UvdvdU{circumflex over ( )}u 1.819858% (2) (0.018199 +/− 0.007748) 2.348757!
*ududUduUD{circumflex over ( )} 0.478004% (2) (0.004780 +/− 0.000951) 5.025686!
*{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}uuD*u −0.786718% (2) (−0.007867 +/− 0.002213) −3.555459!
*udvD{circumflex over ( )}Udd 0.403813% (2) (0.004038 +/− 0.000354) 11.409804!
*duUDdud{circumflex over ( )}DduU −1.162325% (2) (−0.011623 +/− 0.004111) −2.827135!
**{circumflex over ( )}UUUvuvU{circumflex over ( )} 3.207256% (3) (0.032073 +/− 0.009653) 3.322494!
*Udu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}duu −0.962551% (2) (−0.009626 +/− 0.001855) −5.187657!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vudUvD −2.616787% (2) (−0.026168 +/− 0.010150) −2.578239!
*Uvuu*duvUDd −0.724087% (2) (−0.007241 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uvd*UU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.856405% (3) (−0.038564 +/− 0.014844) −2.597954!
*ddUvUvddu 2.751535% (2) (0.027515 +/− 0.010182) 2.702219!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}vUD*U 7.798702% (2) (0.077987 +/− 0.008715) 8.948895!
*Dd{circumflex over ( )}ddUDd{circumflex over ( )}*D −4.737939% (2) (−0.047379 +/− 0.002706) −17.506294!
*Ddvud*{circumflex over ( )}DuUd −2.580717% (2) (−0.025807 +/− 0.000283) −91.307337!
*dUv*uddvu 0.883025% (3) (0.008830 +/− 0.001698) 5.201902!
*uUvDdDD*d*dU −0.875665% (3) (−0.008757 +/− 0.001428) −6.133775!
*UuUvdDd{circumflex over ( )} −1.456093% (2) (−0.014561 +/− 0.002790) −5.218288!
**UvDdUvvDv 2.213629% (2) (0.022136 +/− 0.009137) 2.422810!
*uuu{circumflex over ( )}dv{circumflex over ( )}D 0.155955% (2) (0.001560 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dddUDDUUUuv −1.017097% (2) (−0.010171 +/− 0.000769) −13.218930!
*UDD*{circumflex over ( )}uvu{circumflex over ( )} 2.189138% (2) (0.021891 +/− 0.000623) 35.159817!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}U*uv*{circumflex over ( )}*ud −1.756201% (2) (−0.017562 +/− 0.000581) −30.239100!
*DudDvdd*vU 2.110263% (3) (0.021103 +/− 0.001696) 12.440164!
*UvvUU{circumflex over ( )}Du 2.655243% (2) (0.026552 +/− 0.001125) 23.605321!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )} −6.604573% (2) (−0.066046 +/− 0.023967) −2.755652!
*vvv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u 8.366095% (2) (0.083661 +/− 0.000832) 100.586525!
*DUD{circumflex over ( )}UDdU*u{circumflex over ( )}uv −4.315357% (2) (−0.043154 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}UudD*d{circumflex over ( )}U 1.472076% (2) (0.014721 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*duUduUvdU{circumflex over ( )}U 2.677615% (2) (0.026776 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DDdu{circumflex over ( )}vv 2.974717% (2) (0.029747 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDUv{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}d 5.287275% (2) (0.052873 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**vDudUD{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )} −0.219216% (3) (−0.002192 +/− 0.000752) −2.913908!
**vDDvUuudv −2.414951% (2) (−0.024150 +/− 0.006214) −3.886189!
*vuU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U 0.953650% (3) (0.009537 +/− 0.000939) 10.155524!.
*uvu{circumflex over ( )}DdudU −1.228816% (3) (−0.012288 +/− 0.004688) −2.620942!
**v*{circumflex over ( )}uuvD{circumflex over ( )} 3.748556% (2) (0.037486 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v*u{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}UDU{circumflex over ( )} −5.994751% (2) (−0.059948 +/− 0.005259) −11.399701!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDD*uD{circumflex over ( )}*u{circumflex over ( )} −3.573109% (2) (−0.035731 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dvvUUUuv −2.214962% (2) (−0.022150 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UduddvvvUd* −0.906818% (3) (−0.009068 +/− 0.001660) −5.464139!
*{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}dU −1.189488% (3) (−0.011895 +/− 0.002542) −4.679178!
*U{circumflex over ( )}DddDv*v −0.741075% (2) (−0.007411 +/− 0.001277) −5.801888!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vu −3.517609% (3) (−0.035176 +/− 0.006819) −5.158254!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.571691% (2) (0.005717 +/− 0.002393) 2.389007!
**{circumflex over ( )}Dvuvuuu −0.794249% (2) (−0.007942 +/− 0.001691) −4.696391!
*vddd{circumflex over ( )}UDD 4.762658% (2) (0.047627 +/− 0.012681) 3.755769!
*{circumflex over ( )}DvU{circumflex over ( )}ddDv 2.409537% (2) (0.024095 +/− 0.000875) 27.526616!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UvDduuU 2.420405% (3) (0.024204 +/− 0.001137) 21.293471!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}u −0.104557% (2) (−0.001046 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} 2.622358% (3) (0.026224 +/− 0.004551) 5.761839!
*uDU{circumflex over ( )}DuUDDDdU 3.931283% (2) (0.039313 +/− 0.012076) 3.255418!
*dDDduvUuUUD −1.736603% (2) (−0.017366 +/− 0.003689) −4.708052!
*{circumflex over ( )}*v{circumflex over ( )}ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}U −1.516330% (2) (−0.015163 +/− 0.005349) −2.834745!
*D{circumflex over ( )}vdUUDDv 3.431868% (2) (0.034319 +/− 0.006989) 4.910053!−
*U{circumflex over ( )}U*UD{circumflex over ( )}dUvU 2.876694% (2) (0.028767 +/− 0.001177) 24.430796!
*vDuDdv{circumflex over ( )}vv* −5.372884% (3) (−0.053729 +/− 0.009218) −5.828889!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ddv*d{circumflex over ( )} 3.121636% (2) (0.031216 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*dU{circumflex over ( )}uDDUd 1.817511% (2) (0.018175 +/− 0.001574) 11.545832!
*DdDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DUdd 0.335503% (2) (0.003355 +/− 0.000138) 24.269374!
*{circumflex over ( )}duD{circumflex over ( )}vUdU −0.437999% (2) (−0.004380 +/− 0.000537) −8.150768!
*U{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}vU*UuDD 4.172775% (4) (0.041728 +/− 0.012934) 3.226310!
*du*dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*Dd −1.509521% (2) (−0.015095 +/− 0.004182) −3.609703!
*Duu{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}UUd 2.746898% (2) (0.027469 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*vdD −1.229925% (2) (−0.012299 +/− 0.002591) −4.746482!
*ddUUudUv*DuD −1.801357% (2) (−0.018014 +/− 0.002211) −8.145878!
*UdUvuDu*uv −2.252326% (2) (−0.022523 +/− 0.000476) −47.358538!
*DvD{circumflex over ( )}uudv 3.807927% (2) (0.038079 +/− 0.003345) 11.385272!
*ud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uUDU{circumflex over ( )} −1.202591% (2) (−0.012026 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}udu −1.361948% (2) (−0.013619 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vD{circumflex over ( )}dDuvUv 1.950845% (2) (0.019508 +/− 0.002441) 7.993293!
*Uvu*UUUD{circumflex over ( )}U*D −0.878938% (2) (−0.008789 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dvUUDDuUUv 4.104029% (2) (0.041040 +/− 0.010219) 4.016188!
**{circumflex over ( )}dudUuu{circumflex over ( )} −1.129339% (2) (−0.011293 +/− 0.004454) −2.535649!
*dDv{circumflex over ( )}DDuD*{circumflex over ( )}v −2.302298% (2) (−0.023023 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDd*ud{circumflex over ( )}vD 3.938223% (5) (0.039382 +/− 0.002083) 18.904432!
*{circumflex over ( )}uu{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )} −3.103725% (3) (−0.031037 +/− 0.011283) −2.750895!
*UvDvv{circumflex over ( )}vD 2.267189% (2) (0.022672 +/− 0.009005) 2.517686!
**d{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uDuv* −3.158798% (2) (−0.031588 +/− 0.007873) −4.012196!
*udd{circumflex over ( )}udd*v 1.248827% (3) (0.012488 +/− 0.001371) 9.110421!
*vUvdv{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}U* −1.141562% (2) (−0.011416 +/− 0.004084) −2.794966!
*{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}UvvD −0.447743% (3) (−0.004477 +/− 0.000186) −24.051317!
*vuuDUUuUvuU −1.202591% (2) (−0.012026 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DDDvD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}d*Du −1.318097% (2) (−0.013181 +/− 0.005622) −2.344635!
*uU{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 1.442772% (3) (0.014428 +/− 0.001396) 10.333820!
*u{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}uUdvu 2.757479% (2) (0.027575 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDUvdD*d −4.507483% (2) (−0.045075 +/− 0.006009) −7.500759!
**d{circumflex over ( )}uDduvu* 1.264455% (2) (0.012645 +/− 0.000979) 12.913907!
*{circumflex over ( )}UdD{circumflex over ( )}vvUD −6.425382% (3) (−0.064254 +/− 0.022065) −2.912005!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDdvU{circumflex over ( )}Ud 1.655817% (2) (0.016558 +/− 0.004623) 3.581531!
*uvvddUddu −1.650858% (2) (−0.016509 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*dDu*u{circumflex over ( )}dd{circumflex over ( )} −0.999109% (2) (−0.009991 +/− 0.004232) −2.360923!
*DDDUdDu{circumflex over ( )}UvD 3.029221% (2) (0.030292 +/− 0.006805) 4.451432!
**dd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uddd −2.231169% (3) (−0.022312 +/− 0.007867) −2.836201!
*{circumflex over ( )}vvuUvD{circumflex over ( )} −2.188474% (2) (−0.021885 +/− 0.003426) −6.387189!
*duUUUvDv 2.515056% (3) (0.025151 +/− 0.007370) 3.412637!
**vddvuvd −0.497876% (2) (−0.004979 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**u*ddDD*uvdv −0.966448% (2) (−0.009664 +/− 0.003701) −2.611123!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvuUuDUu −1.241827% (2) (−0.012418 +/− 0.004779) −2.598325!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}UvDvDd 6.097568% (2) (0.060976 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ddvuv{circumflex over ( )}Du −3.538305% (3) (−0.035383 +/− 0.006724) −5.262225!
***vD{circumflex over ( )}*DU*{circumflex over ( )}uU −3.336220% (5) (−0.033362 +/− 0.011183) −2.983338!
*UdvdUd{circumflex over ( )}DU −2.585650% (2) (−0.025856 +/− 0.005398) −4.789942!
*vvvddD 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*DdDDuvuD{circumflex over ( )}d −1.896597% (2) (−0.018966 +/− 0.006881) −2.756395!
*UuuUD{circumflex over ( )}DUvDU −2.053780% (2) (−0.020538 +/− 0.008378) −2.451420!
*UdDUdUvuvu 2.176208% (2) (0.021762 +/− 0.001427) 15.254161!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DDdUD*{circumflex over ( )}d −2.525671% (4) (−0.025257 +/− 0.005277) −4.786041!
*uvdu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.456276% (2) (−0.014563 +/− 0.000432) −33.727230!
*Uv{circumflex over ( )}vdUDuU −5.396431% (3) (−0.053964 +/− 0.014954) −3.608755!
*DDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd*u −1.925560% (2) (−0.019256 +/− 0.007060) −2.727244!
*dvDDDuDuud −1.921562% (3) (−0.019216 +/− 0.005599) −3.431682!
*vDU*DU{circumflex over ( )}dDv −2.702777% (2) (−0.027028 +/− 0.003065) −8.817026!
*{circumflex over ( )}U*u{circumflex over ( )}vvd −1.844717% (3) (−0.018447 +/− 0.005847) −3.154981!
*UDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UDvd 1.402327% (2) (0.014023 +/− 0.005619) 2.495818!
*dudu{circumflex over ( )}DUDuu −0.878324% (2) (−0.008783 +/− 0.000664) −13.221500!
*Uud{circumflex over ( )}*dud{circumflex over ( )} −2.331445% (2) (−0.023314 +/− 0.009738) −2.394137!
*vudv{circumflex over ( )}vdD 5.453501% (2) (0.054535 +/− 0.015050) 3.623616!
**uvD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}vuu 5.322645% (2) (0.053226 +/− 0.009269) 5.742402!
*UDvdDu{circumflex over ( )}du −1.056747% (2) (−0.010567 +/− 0.001614) −6.547432!
*dvud{circumflex over ( )}duUUD 0.349824% (2) (0.003498 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uuDdvDduDu −0.976824% (2) (−0.009768 +/− 0.002876) −3.396759!
*vUuuvDu{circumflex over ( )}v −0.667026% (2) (−0.006670 +/− 0.001425) −4.682491!
*uDvdvduu* 1.463570% (2) (0.014636 +/− 0.005540) 2.641707!
*{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}vDDDDvUD 1.451101% (2) (0.014511 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vddvdv*U −4.697801% (2) (−0.046978 +/− 0.007559) −6.214940!
*vuvUUdUd{circumflex over ( )}dv 3.522625% (2) (0.035226 +/− 0.004997) 7.049511!
*DvUv*vUUd{circumflex over ( )} −0.766091% (3) (−0.007661 +/− 0.002050) −3.736793!
*DuuDv{circumflex over ( )}vD 2.283468% (3) (0.022835 +/− 0.005203) 4.388777!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvuvdu 0.783379% (3) (0.007834 +/− 0.000997) 7.856115!
**uDUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vU 1.490966% (2) (0.014910 +/− 0.001917) 7.778177!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}DU{circumflex over ( )}Ud 3.003093% (2) (0.030031 +/− 0.012234) 2.454794!
*{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uD*d −2.263969% (4) (−0.022640 +/− 0.002332) −9.709091!
*uuDvduDUUDU 1.834307% (3) (0.018343 +/− 0.001323) 13.865003!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.571691% (2) (0.005717 +/− 0.002393) 2.389007!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Ddu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.410723% (2) (−0.014107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Ud −2.129542% (2) (−0.021295 +/− 0.005188) −4.104903!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.284309% (2) (−0.022843 +/− 0.002762) −8.269838!
*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}vU −2.810738% (2) (−0.028107 +/− 0.005870) −4.788328!
**v{circumflex over ( )}*DdDvvd 0.985620% (2) (0.009856 +/− 0.001939) 5.081993!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}vUdUDU −0.893117% (3) (−0.008931 +/− 0.003010) −2.966728!
*DuuUUUD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uU −0.878938% (2) (−0.008789 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDUu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}uDu −1.614278% (2) (−0.016143 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UD*vUU{circumflex over ( )}DDDd −2.365779% (2) (−0.023658 +/− 0.009425) −2.510232!
*DDDuduDvU*U{circumflex over ( )} 0.890378% (2) (0.008904 +/− 0.001882) 4.730144!
*UdDUU*vduv −0.445790% (2) (−0.004458 +/− 0.000022) −201.551813!
*vdUDUUvv 5.183171% (2) (0.051832 +/− 0.009072) 5.713144!
*vDdd{circumflex over ( )}vvU 6.636574% (2) (0.066366 +/− 0.000000) inf!−
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*vv{circumflex over ( )}Uv{circumflex over ( )}Dv 2.872931% (2) (0.028729 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUUdv*vDuD −0.949467% (2) (−0.009495 +/− 0.003984) −2.383083!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}dd*Dvv 3.158926% (2) (0.031589 +/− 0.003210) 9.839433!
*uUD{circumflex over ( )}DuUUvD −3.362107% (2) (−0.033621 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
***vU{circumflex over ( )}dvD{circumflex over ( )} −2.235420% (4) (−0.022354 +/− 0.009191) −2.432160!
*{circumflex over ( )}*Ddduvv 1.197905% (4) (0.011979 +/− 0.000672) 17.821192!
*UDdududUvD −1.985447% (3) (−0.019854 +/− 0.006520) −3.044938!
*UUd{circumflex over ( )}DUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.010926% (2) (−0.010109 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*DuUvUvD*{circumflex over ( )} −2.705762% (3) (−0.027058 +/− 0.005454) −4.961104!
*Uu*{circumflex over ( )}dvDuvDud −0.293869% (2) (−0.002939 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}u*vDu{circumflex over ( )}u 1.472076% (2) (0.014721 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}U*Du*dudvv −1.238849% (2) (−0.012388 +/− 0.003067) −4.039881!
*vDDvuvdd −0.400300% (2) (−0.004003 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UdDv{circumflex over ( )}u*DUDUU −1.744845% (2) (−0.017448 +/− 0.005136) −3.397096!
*dvuDuvdv 4.948027% (2) (0.049480 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*vdUUUuuduDDD 1.428409% (2) (0.014284 +/− 0.000422) 33.883827!
*{circumflex over ( )}UduUd{circumflex over ( )}v −1.471225% (2) (−0.014712 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}du*UdUuU{circumflex over ( )} 1.420111% (3) (0.014201 +/− 0.005931) 2.394497!
**DuvDuvvUU 1.899934% (3) (0.018999 +/− 0.008031) 2.365690!
*uD*{circumflex over ( )}DvU*d*{circumflex over ( )}UU −2.285909% (2) (−0.022859 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*d*DDUuDD{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}D 1.565679% (2) (0.015657 +/− 0.000707) 22.132863!
*uudvuDDuv 2.981181% (3) (0.029812 +/− 0.002498) 11.936300!
*d*d{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}duud 1.220289% (2) (0.012203 +/− 0.002584) 4.722238!
*Uvv*Udd*d{circumflex over ( )}v −1.600376% (2) (−0.016004 +/− 0.002730) −5.862667!
*DDU{circumflex over ( )}*duud*{circumflex over ( )}UD 4.551495% (2) (0.045515 +/− 0.012901) 3.527950!
**ud{circumflex over ( )}UDvv 5.381691% (2) (0.053817 +/− 0.007010) 7.676979!
*DUu*{circumflex over ( )}DDDvD*v −3.542035% (2) (−0.035420 +/− 0.004944) −7.163593!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}DuUUd 0.636555% (2) (0.006366 +/− 0.000879) 7.243575!
*UuvDDDD{circumflex over ( )}vv 2.498838% (2) (0.024988 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDDUUDudud{circumflex over ( )}uU 0.325946% (2) (0.003259 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DuvUuD*d{circumflex over ( )} −1.029332% (2) (−0.010293 +/− 0.002411) −4.269488!
*UDduvDUDDv*v 5.644570% (2) (0.056446 +/− 0.006341) 8.901428!
*DUvdU{circumflex over ( )}UdD* −0.834525% (2) (−0.008345 +/− 0.002839) −2.939230!
*dDU{circumflex over ( )}v*uD{circumflex over ( )} 2.504556% (3) (0.025046 +/− 0.007619) 3.287381!
*DU{circumflex over ( )}uUD{circumflex over ( )}v −6.371173% (2) (−0.063712 +/− 0.005419) −11.757976!
*U{circumflex over ( )}uvvuD{circumflex over ( )}d 5.528903% (2) (0.055289 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uUuUuvuU*d{circumflex over ( )} −0.248182% (2) (−0.002482 +/− 0.000225) −11.037228!
*vdUUdU{circumflex over ( )}v 1.709215% (2) (0.017092 +/− 0.004758) 3.592579!
**UvDud{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D −0.621116% (2) (−0.006211 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}DDUdvDUUD 3.947375% (2) (0.039474, +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}DdduD{circumflex over ( )}D −1.761382% (4) (−0.017614 +/− 0.003959) −4.449192!
*uDUdUd{circumflex over ( )}vud 0.977315% (2) (0.009773 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vvD*D{circumflex over ( )}u 1.470717% (2) (0.014707 +/− 0.004544) 3.236762!
*vvdDU{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )} −2.775463% (2) (−0.027755 +/− 0.007445) −3.728077!
**D{circumflex over ( )}U**uddDuv 2.320109% (2) (0.023201 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dUuvdU*vv 3.355428% (2) (0.033554 +/− 0.013048) 2.571559!
*UvUuUvvUDDu −1.128567% (3) (−0.011286 +/− 0.000074) −152.161208!
*{circumflex over ( )}vUdDddd 1.681610% (2) (0.016816 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*UDv*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dv 3.832434% (3) (0.038324 +/− 0.012402) 3.090251!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vUDdUD −5.433448% (3) (−0.054334 +/− 0.022512) −2.413608!
*DvDu{circumflex over ( )}uu*{circumflex over ( )} 2.154098% (4) (0.021541 +/− 0.001319) 16.328536!
*dDddduuUvu 1.797505% (2) (0.017975 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DvdUdvD{circumflex over ( )} 2.191003% (3) (0.021910 +/− 0.008557) 2.560502!
*uv{circumflex over ( )}Ud{circumflex over ( )}uU 1.150041% (2) (0.011500 +/− 0.004828) 2.382213!
*DvDduvuuvd −6.267158% (2) (−0.062672 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vuDvu{circumflex over ( )}DDU −4.296753% (2) (−0.042968 +/− 0.007769) −5.530597!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Uu{circumflex over ( )}Uvuv 1.507352% (2) (0.015074 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}vUuDDDUUu{circumflex over ( )} −0.849647% (2) (−0.008496 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*Uu{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v −3.434289% (2) (−0.034343 +/− 0.001313) −26.151261!
*dUuDDduDd*d*{circumflex over ( )} 3.211085% (2) (0.032111 +/− 0.006172) 5.202587!
*uUd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u*vU 4.697343% (2) (0.046973 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DU*v 3.993213% (2) (0.039932 +/− 0.015079) 2.648227!
*DuDUDddvDDUuv 0.066891% (2) (0.000669 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dvDdDvdu* −3.828368% (2) (−0.038284 +/− 0.000129.) −297.304756!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}vU{circumflex over ( )}DU 9.617016% (3) (0.096170 +/− 0.033704) 2.853372!
*dd{circumflex over ( )}dduUv −0.618555% (3) (−0.006186 +/− 0.001114) −5.554123!
*{circumflex over ( )}UduDUdv{circumflex over ( )} 2.795572% (2) (0.027956 +/− 0.011279) 2.478483!
*d{circumflex over ( )}UdvudD −2.682268% (2) (−0.026823 +/− 0.006343) −4.228502!
*dUUUDd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dd −3.298433% (2) (−0.032984 +/− 0.007887) −4.182128!
*UvvuDdUuD 0.697191% (3) (0.006972 +/− 0.001685) 4.138501!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DduvuUd 1.338399% (2) (0.013384 +/− 0.005283) 2.533263!
*u{circumflex over ( )}dDvdvD 4.149029% (2) (0.041490 +/− 0.017213) 2.410454!
*UUD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}dvu 2.757479% (2) (0.027575 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**uu{circumflex over ( )}Dddvdd 1.754092% (2) (0.017541 +/− 0.000190) 92.222504!
*dDdUD*vdv{circumflex over ( )}U −1.072299% (2) (−0.010723 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dvDv*u 4.712254% (2) (0.047123 +/− 0.005393) 8.737620!
*UvdUuDv{circumflex over ( )}D −1.329054% (2) (−0.013291 +/− 0.005291) −2.511704!
*uuu*D{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )} 2.381587% (2) (0.023816 +/− 0.009460) 2.517621!
*u{circumflex over ( )}UuD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )} −2.388862% (3) (−0.023889 +/− 0.007898) −3.024720!
*UdUUv*u**{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )} 1.094527% (2) (0.010945 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*ddDd{circumflex over ( )}*Uuv 2.686003% (3) (0.026860 +/− 0.003727) 7.206756!
*{circumflex over ( )}vDDd*vvvD −6.482636% (2) (−0.064826 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*uDd{circumflex over ( )}uUUdDU 3.851459% (2) (0.038515 +/− 0.012001) 3.209192!
*vDDu{circumflex over ( )}U*UvDdu 2.141828% (2) (0.021418 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*D{circumflex over ( )}DdDvd{circumflex over ( )}DU −1.269561% (2) (−0.012696 +/− 0.001368) −9.278064!
*dvUvUd*Du{circumflex over ( )} −0.910573% (2) (−0.009106 +/− 0.000721) −12.631823!
*vvvddv 2.208955% (3) (0.022090 +/− 0.009139) 2.417029!
*vuuddd{circumflex over ( )}u −2.569026% (2) (−0.025690 +/− 0.002971) −8.647844!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}dd*uDdv 1.761455% (2) (0.017615 +/− 0.006955) 2.532549!
*vvDddvuv 6.646702% (2) (0.066467 +/− 0.002367) 28.084470!
*DUUddDv*vu*D 1.788824% (2) (0.017888 +/− 0.001260) 14.195003!
*vddUuv*vvd −3.880725% (2) (−0.038807 +/− 0.012700) −3.055803!
*vuU{circumflex over ( )}vv*duU −3.253101% (3) (−0.032531 +/− 0.012175) −2.671924!
*d*vdD{circumflex over ( )}UUdU 1.131986% (2) (0.011320 +/− 0.002560) 4.422345!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −3.852472% (2) (−0.038525 +/− 0.002466) −15.621823!
*UUvvvDDDU 10.110786% (3) (0.101108 +/− 0.033425) 3.024905!
*DdUU*d{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.908885% (3) (−0.019089 +/− 0.005752) −3.318520!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}dUddvv* 5.184742% (2) (0.051847 +/− 0.019235) 2.695532!
*vDu*{circumflex over ( )}*dduvU 4.015636% (3) (0.040156 +/− 0.009520) 4.217956!
**uU{circumflex over ( )}UdDU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} −1.595868% (2) (−0.015959 +/− 0.002233) −7.147401!
*UddvUudU*D{circumflex over ( )} 1.165290% (2) (0.011653 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*DUvuD{circumflex over ( )}DDUvv −1.775954% (2) (−0.017760 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**UUv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DdDuDDD 2.248877% (2) (0.022489 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}DDdu{circumflex over ( )}*v 3.279022% (3) (0.032790 +/− 0.005271) 6.221199!
*v{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}Dd*Uvd −0.854699% (2) (−0.008547 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dDuddvv 3.492703% (2) (0.034927 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uDU{circumflex over ( )}ddUvU{circumflex over ( )} 2.109182% (2) (0.021092 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}*D{circumflex over ( )}vdv{circumflex over ( )}U 5.246083% (3) (0.052461 +/− 0.006370) 8.235254!
*d{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )}DDuU{circumflex over ( )} −1.410723% (2) (−0.014107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UvDUvdD{circumflex over ( )}v −4.548445% (4) (−0.045484 +/− 0.013666) −3.328276!
*u{circumflex over ( )}uDU{circumflex over ( )}*vDD 1.239427% (2) (0.012394 +/− 0.004150) 2.986475!
*U*UvUDDdvu{circumflex over ( )} −5.758996% (2) (−0.057590 +/− 0.008687) −6.629074!
*vDuUD{circumflex over ( )}Ddu 2.547127% (3) (0.025471 +/− 0.003435) 7.415307!
*Dvud{circumflex over ( )}UDv −0.982301% (2) (−0.009823 +/− 0.002168) −4.530802!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}UdD{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}DD 8.728192% (2) (0.087282 +/− 0.010298) 8.475473!
*UDDvdDuUDU*u 1.376112% (3) (0.013761 +/− 0.000504) 27.299951!
**vD{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}D{circumflex over ( )}Uv −1.032435% (2) (−0.010324 +/− 0.004369) −2.362835!
*DvdvU{circumflex over ( )}vuv{circumflex over ( )} −1.984406% (2) (−0.019844 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*v{circumflex over ( )}vddddu 2.827789% (2) (0.028278 +/− 0.009506) 2.974591!
*Ud{circumflex over ( )}uU*{circumflex over ( )}ud 1.050415% (3) (0.010504 +/− 0.003922) 2.678298!
*{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdUdUU 0.851549% (2) (0.008515 +/− 0.001932) 4.407385!
*dUvDv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )} 0.760678% (2) (0.007607 +/− 0.002272) 3.347533!
*v{circumflex over ( )}dD{circumflex over ( )}DdDu 4.027456% (2) (0.040275 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uD{circumflex over ( )}DvuvUv 2.069790% (2) (0.020698 +/− 0.001814) 11.408995!
*{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}vUUd*d{circumflex over ( )} 2.601979% (3) (0.026020 +/− 0.008501) 3.060777!
*U{circumflex over ( )}vU*uuUv −5.527835% (2) (−0.055278 +/− 0.013893) −3.978869!
*{circumflex over ( )}uDDdUUD{circumflex over ( )}d 1.725016% (2) (0.017250 +/− 0.004244) 4.064809!
*vd{circumflex over ( )}duvdu −0.877955% (2) (−0.008780 +/− 0.002371) −3.702505!
*{circumflex over ( )}uuDUv{circumflex over ( )}d 2.507236% (3) (0.025072 +/− 0.007443) 3.368765!
*uvU{circumflex over ( )}UD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*DD 0.284313% (2) (0.002843 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v{circumflex over ( )}v −6.183409% (3) (−0.061834 +/− 0.009074) −6.814361!
*vdd{circumflex over ( )}uDuuD 1.601090% (2) (0.016011 +/− 0.003168) 5.053836!
*Uvv{circumflex over ( )}DvUv{circumflex over ( )} −5.022306% (2) (−0.050223 +/− 0.000593) −84.627276!
*uvuUUvUvd 0.567719% (2) (0.005677 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*uvD*DdDUUDUu 1.614049% (3) (0.016140 +/− 0.002904) 5.557235!
*{circumflex over ( )}Dv{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}*du* 1.049954% (3) (0.010500 +/− 0.004503) 2.331853!
*Du{circumflex over ( )}DuUvdD* 1.383265% (2) (0.013833 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*{circumflex over ( )}dvv{circumflex over ( )}u 0.571691% (2) (0.005717 +/− 0.002393) 2.389007!
*U{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}D*vvUD −1.286781% (3) (−0.012868 +/− 0.001451) −8.870639!
*{circumflex over ( )}dddv{circumflex over ( )}DU* −1.956793% (2) (−0.019568 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*vvd{circumflex over ( )}ud −2.140292% (4) (−0.021403 +/− 0.008003) −2.674307!
*dvUUDDDUv*Du −3.969652% (2) (−0.039697 +/− 0.005754) −6.898515!
*d{circumflex over ( )}uUvDUU{circumflex over ( )} −1.410723% (2) (−0.014107 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*UuUvduDu{circumflex over ( )}U 1.502181% (2) (0.015022 +/− 0.001101) 13.641566!
**DvUuvdud −3.174401% (3) (−0.031744 +/− 0.009786) −3.243752!
*Dv{circumflex over ( )}uDUDUdv 2.235854% (2) (0.022359 +/− 0.007925) 2.821404!
*uuUvdvUduU −0.395014% (3) (−0.003950 +/− 0.000136) −29.048681!
*u{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vd −0.399682% (2) (−0.003997 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
**uD{circumflex over ( )}UvuD{circumflex over ( )}D −1.251418% (2) (−0.012514 +/− 0.005161) −2.424585!
*uUu{circumflex over ( )}dU*vD −0.456257% (2) (−0.004563 +/− 0.000834) −5.468231!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UuDUduUUDD −0.182821% (2) (−0.001828 +/− 0.000561) −3.260644!
*UuU{circumflex over ( )}DUvvUv −1.577273% (3) (−0.015773 +/− 0.003612) −4.366289!
*uvUuvUDuU*{circumflex over ( )} −3.766482% (2) (−0.037665 +/− 0.007401) −5.089471!
*{circumflex over ( )}uD{circumflex over ( )}DUvUUd 3.698593% (2) (0.036986 +/− 0.000000) inf!
**uu{circumflex over ( )}DDUvdu −1.587688% (2) (−0.015877 +/− 0.006614) −2.400470!
*dUuvd{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}v 3.590994% (2) (0.035910 +/− 0.015484) 2.319139!
*DD{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}DuvU 3.586209% (2) (0.035862 +/− 0.014918) 2.403958!
*vddDdDU{circumflex over ( )}*{circumflex over ( )} −3.503945% (2) (−0.035039 +/− 0.003573) −9.807545!
**D{circumflex over ( )}Ud*u{circumflex over ( )}D*{circumflex over ( )}DU −1.436811% (2) (−0.014368 +/− 0.005393) −2.664063!
*D{circumflex over ( )}UU{circumflex over ( )}uDuDUU 2.380803% (3) (0.023808 +/− 0.004661) 5.107457!
*UU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}vdD*v 10.867127% (2) (0.108671 +/− 0.029817) 3.644661!
*u*Uv{circumflex over ( )}u{circumflex over ( )}UD 0.905656% (2) (0.009057 +/− 0.002260) 4.007776!
*vu{circumflex over ( )}Ddd{circumflex over ( )}d* −2.173862% (2) (−0.021739 +/− 0.006120) −3.552328!
*vDvDUvDvDv 2.354896% (2) (0.023549 +/− 0.000000) inf!
*dD{circumflex over ( )}Dvu*uD 1.793177% (2) (0.017932 +/− 0.003787) 4.735627!
*{circumflex over ( )}Uvvdu{circumflex over ( )}d −3.090615% (2) (−0.030906 +/− 0.002347) −13.170033!
*UddvU{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}u −1.537565% (2) (−0.015376 +/− 0.005296) −2.903257!
*vDDDuu*uUudu −0.229445% (2) (−0.002294 +/− 0.000886) −2.589471!
*{circumflex over ( )}UDDvuuD 3.314865% (4) (0.033149 +/− 0.009621) 3.445543!
*ddvuuuddDUU −1.867640% (2) (−0.018676 +/− 0.002966) −6.296283!
*uu*dUdDu{circumflex over ( )}Dv 3.357859% (2) (0.033579 +/− 0.002499) 13.435764!
*UDd{circumflex over ( )}vd{circumflex over ( )}D −0.543067% (2) (−0.005431 +/− 0.002297) −2.364525!
*u{circumflex over ( )}DdduuUuu 1.700478% (3) (0.017005 +/− 0.003718) 4.573795!
*D*vU{circumflex over ( )}vvDu 1.840681% (3) (0.018407 +/− 0.006091) 3.021795!
*{circumflex over ( )}U{circumflex over ( )}Duvud −3.241529% (2) (−0.032415 +/− 0.011896) −2.724917!
*uu{circumflex over ( )}d{circumflex over ( )}uDdv −2.852999% (2) (−0.028530 +/− 0.000000) −inf!
*D*UuD{circumflex over ( )}{circumflex over ( )}DD{circumflex over ( )} 1.142038% (2) (0.011420 +/− 0.000271) 42.094921!
*dU{circumflex over ( )}UuvvDu 1.731267% (2) (0.017313 +/− 0.003660) 4.730617!
*{circumflex over ( )}*vDDU{circumflex over ( )}dD 0.655636% (3) (0.006556 +/− 0.000377) 17.371055!
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The present invention implements, in a trend or pattern trigger device or system, the generation of hypotheses automatically while considering any collection of data by automatically assessing with templates or charts the presence of patterns in the data without a priori postulation of what the pattern might be. The trend or pattern examination templates or charts contain quantifiable thresholds for data or change in data so that trends or patterns in data can be discerned inductively and automatically without preconceived notions of what or where the patterns or trends might be.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of the priority to Korean Application No. 10-2009-0049241, filed on Jun. 3, 2009, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirely.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Refrigerators have storage chambers to store food, and these storage chambers are selectively opened and closed by doors. In general, the storage chambers include a freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber, and the refrigerators are classified into various types according to disposition shapes of the freezing chamber and the refrigerating chamber. Further, the refrigerators are classified according to shapes of the doors and opening and closing structures thereof.
[0004] Designated spaces to store food are generally provided on the doors. For example, a designated space (e.g., a door basket) is provided on the inner surface of a door, and food having a relatively tall height, such as a bottle, is stored in the basket. When the door is opened, food is put into and taken out of the door basket. That is, the door basket is accessible from the inside of the door. Another shape of the food storage spaces provided in the door is a storage chamber called as a home bar. Such a storage chamber is defined in the door, but the storage chamber is accessible from the outside of the door, in principle, through a subsidiary door provided in the door. That is, food may be put into and taken out of the door storage chamber by opening the subsidiary door without opening the door. As described above, as structures of the refrigerators are continually diversified, demand for an increase in convenience of the refrigerators in use is required so as to meet the diversification.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one aspect, a refrigerator includes a cabinet configured to define an exterior boundary of the refrigerator with at least one opening therein. The refrigerator also includes a storage chamber defined by interior walls of the cabinet and configured to store food stuffs. The refrigerator further includes a door configured to open and close an access point to the storage chamber by rotating about a rotational axis. In addition, the refrigerator includes a supporting member positioned at the storage chamber and configured to be moved in connection with opening and closing of the door.
[0006] Implementations may includes one or more of the following features. For example, the refrigerator further includes a motion conversion unit coupled to the door and the supporting member, respectively, and configured to convert rotation of the door into movement of the supporting member. The supporting member is configured to be rotated about a rotational axis in connection with opening and closing of the door. The supporting member is configured to be moved forward based on opening of the door and to be moved backward based on closing of the door. The motion conversion unit comprises a link member and a door connection part.
[0007] In some examples, the refrigerator further includes a stopper configured to be extended from the door connection part and stop movement of the door connection part when the door is opened. The refrigerator further includes a connection hole configured to connect the door and the motion conversion unit. The refrigerator further includes a rotary shaft configured to be rotatably connected to the connection hole, wherein the connection hole has a greater inner diameter than an outer diameter of the rotary shaft.
[0008] The connection hole is extended in a lengthwise direction of the link member. The supporting member has a tray to enlarge a size of the supporting area. When the door is opened, the supporting member is opened in response to the opening of the door, and when the door is closed, the supporting member is closed in response to the closing of the door.
[0009] In another aspect, a refrigerator includes a cabinet configured to define an exterior boundary of the refrigerator with at least one opening therein. The refrigerator also includes a storage chamber defined by interior walls of the cabinet and configured to store food stuffs. The refrigerator further includes a door configured to open and close the storage chamber by rotating about a rotational axis. In addition, the refrigerator includes a supporting member positioned at the storage chamber and configured to be opened and closed in connection with opening and closing of the door.
[0010] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. For example, the refrigerator further includes a motion conversion unit coupled to the door and the supporting member, respectively, and configured to convert rotation of the door into movement of the supporting member. The supporting member is configured to be rotated about a rotational axis based on opening and closing of the door. The supporting member is configured to be moved forward and backward in connection with opening and closing of the door. The motion conversion unit comprises a link member and a door connection part.
[0011] In some examples, the refrigerator further includes a connection hole configured to connect the door and the motion conversion unit. The connection hole is extended in a lengthwise direction of the link member. The supporting member has a tray to enlarge a size of the supporting area. When the door is opened, the supporting member is opened in response to the opening of the door, and when the door is closed, the support is closed in response to the closing of the door.
[0012] In yet another aspect, a refrigerator includes a cabinet configured to define an exterior boundary of the refrigerator with at least one opening therein. The refrigerator also includes a first storage chamber defined by interior walls of the cabinet and configured to store food stuffs. The refrigerator further includes a first door configured to open and close the first storage chamber and a second storage chamber that is smaller than the first storage chamber defined at a side of the first door, and that is configured to enable access to food stuffs while the first door remains closed. In addition, the refrigerator includes a second door, located in a predetermined portion of the first door, configured to open and close the second storage chamber by rotating about a rotational axis and a supporting member positioned at the second storage chamber and configured to be moved in connection with opening and closing of the second door.
[0013] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. For example, the refrigerator further includes a motion conversion unit coupled to the second door and the supporting member, respectively, and configured to convert rotation of the second door into movement of the supporting member. The support member is configured to be rotated about a rotational axis in response to opening and closing of the second door. The supporting member is configured to be moved forward and backward in response to opening and closing of the second door. The motion conversion unit comprises a link member and a door connection part.
[0014] In some examples, the refrigerator further includes a connection hole is configured to connect the second door and the motion conversion unit, wherein the connection hole is extended in a lengthwise direction of the link member. The supporting member has a tray to enlarge size of the supporting area. When the second door is opened, the supporting member is opened in connection with the opening of the second door, and when the second door is closed, the support is closed in connection with the closing of the second door.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIGS. 1 and 2 are views of a refrigerator, for example;
[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an opened state of first storage chambers; and
[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates an opened state of second storage chambers;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a longitudinal-sectional view of FIG. 1 ;
[0019] FIGS. 4( a ), 4 ( b ), and 4 ( c ) are views illustrating opening of first and second doors of the refrigerator;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a view of a refrigerator;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal-sectional view of FIG. 5 ;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a view of a refrigerator;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a view of a refrigerator;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a side view schematically illustrating a connection part between a door and a support in FIG. 8 ;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a plan view of FIG. 9 ; and
[0026] FIGS. 11( a ), 11 ( b ), and 11 ( c ) are views illustrating an operation of the door of the refrigerator of FIG. 8 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] Hereinafter, preferred implementations of the present technology will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0028] First, with reference to FIG. 1 , an overall structure of a refrigerator in accordance with one implementation of the present technology will be described. Hereinafter, a side by side type refrigerator will be exemplarily described for convenience, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.
[0029] Storage chambers 12 (hereinafter, referred to as “first storage chambers”) to store food are provided in a cabinet 10 of a refrigerator 1 . The first storage chambers 12 may include a freezing chamber 12 b and a refrigerating chamber 12 a. In the side by side type refrigerator, the freezing chamber 12 b and the refrigerating chamber 12 a are may be arranged horizontally, that is, side by side.
[0030] Doors 20 (hereinafter, referred to as “first doors”) to selectively open and close the first storage chambers 12 are provided on the refrigerator cabinet 10 . Storage chambers 40 (hereinafter, referred to as “second storage chambers”) to store food are also provided in the first doors 20 , and the second storage chambers 40 are selectively opened and closed by doors 30 (hereinafter, referred to as “second doors”).
[0031] Now, respective parts of the refrigerator 1 will be described in detail.
[0032] The first storage chambers 12 provided in the cabinet 10 of the refrigerator 1 include the freezing chamber 12 b and the refrigerating chamber 12 a, which are divided by a partition wall 14 , and racks and drawers are installed in the first storage chambers 12 .
[0033] The second storage chambers 40 are provided in the first doors 20 , and have designated spaces to store food. The second storage chambers 40 are generally configured such that the designated spaces are surrounded by the second storage chambers 40 . That is, the second storage chambers 40 have the designated spaces within the first doors 20 , and are fundamentally accessible from the outsides of the first doors 20 . That is, the second storage chambers 40 do not exclude accessibility from the inside of the doors 20 , but the second storage chambers 40 are fundamentally accessible using the second doors 30 provided on the outer surfaces of the first doors 20 (with reference to FIG. 2 ). Further, door baskets 25 , which are storage spaces defined separately from the second storage chambers 40 , may be provided on the inner surfaces of the first doors 20 . The door baskets 25 are configured such that designated spaces are not surrounded thereby, and thus are accessible from the insides of the first doors 20 . That is, the door baskets 25 are not accessible using the second doors 30 , but are accessible only by opening the first doors 20 .
[0034] Since the second storage chambers 40 have the designated spaces surrounded thereby, the second storage chambers 40 may employ a structure which communicates cool air with the first storage chambers 42 . For example, the second storage chamber 40 is provided with a communication part 46 , which communicates with the first storage chamber 12 to allow cool air in the first storage chamber 12 to be introduced to the inside of the second storage chamber 40 . Further, the second storage chamber 40 may be provided with communication parts 48 , which communicate directly with front ends 18 of cool air ducts provided through the partition wall 14 of the cabinet 10 of the refrigerator 1 .
[0035] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first doors and the second doors will be described in detail.
[0036] In FIG. 3 , a mounting part 21 depressed in a direction of the cabinet 10 is provided at the first door 20 , and the second door 30 may be installed on the mounting part 21 . That is, for example, a part 29 stepped in the direction of the cabinet 10 is provided at a designated portion of the first door 20 , i.e., an approximately central portion of the first door 20 , as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , and the second door 30 is located along the stepped part 29 .
[0037] In some examples, the shape of the second door 30 may correspond to the shape of the first door 20 . Particularly, a width of the second door 30 is substantially equal to a width of the first door 20 , and a height of the second door 30 may be properly selected. Further, a thickness of the second door 30 may be equal to a thickness of the mounting part 21 provided on the first door 20 . Throughout the above configuration, since the second door 30 is located at a portion of the first door 20 , a user recognizes the second door 30 as the first door 20 or a portion of the first door 20 , and thus the external appearance of the refrigerator 1 is not spoiled.
[0038] In this implementation, in FIG. 2 , a first concave part 26 depressed inwardly to a designated depth is provided at a designated portion of the first door 20 , i.e., between the lower end of the second door 30 and a connection part 24 , to which the first door 20 is rotatably connected. Further, a second concave part 28 depressed downwardly from a portion of the first door 20 adjacent to the first concave part 26 is further provided on the first door 20 , and a third concave part 36 depressed upward is provided at the lower end of the second door 30 adjacent to the first concave part 26 . Through this configuration, the second concave part 28 and the third concave part 36 respectively serve as a handle for the first door 20 and a handle for the second door 30 , and thus the first door 20 and the second door 30 do not require separate handles.
[0039] For example, a protrusion part 34 , protruding to the inside of the second storage chamber, 40 is positioned on the rear surface of the second door 30 , and a gasket 35 for sealing is provided around the protrusion part 34 .
[0040] With reference to FIG. 3 , a connecting and rotating structure among the cabinet, the first door, and the second door will be described. Here, connection of the second door 30 to the mounting part 21 of the first door 20 will be exemplarily described.
[0041] The first door 20 selectively opens and closes the first storage chamber, and the second door 30 selectively opens and closes the second storage chamber provided in the first door 20 . In this implementation, a rotating direction of the first door 20 and a rotating direction of the second door 30 are identical. For example, since the first door 20 is rotated around a vertical axis, the second door 30 is also rotated around the vertical axis.
[0042] If the rotating direction of the first door 20 and the rotating direction of the second door 30 are equal, a radius of rotation of the refrigerator 1 may be determined based on the first door 20 to open and close the first storage chamber. Thus a user disposes the refrigerator 1 such that there is no obstacle around a radius of rotation of the first door 20 . Also, if the rotating direction of the first door 20 and the rotating direction of the second door 30 are equal, the size of the second storage chamber provided in the first door 20 may be increased. Further, since the rotating direction of the first door 20 and the rotating direction of the second door 30 are equal, a sealing structure between the first door 20 and the second door 30 may be employed as a sealing structure between the cabinet 10 and the first door 20 .
[0043] A rotary shaft of the first door 20 and a rotary shaft of the second door 30 may be parallel with each other. In this implementation, the rotary shaft of the first door 20 and the rotary shaft of the second door 30 may be arranged coaxially. Through this configuration, only one shaft may be used, and thus an assembly structure is simplified.
[0044] Now, the above coaxial arrangement will be described in detail.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 3 , one side of a first connection member 110 is connected to an upper surface 14 of the cabinet 10 , and the other side of the first connection member 110 is connected to an upper surface of the second door 30 by means of a rotary shaft 130 (hereinafter, referred to as an “upper rotary shaft”). One side of a second connection member 120 is connected to an upper surface of the first door 20 , and the other side of the second connection member 120 is connected to the upper surface of the second door 30 by means of the same upper rotary shaft 130 . The second connection member 120 is located under the first connection member 110 . Therefore, the above upper rotary shaft 130 functions as the common upper rotary shaft of the first door 20 and the second door 30 .
[0046] A rotary shaft 132 (hereinafter, referred to as a “lower rotary shaft for the second door”) for the lower portion of the second door 30 is provided at the lower end of the second door 30 . The lower rotary shaft 132 for the second door 30 is connected to the connection part 24 (with reference to FIG. 2 ) provided on the mounting part 21 of the first door 20 . Further, a rotary shaft 134 (hereinafter, referred to as a “lower rotary shaft for the first door”) for the lower portion of the first door 20 is provided on the lower end of the first door 20 . The lower rotary shaft 134 for the first door 20 is connected to the lower end of the refrigerator cabinet 10 by a second connection member 140 .
[0047] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4( a ), 4 ( b ), and 4 ( c ), operations of the first door and the second door in accordance with this embodiment will be described.
[0048] FIG. 4( a ) illustrates a state in which both the first door 20 and the second door 30 are closed.
[0049] With reference to FIG. 4( b ), opening of the second door 30 will be described. In order to access the second storage chamber 40 provided in the first door 20 , the second door 30 needs to be opened. When a user pulls only the second door 30 forward, the first door 20 is not rotated and only the second door 30 is rotated around the common upper rotary shaft 130 and the lower rotary shaft 132 for the second door 30 , thereby opening the second storage chamber 40 .
[0050] With reference to FIG. 4( c ), opening of the first door 20 will be described.
[0051] In order to access the first storage chamber 12 , the first door 20 needs to be opened. When a user pulls the first door 20 forward, the first door 20 together with the second door 30 is rotated around the common upper rotary shaft 130 and the lower rotary shaft 134 for the first door 20 , thereby opening the first storage chamber 12 . In this implementation, the second connection chamber 120 is rotated such that the first and the second doors 20 and 30 can rotate together.
[0052] Next, with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 , a refrigerator will be described.
[0053] The refrigerator of this implementation is similar to the former implementation for example the second door 30 is a portion of the first door 30 , but, some structures to selectively open and close the first door 20 and the second door 30 are modified For example, a mounting part 21 a of a first door 20 is modified. That is, in the former implementation, the upper end of the mounting part 21 (with reference to FIG. 3 ) of the first door 20 is exposed, and thus the upper surface of the first door 20 and the upper surface of the second door 30 are on the same level. However, in this implementation, a protrusion part 39 is provided on the upper end of a first door 20 , and the upper surface of a second door 30 is rotatably connected to the lower surface of the protrusion part 39 . Therefore, the upper surface of the second door 20 is located at a height lower than the protrusion part 29 of the first door 20 .
[0054] In this implementation, a pair of rotary shafts 139 for the first door 20 is provided on the first door 20 , and a pair of rotary shafts 138 for the second door 30 is provided on the second door 30 . Of course, in the same manner as the former implementation, the rotary shaft 139 for the first door 20 and the rotary shaft 138 for the second door 30 may be located coaxially, and further, the same rotary shaft may be used as an upper rotary shaft of the rotary shafts 139 for the first door 20 and an upper rotary shaft of the rotary shafts 138 for the second door 30 .
[0055] In the structure of the mounting part 21 a in this implementation, instead of the rotary shafts 138 for the second door 30 , a hinge structure installed on the inner surface of the first door 20 and/or the inner surface of the second door 30 may be used.
[0056] Also, FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate that handles 27 for the first doors 20 and handles 37 for the second doors 30 are respectively provided on the outer surfaces of the first doors 20 and the second doors 30 . The structure of the handles is not limited thereto, that is, as described in the former implementation, concave parts serving as handles may be provided on the first doors 20 and the second doors 30 , respectively.
[0057] Although this implementation illustrates the side by side type refrigerator, the present technology is not limited thereto. In some examples, it may be applied to a top freezer type refrigerator in which a freezing chamber is located at the upper portion of a main body, or a bottom freezer type refrigerator in which a freezing chamber is located at the lower portion of a main body. Further, the present technology may be applied to a refrigerator in which a refrigerating chamber is located at the upper portion of a main body and a freezing chamber is located at the lower portion of the main body, the freezing chamber is opened and closed by a drawer type door 90 and the refrigerating chamber is opened and closed by a pair of doors rotated around a pair of vertical shafts, as shown in FIG. 7 .
[0058] As shown in FIG. 7 , this embodiment illustrates that a shape of the first door corresponds to a shape of the second door, for example, a width of the first door and a width of the second door are equal and a length of the second door is shorter than a length of the first door. The present technology is not limited thereto. For example, the present technology may be applied to a refrigerator in which width and height of a second door are less than those of a first door.
[0059] Further, a different type of a second door, which are , for example, rotated in a direction differing from a rotating direction of the first doors, may be provided.
[0060] Next, with reference to FIG. 8 , a refrigerator will be described as follows.
[0061] In this implementation, a supporting member 210 is provided between a second storage chamber 40 and a second door 30 , and the supporting member 210 is operated in connection with opening and closing of the second door 30 . For example, when the second door 30 is opened, the supporting member 210 is opened in connection with the opening of the second door 30 , and when the second door 30 is closed, the support 210 is closed in connection with the closing of the second door 30 .
[0062] The second door 30 is rotatably connected to a first door 20 , and the supporting member 210 is rotatably connected to the second storage chamber 40 . Further, a motion conversion unit 200 to convert rotation of the second door 30 into rotation of the supporting member 210 is provided between the second door 30 and the support 210 , and thus converts a motion of the second door 30 into a motion of the supporting member 210 .
[0063] Now, rotating directions of the second door 30 and the supporting member 210 will be described. As an example, the second door 30 is rotated around a vertical axis (hereinafter, referred to as “a first axis (a door rotary axis)”) Z, and the supporting member 210 is rotated around an axis (hereinafter, referred to as “a second axis (a support rotary axis)”) X being perpendicular to the first axis Z and being parallel with the ground. The motion conversion unit 200 serves to convert rotation of the second door 30 around the first axis Z into rotation of the supporting member 210 around the second axis X. Here, one end (a portion connected to the second door 30 ) of the motion conversion unit 200 is rotated around an axis (hereinafter, referred to as “a third axis (a conversion rotary axis)”) Y being perpendicular to the first axis Z and the second axis X, i.e., being parallel with the ground but perpendicular to the second axis X.
[0064] Further, any other movements of the supporting member 210 is within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the supporting member can move a forward or backward direction like movement of a tray in response to movement of the second door 30 . That is, when the second door 30 is opened, the supporting member 210 moves a forward direction to open and when the second door 30 is closed, the supporting member 210 moves a backward direction to close.
[0065] Now, with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the motion conversion unit will be described in detail.
[0066] In the motion conversion unit 200 , one end of a link member 220 is connected to the second door 30 and the other end of the link member is connected to the supporting member 210 . For example, a door connection part 221 is rotatably connected to the second door 30 , and a support connection part 224 is universally supported by the support 210 .
[0067] In more detail, one end of the connection member 230 is connected to the inner surface of the second door 30 , and the other end of the connection member 230 is connected to the door connection part 221 by means of a rotary shaft 250 . Therefore, when the second door 30 is rotated around the door rotary axis Z (in FIG. 8 ), the door connection part 221 of the link member 220 is rotated around the conversion rotary shaft 250 . When the door connection part 221 of the link member 220 is rotated, the support connection part 224 of the link member 220 moves up and down. Therefore, the supporting member 210 connected to the support connection part 224 is rotated around a support rotation shaft 214 . A length of the link member 220 may be properly determined in consideration of installed positions and radiuses of rotation of the supporting member 210 and the second door 30 .
[0068] Hereinafter, the door connection part 221 will be described in detail.
[0069] For example, a curved part 226 having a designated curvature is provided on one end of the link member 220 , and a cam part 240 corresponding to the curved part 226 is provided on the second door 30 . Through this configuration, when the second door 30 is rotated, the cam part 240 moves down along the curved part 226 of the door connection part 221 and then presses down the link member 220 , thereby allowing the link member 220 to be more smoothly rotated.
[0070] Further, a stopper 227 extended outward is provided at the tip of the door connection part 221 . When the supporting member 210 becomes level, the stopper 227 is caught by the cam part 240 , and thus serves to easily support the leveled the supporting member 210 .
[0071] In some examples, a concave part 410 is provided on the inner surface of the second door 30 , and the connection member 230 and the cam part 240 may be located in the concave part 410 when the second door 30 is closed.
[0072] Further, the door connection part 221 is connected to the rotary shaft 250 of the link member 220 at a designated clearance. In this implementation, a connection hole 222 , to which the rotary shaft 250 is rotatably connected, has a greater inner diameter than an outer diameter of the rotary shaft 250 and is defined as an oval shape extended in the lengthwise direction of the link member 220 . Through this configuration, when the second door 30 is closed, damage to the motion conversion unit 200 is prevented, and motion conversion by the motion conversion unit 200 is reasonably achieved.
[0073] Hereinafter, the support connection part 224 will be described in detail.
[0074] The support connection part 224 is supported by the bottom surface of the support 210 . For example, the support connection part 224 and the supporting member 210 are connected by a ball joint. For this purpose, a support holding part 212 is provided on the bottom surface of the supporting member 210 , and the support connection part 224 is connected to the support holding part 212 .
[0075] In this implementation, concave parts 420 and 430 are provided on the bottom surface of the support 210 . The concave parts 420 and 430 include a first concave part 430 being parallel with the door rotary shaft under the condition that the support 210 is closed, and a second concave part 420 being parallel with the support rotary shaft 214 . The first concave part 430 serves to support the motion conversion unit 200 , particularly the link member 220 , when the second door 30 is closed, and the second concave part 420 serves to support the link member 220 from below, when the second door 30 is opened.
[0076] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 11( a ), 11 ( b ), and 11 ( c ), an operation of the second door in accordance with this implementation will be described.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 11( a ) and 11 ( b ), when the second door 30 is opened, the supporting member 210 is also opened by the motion conversion unit 200 connected to the second door 30 . Here, since one end of the link member 220 of the motion conversion unit 200 , i.e., the door connection part 221 is rotated downward, and the other end of the link member 220 , i.e., the support connection part 224 pulls the front end of the support 210 downward, the supporting member 210 is rotated around the support rotary shaft 214 and thus is opened. As shown in FIG. 11( c ), when the support 210 is completely opened, the link member 220 contacts the second concave part 420 on the bottom surface of the supporting member 210 , and thus supports the supporting member 210 . When the second door 30 is closed, the above operation is carried out in reverse order, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.
[0078] In this implementation, the supporting member 210 may have a tray to extend an supporting area. When the second door 30 is opened and the supporting member 210 is also opened. A user then pulls out foods from the second storage chamber 40 and puts the foods on the supporting member 210 . In that case, a space of the supporting member 210 may be enough to put a lot of foods on the supporting member 210 . Meanwhile, the user sometimes put a few foods on the supporting member 210 and sometimes put a lot of foods on the supporting member 210 . If the supporting member has a tray, the user can adjust the space of the supporting member 210 . For example, if the user wants to put a lot of food on the supporting member 210 at once, the user use the tray so that the supporting area or space can enlarge enough to put the foods on there.
[0079] Although this implementation illustrates that the supporting member 210 is provided between the second storage chamber 40 and the second door 30 , the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the principle of the present invention may be applied to a case in which a supporting member is provided between a first storage chamber and a first door. Further, the principle of the present invention may be applied to a conventional refrigerator, i.e., a refrigerator provided with storage chambers and doors to open and close the storage chambers, as long as supports and motion conversion units are provided between the storage chambers and the doors.
[0080] As is apparent from the above description, when a door is opened and closed, a supporting member is automatically opened and closed in connection with the opening and closing of the door, thereby increasing convenience in use of the refrigerator.
[0081] Also, the supporting member opened and closed in connection with the opening and closing of the door may be used as a kind of subsidiary door, thereby increasing convenience in use of the refrigerator.
[0082] It will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. For example, advantageous results still could be achieved if steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a different order and/or if components in the disclosed systems were combined in a different manner and/or replaced or supplemented by other components. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.
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Disclosed is a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a cabinet configured to define an exterior boundary of the refrigerator with at least one opening therein. The refrigerator also includes a storage chamber defined by interior walls of the cabinet and configured to store food stuffs. The refrigerator further includes a door configured to open and close an access point to the storage chamber by rotating about a rotational axis. In addition, the refrigerator includes a supporting member positioned at the storage chamber and configured to be moved in connection with opening and closing of the door.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/138,907, filed Oct. 18, 1993, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 5,533,883 on Jul. 9, 1996. That application was a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/968,557, filed Oct. 29, 1992, now abandoned.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to melt spinning synthetic polymeric fibers. More particularly, the present invention relates to apparatus for distributing molten polymer flow to the backhole of a spinneret.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As used herein, the term "regular geometric shape" refers to the common two-dimensional shapes of a rectangle, square, oval, circle, triangle or other similar ordinary shape.
Thin distribution flow plates having complex distribution flow patterns formed on one surface thereof accompanied by through holes are known. Distribution flow plates of that type improve flexibility and melt flow processing when compared to the state of the art at the time of that invention. Such plates are disclosed in co-owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,162,074 issued Nov. 10, 1992, "Profiled Multi-Component Fibers and Method and Apparatus for Making Same".
Although thin distribution flow plates having complex flow patterns provide many advantages, additional advantages are available when the multiple functions of these thin plates are split up so that only a single function is performed in a single thin plate. This allows mixing and matching of functions by interchanging only one or more of the single function plates within a stack of plates. For example, by changing one or more of the single function plates, the resulting fiber's cross-section can be changed from sheath/core to side-by-side without modification of the other spin pack parts.
French Patent No. 2,429,274 discloses a stack of thin plates useable to combine distinct polymer streams prior to the backhole of a spinneret. Each backhole requires its own stack of plates although the stacks may be interconnected. Because they result in polymer stream mixing, these plates are unsuitable for forming many cross-sections, for example, sheath core.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention is a spin pack for spinning synthetic fibers from two or more liquid polymer streams including means for supplying at least two polymer streams to the spin pack, a spinneret having extrusion orifices and flow distribution plate sets. The flow distribution plate sets include at least one patterned plate having edges which define a substantially regular two-dimensional geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface, a substantially planar downstream surface and at least one flow distribution pattern stenciled therein by cutting through. The flow distribution pattern connects the upstream surface with the downstream surface. The flow distribution plate sets further include, for each patterned plate, at least one boundary plate stacked sealingly adjacent thereto and having edges which define a substantially regular geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface and a substantially planar downstream surface. The boundary plate has cut-through holes connecting the upstream surface with the downstream surface to form at least one flow-through channel to allow fluid flow through the patterned plate and otherwise is substantially solid with solid portions where the patterned plate is cut through to accomplish fluid flow in a direction transverse to the flow in the flow-through channel. The liquid polymer streams flow as discrete streams through the flow distribution plate sets to the spinneret.
Another aspect of the present invention is a process for spinning fibers from synthetic polymers (a) feeding at least one liquid polymer to a spin pack; and (b) in the spin pack, routing the at least one polymer to at least one patterned plate having edges defining a substantially regular two-dimensional geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface, a substantially planar downstream surface and at least one flow distribution pattern stenciled therein by cutting through. The flow distribution pattern connects the upstream surface with the downstream surface. Each patterned plate has at least one corresponding boundary plate stacked sealingly adjacent thereto and has edges which define a substantially regular geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface and a substantially planar downstream surface. The boundary plate has cut-through holes connecting the upstream surface with the downstream surface to form at least one flow-through channel to allow fluid flow through the patterned plate and otherwise is substantially solid with solid portions where the patterned plate is cut through to accomplish fluid flow in a direction transverse to the flow in the flow-through channel. The liquid polymer streams flow as discrete streams through flow distribution channels formed by the at least one patterned plate and the at least one corresponding boundary plate to the spinneret. The polymer is extruded into fibrous strands.
A still further aspect of the present invention is a method of assembling a flow distribution plate for distributing at least two discreet molten polymer streams to a spinneret comprising: (a) stenciling a pattern in at least one first plate such that the first plate has edges which define a substantially regular two-dimensional geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface, a substantially planar downstream surface and at least one flow distribution pattern stenciled therein by cutting through. The flow distribution pattern connects the upstream surface with the downstream surface. The first plate is then stacked sealingly adjacent to a second plate which has edges which define a substantially regular geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface and a substantially planar downstream surface. The boundary plate has cut-through holes connecting the upstream surface with the downstream surface to form at least one flow-through channel to allow fluid flow through the patterned plate and otherwise is substantially solid with solid portions where the patterned plate is cut through to accomplish fluid flow in a direction transverse to the flow in the flow-through channel. The liquid polymer streams flow as discrete streams through the flow distribution plate sets to the spinneret.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a versatile flow distribution apparatus for melt spinning synthetic fibers.
Another object of the present invention is a versatile process for melt spinning synthetic fibers.
A further object of the present invention is to provide a method for assembling distribution flow apparatus. Related objects and advantages will be apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art after reading the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a cut-away perspective view of a spin pack assembly for making sheath/core type fibers and incorporating flow distribution plate sets of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an elevational cross-sectional view of the polymer inlet of FIG. 1 taken along line 2--2 and looking in the direction of the arrows.
FIG. 3 is an elevational cross-sectional view of the polymer inlet block of FIG. 1 taken along line 3--3 in FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is the top plan view of a dual-function pattern and boundary plate of FIG. 1 according to the present invention.
FIG. 5 is the top plan view of a boundary plate of FIG. 1 according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 is the top plan view of a pattern plate of FIG. 1 according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of three stacked plates according to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of two plates from a spin pack showing an alternate configuration of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is the partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 7, showing an optional filtering insert.
FIG. 10 is a partial cross-section similar to FIG. 7 but showing an alternate optional filtering insert.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
To promote an understanding of the principles of the present invention, descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention follow and specific language describes the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, and that such alterations and further modifications, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as discussed are contemplated as would normally occur to one ordinarily skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.
The present invention involves thin plates having polymer flow holes and channels cut through them. These plates have substantially planar upstream and downstream surfaces that form substantially regular geometric shapes. A stack of two or more of these plates can be used in forming multicomponent fibers or mixed component yarns having various cross-sections. These plates are inexpensive and disposable, and have a high degree of design flexibility. The flow holes and channels may be cut through using electro-discharge machining (EDM), drilling, cutting (including laser cutting) or stamping. Preferable machining techniques are those which allow for a wide selection of plate materials so long as the materials do not creep under the spinning conditions and do not adversely react with the polymers. Possible materials include both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ceramics and high temperature thermoplastics. The high temperature thermoplastics can even be injection molded. While methods for machining, eroding, stamping, injecting, etc., are readily available in the art, for convenience, an example of how a plate may be made is provided in Example 1.
The thin distribution flow plate sets of the present invention include pattern plates and boundary plates. Unlike other comparable thin distribution plates, the disclosed pattern plates have transverse channels cut completely through from the upstream surface to the downstream surface. The surface of the next adjacent downstream plate serves as the bottom or boundary of the flow channel. Therefore, each thin plate contains only one feature, i.e., arrangement of channels and holes to distribute melt flow in a predetermined manner. Greater flexibility relative to other more complicated flow distribution plates is provided.
Referring to FIG. 1, a spin pack assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention and designed to produce sheath/core bicomponent fibers of round cross section is illustrated. Assembly 10 includes the following plates sealingly adjoining each other: polymer inlet block 11; metering plate 12; first pattern plate 13; boundary plate 14; second pattern plate 15 and spinneret plate 16. Fluid flow is from inlet block 11 to spinneret plate 16. The parts of the assembly may be bolted together and to the spinning equipment by means of bolt holes 19. Polymer inlet block 11 includes holes for receiving each type of polymer being extruded. In this example there are two polymers, sheath and core, so that two polymer inlet orifices 17 and 18 are shown.
Downstream of polymer inlet block 11 is metering plate 12 which contains metering holes 22 and 23 which receive polymer from core channels 20 and sheath channel 21, respectively. Metering holes 22 receive core polymer from distribution channels 20 (FIG. 2) and route it to distribution slot 24 cut-through first pattern plate 13. Metering holes 23 receive polymer from sheath distribution channel 21 (FIG. 2) and convey it to holes 25 cut through first pattern plate 13 and to holes 27 cut through boundary plate 14 which sealingly adjoins first pattern plate 13.
The top surface of boundary plate 14 confines the core polymer within cut channel 24 whereby the core polymer fills channel 24 and is forced to exit through cut hole 26 in boundary plate 14. Boundary plate 14 has a regular two-dimensional shape, i.e., a rectangle.
Pattern plate 15 has a regular two-dimensional shape, i.e., a rectangle, and has star shaped holes cut through its thickness. The center of the star aligns with the center of backhole 29 of spinning orifice 30 in spinneret plate 16. The four corners of star holes 28 are located outside the perimeter of backhole 29. Sheath polymer streams from holes 27 in boundary plate 14 flow into the corners of star holes 28. Because the bottom surface of boundary plate 14 confines the streams to star holes 28, the sheath streams flow laterally into the backhole 29. Therefore, boundary plate 14 forms the lower boundary for channel 24 and the upper boundary for star hole 28. The core polymer stream from hole 26 of plate 14 flows into the center of star hole 28 and down into backhole 29 where it is surrounded by sheath streams. The combined flow issues from spinning orifices 30 to form round bicomponent fibers.
As will be recognized by the ordinarily skilled, molten polymers may be fed to the assembly by any suitable conventional means. Molten core polymer enters the assembly through polymer inlet 17 shown in the elevational cross-section of FIG. 2. Inlet 17 splits into feed legs 31 and 32 which feed the two main distribution channels 20. Molten sheath polymer enters through inlet 18 shown in the elevational cross-section of FIG. 3 and flows to main distribution channel 21.
FIG. 7 further illustrates the general principle of the present invention. Shown in FIG. 7 are three plates of a spin pack in partial cross-section. These plates illustrate the boundary/pattern plate concept. As shown, plates 111 and 112 are boundary plates and plate 113 is a pattern plate. Polymer flow is in the direction of arrows P. Polymer passes through the cut-through portion (through hole 115) because through hole 115 overlaps pattern 117 in plate 113. Pattern 117 allows transverse flow of the polymer, i.e., transverse to the polymer flow in the through hole 115, of the polymer because a horizontal flow channel 118 is formed by the faces 121 and 123 of boundary plates 111 and 112, respectively. The horizontal flow path directs the polymer to through hole 125 because hole 125 overlaps with pattern 117.
It will be readily apparent to those who are ordinarily skilled in this art that the shape of the pattern and boundary holes may vary widely so long as any portion of the cut-through parts on adjacent plates overlap. Also, certain plates may perform both boundary and pattern functions. This concept is illustrated in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 shows in exploded partial elevational perspective view of dual function plates 211 and 213. Upper dual function plate 211 has elongated slots 215 cut through its thickness.
Lower dual function plate 213 also has elongated slots 216 cut through its thickness. Immediately adjacent slots 215 and 216 overlap so that they are in fluid flow communication. Yet, these slots are oriented at 90° relative to each other so that polymer passing from slot 215 into slot 216 will change its course by 90°.
Optionally, filtering parts may be incorporated into the apparatus. For example, porous metal inserts may be placed within the cut of a pattern plate. As shown in FIG. 9, porous metal insert 310 has the dimensions of cut (pattern) 117 in plate 113. Polymer flow (P) passing through porous metal insert 310 will be filtered.
An alternative method for faltering is shown in FIG. 10. Porous plate 410 is inserted between pattern plate 113 and boundary plate 112. Polymer flow (P) passing through porous plate 410 will be filtered.
Also envisioned as part of the present invention is a process for spinning polymers. Preferably, the process is for melt spinning molten thermoplastic polymers. An apparatus of the present invention is useful in the process of the present invention. In the process, one or more molten polymer streams, preferably at least two, enter a spin pack. In the spin pack, the polymers are distributed as discrete streams from the inlet to the backhole of a spinneret where they may or may not meet, depending on the particular cross-section being extruded. Distribution is accomplished by routing the polymer through holes and into channels where the channels are bounded by at least the plate immediately above or below. Alternatively, the channels are bounded by both the plates above and below.
In the channels, the polymer flows transversely (or perpendicular) to the flow in the holes. Eventually, the polymer exits the channel through another hole in the plate immediately below.
The apparatus and process of the present invention are useful for melt spinning thermoplastic polymers according to known or to be developed conditions, e.g., temperature, denier, speed, etc., for any melt spinnable polymer. Post extrusion treatment of the fibers may also be according to standard procedures. The resulting fibers are suitable for use as expected for fibers of the type.
The invention will be described by reference to the following detailed example. The example is set forth by way of illustration, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
EXAMPLE 1-EDM Plates
The x-y coordinates of 24 circular holes and 6 oblong holes are programmed into a numerically controlled EDM machine supplied by Schiess Nassovir with a 0.096 micron spark width correction (offset).
A 0.5 mm thick stainless steel plate is sandwiched between two 2 mm thick support plates and fastened into the frame opening of the EDM machine with help of three clamps. A 0.5 mm diameter hole is drilled into the center of each hole and channel to be eroded and a 0.15 mm brass wire electrode is threaded through the hole. The wire is properly tensioned. The cutting voltage is 70 volts. The table with the plate assembly is guided by means of the computerized x-y guidance program to achieve the desired pattern after the power has been turned on. While cutting, the brass wire electrode is forwarded at a rate of 8 mm/sec and the plate assembly advances at a cutting rate of 3.7 mm/min. Throughout the cutting, the brass wire electrode is flushed with demineralized water with a conductivity of 2×10 E4 Ohm cm with a nozzle pressure of 0.5 kg/cm 2 . After the desired pattern has been cut, the support plates are discarded.
EXAMPLE 2-Spinning Fibers
Thin distribution plates having cuts similar to the plates shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 are machined from 26 gauge (0.018") 430 stainless steel. The plates are inserted between a reusable spinneret and a metering plate. A top plate having polymer inlets is located upstream of the metering plate. The top plate, metering plate, thin distribution plates and spinneret are cylindrical in shape. These plates are positioned into a spinneret housing with through bolts which provide a clamping force to seal the surfaces of the plates.
The sheath polymer is nylon 6 having an RV of approximately 2.4. The temperature of the molten sheath polymer is controlled at 278° C. The core polymer is nylon 6 having an RV of approximately 2.7. The temperature of the molten core polymer is controlled at 288° C. The spin pack and spinneret are controlled at 285° C. Each spinneret has two groups of three capillaries having a diameter of 200 microns and a length of 400 microns.
The fibers are quenched as they exit the spinneret by a stream of cross flowing air having a velocity of approximately 30 m/min. The yarns make an "S" shaped path across a pair of godets before being wound onto a bobbin. The surface velocities of the first and second godets is 1050 and 1054 m/min respectively. The yarn has a velocity of 1058 m/min at the winder. A water-based finish dispersion is applied to the yarns prior to winding.
Three filament 50 denier yarn is spun from the plate assembly. Each filament is a round, concentric, sheath/core bicomponent having a core which makes up 10% of the total fiber cross-sectional area. The resulting sheath/core yams have good physical properties as demonstrated from the following table.
TABLE______________________________________ Break- Elonga- ing tion Modulus Load Tenacity at 1% at 10% ModulusDenier (g) (g/den) (%) (g/den) (g/den)______________________________________Avg. 49.6 58.67 1.18 413.89 3.41 2.63Std. 0.02 2.27 0.05 15.65 2.78 0.11Dev.______________________________________
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A spin pack for spinning synthetic fibers from two or more liquid polymer streams includes a supply for at least two polymer streams to the spin pack; a spinneret having extrusion orifices; and flow distribution plate sets. The flow distribution plate sets include at least one patterned plate having edges which define a substantially regular two-dimensional geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface, a substantially planar downstream surface and at least one flow distribution pattern stenciled therein by cutting through. For each patterned plate, at least one boundary plate stacked sealingly adjacent thereto and having edges which define a substantially regular geometric shape, a substantially planar upstream surface and a substantially planar downstream surface. The boundary plate has cut-through holes connecting the upstream surface with the downstream surface to form at least one flow-through channel to allow fluid flow through the patterned plate but otherwise is substantially solid.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention is related to the field of aerospace, and, in particular, to modern aircraft which utilize the flow of hot compressed bleed air from the engines for various on-board functions.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
It is well known in the art to use high temperature bleed air from the engines for various on-board purposes in a modern aircraft. Typically, a stream of hot air bled from the engines is used to provide an anti-icing function on the leading edge of the wings and empennage of the aircraft and is also used by the air conditioning units to supply fresh air to the passenger cabin. The bleed air must therefore be transported from the engines to various other areas of the aircraft, and this is typically accomplished utilizing insulated metallic ducts ranging in diameter from 1.00″ to 4.00″ and ranging in length from 6″ to 120″. The air in the duct can reach pressures up to 450 psig and temperatures of 1200° F., but is typically at a pressure of 45 psig and 660° F. in temperature.
The ducts carrying the engine bleed air are insulated to prevent damage to the aircraft. An insulation blanket is wrapped around the exterior of the duct. This insulation blanket may be composed of a material of the type sold under the tradename Q-Felt® and manufactured by the Johns-Manville Corporation of Denver, Colo. The insulation blanket is capable of lowering the exterior temperature of the duct from 660° F. to about 400° F. or less. A fiberglass impregnated silicon-rubber, textured metal foil, or fiberglass impregnated polyimide resin insulation shell is then wrapped around the exterior of the duct to contain the insulation blanket.
The ducts of the type mentioned can develop leaks from the cracking of the inner metallic duct. If such cracks go undetected, catastrophic failure of the duct can result. Therefore, it is necessary to have sensors positioned along the length of the duct to detect any leakage from the duct.
Prior art leak detection sensing systems consisted of a vent disk, which is a disk having a hole therein, which allowed a stream of hot air to escape the silicon-rubber, texturized foil, or polyimide resin insulation shell. In the event that a duct developed a crack, hot bleed air will flow from the metallic duct wall through the insulation blanket and to the vent disk, then through the hole in the vent disk. The vent disk hole is designed to spread the flow of hot air in a cone-like spray pattern impinging on a pair of heat detection wires spaced approximately 1.0″ apart and positioned approximately 1.00″ to 1.75″ from the outer circumference of the duct. The heat detection wires are of the type sold under the tradename Firewire® and manufactured by Kidde Graviner Limited of the United Kingdom. The heat sensing wires which change their electrical characteristics when exposed to a predetermined temperature. In the case of typical prior art systems used in aircraft, the detection circuit will trip when the wire is exposed to a temperature of approximately 255° F. It is required that both wires of the pair of wires in proximity to the duct be exposed to this temperature before an alarm will be raised to the pilot of the aircraft, to prevent false alarms.
It is desirable that the leak detectors be able to detect a leak in the metallic duct through a crack having the equivalent area of a 5 mm diameter hole. In practice, it has been found that the prior art leak detection systems fail to detect such leaks. The primary reason for the failure of the prior art design is that there is insufficient air flow through the vent disk hole. This results in the hot air stream having insufficient temperature to trip the heat detection wires. First, the temperature of the hot air through the leakage in the metal duct is significantly reduced as the hot air passes through the insulation blanket. Second, the insulation blanket impedes the passage of the hot air from the site of the leak to the vent disk hole, underneath the silicon-rubber, texturized foil, or polyimide resin insulation shell. Further, it has been found that, by the time the air has traversed the distance between the vent disk hole and the sensor wires, it has fallen to a temperature well below the 255° F. necessary to trip the leak detection wires.
Therefore, it is desirable to improve the design of the leak detection system such that a leak through a crack in the metallic duct having an equivalent area of a 5 mm diameter hole is successfully detected. It is also desirable that the new design be able to be economically retrofitted into existing aircraft. In particular, it is desirable that the same existing sensor wires be used and that it not be necessary to remove the existing insulation and to re-insulate the ducts to install the improved leak detection system.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
To produce air flow with adequate velocity, the laws of fluid dynamics dictate the necessity for both air pressure and volume. If sufficient air pressure exists at low volume, air flow velocity cannot be sustained once the volume is quickly depleted. If sufficient air volume is present without pressure, there is practically no movement of air from a high to a low pressure environment.
When the metallic duct develops a crack, the hot air leaks from duct interior to the insulation blanket. The insulation blanket changes the characteristics of the hot air leakage 1) by absorbing the thermal energy and reducing the air temperature; 2) by reducing the effective pressure due to pressure drop; and 3) by reducing the volume by diffusing the air in the annulus between metal duct and insulation shell throughout the length of the duct.
In a first embodiment of the invention, this problem is solved by recapturing or recollecting the degraded air into an air reservoir after the air has passed through the insulation blanket. This is accomplished by circumferentially cutting the insulation shell 360° at one or more locations along the length of the duct. The circumferential cuts will be covered by installing a “U”shaped cuff made from multi-ply silicone-rubber impregnated fiberglass cloth centered over each of the circumferential cuts and sealed at both ends to the insulation shell. The cuff re-collects the leakage of degraded hot air and acts as an air reservoir. A vent hole of the proper size and shape, similar to the hole in the vent disc, is provided for the air to be directed to the existing sensor wires. The vent hole will be supported by a silicone rubber pad on the inside of the cuff to stabilize the flow direction of the air through the vent hole. The pressure inside the cuff will begin to rise once the cuff is filled with air. The pressure will reach a steady state value when the flow from the crack in the duct and the flow through the vent hole reach a steady state condition.
With the first embodiment of the invention, it has been found, depending upon the distance between the vent hole in the cuff and the sensor wires, that, although there is a steady stream of air being expelled from the vent hole at a temperature sufficient to trip the detector, the air may still have insufficient heat once reaching the sensor wires as the result of its movement between the vent hole and the sensor wires due to a nozzle ejector effect mixing with ambient air around the duct.
Therefore, in a second, and preferred embodiment of the invention, a manifold has been added between the cuff and the sensor wires to direct the stream of hot air directly from the vent hole to the sensor wires without the loss of heat to the ambient environment. The design of the preferred embodiment consists of adding a manifold block and a manifold cap installed on top of the cuff and inline with the vent hole in the cuff. The manifold block is designed to route the hot air from a single conduit in the manifold, to a “Y” where the conduit divides into two conduits, which lead directly to the sensor sires. Hot air impingement is accomplished by installing a cap on the manifold block that secures each of the sensor wires in a channel groove. The channel groove in the cap for each sensor wire is designed to align with the outlet of the one of the two conduits running through the manifold from the “Y”. As such, the hot air flows directly from the vent hole to the sensor wires with sufficient heat to trip the sensor wires.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows side, cross sectional and isometric views of the cuff.
FIG. 2 shows top, side and isometric views of the pad.
FIG. 3 shows top, bottom, side, cross sectional and isometric views of the manifold block.
FIG. 4 shows top, side and isometric views of the cap.
FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of the invention showing the cuff pad, manifold and cap and their placement with respect to each other.
FIG. 6 shows the preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a duct.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A typical duct assembly 2 of the type with which the invention is intended to be used is shown in FIG. 6 and consists of an inner metal duct 3 , typically composed of steel and 1.00″ to 4.00″ in diameter, covered by insulation blanket 4 , and secured by outer insulation shell 5 . Insulation blanket 4 and outer insulation shell 5 are composed of materials as previously discussed.
FIG. 1 shows the cuff 10 portion of the invention. Cuff 10 is positioned circumferentially around outer insulation shell 5 of duct assembly 2 as shown in FIG. 6 . Preferably, cuff 10 is composed of multiple plies of fiberglass impregnated with silicon rubber, and, in the most preferred embodiment, three plies are used to avoid having cuff 10 rupture due to excessive pressure build-up when installed in situ around duct assembly 2 . Before securing cuff 10 to duct assembly 2 , at least outer insulation shell 5 is cut circumferentially around duct assembly 2 . A small amount of outer insulation shell 5 may also be removed to form a narrow gap in outer insulation shell 5 .
To secure cuff 10 to duct assembly 2 , cuff 10 is situated circumferentially around the portion of duct assembly 2 in which the cut in outer insulation shell 5 has been made, and the tongue and groove arrangement 11 , as shown in FIG. 1 , at the ends of cuff 10 are engaged.
FIG. 1 , section A—A, shows a cross sectional view of cuff 10 showing a raised middle portion 15 with shoulders 12 on either side thereof. Shoulders 12 will rest against outer insulation shell 5 of duct assembly 2 , while raised middle portion 15 remains above insulation shell 5 , thereby defining an annular-shaped void thereunder. Cuff 10 is secured to duct 2 by wrapping shoulders 12 and the adjoining area of outer insulation shell 5 with a heat-resistant, silicon-rubber compound tape, 13 , as shown in FIG. 6 . One example of an appropriate heat-resistant, silicon-rubber tape 13 is sold under the tradename MOX-Tape™ and manufactured by Arlon Corporation of Santa Ana, Calif. In lieu of heat resistant tape 13 , any known method of securing cuff 10 to duct assembly 2 may be used, as long as the passage of air through insulation layer 4 to the void under cuff 10 is not restricted. Cuff 10 should be situated on duct assembly 2 such that hole 14 is in a convenient orientation with respect to the position of existing sensor wires 8 such that air escaping hole 14 will impinge on both of the sensor wires 8 . Because pressures within the inner metal portion 3 of duct assembly 2 can reach up to 45 psig, it can be expected that pressure within the void created between cuff 10 and duct assembly 2 may also experience similar pressures. As a result, it is possible that middle portion 15 of cuff 10 may deform because of bowing due to pressure buildup in the void inside cuff 10 . As a result, it is possible that hole 14 may not direct the air escaping therefrom to impinge onto sensor wires 8 when middle portion 15 of cuff 10 is deformed. Therefore, to assist in keeping hole 14 pointed toward sensor wires 8 , pad 20 is situated on the inside of cuff 10 between cuff 10 and outer insulation shell 5 of duct assembly 2 . Pad 20 is configured with two “legs” 26 which may rest on the outer surface of duct assembly 2 and channel 24 between legs 26 which has been provided to allow pressurized air within the void created by cuff 10 to reach the underside of hole 22 . Pad 20 is adhered to the inner surface of cuff 10 using any means known in the prior art, such as with room temperature vulcanizing silicon rubber (RTV) adhesive sold by Dow-Corning. Pad 20 is composed of a flexible silicon rubber compound having a durometer of between 20 and 50 Shore hardness, such that pad 20 should align with hole 14 in cuff 10 such that air can flow from the void created by cuff 10 through channel 24 , hole 22 and out of hole 14 .
The configuration of cuff 10 and pad 20 comprise one embodiment of the invention which is functional as long as sensor wires 8 are in close enough proximity to the outer surface of cuff 10 such that the air being forced from hole 14 has enough heat by the time it impinges on sensor wires 8 such as to trip the detector. This temperature is approximately 255° F. In the event that sensor wires 8 are too far away from duct 2 to be tripped by the escaping air, then the second, and preferred, embodiment of the invention may be used.
The preferred embodiment of the invention includes cuff 10 and pad 20 already discussed in addition to manifold block 30 and cap 40 . Manifold block 30 is shown in various views in FIG. 3 and in situ in FIG. 6 . Manifold 30 is a block of silicon rubber compound having channels defined therein to route the air from hole 14 in cuff 10 directly to sensor wires 8 , which will be captured by channels 42 in cap 40 at the top of manifold block 30 .
Manifold block 30 is provided with a defined radius 33 on the bottom thereof which matches the outer radius of cuff 10 when in place on duct assembly 2 . Naturally, radius 33 will vary depending upon the size of duct assembly 2 upon which cuff 10 is installed. The bottom of manifold block 30 is also configured to match the outer shape of cuff 10 . Shoulders 37 on the bottom of manifold block 30 will sit in shoulders 12 on cuff 10 and channel 37 will accept the raised middle portion 15 of cuff 10 . Wings 36 , defined on the outer edges of manifold block 30 at the bottom thereof, extend past the outer edge of cuff 10 and are used to secure manifold block 30 to cuff 10 through the use of heat-resistant tape 13 of the same type used to secure cuff 10 to the outside of duct assembly 2 .
Defined within manifold 30 is a conduit 34 which, when manifold block 30 is place over cuff 10 , aligns with hole 14 in cuff 10 . Conduit 34 splits into two separate conduits 32 which extend to the top of manifold block 30 and emerge through holes 31 defined thereon, thereby forming a “Y” shaped conduit in the interior of manifold block 30 . Sensor wires 8 are captured in channels 42 of cap 40 , which lock them into place directly above holes 31 . Posts 38 defined on the top of manifold block 30 are used to hold cap 40 in place and to keep sensor wires 8 positively aligned with holes 31 in manifold 30 , thereby allowing hot air coming from conduits 32 through holes 31 to impinge directly on sensor wires 8 , without the loss of heat experienced in the prior art when the hot air was forced through an environment of much lower temperature.
Holes 44 , defined in cap 40 , mate with posts 38 disposed on the top of manifold block 30 , to form a snap type fitting to secure cap 40 firmly in place on the top of manifold block 30 without the use of tools. Manifold block 30 is preferably composed of a silicon rubber compound having a durometer reading between 65 and 85. Alternatively, manifold block 30 may be made of other materials, such as aluminum, however, care must be taken to avoid excessive heat transfer through the metal body of manifold block 30 such as to lower the temperature of the hot air emerging from holes 31 . Also, preferably, cap 40 will be softer than manifold block 30 , having a durometer reading of between 30 and 50 Shore hardness, such that the cap can be removed from snap posts 38 without damaging the manifold block.
Tests of this design were conducted in a lab wherein an original prior art vent disk design and the design of the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein were installed adjacent to one another on a duct assembly. A partial cut measuring approximately 0.025″ wide by 1.25″ long was made in the metal portion 3 of duct assembly 2 to simulate a crack-like failure having an area equivalent to a 5 mm diameter hole, and the metal portion 3 of duct assembly 2 was pressurized. The air flow through the original vent disk was undetectable, while the air flow through vent 14 in cuff 10 was of significant velocity throughout a range of duct pressures ranging from 5 psi to 40 psi. The pressure in the void created by cuff 10 was measured and was found to be approximately 12% of the pressure in the metal portion 3 of duct assembly 2 . The pressure combined with the volume in cuff 10 provided a visual and a measurable flow of air through vent hole 14 in cuff 10 , thereby meeting the objective of the invention.
The embodiments disclosed herein are exemplary in nature and are not intended to restrict the scope of the invention. Alternate materials, methods of securing the various parts on the invention, and different configurations and shapes for the cuff, manifold block and cap are contemplated as being within the scope of the invention.
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A leak detector for an insulated duct carrying pressurized hot air comprises a cuff secured over a circumferential cut in the insulation of the duct, thereby creating a reservoir of hot air which has leaked from the duct, a manifold defining a conduit therein in communication with the hot air reservoir and a cap for securing heat sensitive wires to manifold at the end of the conduit such that the hot air from the hot air reservoir impinges directly on the heat sensitive wires.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This non-provisional application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) on Patent Application No. 2006-318523 filed in Japan on Nov. 27, 2006, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates to novel water-soluble silicon-containing polymers and a method for preparing the same. More particularly, it relates to water-soluble silicon-containing polymers containing a plurality of primary amino groups and a hydrolyzable silyl group and having water solubility and high reactivity with organic and inorganic resins, a method for preparing the same, a coating composition comprising the same, and an article coated and treated therewith.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] In the prior art, composite materials are prepared by treating glass fiber preforms such as glass cloth, glass tape, glass mat, and glass paper and mica preforms serving as an inorganic reinforcement with organic resins such as epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins and unsaturated polyester resins. These composite materials find use in a wide variety of applications. Laminates are often made of such composite materials. It is desired to improve the mechanical strength, electrical properties, water resistance, boiling water resistance, chemical resistance, and weatherability of such laminates. It was proposed to pretreat the inorganic reinforcements with silane coupling agents such as γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, β-aminoethyl-γ-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, and γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, prior to the treatment with organic resins. This pretreatment enhances the adhesion of resins to the inorganic reinforcements.
[0004] Among others, those composite materials using phenolic resins as the organic resin have excellent heat resistance, dimensional stability and moldability and have long been used as the molding material in the basic industrial fields including automobiles, electric and electronic equipment. Under the recent trend aiming at reduced cost and weight, active attempts have been made to replace metal parts by high-strength molded parts of glass fiber-reinforced phenolic resins. In order to promote metal replacement in the future, the key is to achieve a high strength which has never been reached by prior art glass fiber-reinforced phenolic resin moldings. To achieve a high strength, many techniques of treating glass fibers with amino-silane coupling agents to enhance the adhesion to the matrix resin have been proposed. The treatment with coupling agents alone, however, encounters certain limits in enhancing strength. Under the circumstances, several techniques have been proposed for further improving the adhesion between glass fibers and matrix resins.
[0005] JP-A 52-12278 discloses that glass fibers to be admixed with a thermosetting resin are pretreated by applying a primer resin compatible with the thermosetting resin or a mixture of the primer resin and another primer agent such as a silane coupling agent closely to surfaces of glass fibers. It is described that high strength is achieved by dispersing the pretreated fibers in the thermosetting resin. This technique, however, exerts a rather little effect of enhancing the strength of molding material and is uneconomical because autoclave treatment is necessary at the stage when glass fibers are pretreated. For a diallyl phthalate polymer matrix, glass fibers pretreated with a diallyl phthalate polymer and a silane coupling agent are used. The disclosure thus refers to only the strength enhancement effect due to reaction and interaction between these diallyl phthalate resins, but nowhere to phenolic resin molding materials.
[0006] JP-A 10-7883 discloses a technique of producing a phenolic resin composition with improved rotational rupture strength by first sizing glass fibers with a phenolic resin of the same type as a matrix phenolic resin, then treating them with a coupling agent, and incorporating the treated glass fibers in a phenolic resin composition. With this technique, however, surfaces of glass fibers are directly treated with the phenolic resin. Since the phenolic resin generally has weak chemical bonding forces with glass fibers, a firm adhesion is not available between the fibers and the matrix resin. This technique is thus less effective in enhancing the strength of molding material.
[0007] In connection with the above technique, JP-A 2001-270974 discloses a technique of improving the mechanical strength of a phenolic resin composition at normal and elevated temperatures by treating glass fibers with a phenolic resin of the same type as a matrix phenolic resin and an amino-silane coupling agent at the same time, or treating with an amino-silane coupling agent and then with a phenolic resin of the same type as a matrix phenolic resin, and incorporating the treated fibers in a phenolic resin composition. The amino-silane coupling agent used herein has one or two primary amino and secondary amino groups per hydrolyzable silyl group. The degree of bond between the coupling agent with which glass fibers are treated and the phenolic resin is not sufficient. Then the coupling agent is regarded to be a factor of reducing the strength of the resin composition.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer containing a plurality of amino groups capable of reacting with an organic resin portion to form bonds and thus useful as a primer, a method for preparing the same, a coating composition comprising the same, and an article coated and treated with the composition.
[0009] The inventor has succeeded in synthesizing a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer having a plurality of amino groups capable of reacting with an organic resin to form chemical bonds per hydrolyzable silyl group capable of reacting with an inorganic material to form a chemical bond.
[0010] In a first aspect, the invention provides a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer comprising recurring units having the general formula (1) and bearing a plurality of primary amino groups and a hydrolyzable silyl or silanol group.
[0000]
[0000] Herein m is a number from 10 to 260, n is a number from 1 to 100, X is a C 1 -C 10 alkylene chain which may be substituted with a C 1 -C 6 alkyl group, R is hydrogen, a C 1 -C 4 alkyl group or acetyl group, and “a” is an integer of 1 to 3.
[0011] Also provided is a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer comprising recurring units having the general formula (2) and bearing a plurality of primary amino groups and a hydrolyzable silyl or silanol group.
[0000]
[0012] Herein m is a number from 10 to 260, n is a number from 1 to 100, X is a C 1 -C 10 alkylene chain which may be substituted with a C 1 -C 6 alkyl group, R is hydrogen, a C 1 -C 4 alkyl group or acetyl group, R′ is hydrogen or methyl, and “b” is an integer of 1 to 3.
[0013] In preferred embodiments, some amino groups are in the form of hydrogen chloride salts and/or organic acid salts; m and n are numbers in the range: 0.003≦n/(m+n)≦0.9; and the polymer has an average molecular weight of 300 to 3,000.
[0014] In a second aspect, the invention provides a method for preparing a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer comprising recurring units having the general formula (1), the method comprising the steps of reacting a water-soluble primary amino group-containing polymer having the general formula (3):
[0000]
[0000] wherein m and n are as defined above, with a silicon compound having the general formula (4):
[0000] Y−X—Si(OR) a (CH 3 ) 3-a (4)
[0000] wherein Y is a halogen atom, X, R, and “a” are as defined above, in an alcohol and/or water, and neutralizing the hydrogen halide resulting from the reaction.
[0015] Also provided is a method for preparing a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer comprising recurring units having the general formula (2), the method comprising the steps of reacting a water-soluble primary amino group-containing polymer having the general formula (3):
[0000]
[0000] wherein m and n are as defined above, with a silicon compound having the general formula (5):
[0000] CH 2 ═CR′—COO—X—Si(OR) b (CH 3 ) 3-b (5)
[0000] wherein X, R, R′, and “b” are as defined above, in an alcohol and/or water, and neutralizing the hydrogen halide resulting from the reaction.
[0016] In the method for preparing a water-soluble silicon-containing polymer of formula (1), after the step of reacting the water-soluble polymer having formula (3) with the silicon compound having formula (4) in an alcohol and/or water, the hydrogen halide resulting from the reaction may not be neutralized so that in the water-soluble polymer of formula (1), some amino groups are in the form of hydrogen halide salts.
[0017] In preferred embodiments, m and n are numbers in the range: 0.003≦n/(m+n)≦0.9; and the water-soluble polymer has an average molecular weight of 300 to 3,000.
[0018] In a third aspect, the invention provides a coating composition comprising the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer and water and/or an organic solvent.
[0019] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides an article which is coated and treated with the coating composition.
BENEFITS OF THE INVENTION
[0020] Since a plurality of primary amino groups are included per hydrolyzable silyl group in the molecule, the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer of the invention offers an increased number of reaction sites with organic resins and hence stronger bonding forces thereto, as compared with prior art amino-silane coupling agents. When inorganic fillers such as glass fibers and silica, ceramics and metal substrates are coated or treated with the polymer, a better performance is achieved as compared with prior art amino-silane coupling agents having an amino to silyl group ratio of 1:1 in the molecule.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0021] The notation (Cn-Cm) means a group containing from n to m carbon atoms per group. The term “polymer” refers to high-molecular-weight compounds.
[0022] The water-soluble silicon-containing polymers of the invention have the general formulae (1) and (2).
[0000]
[0000] Herein m is a number from 10 to 260, n is a number from 1 to 100, X is a C 1 -C 10 alkylene chain which may be substituted with a C 1 -C 6 alkyl group, R is hydrogen, a C 1 -C 4 alkyl group or acetyl group, and “a” is an integer of 1 to 3.
[0000]
[0023] Herein m is a number from 10 to 260, n is a number from 1 to 100, X is a C 1 -C 10 alkylene chain which may be substituted with a C 1 -C 6 alkyl group, R is hydrogen, a C 1 -C 4 alkyl group or acetyl group, R′ is hydrogen or methyl, and “b” is an integer of 1 to 3.
[0024] Preferably, m and n are in the range: 10≦m≦100 and 1≦n≦80, and more preferably 10≦m≦75 and 1≦n≦50. It is noted that the polymers of formulae (1) and (2) are terminated with hydrogen atoms.
[0025] The water-soluble silicon-containing polymer has a plurality of primary amino groups, and is present in such a state that some amino groups within its molecular structure have reacted with a silane coupling agent to form bonds. Specifically, in a first embodiment wherein a silane coupling agent having a haloalkyl group is used, dehydrochlorination reaction occurs in such a way that the nitrogen atom of an amino group is attached to the carbon atom to which the halogen has been attached, resulting in a structure in which the nitrogen and silicon atoms are linked by an alkylene chain. In a second embodiment wherein a silane coupling agent having a (meth)acrylic group is used, the nitrogen atom of an amino group undergoes Michael addition (or 1,4-addition) to an unsaturated carbon of a (meth)acrylic group, resulting in a structure in which the nitrogen and silicon atoms are linked by an alkylene chain which is separated by an oxygen atom and has a carbonyl carbon incorporated midway. The aforementioned reaction of an amino group with a silane coupling agent may be carried out either prior to or subsequent to polymer formation. Namely, by reacting a water-soluble polymer having a plurality of primary amino groups with a silane coupling agent, a hydrolyzable silyl group may be introduced into that polymer. Alternatively, a water-soluble polymer having a hydrolyzable silyl group introduced therein may be obtained by reacting an amino compound having a primary amino group with a silane coupling agent, then effecting polymerization or polycondensation reaction.
[0026] Also in the first embodiment wherein a silane coupling agent having a haloalkyl group is used, hydrochloric acid forms as a by-product and so, some amino groups in the molecule become ammonium groups. This hydrogen chloride salt may or may not be neutralized with a metal alkoxide or the like into an inorganic salt.
[0027] While the silane coupling agent capable of reacting with a primary amino group to form a bond is used for introducing a hydrolyzable silyl group into the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer of the invention, exemplary silane coupling agents include silicon compounds having the general formulae (4) and (5).
[0000]
[0000] Note that Y is a halogen atom, X, R, R′, a and b are as defined above.
[0028] Examples of suitable silicon compounds include, but are not limited to, chloromethyltrimethoxysilane, chloromethylmethyldimethoxysilane, chloromethyldimethylmethoxysilane, chloromethyltriethoxysilane, chloromethylmethyldiethoxysilane, chloromethyldimethylethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-chloropropylmethyldimethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyldimethylmethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyltriethoxysilane, 3-chloropropylmethyldiethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyldimethylethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropylmethyldimethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropyldimethylmethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropyltriethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropylmethyldiethoxysilane, 3-chloro-2-methylpropyldimethylethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethyltrimethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethylmethyldimethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethyldimethylmethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethyltriethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethylmethyldiethoxysilane, (meth)acryloxymethyldimethylethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropyldimethylmethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropyltriethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxypropyldimethylethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropylmethyldimethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropyldimethylmethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropyltriethoxysilane, 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropylmethyldiethoxysilane, and 3-(meth)acryloxy-2-methylpropyldimethylethoxysilane. Inter alia, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane are most preferred. These silicon compounds may be used alone or in admixture.
[0029] The water-soluble polymer having primary amino groups which is a precursor resin to the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer of the invention includes a polyallylamine obtained through homopolymerization of an allylamine which is a polymerizable monomer having a primary amino group. Other vinyl monomer units may be polymerized together insofar as this does not interfere with water solubility.
[0030] In preferred embodiments, a water-soluble polymer having primary amino groups represented by the general formula (3):
[0000]
[0000] wherein m and n are as defined above is reacted with a halogen-containing organosilicon compound of formula (4) or a (meth)acryloxy-containing silicon compound of formula (5) in an alcohol and/or water.
[0031] Examples of the alcohol used herein include lower alcohols of 1 to 4 carbon atoms, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, and butanol, with methanol and ethanol being preferred. The alcohol and/or water is preferably used in such amounts that the reaction mixture has a nonvolatile concentration of 20 to 50% by weight. Where alcohol and water are used in admixture, the preferred mixture contains 1 part by weight of water and 7 to 9 parts by weight of alcohol. The reaction temperature is generally up to 100° C., and preferably 25° C. to 70° C. The reaction time, which may be selected as appropriate, is generally 1 to 100 hours, and preferably 2 to 50 hours.
[0032] Referring back to formulae (1) and (2), the subscripts m and n stand for the number of allylamine units and the number of units resulting from reaction of allylamine with silane, respectively. A ratio of m to n represents a ratio of primary amino groups to silyl groups in the molecule. If 260<m or 100<n, which indicates a higher molecular weight, then such a polymer cannot be manufactured consistently because it reaches a very high viscosity at the synthesis stage. If m<10, and especially m=0, then acceptable water solubility is not available. If n<1, then a polymer lacks adhesion to inorganic materials. Whether the silane coupling agent to be reacted with the polyallylamine precursor resin is formula (4) or (5), the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer should preferably satisfy the equation: 0.003° n/(m+n)≦0.9, and more preferably 0.06≦n/(m+n)≦0.5 wherein n/(m+n) represents a ratio of the quantity (n) of silyl groups introduced to the quantity (m) of residual amino groups. If n/(m+n) is smaller than the range, then a polymer may lack adhesion to inorganic materials. If n/(m+n) is larger than the range, then a polymer may lack water solubility. It is then recommended that the polymer of formula (3) and the silicon compound of formula (4) or (5) be selected and used so that m and n may satisfy the above range.
[0033] It is noted that when the polymers of formulae (1) and (2) are neutralized with hydrochloric acid or an organic acid such as acetic acid, some amino groups become hydrogen chloride salts or organic acid salts. In the embodiment wherein the polymer of formula (3) is reacted with the silicon compound of formula (4), if the hydrogen halide formed is not removed, then the polymer of formula (1) is available as a polymer in which amino groups are hydrogen halide salts.
[0034] Preferably, the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer has a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 300 to 3,000, and more preferably 1,000 to 2,000, as determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) versus polystyrene standards. If Mw is greater than 3,000, then a polymer may be prone to gel and thus be difficult to manufacture and hold in shelf. If Mw is less than 300, then polymer synthesis is difficult because of uncontrollable polymerization.
[0035] Most often, the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer is used as a coating agent or primer. On such use, the coating composition may contain a solvent such as methanol or ethanol, if necessary. Typically, the composition contains 5 to 90%, and preferably 10 to 80% by weight of the polymer and the balance of the solvent.
[0036] The substrates to be coated or treated with the water-soluble silicon-containing polymer include inorganic materials which are generally reactive with hydrolyzable silyl groups to form bonds and organic resins which are generally reactive with amino groups to form bonds. The shape of substrates is not particularly limited. Typical examples of inorganic materials include inorganic fillers such as silica, glass fibers and fiber glass items such as glass cloth, glass tape, glass mat and glass paper, ceramics, and metal substrates. Typical examples of organic resins include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, polyimide resins, and unsaturated polyester resins.
EXAMPLE
[0037] Examples of the invention are given below by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. All parts are by weight. In Examples, pH is a measurement at 25° C. The viscosity is measured at 25° C. by a Brookfield rotational viscometer. The abbreviation GC is gas chromatography, NMR is nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Mw is a weight average molecular weight as determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) versus polystyrene standards, and DOP is a degree of polymerization.
Example 1
[0038] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 65.5 parts (0.33 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 2.0 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. 17.82 parts (0.33 mole) of sodium methylate was added to the solution, which was stirred at 60-70° C. for one hour, during which the amine hydrogen chloride salt in the solution was converted into sodium chloride. Thereafter, the precipitated sodium chloride was filtered off, and the filtrate was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 12.2 and a viscosity of 8.6 mPa·s and contained 0.5 wt % of chloride ions originating from the sodium chloride. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 12.75 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 4.25
Example 2
[0039] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 32.8 parts (0.17 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 1.0 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. 8.9 parts (0.17 mole) of sodium methylate was added to the solution, which was stirred at 60-70° C. for one hour, during which the amine hydrogen chloride salt in the solution was converted into sodium chloride. Thereafter, the precipitated sodium chloride was filtered off, and the filtrate was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 12.3 and a viscosity of 2.1 mPa·s and contained 0.4 wt % of chloride ions originating from the sodium chloride. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 14.87 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 2.13
Example 3
[0040] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 20 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Mw=700) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 83.4 parts (0.42 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 2.0 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. 22.7 parts (0.42 mole) of sodium methylate was added to the solution, which was stirred at 60-70° C. for one hour, during which the amine hydrogen chloride salt in the solution was converted into sodium chloride. Thereafter, the precipitated sodium chloride was filtered off, and the filtrate was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 11.8 and a viscosity of 5.3 mPa·s and contained 0.5 wt % of chloride ions originating from the sodium chloride. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 12 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 18.93 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 3.07
Example 4
[0041] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 20 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Mw=2500) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 85.4 parts (0.43 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 2.0 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. 22.7 parts (0.42 mole) of sodium methylate was added to the solution, which was stirred at 60-70° C. for one hour, during which the amine hydrogen chloride salt in the solution was converted into sodium chloride. Thereafter, the precipitated sodium chloride was filtered off, and the filtrate was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 11.5 and a viscosity of 15.1 mPa·s and contained 0.5 wt % of chloride ions originating from the sodium chloride. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 44 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 33.04 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 10.96
Example 5
[0042] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 65.5 parts (0.33 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 2.0 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. The solution was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellowish brown solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 11.1 and a viscosity of 9.6 mPa·s and contained 2.0 wt % of chloride ions originating from the amine hydrogen chloride salt. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 12.75 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 4.25
Example 6
[0043] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 77.2 parts (0.33 mole) of 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 5 hours. The reactant, 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane was consumed with the progress of reaction. The solution was analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. The solution was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which was quickly miscible with water and had pH 11.7 and a viscosity of 2.7 mPa·s. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NH 2 )] 12.75 [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 COOCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 4.25
Comparative Example 1
[0044] Water was removed from 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-25, Mw=25,000, DOP=−439) by vacuum distillation. The solution increased its viscosity as the amount of water decreased. Finally, the solution became quite difficult to handle, and water removal was no longer possible. Methanol was added to dissolve the solids, obtaining a mixed solution of 15 wt % methanol and water. 65.5 parts (0.33 mole) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added to this solution whereupon the silane gelled. Synthesis could no longer continue.
Comparative Example 2
[0045] Water was removed from 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-25, Mw=25,000, DOP=−439) by vacuum distillation. The solution increased its viscosity as the amount of water decreased. Finally, the solution became quite difficult to handle, and water removal was no longer possible. Methanol was added to dissolve the solids, obtaining a mixed solution of 15 wt % methanol and water. 77.2 parts (0.33 mole) of 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane was added to this solution whereupon the silane gelled. Synthesis could no longer continue.
Comparative Example 3
[0046] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 260.7 parts (1.31 moles) of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 40 hours. As hydrogen chloride formed with the progress of reaction, the reaction solution increased its chloride ion content. The chloride ion content of the solution was then measured by potentiometric titration using silver nitrate. The solution was found to have a chloride ion content of 6.1 wt %, which was equal to the quantity of chloride ions liberated on the completion of reaction. The completion of reaction was identified by this measurement. The solution was also analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. 70.7 parts (1.31 moles) of sodium methylate was added to the solution, which was stirred at 60-70° C. for one hour, during which the amine hydrogen chloride salt in the solution was converted into sodium chloride. Thereafter, the precipitated sodium chloride was filtered off, and the filtrate was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution was a clear yellow solution which had pH 12.1 and a viscosity of 10.3 mPa·s and contained 0.5 wt % of chloride ions originating from the sodium chloride. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 17
[0000] This solution, however, was less water soluble because it turned white turbid when mixed with water.
Comparative Example 4
[0047] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution. The solution, to which 306.5 parts (1.31 moles) of 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane was added, was stirred at 60-70° C. for 5 hours. The reactant, 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane was consumed with the progress of reaction. The solution was analyzed by GC, but no peaks of the reactant, 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane were detected. On NMR analysis of silicon, there were observed no signals of 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane and instead, signals probably attributable to a target compound were observed. The completion of reaction was thus proven. The solution was diluted with methanol to a concentration of 15 wt % of the active ingredient. The solution had pH 11.9 and a viscosity of 6.5 mPa·s. The substrate polymer had a degree of polymerization of about 17 and the following average structural formula.
[0000] [CH 2 CH(CH 2 NHCH 2 CH 2 COOCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Si(OCH 3 ) 3 )] 17
[0000] This solution, however, was less water soluble because it turned white turbid when mixed with water.
Comparative Example 5
[0048] A primer composition was obtained by dissolving
[0049] 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane in methanol in a concentration of 15 wt %.
Comparative Example 6
[0050] Solvent exchange was carried out on 500.0 parts of a 15 wt % aqueous solution of polyallylamine (Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd, PAA-01, Mw=1000) by removing water under reduced pressure and adding methanol instead. It turned to a 15 wt % methanol solution, which was used as a primer composition.
Example 7
Preparation of Polyurethane Elastomer for Adhesion Test
[0051] 150 parts of polyoxytetramethylene glycol with a number average molecular weight of 1,000, 100 parts of 1,6-xylene glycol, 0.5 part of water, 200 parts of hexamethylene diisocyanate, and 800 parts of dimethylformamide were mixed by agitation, and heated at 90° C. The mixture was agitated at the temperature for a further 2 hours, allowing the reaction to run. The reaction was stopped by adding 3 parts of dibutyl amine. The excess of amine was neutralized with acetic anhydride, yielding a polyurethane elastomer.
[0052] [Adhesion Test of Primer]
[0053] Each of the primer compositions obtained in Examples and Comparative Examples was brush coated to glass, steel and aluminum plates, and dried at 120° C. for 5 minutes. The polyurethane elastomer was brush coated thereon and dried at 100° C. for 10 minutes. The coating was subjected to a crosshatch adhesion test by scribing the coating in orthogonal directions at intervals of 1 mm to define 100 sections, attaching a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape to the coating, and stripping the tape. The number of stripped coating sections was counted, based on which the adhesion of primer to the urethane resin and the inorganic substrate was evaluated. For all the primers of Examples, the number of stripped sections was zero, when applied to the three substrates. Superior adhesion performance was demonstrated.
[0054] [Water Solubility Test of Primer]
[0055] Each of the primer compositions obtained in Examples and Comparative Examples was held for about 10 hours in a 10 wt % aqueous solution form. Then the solution was visually observed for turbidity due to insoluble matter, precipitation, and layer separation.
[0056] The results of the adhesion test and water solubility test on the compositions of Examples and Comparative Examples are shown in Tables 1, 2 and 3.
[0000]
TABLE 1
Substrate
Adhesion
Water solubility
Glass plate
Example 1
100/100
◯
Example 2
100/100
◯
Example 3
100/100
◯
Example 4
100/100
◯
Example 5
100/100
◯
Example 6
100/100
◯
Comparative Example 3
68/100
Δ
Comparative Example 4
72/100
Δ
Comparative Example 5
94/100
Δ
Comparative Example 6
73/100
◯
[0000]
TABLE 2
Substrate
Adhesion
Steel plate
Example 1
100/100
Example 2
100/100
Example 3
100/100
Example 4
100/100
Example 5
100/100
Example 6
100/100
Comparative Example 3
61/100
Comparative Example 4
60/100
Comparative Example 5
95/100
Comparative Example 6
63/100
[0000]
TABLE 3
Substrate
Adhesion
Aluminum plate
Example 1
100/100
Example 2
100/100
Example 3
100/100
Example 4
100/100
Example 5
100/100
Example 6
100/100
Comparative Example 3
75/100
Comparative Example 4
73/100
Comparative Example 5
90/100
Comparative Example 6
68/100
[0057] It is proven from the data of Examples and Comparative Examples that better results of adhesion are accomplished by the primer composition of the invention.
[0058] Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-318523 is incorporated herein by reference.
[0059] Although some preferred embodiments have been described, many modifications and variations may be made thereto in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
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A water-soluble silicon-containing polymer is provided comprising recurring units having formula (1) wherein 10≦m≦260, 1≦n≦100, X is an alkylene chain which may have an alkyl substituent, R is H, alkyl or acetyl, and “a”=1, 2 or 3. The polymer has more than one primary amino group per hydrolyzable silyl group, affording an increased number of reaction sites with organic resins and forming a firm bond therewith.
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This invention was partially made with funds provided by the Department of Health and Human Services under Grant No. NIH-GM49594. Accordingly, the United States Government has certain rights in this invention.
The present application is a Division of application Ser. No. 08/862,865, filed May 23, 1997, which claims priority to provisional application Ser. No. 60/018,319, filed May 24, 1996.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention concerns novel approaches for preparation by synthesis of the 3-phosphate derivatives of 1D-1-(1',2'-di-O-fattyacyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-myo-inositols (PtdIns), referred to as the D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositides or the 3-PPI (FIG. 1), their structural and stereochemical analogues, and, key starting materials and intermediates of these approaches.
3-PPI are relatively new members of the phosphoinositide group of cellular lipids with emerging critical roles in intracellular signalling. Synthetic 3-PPI and analogues are needed as reagents for defining their biological functions, and for developing diagnostics and therapeutics.
The 3-PPI (FIG. 1) including phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate, PtdIns(3)P, and the bis- and tris-phosphate derivatives PtdIns(3,4)P 2 and PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , have been found in eukaryotic cells (1), and the occurrence of PtdIns(3,5)P 2 has been suggested (2). These compounds have been demonstrated as activators of protein kinase C isoforms δ, ε, and n (3), and are putative messengers in cellular signal cascades pertinent to inflammation, cell proliferation, transformation, protein kinesis, and cytoskeletal assembly (4). Minute quantities are found in cells and biochemical studies to determine the cellular targets of the 3-PPI, their metabolic fate, and their roles in the cell cycle have been handicapped because 3-PPI have not been available. Methods for synthesis of 3-PPI have been sought recently (5). These prior art methods suffer from some unique and common problems related respectively to the choice of starting materials for the myo-inositol as well as the diacylglycero-lipid moieties in the 3-PPI. In contrast with the present invention, all start with sn-1,2-diacylglycerols as the lipid moiety in the 3-PPI, and consequently are prone to problems of poor chemical stability endemic to 1,2-diacylglycerols. The latter isomerize readily via neighboring O-acyl migration to equilibrium mixtures comprising the 1,2-, 1,3- and 2,3-diacylglycerols (6). This equilibration is tantamount to racemization which is virtually complete for sn-1,2-di(short-chain)fattyacylglycerols. Therefore, resulting 3-PPI may contain racemic 1,2- 2,3- and 1,3-difattyacyl structures, especially with hexanoyl and related short-chain fattyacyls.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention to provide novel general approaches to synthesis, including novel starting materials, reaction sequences, and novel intermediate compounds, for preparation of the 3-PPI and structural analogues, all of unambiguous structure and absolute stereochemistry in the myo-inositol as well as the sn-glycerol moieties. The present starting materials, reaction sequences, and intermediate compounds, individually and collectively, have utility as materials and processes for obtaining the 3-PPI. The 3-PPI and analogues, in turn, have utility not only as research reagents but also for the development of diagnostics and therapeutics based on the roles of 3-PPI in intracellular signalling. In similar investigations of the biological roles of other bioactive compounds, analogues with reporter groups such as fluorescent tags, are often useful, and so intermediates of 3-PPIs conjugatable to reporter groups are sought.
Broadly, the invention embodies two complementary strategic approaches, and the starting materials and intermediates involved in each, based respectively on (i) synthesis from novel enantiomerically pure myo-inositol derivatives and phosphatidic acids, and (ii) partial synthesis by regioselective 3-phosphorylation of preformed phosphatidylinositol or derived phosphates.
According to one embodiment of the invention, synthesis is carried out by a novel unified approach which is suitable for facile synthesis of all cellular PtdIns-3-phosphates. It is based on the retrosynthetic analysis shown for PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 as an example in FIG. 2. The approach has several novel features. One, it uses 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (-)-1 as purposely designed starting material and 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (+)-3 as a key myo-inositol synthon. Two, it incorporates strategic O-protection by and sequentially invariant removal of allyl, 4-methoxybenzyl, and benzyl protecting groups from the inositol hydroxyls destined to appear in the target structures as phosphate, phosphatidyl, and free hydroxyl respectively. Three, it employs preformed 1,2-di-O-fattyacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoric acid (sn-3-phosphatidic acid) as the lipid synthon for coupling to appropriately O-protected myo-inositol by a phosphodiester condensation. The sn-3-phosphatidic acid are relatively stable compounds with well established absolute stereochemistry, and their application in the present invention avoids the problems of structural and stereochemical isomerization associated with the application of sn-1,2-fattyacylglycerol in the prior art. As a consequence, the approach uniquely provides unambiguous structural and stereochemical control in the myo-inositol as well as the sn-glycerol moieties, and is applicable for both short-and long-chain fattyacyl types (7). Compared with the long-chain types, the short-chain phosphoinositides are considered to be more useful in biochemical investigations (3, 4). The phosphodiester condensation products are substrates for lipolytic enzyme phospholipase A 2 and thus are valuable for incorporating additional useful structural features at a relatively late stage in synthesis. For instance, after lipolysis followed by esterification to introduce ω-amino-fattyacyls at the sn-glycerol-2 position, the ω-amino group may be conjugated to fluorescent and related reporter groups. The aforementioned attributes are useful and these distinguish the present invention from related literature methods cited above (5).
According to another embodiment of the invention, partial synthesis is based on the retrosynthetic analysis illustrated for PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 from PtdIns(4,5)P 2 in FIG. 3. It comprises the regioselective 3-phosphorylation of preformed phosphatidylinositol or derived phosphates but lacking the D-3-phosphate, for the synthesis of the 3-PPI. The preformed PtdIns obtained from natural plant or animal cell sources contain (poly)unsaturated fattyacyls. Using such natural or the corresponding synthetic phosphatidyl-inositols with unsaturated fattyacyls as the starting materials for 3-phosphorylation as disclosed in the present invention provides methods for the synthesis of 3-PPI containing (poly)unsaturated fattyacyls. These 3-PPI have special physical properties such as lower chain melting transitions for the fattyacyls than for the corresponding saturated fattyacyls, and special bioactivity related to the number, location, and stereochemistry of the double bonds in the fattyacyl chain, and so are desirable. These 3-PPI cannot be prepared by the literature methods (5).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates the structure and stereochemistry of the D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositides (the 3-PPI).
FIG. 2 illustrates retrosynthetic analysis of the D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositide PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 for synthesis from sn-3-phosphatidic acid and a selectively substituted myo-inositol.
FIG. 3 illustrates retrosynthetic analysis of the D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositide PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 for synthesis from PtdIns(4,5)P 2 .
FIG. 4 Preparation of 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (-)-1 starting material.
FIG. 5 Preparation and structures of key myo-inositol intermediates.
FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C Synthesis of selectively protected myo-inositol synthons and PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 .
FIGS. 7A and 7B Partial Synthesis of PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 from PtdIns(4,5)P 2 .
FIG. 8 PtdIns-benzyl ester, starting material for phosphorylation to PtdIns(3)P.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Synthesis from myo-Inositol
The cellular 3-PPI all belong to the 1D-myo-inositol stereochemical series. The present approach to synthesis uses 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (-)-1 as purposely designed starting material and 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (+)-3 as a key myo-inositol synthon. For the preparation of the starting material (FIG. 4), reaction of highly purified (±)-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositol (8) and allyl bromide in DMF at 0-5° C. with gradual addition of NaH as a new protocol providing kinetic control, resulted in highly selective mono-allylation at 3-OH, such that (±)-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol 1a (9) was obtained pure by crystallization without need for liquid chromatography. Esterification of the (±)-3-O-allyl derivative using (1s)-(-)-camphanic acid chloride/NEt 3 and separation of the diastereomeric esters by MPLC on silica and crystallization from acetone gave each of the two diastereomers (>80% yield) in >98% purity as judged by TLC, HPLC and 1 H NMR. Alkali catalyzed hydrolysis of the more polar of the two diastereomeric esters 1b, [α] D -16.5°, (c 1.5 CHCl 3 ) yielded (-)-1, [α] D -9.5°, (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). Similar treatment of the less polar diastereomer 1c, [α] D -2.03°, (c 1.0 CHCl 3 ) gave (+)-1d, [α] D +9.17°, (c 0.5, CHCl 3 ). The absolute configuration of each enantiomer was established as follows. Reaction of (-)-1 successively with (i) hot HOAc-H 2 O to remove both the O-cyclohexylidene protecting groups, and (ii) an excess of NaH and BnBr in anhydrous DMF, gave 1D-3-O-allyl-1,2,4,5,6-penta-O-benzyl-myo-inositol, [α] D -2.3°, (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). Treatment of the O-benzyl derivative with potassium tert-butoxide in warm DMSO to isomerize O-allyl to O-[prop-1'-enyl] followed by methanolic HCl (10) yielded (+)-1,2,4,5,6-penta-O-benzyl-myo-inositol, [α] D +11.2°, (c 1.1, CHCl 3 ). The absolute configuration of (+)-1,2,4,5,6-penta-O-benzyl-myo-inositol has been unequivocally assigned as 1D-1,2,4,5,6-penta-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (11). Therefore, the absolute configuration of (-)-1 is derived unambiguously as 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol. Similarly, (+)-1d is assigned the 1L-configuration.
In the first step of synthesis (FIG. 5), reaction of (-)-1 with excess BnBr/NaH in DMF at R.T. overnight gave in quantitative yield its 6-O-benzyl derivative (-)-2 [α] D -51.6° (c 1.1, CHCl 3 ). Transketalization under kinetic control by reaction of (-)-2 with ethylene glycol (1.2 mole)/catalytic p-TSA in CH 2 Cl 2 at R.T. for 3 hr. gave the key synthon (+)-3, yield 81%, [α] D +26.2° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). Reaction of (+)-3 in DMF at R.T. for 8 hr. with 1.2 moles of allyl bromide and NaH yielded the complete set of intermediates required for all four known PtdIns-3-phosphates. By chromatography on silica, the following pure compounds were obtained (FIG. 5): in 28% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (-)-(4) [α] D -11.3° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ), Lit. [α] D -9.2°, (c 1.5, CHCl 3 ) (12); in 26% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4-di-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (+)-(4a), [α] D +11.6° (c 0.82, CHCl 3 ); in 24% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,5-di-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (-)-(4b) [α] D -13.5° (c 0.96, CHCl 3 ); and, in 22% yield, unchanged starting material (+)-3. The overall utilization of (+)-3 is 90% considering that the recovered compound is converted into (-)-4e in the next step (complete benzylation). Alternatively, reaction of (+)-3 as above but using an excess of allyl bromide/NaH yielded (-)-(4) in quantitative yield. Compounds (+)-4a, (-)-4b, and (+)-3 each were treated with an excess of BnBr and NaH in DMF at R.T. for 16 hr. and gave quantitative yields of the fully O-protected myo-inositols (-)-4c [α] D -5.6° (c 1.43, CHCl 3 ), (-)-4d [α] D -21.3° (c 1.23, CHCl 3 ), and (-)-4e [α] D -25.3° (c 2.0, CHCl 3 ).
Compounds (-)-4, (-)-4c, (-)-4d, and (-)-4e are intermediates respectively for the synthesis of PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , PtdIns(3,4)P 2 , PtdIns(3,5)P 2 , and PtdIns(3)P, by the sequence of reactions illustrated for PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 series (FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C). On heating at 95° C. for 3 hr. with acetic acid-water (80:20), (-)-4 lost the O-cyclohexylidene protection and gave the 1,2-diol (-)-5 [α] D -16.2° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ), Lit. [α] D -10° (c 2, CHCl 3 ). Reaction of (-)-5 with Bu 2 SnO in toluene with azeotropic removal of H 2 O, rotary evaporation, solvent change to DMF and treatment with 4-methoxybenzyl chloride at 50° C. for 8 hr. provided high selectivity for reaction at the equatorial 1-OH over axial 2-OH (91:9) and gave after chromatography on silica (+)-6 [α] D +6.8° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). On treatment with excess BnBr/NaH in DMF at R.T. for 16 hr., (+)-6 produced 1D-1-O-(4'-methoxybenzyl)-3,4,5-O-tri-O-allyl-2,6-di-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (-)-7 [α] D -8.0° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). Compound (-)-7 incorporates 3 types of blocking groups arranged for selective and successive deblocking and liberation of hydroxyls, from O-allyls for dibenzylphos-phorylation, from the 1-O-(4'-methoxybenzyl) for phosphatidylation, and the O-benzyls to regenerate the free hydroxyls in the target structure. Reaction of (-)-7 with 10% Pd-C in methanol-acetic acid-water (98:2:0.1) under reflux caused complete O-deallylation to yield (-)-8 [α] D -7.5° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). Reaction of (-)-8 in DMF with NaH and tetrabenzyl pyrophosphate (13) produced the 3,4,5-tris-O-(dibenzyl phosphate) derivative (-)-9 [α] D -9.5° (c 2.9, CHCl 3 ). The treatment of (-)-9 with DDQ in CH 2 Cl 2 yielded the 1D-2,6-O-dibenzyl-myo-inositol 3,4,5-tris-(dibenzylphosphate) (-)-10 [α] D -6.5° (c 0.2, CHCl 3 ), a key intermediate for the preparation of PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 . The same sequence of reactions as described above for compound (-)-4 (FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C), carried out with (-)-4c, (-)-4d, and (-)-4e, gave 10c, 10d, and 10e as the corresponding intermediates respectively for the preparation of PtdIns(3,4)P 2 , PtdIns(3,5)P 2 , and PtdIns(3)P.
The next step in this synthesis is the condensation of the selectively protected 1D-myo-inositol derivative (-)-10, 10c, 10d, or 10e with the lipid sn-3-phosphatidic acid. Methods for the preparation of sn-3-phosphatidic acids are well known in the literature and in fact sn-phospahtidic acids with a variety of fattyacyls are available from commercial sources.
Reaction of (-)-10 with 1,2-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoric acid (14) (13) in anhydrous pyridine and triisopropyl-benzenesulfonyl chloride as condensing agent (15) at R.T. for 18 hr. gave the phosphodiester product 1D-1-(1',2'-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-myo-inositol-3,4,5-tris-(dibenzylphosphate) (+)-11 [α] D +4.0° (c 0.3, CHCl 3 ). Hydrogenolysis of (+)-11 in ethanol using Pd-black and H 2 gas at 45 psi yielded 1D-(1',2'-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-myo-inositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate, PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , (+)-12 [α] D +5.8° (c 0.2, CHCl 3 --MeOH--H 2 O, 2:1:0.1), Lit. [α] D +3.7 (c 0.5, CHCl 3 ). 5b
The present choice of preformed sn-3-phosphatidic acid as the lipid synthon merits special comment. It contrasts with the related syntheses which all utilize sn-1,2-diacylglycerol in tetrazole-catalyzed reaction with (benzyloxy)bis(N,N-diisopropylamino)-phosphine, BnOP(NCH(CH 3 ) 2 ) 2 , or related phosphoramidite (5). The use of sn-3-phosphatidic acid prepared from natural sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine avoids problems endemic to the chemistry of 1,2-diacylglycerol. The latter isomerize readily via neighboring O-acyl migration to equilibrium mixtures comprising the 1,2-, 1,3- and 2,3-diacylglycerols (16), and indeed 1,3-dihexadecanoyl-glycerol is detected by TLC in the tetrazole-catalyzed reaction of sn-1,2-dihexadecanoylglycerol with BnOP(NCH(CH 3 ) 2 ) 2 (17). This equilibration is tantamount to racemization which is virtually complete for the reaction of sn-1,2-dihexanoylglycerol. Such propensity for racemization is absent from sn-3-phosphatidic acids. This is critically important for synthesis of PtdIns-3-phosphates with hexanoyl or shorter chain acyls.
In contrast with the long chain acyl derivatives which are self-aggregating in water, the short chain analogues are expected to form monomeric solutions and are considered advantageous as biochemical probes (3,4). The absolute configuration of sn-3-phosphatidic acids is well established, and that of the key myo-inositol synthon is derived unequivocally based on their preparation from (-)-1. The one-step esterification of the sn-3-phosphatidic acid and the myo-inositol synthon is stereochemically innocuous. Thus, the present approach ensures that the structural and stereochemical integrity of the lipid and the myo-inositol synthons is conveyed faithfully and unambiguously to the target phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphates.
Partial Synthesis of PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 from PtdIns(4,5)P 2
The partial synthesis of 3-PPI by regioselective phosphorylation at 3-OH in preformed phosphoinositides (FIG. 7) is illustrated by the regioselective phosphorylation at 3-OH of PtdIns(4,5)P 2 . A 2,3-dibutylstannylene derivative was formed in situ by reaction with dibutyltin oxide followed by reaction with dibenzyl chlorophosphate without overt blocking of other alcoholic hydroxyls in the molecule. Purification followed by removal of benzyl protection by hydrogenation gave PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , identical in TLC comparison with the product (+)-12 but different from PtdIns(2,4,5)P 3 obtained by unequivocal synthesis from 1D-1-(1',2'-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-3,6-dibenzyl-myo-inositol-4,5-bis(dibenzylphosphate).
In an alternative approach, the reaction at room temperature between PtdIns-benzyl ester (FIG. 8) in anhydrous pyridine with 2-trichloroethylphosphoric acid using triisopropylbenzenesulphonyl chloride gave a mixture. With 0.1 mol proportion of 2-trichloroethylphosphoric acid, a single product was formed. On treatment with activated zinc and acetic acid to remove the 2-trichloroethyl protecting group, followed by NaI in anhydrous acetone for anionic debenzylation, a mixture of unchanged PtdIns and PtdIns(3)P was obtained, and separated by liquid chromatography on aminiopropylsilica column.
The product distribution in the phosphorylation of PtdIns-benzyl ester described above was controlled experimentally by varying the mol proportion of the reactants to obtain concurrently all possible 3-PPI structures as phosphoinositide "libraries". The individual 3-PPI as well as the "libraries" have immense potential value as probes in bioactivity screens. Other direct or indirect phosphorylation reagents and protocols may be utilized for the phosphorylation step.
EXAMPLE 1
1D-1-(1',2'-Dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-myo-inositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate, PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , (+)-12
(±)-1:2:4,5-Di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1a)
To a solution of 105 g (0.309 mol) of DL-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositol in 400 ml DMF, 26 ml (0.30 mol) allyl bromide (from a dropping funnel) was added under N 2 at 0-5° C. and 16.6 g (0.415 mol, 40% oil) NaH was added gradually. Reaction was left at R.T. overnight. TLC (solvent: CH 2 Cl 2 /ether 95:5) showed D,L-1:2:4,5-Di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol as the major product. Excess NaH was destroyed with DH 2 O at 0-5° C. DMF and H 2 O were evaporated. Residue was extracted with CHCl 3 , dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction product crystallized three times from acetone gave pure DL-1:2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1a). (76.3 g, 65%).
1D-1,2:4,5-Di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-camphanate-myo-inositol (1b)
To a solution of 25.5 g (0.067 mol) of D,L-1:2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1a) in 200 ml CH 2 Cl 2 , 10 ml triethylamine and 16.0 g (0.074 mol) of (1S)-(-)-camphanic acid chloride in CH 2 Cl 2 (from a dropping funnel) were added at 0-5° C. Reaction was left at R.T. overnight. TLC (solvent: hexane/ethyl acetate 80:20) showed reaction was complete. Reaction was neutralized, extracted, dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel, 200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/CH 2 Cl 2 /ethyl acetate followed with crystalization gave pure 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-camphanate-myo-inositol (1b). (37.5 g, 100%) [α] D =-16.5° (c 1.5, CHCl 3 ).
1D-1,2:4,5-Di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1)
To 14.2 g (25.3 mmol) of 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-camphanate-myo-inositol (1b), 500 ml ether, 500 ml ethanol, 100 mg (0.29 mmol) of tetrabutyl ammonium hydrogen sulfate and 3.35 g (79.8 mmol) lithium hydroxide (in 30 ml DH 2 O, from a dropping funnel) were added. Reaction was left at R.T. overnight. TLC (solvent: CH 2 Cl 2 /ether 95:5) showed reaction was complete. Ether and ethanol were evaporated. Residue was extracted, dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was passed through a short column, eluted with CHCl 3 , gave pure 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1). (9.6 g, 100%) [α] D =-9.5° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ).
1D-1,2:4,5-Di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (2)
To a solution of 8.64 g (23 mmol) of 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-myo-inositol (1) in 180 ml DMF, 3.2 g (80 mmol, 40% oil) NaH and 4 ml (33.6 mmol), from a dropping funnel) benzyl bromide were added under N 2 at 0-5° C. Reaction was left at R.T. overnight. TLC (solvent: hexane/ethyl acetate 80:20) showed reaction was complete. Excess NaH was destroyed with DH 2 O at 0-5° C. DMF and H 2 O were evaporated, residue was extracted, dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/ethyl acetate gave pure 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (2). (10.8 g, 100%) [α] D -51.6° (c 1.1, CHCl 3 ).
1D-1,2-O-Cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (+)-3,
To a solution of 6.1 g (13.0 mmol) of 1D-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (2) in 65 ml CH 2 Cl 2 (dried over P 2 O 5 for 1 hr), 0.5 ml (8.97 mmol) of ethylene glycol and 48 mg (0.252 mmol) of p-toluenesulfonic acid were added under N 2 at R.T. After 2 hrs, TLC (solvent: CH 2 Cl 2 /acetone 95:5, product Rf: 0.2) showed reaction was complete. 5 drops of triethylamine, 15 drops of DH 2 O and 1.0438 g (11.9 mmol) of KHCO 3 were added to the flask. Reaction was later diluted with 200 ml CH 2 Cl 2 , filtered, dried, filtered again and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/ethyl acetate gave pure1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (3). (4.1 g, 81%) [α] D =+26.2° (c 1.0, CHCl). 1 H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl 3 ): δ ppm 1.54-1.71 (br m, 10H, cyclohex-), 2.7 (br, 2H, OH), 3.38 (ψt, J 9.6 Hz, 1H, H-5), 3.41-3.56 (m, 2H, H-3 & H-6), 3.89 (ψt, J 9.4 Hz, 1H, H-4), 4.01-4.15 (m, 1H, H-1), 4.16-4.28 (m, 2H, CH 2 --C═), 4.38 (dd, J 4.2, 4.2 Hz, 1H, H-2), 4.81 (q, 2H, J 11.4 & 91.8, Phenyl-CH 2 ), 5.19-5.34 (m, 2H, CH 2 ═C), 5.89-6.03 (m, 1H, --CH═C), 7.24-7.38 (m, 5H, C 6 H 5 ). In diacetate of (+)-3, 3.89 H-4, 3.38 H-5 signals shift to 5.30 and 4.99.
1D-1,2-O-Cyclohexylidene-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (4)
To a solution of 2.4 g (6.1538 mmol) of 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (3) in 50 ml DMF, 1.24 g (31 mmol, 40% oil ) of NaH and 2 ml (23.0 mmol) of allyl bromide were added under N 2 at 0-5° C. Reaction was left at R.T. overnight. TLC (solvent: hexane/ethyl acetate 80:20) showed reaction was complete. Excess NaH was destroyed with DH 2 O at 0-5° C. Reaction was extracted with CHCl 3 , dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/CH 2 Cl 2 /ethyl acetate gave pure1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (4). (2.9 g, 100%) [α] D =-11.3° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ).
Reaction of (+)-3 in DMF at R.T. for 8 hr. with 1.2 moles of allyl bromide and NaH yielded the complete set of intermediates required for all four known PtdIns-3-phosphates. By chromatography on silica, the following pure compounds were obtained (FIG. 5): in 28% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (-)-(4) [α] D -11.3° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ), Lit. [α] D -9.2°, (c 1.5, CHCl 3 ); in 26% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4-di-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (+)-(4a), [α] D +11.6° (c 0.82, CHCl 3 ); in 24% yield, 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,5-di-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (-)-(4b) 10 [α] D -13.5° (c 0.96, CHCl 3 ); and, in 22% yield, unchanged starting material (+)-3. The structures of the two monobenzyl derivatives were established by NMR spectra below.
(+)-4a, 1 H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl 3 ): δ ppm 1.17-1.74 (br m, 10H, cyclohex-), 2.64 (br, 1H, OH), 3.44 (ψt, J 9.5 Hz, 1H, H-5), 3.56-3.68 (m, 2H, H-3 and H-6), 4.12 (ψt, J 5.9 Hz, 1H, H-4), 4.17-4.21 (m, 1H, H-1), 4.17-4.32 (m, 4H, 2 CH 2 --C═), 4.35 (dd, J 4.2, 4.2 Hz, 1H, H-2), 4.80 (q, 2H, J 12.0 and 57.0, Phenyl-CH 2 ), 5.13-5.32 (m, 4H, 2 CH 2 ═C), 5.85-5.97 (m, 2H, -2 CH═C), 7.18-7.38 (m, 5H, C 6 H 5 ). In the monoacetate of (+)-4a, the 3.44 H-5 signal shifts downfield to 4.93.
The 1 H-NMR of (-)-4c, the O-benzyl derivative of (+)-4a, was identical with the spectrum of DL-4c prepared by complete benzylation, selective removal of 3,4-O-cyclohexylidene, and complete allylation from DL-1,2:3,4-di-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositol (Garegg, P. J; Iversen, T.; Johansson, R.; Lindberg, B. Carbohydr. Res. 1984, 130, 322-326)].
(-)-(4b) 1 H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl 3 ): δ ppm 1.34-1.72 (br m, 10H, cyclohex-), 2.59 (br, 1H, OH), 3.16 (ψt, J 9.4 Hz, 1H, H-5), 3.48 (q, J 9.6 and 3.7, 1H, H-3), 3.62 (ψt, J 6.6 Hz, 1H, H-6), 3.93 (ψt, J 9.5 Hz, 1H, H-4), 4.11 (q, J 5.2 and 7.0 Hz, 1H, H-1), 4.17-4.38 (m, 4H, 2 CH 2 --C═), 4.41 (dd, J 4.1, 1.1 Hz, 1H, H-2), 4.80 (q, 2H, J 11.4 and 35.4, Phenyl-CH 2 ), 5.13-5.34 (m, 4H, 2 CH 2 ═C), 5.87-5.98 (m, 2H, 2 --CH═C), 7.23-7.38 (m, 5H, C 6 H 5 ). In the monoacetate of (-)-4b, 3.93 H-4 signal is shifted downfield to 5.33 and the latter shows spin connectivity to 3.28 H-5 and 3.58 H-3 signals observed by selective irradiation at 5.58 and 1 H COSY (500 MHz).
1D-3,4,5-Tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (5)
To 4.4 g (9.36 mmol) of 1D-1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (4), 80% aqueous acetic acid was added, reaction was heated at 90° C. for several hrs. TLC (solvent: CHCl 3 /MeOH 95:5) showed the conversion was complete. Reaction was then neutralized (with KHCO 3 ), extracted (with CHCl 3 ), dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of CHCl 3 /MeOH to give pure 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (5). (3.65 g, 100%) [α] D =-16.2° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ).
1D-3,4,5-Tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (6)
A mixture of 3.65 g (9.3 mmol) of 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-myo-inositol (5), 2.65 g (1.06 mmol) of Bu 2 SnO and 50 ml toluene was heated under reflux, with azeotropic removal of water, for 2 hrs. Mixture was heated under reflux for 1 more hr after adding 150 mg (0.44 mmol) of tetrabutyl ammonium hydrogen sulfate. Toluene was then evaporated and 50 ml DMF along with 2.55 ml (1.88 mmol) of 4-methoxybenzyl chloride were added. Reaction was heated at 108-110° C. for several hrs. TLC (solvent: CH 2 Cl 2 /acetone 95:5 product Rf:0.4) showed reaction was complete. DMF was evaporated and residue was extracted, dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/CH 2 Cl 2 /ethyl acetate gave pure 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (6).(3.99 g, 84%) [α] D =+6.8° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ). (+)-6 1 H-NMR (300 MHz, CDCl 3 ): δ ppm 2.54 (br, 1H, OH), 3.05 (dd, J 2.4 and 10.0 Hz, 1H, H-1), 3.13-3.23 (m, 2H, H-3 and H-6), 3.23-3.77 (m, 1H, H-5), 3.73 (s, 3H, OCH 3 ), 3.87 (ψt, J 10.1 Hz, 1H, H-4), 3.97-3.99 (m, 1H, H-2), 4.20-4.28 (m, 6H, 3 CH 2 --C═), 4.43-4.80 (m, 4H, 2 Phenyl-CH 2 ), 5.05-5.25 (m, 6H, 3 CH 2 ═C), 5.77-5.95 (m, 3H, 3 --CH═C), 6.75-6.79 (m, 2H, aromat-), 7.13-7.35 (m, 7H, aromat-). In the monoacetate of (+)-6, the 3.97-3.99 H-2 signal shifted to 5.56 ppm.
1D-3,4,5-Tri-O-allyl -2,6-di-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (7)
To a solution of 2.728 g (5.68 mmol) of 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-6-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (6) in 20 ml DMF, 0.623 g (15.57 mmol, 40% oil) NaH, 0.66 ml (5.55 mmol) of benzyl bromide (from a dropping funnel) were added under N 2 at 0-5° C. Reaction was left at R.T. under N 2 with stirring overnight. Excess NaH was destroyed with DH 2 O at 0-5° C. DMF and H 2 O were evaporated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/CH 2 Cl 2 /ethyl acetate gave pure 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-2,6-di-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (7).(3.4 g, 100%) [α] D =-7.5° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ).
1D-2,6-Di-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (8)
To a solution of 437.8 mg (0.7296 mmol) of 1D-3,4,5-tri-O-allyl-2,6-di-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (7) in 4 ml DMSO, 1.45 g (12.921 mmol) of potassium tert-butoxide was added. Reaction was heated at 55° C. with N 2 atmosphere for several hrs. TLC (solvent: hexane/ethyl acetate 85:15 develop twice) showed the starting material had convered into the corresponding propenyl. Reaction was neutralized with 0.1M HCl to PH=7, extracted, dried, filtered and concentrated. MeOH/HOAC (95:5, 8 ml) was added to the first step product, reaction was heated at 70° C. for 21/2 hrs. TLC(solvent: CHCl 3 /MeOH/NH 4 OH 90:10:1) showed the desired product. Reaction was then filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of CHCl 3 /MeOH gave pure 1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-1-p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (8). (263 mg, 75%) [α] D =-7.5° (c 1.0, CHCl 3 ).
1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-3,4,5-tris-dibenzylphosphate-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (9)
To a solution of 169.9 mg (0.3539 mmol) of 1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (8) in 10 ml CH 2 Cl 2 (dried over P 2 O 5 ), 297.5 mg (4.247 mmol) of 1H tetrazole and 0.7 ml (2.1237 mmol) of N,N-diisopropyl dibenzylphosphoramidite were added, reaction was stirred at R.T. for 15 mins. A -40° C. cold bath was prepared and 770 mg (4.462 mmol) of 3-chloroperoxybenzoic acid was added to the reaction in the cold bath, reaction was stirred at 0° C. for 15 mins. TLC (solvent: hexane/ethyl acetate 60:40) showed the reaction was complete. 250 ml of 20% Na 2 SO 3 solution was added, reaction was stirred at R.T. for 40 mins. NaI test was checked (negative). Reaction was then extracted with CH 2 Cl 2 , washed with saturated NaHCO 3 , followed with saturated NaCl solution. CH 2 Cl 2 layer was dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH) eluted with a gradient of hexane/ethyl acetate gave pure 1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-3,4,5-tris-dibenzylphosphanate-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (9).(356.7 mg, 80%) [α] D =-9.5° (c 2.9, CHCl 3 ).
1D-2,6-Di-O-benzyl-3,4,5-tris-dibenzylphosphate-myo-inositol (10)
To 407.2 mg (0.33 mmol) of 1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-3,4,5-tris-dibenzylphosphate-1-(p-methoxybenzyl)-myo-inositol (9), 150.3 mg (0.662 mmol) of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone, 12 ml CH 2 Cl 2 and 4 drops of DH 2 O were added. Reaction was stirred at R.T. for 1 hr. TLC (solvent: CHCl 3 /ether 80:20) showed reaction was complete. Reaction was diluted with CHCl 2 , washed with cold saturated NaHCO 3 solution, followed with cold saturated NaCl solution, CH 2 Cl 2 layer was dried, filtered and concentrated. Crude reaction was chromatographed on silica gel (200-425 MESH), eluted with a gradient of CHCl 3 /ether gave pure 1D-2,6-di-O-benzyl-3,4,5-tris-dibenzylphosphate-myo-inositol (10). (335.9 mg, 89%) [α] D =-6.5° (c 0.2, CHCl 3 ).
1D-1-(1',2'-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-2,6-dibenzyl-myo-inositol-3,4,5-tris(dibenzylphosphate) (+)-11
A solution of the monohydroxy derivative (-)-10 (0.0578 g), 1,2-dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoric acid (sn-3-phosphatidic acid-dihexadecanoyl, 13) (0.0761 g) and triisopropylbenzenesulfonyl chloride (0.0685 g) in anhydrous pyridine (0.75 ml) was stirred at r.t. for 2.5 hr. Water (1 ml) was added, the mixture stirred for 1 hr and solvent evaporated in a vacuo. The residue, chromatographed on silicagel (HPLC) eluted with a gradient of CHCl 3 --CH 3 OH gave the major product 1D-(1-(1',2'-dihexadecnoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-2,6-dibenzyl-D-myo-inositol-3,4,5-tris(dibenzylphosphate) (+)-11, [α] D +4.0° (c 0.3, CHCl 3 ), (0.0685 g, 69%).
1D-1-(1',2'-Dihexadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3'-phospho)-myo-inositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate, PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 , (+)-12
Compound (+)-11 (0.0437 g) and Pd black catalyst (0.0855 g) in EtOH-terButanol (1:1, 10 ml) were shaken in H 2 (50 psi) in a Parr hydrogenation apparatus for 16 h. The catalyst was filtered and washed with aqueous ethanol. The filtrate and washings were evaporated to dryness in a vacuo and the residue washed with acetone to obtain the acetone insoluble product PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 -dihexadecanoyl, (+)-12) as a white powder (0.025 mg, 92%), [α] D +5.8° (c 0.2, CHCl 3 --MeOH--H 2 O, 2:1:0.1).
Partial Synthesis of PtdIns(3,4,5)P 3 from PtIns(4,5)P 2
The two step reaction between PtdIns(4,5)P 2 and dibenzyl chlorophosphate was carried out as one-pot operation as follows. PtdIns(4,5)P 2 24, (in solution in chloroform-methanol-water (2:1:0.1) was treated with an excess of NEt 3 and the solvents removed by rotary evaporation under reduced pressure. The resulting triethylammonium salt was dried in a vacuo over KOH pellets. The dried salt was dissolved a mixture of anhydrous methanol and toluene, mixed with dibutyltin oxide (1 mol. equiv.) and heated at 50° C. for 2 hr. The solvents methanol and toluene were evaporated in a vacuum. The methanol-free residue was suspended in anhydrous THF+DMF (1:1) containing anhydrous NEt 3 (excess), cooled to -23° C. and stirred under inert gas and a solution of dibenzyl chlorophosphate (excess) in carbon tetrachloride was added dropwise. The reaction was stirred at -23° C. for 5 hr., allowed to warm to 5° C. and treated with and allowed to stand with ice-cold water overnight. The volatiles were removed under reduced pressure, the residue dissolved in chloroform-methanol-0.5 aqueous HCL and the proportions adjusted to 2:2:1.5 to obtain the lipids in the chloroform layer. Analysis of the chloroform layer by TLC using several protocols indicated the presence of products PtdIns(3,45)P 3 .
REFERENCES AND NOTES
1. (a). Whitman, M.; Downes, C. P.; Keeler, M.; Keller, T.; Cantley L. Nature 1988, 332, 644-646. (b). Traynor-Kaplan, A. E.; Harris, A. L.; Thompson, B. L.; Taylor, P.; Sklar, L. A. Nature 1988, 334, 353-356.
2. Reviewed in: Carpenter, C. L.; Cantley, L. C. Current Opinion in Cell Biology 1996, 8, 153-158.
3. Toker, A.; Meyer, M.; Reddy, K.; Falck, J. R.; Aneja, R.; Aneja, S.; Parra, A.; Burns, D. J.; Cantley, L. C. J. Biol. Chem. 1994, 269, 32358-32367.
4. Reviewed in: Duckworth, B. C.; Cantley, L. C. Lipid Second Messengers-Handbook of Lipid Research; Plenum Press: New York. 1996, 8, pp. 125-175.
5. Syntheses of PtdIns-3-phosphates: (a) Reference 3; (b) Gou, D. M.; Chen, C. S. J. Chem. Soc. Chem. Commun. 1994, 2125-2126; (c) Reddy, K. K.; Saady, M.; Falck, J. R.; Whited, G. J. J. Org. Chem. 1995, 3385-3390; (d) Bruzik, K. S.; Kubiak, R. J. Tetrahedron Lett. 1995, 36, 2415-2418; (e) Watanabe, Y.; Tomioka, M.; Ozaki, S. Tetrahedron 1995, 51, 8969-8976.
6. Freeman, I. P.; Morton, I. D., J. Chem. Soc. 1966, 1710-1714. Serdarevich, B. J. Amer. Oil Chemists' Soc. 1967, 44, 381-385.
7. The fattyacyl composition of the cellular PtdIns-3-phosphates is presumed to be identical with cellular PtdIns(4,5)P 2 ; reference 1a.
8. Aneja, R.; Aneja, S. G.; Parra, A. Tetrahedron Asymmetry 1995 (No. 1), 17-18.
9. Shashidhar, M. S.; Keana, F. W.; Volwerk, J. J.; Griffith O. H. Chem. Phys. Lipids, 1990, 53, 103-113.
10. Gigg, J.; Gigg, R.; Payne, S.; Conant, R. J. Chem. Soc. Perkin Trans. I 1987, 1757-1762.
11. Aneja, R.; Aneja, S.; Pathak, V. P.; Ivanova, P. T. Tetrahedron Lett. 1994, 35, 6061-6062.
12. Gou, D. M.; Liu, Y. K.; Chen, S. C. Carbohydr. Res. 1992, 234, 51-64.
13. Chouinard, P. M.; Bartlett, P. A. J. Org. Chem. 1986, 51, 75-78.
14. Aneja R. Biochem. Soc. Trans. 1974, 2, 38-41.
15. Aneja, R.; Chadha, J. S.; Davies, A. P. Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1970, 218, 102-111. Aneja, R.; Davies, A. P. Chem. Phys. Lipids 1970, 4, 60-71.
16. Freeman, I. P.; Morton, I. D., J. Chem. Soc. 1966, 1710-1714. Serdarevich, B. J. Amer. Oil Chemists' Soc. 1967, 44, 381-385.
17. Aneja, R.; Ivanova, P. T. Unpublished.
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Disclosed are unique starting materials, reaction sequences and intermediate compounds for the preparation of D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositides (3-PPI) of unambiguous structure and absolute stereochemistry. The enantiomerically pure D-3-phosphorylated phosphoinositides also provided have many uses, including in the development of diagnostics and therapeutics based on the roles of 3-PPI in intracellular signaling.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention is concerned with 2-methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide, ##STR1## an ester having special value in the synthesis of piroxicam (4-hydroxy-2-methyl-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide 1,1-dioxide) ##STR2## an antiinflammatory agent of established value in the medicinal art. It will be noted that in past practice, the acyl radical of compounds of this type has been sometimes written as ##STR3## and such compounds alternatively named as 3,4-dihydro-2-methyl-4-oxo-2H-1,2-benzothiazine 1,1-dioxide derivatives. Those skilled in the art will understand that these are equivalent tautomeric forms of the same compound. The present invention is intended to encompass both tautomeric forms while writing only one of them as a matter of convenience.
Piroxicam was originally disclosed by Lombardino (U.S. Pat. No. 3,591,584). One of the processes for the synthesis of piroxicam disclosed therein is to react a 3-carboxylic acid ester with 2-aminopyridine. More specifically, the ester is disclosed as a (C 1 -C 12 )alkyl ester or phenyl(C 1 -C 3 )alkyl ester. The specific ester described is the methyl ester, viz. ##STR4## [See also Lombardino et al., J. Med. Chem. 14, pp. 1171-1175 (1971)]. A disadvantage in this otherwise useful process for piroxicam lies in the variable formation of quantities of a highly colored byproduct. This highly colored byproduct, which is removed only by multiple recrystallizations with major product loss, lends an unacceptable, strong yellow color to the piroxicam bulk product, even when present at very low levels (e.g., 0.5-1%). This byproduct has been isolated and determined to have the following structure: ##STR5## It has been shown that (IV) is actually formed as a byproduct in the reaction, rather than being derived from a contaminant in the precursor. How this compound is actually formed in the reaction mixture is not fully understood, although methods which are directed to rapid removal of the methanol byproduct as it is formed in the reaction appear to reduce the incidence of piroxicam batches having unacceptable color. However, these methods are of uncertain dependability and a goal has been to find an ester which is readily available by synthesis and which does not give rise to an ether such as (IV) as a troublesome byproduct during conversion to piroxicam.
Alternative syntheses of piroxicam which have been disclosed in the literature include reaction of 3,4-dihydro-2-methyl-4-oxo-2H-1,2-benzothiazine 1,1-dioxide with 2-pyridyl isocyanate (Lombardino, U.S. Pat. No. 3,591,584), transamidation of 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxanilides with 2-aminopyridine (Lombardino, U.S. Pat. No. 3,891,637), cyclization of ##STR6## (Lombardino, U.S. Pat. No. 3,853,862), coupling of a 4-(C 1 -C 3 )alkoxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylic acid 1,1-dioxide with 2-aminopyridine followed by hydrolysis of the enolic ether linkage (Lombardino U.S. Pat. No. 3,892,740), coupling of 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylic acid, via the acid chloride, with 2-aminopyridine (Hammen, U.S. Pat. No. 4,100,347) and methylation of 4-hydroxy-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide (Canada Pat. No. 1,069,894).
Another ester related to the methoxyethyl ester of the present invention which has been specifically described in the literature is ethyl 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide (Rasmussen, U.S. Pat. No. 3,501,466; see also Zinnes et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,816,628).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The 2-methoxyethyl ester (I) has been synthesized. In the known process of converting a corresponding 3-carboxylic acid ester to piroxicam, this ester has been substituted for the prior art methyl ester (III). Use of the novel ester (I) has the surprising advantage that the piroxicam so produced contains no detectable level of the expected, highly-colored ether byproduct [4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-2-methyl-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide], of the formula ##STR7## analogous to the ether (IV).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The required 2-methoxyethyl ester (I) is readily prepared from saccharin-2-acetate ester [2-methoxyethyl-3-oxo-2H-1,2-benzisothiazoline-2-acetate 1,1-dioxide, formula (VI)] by the following sequence of reactions ##STR8## The rearrangement is carried out by treating the intermediate saccharin-2-acetic acid ester with an alkoxide, preferably a 2-methoxyethoxide such as sodium 2-methoxyethoxide in order to avoid the complication of transesterification, in a polar organic solvent such as dimethyl sulfoxide or dimethylformamide. Methylation is accomplished by a methylating agent, such as dimethyl sulfate or a methyl halide, conveniently methyl iodide, in a reaction-inert solvent such as a lower ketone, a lower alkanol, formamide, dimethylformamide or dimethylsulfoxide.
The saccharin-2-acetic acid ester required as starting material in the above sequence is prepared from saccharin and 2-methoxyethyl chloroacetate in analogy to the method for preparation of the corresponding methyl ester [Chemische Berichte 30, p. 1267 (1897)], or, less directly, by hydrolysis of said methyl ester to the corresponding saccharin acetic acid and coupling, such as via the acid chloride, with 2-methoxyethanol.
The reaction of the methoxy ester (I) with 2-aminopyridine to produce piroxicam, ##STR9## is generally conducted by mixing the two components together in a reaction-inert solvent system at or near room temperature, and then heating the resultant system at 115°-117° C. for a period of about one-half to several hours. Although it is only necessary that these two reactants be present in substantially equimolar amounts in order to effect the reaction, a slight excess of one or the other (and preferably the more readily available amine base reagent) is not harmful in this respect and may even serve to shift the ammonolysis reaction to completion. Preferred reaction-inert organic solvents for use in the ammonolysis reaction include such lower N,N-dialkylalkanamides as dimethylformamide, dimethylacetamide and the like, as well as such aromatic hydrocarbons solvents as benzene, toluene, xylene and so forth. In any event, it is found most helpful and usually suitable to distill off the volatile alcohol byproduct as it is formed in the reaction and thereby shift the ammonolysis equilibrium to completion in this manner. In the present instance, the most highly preferred solvent is xylene, since byproduct 2-methoxyethanol is efficiently removed as a lower boiling azeotrope. The volume of xylene can be maintained by the addition of more xylene during distillation. After removal of the alcohol and completion of the reaction, the resulting piroxicam is conveniently recovered by cooling and simple filtration of the crystallized product. If desired, the piroxicam is recrystallized from dimethylacetamide/acetone/water.
The present invention is illustrated by the following examples. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details of these examples.
EXAMPLE 1
4-(2-Methoxyethoxy)-2-methyl-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide 1,1-Dioxide
[O 4 -(2-methoxyethyl)piroxicam] (V)
In a flame dried flask maintained under a dry nitrogen atmosphere, piroxicam (1.814 g., 5.47 mmoles) was dissolved in 13 ml. of dry dimethylformamide. Sodium hydride (0.131 g., 5.47 mmoles) was added slowly in portions and the resulting mixture heated at 40°-45° C. for about 3 hours, until such time as the sodium hydride had completely reacted. 2-Methoxyethyl chloride (1.0 ml., 0.94 mmoles) and sodium iodide (0.821 g., 5.47 mmoles) were then added and the reaction then heated at 89° C. for 51 hours. The cooled reaction mixture was diluted with about 50 g. of ice and extracted with five 10 ml. portions of methylene chloride. The organic extracts were combined, back-washed with seven 15 ml. portions of water, washed once with brine, dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate, filtered and evaporated to an oil (1.44 g.). The oil was triturated with ether, yielding solids (0.84 g.), which were recrystallized from acetonitrile (yielding 0.57 g.). Recrystallized product (0.45 g.) was chromatographed on silica gel (13.5 g.), eluting with 2:3:6 methanol:cyclohexane:ethyl acetate and monitoring by TLC (same eluant) with phosphomolybdic spray. Early cuts, containing clean product, were combined, evaporated in vacuo to solids. The solids were chased with carbon tetrachloride and dried under high vacuum yielding O 4 -(2-methoxyethyl)piroxicam. [0.31 g.; m.p. 155°-157° C.; Rf 0.5 (2:3:6 methanol:cyclohexane:ethyl acetate); Rf 0.4 (10:4:3 xylene:methanol:water); pnmr/CDCl 3 /delta 3.15 (s, 3H), 3.35 (s, 3H), 3.68 (m, 2H), 4.23 (m, 2H), 7.2 (m, 1H), 7.9 (m, 5H), 8.9 (m, 2H), 10.2 (broad s, 1H)].
EXAMPLE 2
2-Methoxyethyl 2-Chloroacetate
Maintaining a temperature of -5° to 5° C., 2-chloroacetyl chloride (11.2 g., 0.10 mole) in 15 ml. of methylene chloride was added dropwise over 1 hour to a cold solution of pyridine (8.0 g., 0.11 mole) and 2-methoxyethanol (7.6 g., 0.10 moles) in 35 ml. of methylene chloride. The reaction mixture was stirred for a further 1 hour at 0° C., warmed to room temperature and extracted with two 50 ml. portions of water. The two aqueous extracts were combined and back-washed with 50 ml. of chloroform. The original organic layer and chloroform back-wash were combined and washed with 50 ml. of 5% copper sulfate. The 5% copper sulfate wash was backwashed with 25 ml. of chloroform and recombined with the organic phase. Finally, the organic phase was washed with 50 ml. of brine, treated with activated carbon and anhydrous magnesium sulfate, filtered, concentrated to an oil and distilled to yield 2-methoxyethyl 2-chloroacetate (14.1 g.; b.p. 80°-82° C.).
EXAMPLE 3
2-Methoxyethyl 3-Oxo-2H-1,2-benzisothiazoline-2-acetate 1,1-Dioxide
(2-Methoxyethyl Saccharin-2-acetate) (VI)
Sodium saccharin (18 g., 0.088 mole) and 2-methoxyethyl 2-chloroacetate (13.4 g., 0.088 mole) were combined in 40 ml. of dimethylformamide and heated at 120° C. for 4 hours. The reaction mixture was cooled to 25° C., poured into 100 ml. of water, granulated at 5°-10° C. for 0.5 hour, filtered with water wash and air dried to yield 2-methoxyethyl saccharin-2-acetate [23.2 g., 90%; m.p. 91°-92° C.; m/e 299; ir(KBr) 2985 cm -1 ].
EXAMPLE 4
2-Methoxyethyl 4-Hydroxy-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide 1,1-dioxide
Under a dry nitrogen atmosphere, 2-methoxyethanol (72.9 ml., 0.924 mole) was charged to a stirred, flame-dried flask. Sodium spheres (10.6 g., 0.463 mole; pentane washed and slightly flattened with tweezers) were added portionwise over 2 hours, keeping the temperature of the reaction mixture in the range of 25°-45° C. After an additional 1 hour of stirring, a further 10 ml. of 2-methoxyethanol was added and the reaction mixture warmed to 57° C. On slight cooling the reaction mixture solidified. The reaction mixture was thinned with 75 ml. of dry dimethylsulfoxide and a single remaining particle of sodium metal removed mechanically. The 2-methoxyethyl saccharin-2-acetate (50 g., 0.167 mole) in 70 ml. of warm, dry dimethylsulfoxide was added dropwise over 20 minutes. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 hour at ambient temperature, quenched into a mixture of concentrated hydrochloric acid (276 ml.) and water (1.84 l.), maintaining the temperature of the quench at 20°-25° C. by an ice-water bath and rate of addition. The slurry was granulated at 6°-8° C. for 1 hour, filtered with cold water wash and dried in air to yield 2-methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide [32.8 g., 66%; m.p. 120°-122° C.; ir(KBr) 3448, 3226 cm -1 ].
EXAMPLE 5
2-Methoxyethyl 4-Hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-Dioxide (I)
2-Methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide (31.0 g., 0.1035 mole) was combined with 230 ml. of acetone and cooled to 10° C. Methyl iodide (21.9 g., 0.155 mole) was added, followed by the dropwise addition, over 10 minutes, of sodium hydroxide (103.5 ml. of 1 N). The cooling bath was removed and the reaction mixture allowed to slowly warm to room temperature (about 45 minutes), then heated at 35° C. for 2 hours and finally at 39°-40° C. for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was cooled to room temperature, diluted with 200 ml. of acetone, treated with activated carbon, filtered and concentrated in vacuo at 0°-5° C. to about 50 ml. The resulting slurry was filtered, and solids washed with ice-water and then dried in vacuo to yield 2-methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide [29.26 g., 90%; m.p. 106°-107.5° C.; m/e 313; ir(KBr) 3345, 2941, 1684, 1351, 1053 cm -1 ].
EXAMPLE 6
4-Hydroxy-2-methyl-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide 1,1-Dioxide (Piroxicam) (II)
2-Methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide (28 g., 0.089 mole) and 2-aminopyridine (9.26 g., 0.098 mole) were combined with 500 ml. of xylene in a 1 liter flask equipped with an addition funnel and a reflux, variable take-off distillation head. The stirred reaction mixture was heated to reflux and the xylene distilled at the rate of approximately 100 ml./hour, while maintaining the pot volume almost constant by the addition of fresh xylene. After 6 hours, the head temperature, which had been relatively constant at 134° C., rose to 142° C. and reflux rate slowed. The reaction mixture was then cooled in an ice-bath and the precipitated solids recovered by filtration, with hexane for transfer and wash, and dried at 45° C., in vacuo to yield piroxicam (28.5 g., 96%; m.p. 167°-174° C.). This product was examined by high performance liquid chromatography using 60:40 0.1 M Na 2 HPO 4 adjusted to pH 7.5 with citric acid:methanol on Micro-Bonda pak C 18 (Trademark of Waters Associates for a standard hplc column packing consisting of siloxy substituted silica coated on micro-glass beads). Under the conditions employed, piroxicam has a retention time of about 6 minutes, whereas the potential contaminant, O 4 -methoxyethylpiroxicam, has a retention time of 16.5 minutes. None of the potential contaminant was detected in the product of the present Example.
For purposes of recrystallization, the above piroxicam (25 g.) was taken up in 190 ml. of dimethylacetamide at 70°-75° C., treated with 1.26 g. of activated carbon at 75°-80° C. and filtered through diatomaceous earth with 55 ml. of warm dimethylacetamide for transfer and wash. A mixture of 173 ml. of acetone and 173 ml. of water was cooled to 5°-10° C. The carbon-treated filtrate was added slowly over 10-15 minutes to the chilled aqueous acetone, and the resulting crystals granulated at 0°-5° C. for 5 minutes. Recrystallized piroxicam was recovered by filtration with 154 ml. of cold methanol for transfer and wash. Yield: 18.75 g., 75%; ir(nujol mull) identical with authentic piroxicam.
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2-Methoxyethyl 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxylate 1,1-dioxide is an advantageous ester precursor for piroxicam (4-hydroxy-2-methyl-N-2-pyridyl-2H-1,2-benzothiazine-3-carboxamide 1,1-dioxide), an antiinflammatory agent established in medical practice.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This is a continuation of provisional U.S. application 60/238,172, filed Oct. 5, 2000, to which priority is hereby claimed.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0002] This invention was made with United States government support awarded by the following agency: NSF 9901266. The United States has certain rights in this invention.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to divalent silicon compounds which are known as silylenes. More particularly, it relates to the use of these compounds to catalyze olefin polymerization reactions.
[0004] In recent years there have been efforts directed towards the isolation of compounds containing divalent silicon centers, particularly heterocyclic amido variants. See M. Haaf et al., 120 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 12714-12719 (1998) (synthesis of silylenes); J. Lehmann et al., 18 Organomet. 1862-1872 (1999) (study of silylenes); and U.S. Pat. No. 5,728,856 (synthesis of silylenes). The disclosures of these publications, and of all other publications referred to herein, are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
[0005] While several syntheses of these compounds have been proposed, these syntheses were often inefficient. A need still exists for ways to improve their efficiency, particularly with respect to the synthesis of heterocyclic silylenes.
[0006] In any event, these compounds were originally developed in order to provide a new class of reactive components that could be combined with other materials in varied synthesis reactions. It is now desired to find still other uses for them.
[0007] Synthesis of olefin polymers from monomers typically requires the use of a catalyst to assist in the polymerization reaction. These catalysts are often inefficient, complex, and expensive (e.g. a mixture of an organotitanium compound with an organoaluminum compound).
[0008] Other known techniques for polymerizing olefins involve a free radical process which typically results in highly branched polymers having soft properties. This can be a disadvantage when harder polymers are desired. Thus, a need still also exists for providing improved techniques for the production of olefin polymers.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In one aspect the invention provides methods for producing a polymer. One polymerizes monomers selected from the group consisting of terminal alkene monomers and terminal alkyne monomers in the presence of a catalyst selected from the group consisting of silylenes.
[0010] The catalyst is preferably a cyclic (preferably heterocyclic) silylene, such as where the catalyst contains a [N—Si—N] moiety, with these three atoms being part of an at least partially unsaturated heterocyclic ring of at least five and no more than ten atoms.
[0011] In an especially preferred form, the catalyst is:
[0012] In another aspect the invention provides polymers produced by the above methods.
[0013] In yet another aspect, the invention provides an improved method for forming a compound having a structure selected from the group consisting of:
[0014] wherein M is Si and wherein R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 , and if applicable R 5 and R 6 , are individually selected from the group consisting of H and alkyl with less than 10 carbons. The method involves reacting a precursor (“Precursor”) selected from the group consisting of:
[0015] with elemental potassium. With respect to the Precursor, M is also Si, and R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 , and if applicable R 5 and R 6 , are also individually selected from the group consisting of H and alkyl with less than 10 carbons. The elemental potassium is added to the reaction at above 2.1 and less than 3.0 (preferably between 2.2 and 2.4) molar equivalents of the Precursor present in the reaction.
[0016] The preferred compound formed by this improved synthesis is:
[0017] “Terminal alkene monomer” includes any polymerizable alkene monomers having a double bonded carbon at an end of the molecule, and mixtures thereof, including without limitation ethylene, propylene, 1-hexene, alkyl vinyl ethers such as ethyl vinyl ether, styrene, butadienes such as dimethyl butadiene, acrylonitrile, vinyl halides such as vinyl chloride, isobutene, and isoprene. As indicated by the inclusion of ethers, carbon and hydrogen need not be the only elements in the monomer.
[0018] “Terminal alkyne monomer” includes any polymerizable alkyne monomers with a triple bonded carbon at an end of the molecule, and mixtures thereof, including without limitation acetylene, phenyl acetylene, and other alkyl and aryl acetylenes. Again, carbon and hydrogen need not be the only elements in the monomer.
[0019] Preferred silylenes are compounds having a divalent silicon linked on each side to nitrogen such as: [(R 1 R 2 R 3 C)R 7 N]—Si—[NR 8 (CR 4 R 5 R 6 )], in which R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 , R 6 , R 7 and R 8 are the same or different and each represents a hydrogen or halogen atom or an alkyl, aryl, alkoxy, aryloxy, amido or heteroaryl residue, and R 7 and R 8 can also represent the residue —CR 1 R 2 R 3 or —CR 4 R 5 R 6 , and R 7 and R 8 can jointly form with the respective adjacent nitrogen atoms and the central silicon atom in an unsaturated heterocyclic ring with at least five ring atoms.
[0020] Where the catalyst has a heterocyclic ringed structure, it is preferred that any carbons other than those in the ring which includes the Si not exceed twenty carbons, and preferably not exceed six carbons. For example, the nitrogens can both be linked to tertiary butyl groups.
[0021] It has surprisingly been learned that silylenes can be efficient olefin polymerization catalysts, even at relatively low concentrations. Further, these compounds hold out the possibility of creating variants which will provide more control over other polymer attributes such as stereochemistry and cross-linking.
[0022] These catalysts are particularly useful to create homopolymers. However, they should also be useful in creating copolymers.
[0023] It has also been surprisingly learned that too high levels of elemental potassium in the synthesis reaction (e.g. 3.0 molar equivalent or above) can cause significant ring degradation and purification problems. On the other hand, too low an elemental potassium level in the reaction (e.g. 2.1 molar equivalent or below) can lead to undesirably long required reaction times (e.g. sometimes days are required for the reaction). Thus, a narrow range of molar equivalency is highly preferred.
[0024] Advantages of the present invention include providing:
[0025] (a) methods of the above kind for catalyzing the production of polymers;
[0026] (b) polymers of the above kind which are produced by these methods; and
[0027] (c) methods of the above kind for more efficiently synthesizing such catalysts.
[0028] These and still other advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the description which follows. The description is merely of the preferred embodiments. The claims should therefore be looked to in order to understand the full scope of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Most of the examples discussed below used the following “Catalyst I” as the catalyst:
[0030] One possible means of synthesizing this catalyst is described in M. Denk et al., 116 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2691-2692 (1994).
[0031] However, we prefer to modify the last step of this synthesis (the reaction of the dihalide) as follows. In our experiment we provide a three-neck 1000 mL flask equipped with a stir bar, reflux condenser and two stoppers was charged with 19.36 g (72.4 mmol) of a precursor (where M═Si, R 1 and R 2 ═H, and R 3 and R 4 ═t-butyl). 350 mL of THF was added to the dichloride precursor to dissolve the compound and yield an approximately 0.2 M solution. This was stirred vigorously, while 6.51 g of elemental potassium (166.60 mmol, 2.3 molar equivalents) was cut into small chunks.
[0032] The potassium was rinsed with hexane to remove mineral oil and then added to the dichloride solution all at once under a heavy flow of argon. Once the potassium had been added, the solution was set to reflux for three hours. The reaction was monitored by 1 H NMR, and upon complete conversion to the silylene (3 hours), the reaction was stopped, cooled, and filtered through a medium-porosity frit to remove potassium chloride. Upon filtration the solvent was removed in vacuo to yield dark red solid. This solid was sublimed at 90° C. and 30 mtorr to yield 9.95 g (70.0%) of the pale yellow silylene.
EXAMPLE 1
[0033] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene to create a butadiene polymer. Into a 50 mL Schlenk flask, 0.20 g of Catalyst I (1.02 mmol) was added. A stir bar was added and the silylene was dissolved in 20 mL of dry THF. The solution was cooled in a dry ice/acetone bath. The butadiene (0.12 mL, 1.0 mmol), predistilled away from its radical inhibitor at 30 C under static vacuum, was injected into the silylene solution and the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature.
[0034] After several hours of stirring in the dark, a yellowish insoluble material became evident. 1 HNMR of the reaction mixture indicated that only silylene material was present. The precipitate was insoluble in CH 2 Cl 2 , benzene, toluene, THF, hexane, acetone, DMSO, acetonitrile and water indicating a high degree of cross-linking.
[0035] The IR spectrum of the insoluble material was consistent with the formation of a butadiene polymer. This reaction was repeated with more standard catalytic amounts (5 mol %) of silylene, again resulting in the formation of polymer. IR (KBr pellet) 2600-2900 cm −1 (aliphatic C—H stretches).
EXAMPLE 2
[0036] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with styrene to create polystyrene. Into a 50 mL Schlenk flask, 0.50 g of Catalyst I (2.55 mmol) was added. A stir bar was added and the silylene was dissolved in 20 mL of dry THF. The solution was cooled in a dry ice/acetone bath. Styrene (0.30 mL, 2.6 mmol), predistilled away from its catechol inhibitor at 30 C under static vacuum, was injected into the silylene solution and the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature.
[0037] After several hours of stirring in the dark, a white insoluble material became evident. 1 HNMR of the reaction mixture indicated that only silylene material was present. The precipitate was insoluble in CH 2 Cl 2 , benzene, toluene, THF, hexane, acetone, DMSO, acetonitrile and water.
[0038] The IR spectrum of the insoluble material was consistent with the formation of a polystyrene polymer. This reaction was repeated with more standard catalytic amounts (5 mol %) of silylene, again resulting in the formation of polymer. IR (KBr pellet) 697 cm −1 (s, ring C═C bend), 750 cm −1 (s, aromatic C—H bend in plane), 1060 cm −1 (s, aromatic C—H bend, out of plane), 1630-1650 cm −1 (s,C═C stretches), 1667-2000 cm −1 (w, aromatic overtone bands), 2800-2960 cm −1 (vs, methylene stretches), 3000-3100 cm −1 (s, aromatic C—H stretches)
EXAMPLE 3
[0039] Experiments similar to Example 2 were conducted, albeit with varied solvents from THF. To a stirring solution containing 0.230 g (1.17 mmol) of Catalyst I silylene in hexane was added 3.00 mL (26.2 mmol) of styrene at room temperature. After 5 minutes of stirring the solution became cloudy with fine white precipitate. After 30 minutes the solution was full of polystyrene.
[0040] After one hour, the solution was filtered and the resulting filtrate was concentrated to dryness to yield the silylene. Confirmation by NMR revealed that about 80% of the silylene was recovered along with about 5% of the water adduct of the silylene. The resulting polymer was recovered to yield 0.35 g of the insoluble material.
[0041] We then tried toluene as the solvent. Excess styrene was injected into a solution of Catalyst I in toluene. The reaction did not produce the insoluble material as quickly as in hexane. An aliquot was pulled after 30 minutes revealing the solution contents: silylene and styrene. The mixture was stirred for a period of 3 hours, whereupon insoluble material appeared. This reaction was stirred overnight to complete the reaction. The solution was filtered after 15 hours of stirring at room temperature to yield 0.11 g of polymer and nearly all the silylene.
[0042] Thus, the reaction solvent used, while preferably organic, is not critical.
EXAMPLE 4
[0043] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with 1-hexene to create polyhexene (poly-1-hexene). To a solution of silylene in hexane was added a 20 fold excess of 1-hexene. After 30 minutes of stirring at room temperature, the solution was cloudy with an insoluble material. After 3.0 hours of stirring, the solution was so full of precipitate it appeared as if there were very little solvent left in the flask.
[0044] When the flask was purged with N 2 and opened, there was no smell of hexene left coming from the mixture. The mixture was filtered and the filtrate was evaporated to dryness yielding 82% of the silylene recovered. Also, 0.34 g of polymer was produced. This reaction was also performed in toluene, and provided a similar type of result as that for styrene. All the silylene was recovered and all of the polymer was recovered after 24 hours of reaction time.
EXAMPLE 5
[0045] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with propene to create polypropene (polypropylene). Silylene, 0.23 g (1.22 mmol) was dissolved in 15 mL of hexane in a Schlenk flask. The flask was fitted with a septum and propene was bubbled in at room temperature. No reaction was seen after 30 minutes of bubbling. An aliquot was subsequently pulled out and tested by NMR to see if the silylene was still intact. The NMR experiment revealed only Catalyst I in solution.
[0046] The flask was then fitted with a glass stopper and the solution was frozen in liquid nitrogen and all inert gas was removed in vacuo. Propene was then used to backfill the flask to approximately 25 psi. As the mixture was warmed excess propene was released. After achieving room temperature, the mixture was stirred for 5 minutes and became cloudy. After 15 minutes the solution became cloudier with precipitate. After one hour of stirring at room temperature, the reaction mixture was filtered yielding 0.14 g of polymer and 0.17 g of silylene (74%).
EXAMPLE 6
[0047] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with ethene to create polyethene (polyethylene). A solution containing 0.17 g (0.87 mmol) of Catalyst I in 15 mL of hexane was frozen in liquid N 2 and all inert gas was removed. The flask was backfilled with ethene (25 psi) and allowed to warm to room temperature. Once this was achieved, the solution was stirred for 15 minutes and became cloudy. After 4 hours of stirring, there was no change in the mixture. This was set to stir overnight. After 24 hours the solution was filtered to give 20 mg of polymer and 0.15 g of silylene (88%).
EXAMPLE 7
[0048] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with 2,3-dimethyl butadiene to create polybutadiene. About a 25 fold excess of butadiene was added to a Schlenk flask containing Catalyst I in hexane. After 20 minutes the flask was full of precipitate. This was filtered and nearly all silylene was recovered.
EXAMPLE 8
[0049] To a 100 mL Schlenk flask was added 0.11 g (0.56 mmol) of Catalyst I followed by 5 mL of hexane. After Catalyst I was dissolved into solution, 0.74 mL (11.2 mmol) of acrylonitrile was added to the solution. The reaction mixture immediately became cloudy and after one minute all the solid formed coagulated into one lump of yellow solid. The solid was filtered and dried and analyzed using IR spectroscopy, revealing the formation of polyacrylonitrile. Catalyst I was isolated (0.08 g 73%) from the reaction as well as 0.6 g (50%) of the polymer.
EXAMPLE 9
[0050] Using the same procedure shown above, to a 100 mL Schlenk containing 0.046 g. (0.23 mmol) of Catalyst I dissolved in 5 mL of hexane, was added 0.5 mL (6.0 mmol) of vinylidene chloride. The reaction was stirred for 2 hours after which solid had formed. This solution was set to stir overnight at room temperature. The solid was filtered off to give 0.116 g (20%) of polymer identified as poly-vinylidene chloride. Catalyst I was recovered (0.041 g, 90%).
EXAMPLE 10
[0051] To a 100 mL Schlenk was added 0.25 g. (1.22 mmol) of Catalyst I followed by 20 mL of hexane. To this was added 2.44 mL (25.5 mmol) of ethyl vinyl ether. The solution appeared pale yellow even after 2 hours. The solution was set to stir overnight. After 18 hours, the solution was full of precipitate, which was filtered to yield 0.45 g (25%) of poly-ethyl vinyl ether. Catalyst I was recovered (0.24 g. 95%).
EXAMPLE 11
[0052] We have also tried a fully saturated version of Catalyst I (two extra hydrogens instead of the ring double bonded carbon). This catalyst (“Catalyst II”) was the compound referred to as Compound “2” in M. Haaf et al., 120 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 12714-12719 (1998). This compound exists as a tetramer in the solid state. We needed to stir a solution for 2 hours to break up the tetramer in order to form the silylene. To a 100 mL Schlenk was added 0.23 g. (1.16 mmol) of saturated silylene Catalyst II and 20 mL of THF. This red solution was stirred for 2 hours and eventually became light yellow. 1-hexene was added (1.43 mL, 11.6 mmol) and the solution remained the same pale yellow. After 4 hours the solution became colorless and contained a white precipitate, which was filtered and identified as poly-1-hexene. Polymer recovered: 0.29 g. 30%.
EXAMPLE 12
[0053] We also tried another version of Catalyst I where the double bonded carbon is also part of a phenyl ring (“Catalyst III”). This is the compound referred to as Compound “3” in M. Haaf et al., 120 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 12714-12719 (1998). To a 50 mL Schlenk was added 0.057 g. (0.21 mmol) of the silylene Catalyst III followed by 5 mL of hexane. 1-hexene (0.64 mL, 5.19 mmol) was added all at once to the silylene solution. After 30 minutes, the solution became cloudy and was filtered after 3 hours to yield 0.12 g (28%) of poly-1-hexene. Nearly all of the silylene (0.054 g. 95%) was recovered.
EXAMPLE 13
[0054] In this experiment we reacted Catalyst I with phenylacetylene to create poly-phenylacetylene. To a stirring solution containing 0.22 g (1.12 mmol) of Catalyst I and 20 mL of hexane, was added 2.44 mL (22.41 mmol) of phenylacetylene all at once. The solution turned from the original pale yellow to a dark orange solution with precipitate instantaneously. An aliquot was pulled from the reaction mixture and was analyzed by 1 H NMR to reveal only Catalyst I was present after 15 minutes. The cloudy solution was let stir for one hour and filtered. The resulting polymer (110 mg) was filtered off and the silylene was recovered from the resulting filtrate.
General Discussion
[0055] All reactions involving Catalyst I were run under strict Schlenk conditions (emphasizing the absence of water and oxygen). Room temperature proved suitable for the reactions. For solid reaction components, atmospheric pressure was sufficient. For gaseous monomers (e.g. ethene and propene) we preferred to use a pressure of about 25 psi.
[0056] The styrene polymer was found to be insoluble in every solvent we tried, even including hot toluene (120° C.). The hexene polymer was also fairly insoluble in many solvents. The propene polymer was not very soluble in toluene until in was heated to 90° C. and some solid dissolved into the solvent.
[0057] The present invention thus provides catalysts, particularly for use in polymerization reactions. While particular catalysts have been emphasized in the above experiments, it is expected that a wide variety of silylenes (particularly heterocyclic partially unsaturated compounds) will be effective for catalyzing a wide variety of polymerization reactions.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0058] The present invention provides methods for producing catalysts, and for using them to facilitate production of polymers, and also provides polymers manufactured using these methods.
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Disclosed herein are methods for producing a polymer. One polymerizes monomers selected from alkene monomers and terminal alkyne monomers, in the presence of a catalyst which is a silylene. The catalyst can be a heterocyclic amido silylene which is at least partially unsaturated within the ring. Also disclosed are polymers produced by the above methods, and improved methods for producing the catalysts.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2011 102 116.0, filed May 20, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The technical field relates to a crash structure for attachment to a front subframe for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the technical field relates to a front subframe, in particular a front axle subframe, for a motor vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Motor vehicles typically have a so-called front subframe or front axle subframe in the front end, which supports, inter alia, the steering gear, the stabilizer, the engine mount, the wishbone, and the exhaust system of the motor vehicle. A crash structure adjoins the front subframe in each case on the left longitudinal side and on the right longitudinal side of the front subframe, viewed in the vehicle direction, the crash structures also being designated as crash extensions. The crash structures are implemented like a longitudinal girder and are to absorb impact energy in case of a crash of the motor vehicle. For this purpose, the crash structures are implemented in such a manner that they deform in case of a crash to absorb impact energy. The crash structures typically have an oblong contour in such a manner that, in the event of an impact force acting essentially frontally on the motor vehicle, compression of the crash structure occurs in the direction of the vehicle longitudinal axis.
[0004] The crash structures are typically screwed together with the front subframe. For this purpose, on each crash structure, at least one screw element is guided through the front subframe in the vehicle longitudinal direction and screwed together with the front side of the crash structure in each case. It has been shown that in the case of such a connection of crash structure and front subframe, the front end structure thus formed has a tendency, in the event of lateral forces acting in the vehicle transverse direction on the front subframe, for example, to act via the front wishbone on the wishbone attachment points of the front subframe during the travel of the motor vehicle, promoting sagging in the attachment area between the crash structure and the front subframe. Due to the sagging in the attachment area, a location change of the wishbone attachment points in the area of the front subframe occurs, which unfavorably influences the steering behavior of the motor vehicle. The front wishbone attachment points are typically also designated as handling bushes, A bushes, or wishbone bushes.
[0005] At least one object herein is to provide a crash structure for attachment to a front subframe for a motor vehicle having the features mentioned at the beginning, by which a location change of the front subframe in the area of its wishbone attachment points, in particular upon the action of lateral forces, is prevented. Furthermore, a front subframe is proposed which is suitable for the attachment of such a crash structure. In addition, other objects, desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the subsequent summary and detailed description, and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background
SUMMARY
[0006] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a crash structure for attachment to a front subframe for a motor vehicle is provided. The crash structure has a stiffening structure, which reinforces the crash structure in an attachment area for the front subframe, and at which the crash structure is connectable to the front subframe in a friction-locked and/or formfitting manner.
[0007] A stiffened connection between the crash structure and the front subframe is achieved at least in the attachment area of the crash structure by the reinforcement of the crash structure in the attachment area on the front subframe. Through this reinforcement of the attachment area, any possible location changes of the front subframe because of lateral forces acting on the front subframe, as occur in driving operation of the motor vehicle, for example, are effectively counteracted. The front subframe is thus stabilized in its location, so that even upon the occurrence of lateral forces on the front subframe in operation of the motor vehicle, any possible location change in the area of the wishbone attachment points of the front subframe is decreased. The measure therefore has a stiffening effect on the entire front subframe, in particular on the wishbone attachment points of the front subframe.
[0008] A stiffening of crash structure and front subframe also results in order to be able to tolerate torques and/or bending torques which occur in driving operation of the motor vehicle in the crash structure or the front subframe better than previously. Through the friction-locked or formfitting attachment of the crash structure to the front subframe, it is also possible to attach crash structures of different material types to the same front subframe, since the stiffness in the attachment area between crash structure and front subframe is achieved by the stiffening structure.
[0009] A detachable connection also can be implemented by the friction-locked or formfitting connection of the crash structure to the front subframe, so that a replacement of a crash structure, which is possibly deformed during an impact, with a new crash structure is readily possible.
[0010] According to an embodiment, the crash structure is oblong and preferably the stiffening structure extends over a predefined length in the longitudinal direction of the crash structure. The stiffened or reinforced attachment area of the crash structure is thus settable flexibly in a simple manner by the stiffening structure. Depending on the length of the stiffening structure, the crash structure is therefore implemented as more or less stiffening or reinforcing in its longitudinal direction.
[0011] According to a further embodiment, the crash structure has a hollow profile and the stiffening structure is arranged at least partially inside the hollow profile. A particularly strong bond between the stiffening structure and the crash structure is thus implemented, since the stiffening structure is at least partially enclosed by the crash structure and therefore a strong connection between the crash structure and the stiffening structure accommodated therein can be implemented in a simple and stable manner.
[0012] The crash structure is producible in a particularly simple manner if the crash structure has a closed hollow profile, for example, a tubular hollow profile, in the periphery. The stiffening structure can be accommodated particularly simply therein, in that, for example, the stiffening structure is inserted into the tubular hollow profile. A particularly strong bond between the walls of the crash structure and the stiffening structure is also thus implementable.
[0013] According to one embodiment, the stiffening structure is strongly connected to the crash structure, in particular strongly connected to the crash structure by means of thermal joining methods. A permanent connection between the stiffening structure and the walls of the crash structure is thus implemented in a simple manner. For example, the stiffening structure can be welded onto the walls of the crash structure. In an alternative embodiment, the stiffening structure is removably connected to the walls of the crash structure.
[0014] According to another embodiment, the stiffening structure is arranged on a section of the crash structure extending substantially linearly in the longitudinal direction of the crash structure. The stiffening structure is thus implementable in a simple geometric form, which is attachable to the linear section. The attachment to the front subframe is also thus implementable in a technically simple manner, since the front subframe has a corresponding wall section provided in simple geometry for this purpose, which is to be placed in an active position on the stiffening structure arranged on the linear section of the crash structure.
[0015] According to an embodiment, the stiffening structure is screwed together with the front subframe. The crash structure connected to the stiffening structure can thus be removed from the front subframe and also reinstalled thereon in a technically particularly simple manner. It is thus also possible in a simple manner with respect to installation to replace a crash structure deformed after a crash with a new crash structure. Screwing together the stiffening structure with the front subframe is possible with little installation effort and therefore promotes subsequent replacement of the crash structure, for example, in repair shops.
[0016] In an embodiment, the stiffening structure has a plate-shaped element, which can be placed in an active position having its essentially planar surface abutting a wall of the front subframe. The plate-shaped element is to be understood as a substantially planar component, which has a high resistance force against forces acting perpendicularly to the planar component and/or bending torques around the plane axis and can be loaded with high forces or bending torques of this type, without damage to the component occurring.
[0017] In that the stiffening structure has the plate-shaped element, which can be placed in an active position having its planar surface abutting a wall of the front subframe, a particularly strong connection between the crash structure or the stiffening structure connected thereon and the front subframe is producible in a technically simple manner.
[0018] It is expedient for the stiffening structure to have a further plate-shaped element, which is spaced apart from the plate-shaped element, in particular arranged spaced apart essentially parallel thereto. The stiffening or reinforcement effect of the stiffening structure is thus increased, because more than one plate-shaped element is provided in the attachment area of the crash structure, which has a stiffening effect in regard to the attachment area of the crash structure and therefore indirectly has a stiffening or reinforcing effect on the front subframe, so that components, for example, the wishbone attachment points of the front subframe, remain substantially unchanged in their location even upon the action of high forces, in particular lateral forces, in operation or driving operation of the motor vehicle.
[0019] A particularly strong bond of the parts forming the stiffening structure is achieved in that the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element are solidly connected to one another via an intermediate element.
[0020] A durably strong composite structure for the stiffening structure is particularly implemented if, preferably, the intermediate element is connected to the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element by thermal joining methods. For this purpose, the intermediate element can be connected to the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element by welding and/or soldering.
[0021] In a further embodiment, the intermediate element has a passage opening for guiding through a connection element, by means of which the crash structure is fixable, in particular is fixed, on the front subframe. An attachment of the crash structure on the front subframe using the stiffening structure is thus implementable or implemented in a technically simple manner.
[0022] One possible attachment of the crash structure to the front subframe using the connection element can be implemented, for example, in that the connection element is a screw element and a nut, in particular a weld nut, is fixed on the plate-shaped element or the further plate-shaped element, into which the connection element can be screwed while fixing the crash structure on the front subframe.
[0023] Alternatively, it can also be provided in the case of a connection element implemented as a screw element that the intermediate element, the plate-shaped element, or the further plate-shaped element has a thread-bearing section, into which the connection element can be screwed while fixing the crash structure on the front subframe.
[0024] In an embodiment, the intermediate element is a sleeve. A geometrically simple component can thus be used, which is available in standardized sizes in a great manifold on the market and is therefore particularly cost-effective.
[0025] The stiffening structure is implemented by the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element, which are connected to one another by the intermediate element, for example in the nature of a sleeve, according to an embodiment. The sleeve is preferably welded onto the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element. Furthermore, the plate-shaped element and the further plate-shaped element are each attached, in particular welded, on a wall, in particular an outer wall of the crash structure implemented as a hollow profile. A particularly stable stiffening structure is formed by the welding. Furthermore, a particularly strong connection of the stiffening structure to the crash structure is implemented by the welding of the stiffening structure on the crash structure.
[0026] A front subframe, in particular a front axle subframe, for a motor vehicle, on which at least one crash structure of the above-described type is fixed, is provided. According to an exemplary embodiment, the front subframe is implemented as U-shaped, a crash structure of the above-described type being fixed by means of a connection element on the ends of each of the legs thereof.
[0027] According to still another embodiment, the front subframe, in the attachment area to the crash structure, has an outwardly open cavity, into which a connection element for threading into a passage opening of a wall of the front subframe can be introduced for fixing the crash structure on the front subframe. The assembly of front subframe and crash structure by means of the connection element is thus made easier, since a cavity is provided, in which the connection element can already be held in the direction in which the connection element can then be inserted into the passage opening without more extensive alignment, to produce a strong connection to the crash structure using the stiffening structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] The various embodiments will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements, and wherein:
[0029] FIG. 1 shows a possible embodiment of a front subframe having possible embodiments of crash structures arranged on the left and right sides thereof in a top view; and
[0030] FIG. 2 shows a detail of FIG. 1 in the area of attachment of one of the crash structures to the front subframe in a bottom view.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the various embodiments or the application and uses thereof Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or the following detailed description.
[0032] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a front subframe 100 , in particular a front axle subframe. The front subframe 100 is preferably implemented as U-shaped, an embodiment of a crash structure 1 being fixed on the ends of each of the legs 120 , 130 thereof.
[0033] For example, the front subframe 100 is used for the purpose of supporting the steering gear of the vehicle steering system, at least one stabilizer, at least one bearing for the engine mount, the wishbone, and the exhaust system of the motor vehicle. A tie bar 160 is preferably assigned or coupled to the front subframe 100 , by which the two legs 120 , 130 of the front subframe 100 are connected to one another. The tie bar 160 is preferably linked to the legs 120 , 130 and is used to improve the stiffness of the front subframe 100 in the area of its legs 120 and 130 .
[0034] Two crash structures 1 respectively adjoining the ends of the legs 120 , 130 of the front subframe 100 are preferably implemented as oblong and have an S-shaped longitudinal contour extending essentially in the travel direction 12 . The respective crash structures 1 are preferably also implemented as essentially S-shaped in the Z direction, i.e., in the vertical direction of the motor vehicle (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The crash structures 1 can thus absorb impact energy in the event of a crash through compression or another type of deformation.
[0035] The crash structures 1 arranged on the legs 120 , 130 of the front subframe 100 are, viewed in the travel direction 12 , connected to one another on their respective end area by crossbeam 170 . Crossbeam 170 preferably has an attachment point 180 on both sides on its longitudinal-side ends, in order to attach the crossbeam 170 to the subfloor (not shown in FIG. 1 ) or the vehicle body (not shown in FIG. 1 ) of the motor vehicle.
[0036] Furthermore, a projection 200 , which respectively protrudes outward transversely to the travel direction 12 , in particular in the vehicle transverse direction, is provided on the legs 120 , 130 of the front subframe 100 . Each of the projections has an attachment point 190 . The front subframe 100 is attachable to the subfloor, in particular of the vehicle body of the motor vehicle, at the attachment point 190 .
[0037] The crash structures 1 have an attachment point 13 on each of their free ends protruding in the travel direction 12 , in order to preferably be able to fasten the radiator of the engine of the motor vehicle thereon.
[0038] The crash structures 1 are each screwed onto the front subframe 100 .
[0039] FIG. 2 shows the way in which the crash structures 1 are attached to the front subframe 100 on the basis of the example of detail A according to FIG. 1 , which shows the attachment of the crash structure 1 on the leg 130 of the front subframe 100 in a detail as a bottom view.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2 , the crash structure 1 has a stiffening structure 3 in an attachment area 2 . The stiffening structure 3 is used for attaching the crash structure 1 to the leg 130 of the front subframe 100 . The crash structure 1 is solidly connected at the stiffening structure 3 to the front subframe 100 by means of a connection element 9 , for example, in the nature of a screw element.
[0041] The stiffening structure 3 is preferably arranged for this purpose on a section 5 of the crash structure 1 , which is implemented as substantially linear. The linear section 5 preferably forms a predefined length 4 in the longitudinal direction of the crash structure 1 , over which the stiffening structure 3 extends.
[0042] The crash structure 1 is preferably implemented as a hollow profile, in particular a tubular hollow profile, the stiffening structure 3 being arranged inside the hollow profile.
[0043] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2 , the stiffening structure 3 is formed by a plate-shaped element 6 and a further plate-shaped element 7 , which is spaced apart substantially parallel to the plate-shaped element 6 , and an intermediate element 8 , which connects the plate-shaped elements 6 and 7 to one another. The plate-shaped element 6 is placed in an active position having its substantially planar surface abutting a wall 110 , in particular a front wall, of the front subframe 100 .
[0044] The intermediate element 8 is connected to the two plate-shaped elements 6 and 7 by means of welding. The intermediate element 8 is preferably implemented as a sleeve, whose passage opening 10 forms a passage for guiding through the connection element 9 .
[0045] The two plate-shaped elements 6 and 7 are preferably fixed on the outer wall of the crash structure 1 by means of welding. In this regard, a strong composite structure for stiffening the crash structure 1 in the attachment area 2 is implemented by the plate-shaped elements 6 and 7 welded onto the crash structure 1 and the interposed intermediate element 8 or sleeve, which is welded onto the plate-shaped elements 6 and 7 .
[0046] A nut, preferably a weld nut 11 , is preferably arranged on the plate-shaped element 7 , preferably on the side facing away from the leg 130 . The nut is welded onto the plate-shaped element 7 and is used to accommodate or screw in the connection element 9 .
[0047] The leg 130 preferably has a cavity 140 , which opens outward and into which the connection element 9 can be introduced for threading into a passage opening 150 of the wall 110 of the front subframe 100 to fix the crash structure 1 on the front subframe 100 . The connection element 9 , which is preferably implemented as a screw element, can thus be inserted in a simple manner into the passage opening 10 and through the sleeve or the intermediate element 8 and screwed into the nut 11 , so that a strong screw connection is thus produced between the front subframe 100 and the crash structure 1 .
[0048] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an exemplary embodiment, it being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
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A crash structure for attachment to a front subframe for a motor vehicle is provided. The crash structure includes an attachment area and a stiffening structure that reinforces the crash structure in the attachment area for the front subframe. The stiffening structure connects the crash structure to the front subframe in a friction-locked and/or formfitting manner.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a Continuation of pending U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 13/186,467, filed on Jul. 19, 2011 and entitled “Sports MusiCom Headset”. Said application claimed benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/386,114, filed on Sep. 24, 2010 and entitled “Sports MusiCom Headset”. The instant application is commonly owned with, claims the benefit of, and incorporates herein by reference both of the applications enumerated above in their entireties. In this regard, in the event of inconsistency between anything stated in this specification and anything incorporated by reference in this specification, this specification shall govern.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to stereophonic cellular telephone headset systems, specifically to systems adapted for use in conjunction with a variety of sports and recreational activities, and providing a means for connecting external speakers and microphones to cellular telephones.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
When communicating through a cellular telephone, it is often desirable, for convenience and safety purposes, to utilize external speakers and microphones.
The external devices are connected to the cellular telephone either by wires or through wireless communication. These devices allow the user to communicate without having to hold the cellular telephone next to their ear, which would otherwise be necessary to allow the speaker and microphone to function properly. The user's hand, which would normally be used to hold the cellular telephone, is then free to be used for other tasks. It also prevents fatigue of the arm that can occur when holding a telephone for extended periods of time. Furthermore, it is safer because the user's coordination and focus are enhanced for alternative purposes. This is of particular concern when the user is performing sports or recreational activities that require the continuous use of both hands, e.g. snow skiing, biking, or motorcycle riding to name a few. Finally, there is concern over the safety of radio waves emitted by cellular phones when the phones are in close proximity to the head of a user. Thus, the cellular telephone can be moved away from the user's head, thereby reducing the impact of such radiation.
Cellular telephones are often packaged with external speaker/microphone devices that allow for hands-free functionality. These devices are not always acceptable to the user. The devices often contain “ear-buds” that are uncomfortable and/or prone to disengaging with the ear and falling out, or otherwise of undesirable quality. As such, a variety of third-party products have been introduced to the market. Third-party products are produced with modified ear bud assemblies or headphones, and sometimes relocated microphones. Both wired and wireless (Bluetooth®) varieties are available.
There are three basic types of third-party devices available on the market. One type of device is a combination speaker/microphone unit connected wirelessly to the cellular telephone. A second type of device is a combination speaker/microphone unit connected to the cellular telephone using wires. A third type of device uses a wired configuration containing an integral microphone and headphone plug. This allows any standard headphone to be connected to the adapter cable, but has the drawback of requiring the use of the supplied microphone. This microphone may be inconvenient to the user due to its location along the adapter cable (including possibility of picking up excess background noise) or low quality.
A significant disadvantage of the available adapter cables is that they do not allow the use of third-party wired combination speaker/microphone units with standard, independent speaker and female phone jacks. These units are widely available for use in, among other things, communications via personal computer. Many users prefer specific devices due to comfort and functionality that suits their individual purposes. These devices cannot generally be connected to cellular telephones due to non-standard plug connections present on most models.
In particular, the Apple iPhone®, which has achieved enormous commercial success, uses a non-standard speaker/microphone female phone jack. No known adapters are available that provide standard female headphone jacks and microphone jacks to allow a standard combination speaker/microphone unit with independent male headphone and microphone plugs to be connected to an iPhone®.
Additionally, for certain sports and recreational activities where the user is in motion, many of the available devices are particularly problematic because the headsets may not be securely held in place, and free wires may snag on foreign objects such as tree branches in the vicinity of the user. In addition, microphone placement may be sub-optimal, even to the point of being non-functional, due to excessive wind noise or muffling due to the user's clothing blocking the microphone. Finally, while these devices are often equipped with remote buttons for answering incoming telephone calls, user interface with the button may be difficult due to the button's placement or configuration, especially if the user is wearing gloves or other clothing that may interfere with the operation. Answer buttons are typically very small, require a significant degree of dexterity to operate, and may even be difficult to locate in some circumstances. Due to operational difficulties, users of these devices may fail to answer incoming telephone calls that they wish to answer.
Certain devices adapted to specific sports or recreational activities have been developed to solve some of the above-mentioned issues. However, none of the presently known devices are universally adapted to a variety of non-related activities.
For instance, cold weather hats for use with, e.g. snow skiing, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,982,451 to Graham, have been fitted with headphones and are connectable to portable music players. These hats are not, however, fitted with microphones and may not be connectable to cellular telephones for two-way communication. These hats are typically manufactured with heavy fabric well-suited for cold weather sports but ill-suited for warm weather activities.
Also in the prior art are helmet systems with integrated communications. U.S. Pat. No. 6,101,256 to Steelman discloses a motorcycle helmet with a built-in speaker and microphone, whereby the rider and passenger may communicate with one another. These devices are permanently mounted to the interior of the motorcycle helmet, and thus may not be adapted to uses that do not require use of the helmet.
Other known devices may have wider application but present some operational difficulties for use with sports activities. U.S. Pat. No. 6,069,964 to Yang discloses an earphone arrangement comprising a band traversing the back of the head to hold the speakers in place, and a boom microphone. This device may be less comfortable or secure than desired by a user performing sports or recreational activities, and the microphone will likely function inadequately in windy conditions.
There are no known existing solutions to address the difficulties of the present cellular telephone call answer buttons. “Walkie-talkie” type buttons, such as that depicted in International Patent Publication No. WO/2004/107787 of Bataillard, are typically mounted to the body of the transceiver or to a remote speaker/microphone device wired back to the transceiver. These devices are not ideally suited for sports and recreation activities. They are relatively bulky, heavy, and expensive to produce. Additionally, they would be more difficult to operate than the slap switch described herein.
What is needed, therefore, is a universal headset device functional for a variety of sports and recreational activities. The headset, speaker, and microphone should be securely held in place, even while the user is in motion. The microphone should be placed in a position that will enhance the pickup response while limiting the interference from, e.g. wind or clothing. A breakaway connector between the cellular telephone and headset would prevent potentially dangerous or destructive snags on foreign objects and further provide the user with the ability to disengage the headset portion from the remaining components of the device. The headset itself would secure the earphones and microphone in place on the wearer's head comfortably even while wearing a helmet or other headgear over it. Additionally, an answer button in the style of a “slap switch” should be included to facilitate its operation even while the user is wearing, e.g. heavy gloves. Ideally, this headset would be suitable for both cold and warm weather activities. Moreover, the headset could also be used to listen to music since many modern cellular telephones are also portable music players.
Additional functionality would be realized by incorporating an adapter cable that would allow the user to connect independent headphones and microphones of their choice to their cellular telephone. The slap switch may also be incorporated into the adapter. A further benefit would be provided by supplying “patch” cables that allow the adapter to be connected to a variety of common cellular telephone models.
In conclusion, insofar as I am aware, no cellular telephone headset system exists that meets the above design criteria, particularly in the configurations disclosed herein.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cellular telephone headset with at least one speaker (and preferably two speakers for stereophonic music reproduction) and a microphone mounted within a universal helmet-liner suitable for use in conjunction with a variety of sports and recreational helmets and hats. The speaker and microphone are held in place by, e.g. a hook and loop fastening system (e.g., Velcro®) or stretchable fabric, so they may be removed to wash the helmet-liner. The helmet-liner is ideally constructed of a breathable material, making it suitable for warm weather use without overheating the user. The microphone is ideally placed on or near the chinstrap for optimum clarity and minimal wind and clothing interference. A noise canceling microphone may be provided, which is built into the chin strap so as to rest the microphone against the user's throat, thereby minimizing disturbances from external sources, such as wind. Other headgear, such as a motorcycle helmet, bicycle helmet, or ski hat may be placed over the helmet-liner, as desired by the user.
It is another object of the invention to enhance the ability of users to answer or end telephone calls while the user is in motion or wearing gloves that would render the use of conventional call answer buttons difficult or impossible. A telephone answer button in the style of a “slap switch” will avoid the need for the user to search for the button and fumble with the operation thereof. The call is answered by momentary shorting of the two wires leading to the microphone connection when the user slaps the switch. Ideally, the slap switch would be relatively large compared to prior art cellular telephone answer switches, but compact enough to avoid excessive bulkiness. An active area suitable for engaging the switch of at least one square inch is desired. Approximately four square inches is preferable, and the active area may range in sizes of nine square inches or larger. This eliminates the need for precision, thus making the device suitable for use with sports and recreational activities. The slap switch may be clipped onto the users clothing or placed inside a pocket, as desired.
It is another object of the invention to provide a breakaway collar connector between the helmet-liner and the slap switch to prevent snags. The breakaway connector comprises two “halves” containing a plurality of electrical contact elements and one or more magnets to hold the halves in place during normal operation. One half of the breakaway connector is wired to the slap switch and then from the slap switch to a cellular telephone connector tip. The other half of the breakaway connector is wired to the speakers and microphone of the headset.
It is another object of the present invention to provide an adapter comprising a standard (3.5-mm) female phone jack, with a cellular telephone audio input/output jack on the opposite end, which will allow operation with a standard headset of the user's choice. A slap switch may also be incorporated into the adapter. This will allow use of the slap switch with a user's preferred headset, in the case that the user selects a headset other than the head liner system described herein. Two independent connections are therefore provided: one standard headphone connector, and one standard microphone connector. These independent connections can be located adjacent to one another in a duplex arrangement or on separate wires branching off of the cellular telephone connection in a simplex arrangement.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide “patch” cables to allow use of the headset device with different cellular telephone models, which may contain nonstandard audio input/output connections.
It is envisioned that the present invention could be configured to be adaptable to portable music players. An additional configuration of the device is for use with two-way portable radio communications. Law enforcement personnel, for instance, may find this embodiment to be particularly useful. Without limitation, these and other embodiments may be incorporated without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features and advantages of this invention will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the headset worn by a user.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the headset worn by a user underneath a helmet.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing use of the present invention in conjunction with a standard headset.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the breakaway connector, the slap switch, and the duplex female phone jack.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the male half of the breakaway connector.
FIG. 6 is a side view of the slap switch.
FIG. 7 is a schematic wiring diagram of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 .
FIG. 9 is a schematic wiring diagram of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 utilizing a duplex-type speaker and microphone connection.
FIG. 10 is a schematic wiring diagram of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3 utilizing two simplex-type speaker and microphone connections.
It is noted that the drawings of the invention are not to scale. The drawings are merely schematic representations, not intended to portray all specific parameters of the invention. The drawings are intended to depict only typical embodiments of the invention, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements among the drawings. In other words, for the sake of clarity and brevity, like elements and components of each embodiment bear the same designations throughout the description.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 depicts helmet-liner 20 secured to a user's head, preferably through the use of a hook and loop fastener (e.g., Velcro®) connector on chinstrap 32 or other suitable means known in the art, such as stretchable fabric. Left and right speakers 28 are mounted within helmet-liner 20 in position next to the user's ears. (Only the left speaker is shown in FIG. 1 ). Microphone 30 is mounted within chin strap 32 near the user's chin. Connecting wires (not shown) for speakers 28 and microphone 30 are preferably contained within helmet-liner 20 and chin strap 32 . Wire 34 connects speaker 28 and microphone 30 to breakaway connector 40 . In a preferred embodiment, speakers 28 , microphone 30 , and connecting wires are contained in secure pockets of helmet-liner 20 but are removable by the user to facilitate washing of helmet-liner 20 .
Breakaway connector 40 is designed to release wire 34 from wire 54 in the event that excessive tension is placed on the line (e.g., from a snag) or if the user desires to separate helmet-liner 20 and associated components from the remaining components of headset 10 . Slap switch 60 is used to answer or hang up telephone calls and to start and stop music, and has the advantage of being easy to operate when the user is participating in sports or recreational activities, especially where the particular activity would render it difficult or impossible to toggle a micro switch. Slap switch 60 is connected to cellular telephone plug 74 by wire 72 .
FIG. 2 depicts headset 10 secured to a user, with a sports helmet (not part of the present invention) worn over top of helmet-liner 20 . Headset 10 comprises helmet-liner 20 , breakaway connector 40 , wire clip 76 , slap switch 60 , and cellular telephone plug 74 . Use of the sports helmet is optional. Helmet-liner 20 may also be worn independently, if desired. An optional carrying case 82 (also not part of the present invention) encapsulates the cellular telephone.
FIG. 3 depicts another embodiment of the present invention. Again, an optional carrying case 82 is shown. Female duplex plug 80 comprises standard (3.5-mm) headphone and microphone connections. Female duplex plug 80 may alternatively be comprised of two simplex plugs. User-selected headset 84 (not part of the present invention) is worn by the user and connected to female duplex plug 80 . Not depicted in FIG. 3 , but contained within a pouch that is part of optional carrying case 82 , is slap switch 60 . Slap switch 60 may also be attached to a user's clothing as shown in FIG. 2 . A breakaway connector may also be provided with this arrangement. Similarly, standard 3.5-mm speaker and microphone connections, as shown in FIG. 3 , may be incorporated into the headset system of FIG. 2 . The resulting system would, therefore, be compatible both with helmet-liner 20 and a standard headset selected by the user, thereby allowing the user to select the most suitable headset arrangement for a given situation.
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of breakaway connector 40 , slap switch 60 , and female duplex plug 80 . Breakaway connector 40 comprises male connector 42 and female connector 43 with internal electrical contacts and retaining magnets. Slap switch 60 is shown in a substantially triangular shape, although one skilled in the art can appreciate that a variety of shapes are possible. Female duplex plug 80 comprises speaker plug 85 and microphone plug 86 . An alternative embodiment employs two female simplex plugs in place of female duplex plug 80 .
FIG. 5 shows male connector 42 of breakaway connector 40 . Male connector 42 comprises magnets 46 and electrical prongs 50 A, 50 B, 50 C, and 50 D. Female connector 43 (not shown) is configured to mate with male connector 42 , and contains magnets or metallic plates that correspond in position to magnets 46 to hold both connector halves in place during normal operation. Also, electrical recesses are included to mate with male prongs 50 A, 50 B, 50 C, and 50 D to close the electrical connections between mating segments of breakaway connector 40 .
FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of slap switch 60 . Electrically parallel switches 68 , positioned between base 62 and slap pad 64 , are functional for answering or hanging up cellular telephone calls when depressed, or for starting, stopping, and resuming music. The location of switches 68 near the perimeter of slap pad 64 facilitates their operation when force is applied to slap pad 64 at irregular positions or angles. Switches 68 are normally held open by, e.g. springs or elastomeric materials of construction that apply a force opposing the internal electrical switch contacts (not pictured). Support guides 66 and 70 hold base 62 and slap pad 64 together and allow for a limited degree of swiveling to close one or more electrical switches 68 when slap switch 60 is activated by the user. Wires 54 and 72 (not shown on FIG. 6 ) are attached to base 62 .
FIG. 7 shows the schematic wiring of the embodiment presented in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 . Slap switch 60 is shown with three parallel electrical switches, which may be appropriate for a triangular-shaped slap switch. This is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, as any reasonable number of parallel switches, or a single switch, may be used with this device. Cellular telephone plug 74 comprises electrical contacts 90 A, 90 B, 90 C, and 90 D that mate with internal electrical contacts of a cellular telephone. The contacts 90 A-D are electrically connected to speakers 28 and microphone 30 via insulated conductors in the manner shown. Slap switch 60 is a resilient switch that remains in the open position, as shown, when not pressed by the user to activate. When slap switch 60 is pressed, at least one of parallel electrical switches 68 close to complete an electrical circuit and short out the leads across microphone 30 . This activates functions on the cellular telephone. Specifically, it answers and hangs up telephone calls, or starts, stops, and resumes music play. Use of slap switch 60 may also activate other functions on the phone, such as starting and stopping the streaming of music to speakers 28 .
FIG. 8 depicts adapter 73 with a standard 3.5-mm, four-connector, male plug for insertion into many cellular telephone models. At the opposite end of adapter 73 is female duplex plug 80 (or, alternatively, two female simplex plugs) for connection to a variety of standard headsets. Slap switch 60 is included to facilitate starting, stopping, and resuming music play, and answering and ending cellular telephone calls.
FIG. 9 depicts the wiring system for connection of a cellular telephone to a standard headset, or alternatively to one or more speakers and a microphone with standard 3.5-mm male plugs. Cellular telephone plug 74 is electrically connected to speaker plug 85 and microphone plug 86 via insulated conductors 92 , in the manner shown. Female duplex plug 80 comprises speaker plug 85 and microphone plug 86 , which are both standard 3.5-mm female jacks. Slap switch 60 may be activated to momentarily short the leads across the microphone terminals, as described herein.
FIG. 10 shows an electrically equivalent arrangement as that depicted in FIG. 9 , but with speaker plug 85 and microphone plug 86 arranged in a simplex configuration. Cellular telephone plug 74 is electrically connected to speaker plug 85 via insulator conductor 94 , and to microphone plug 86 via insulated conductor 96 .
Operation
In operation, cellular telephone plug 74 is inserted into a cellular telephone female audio input/output connection. Alternatively, a patch cable may be used to translate a nonstandard cellular telephone connection to a standard 3.5-mm plug, and cellular telephone plug 74 may then be inserted into a female plug of the patch cable. Helmet-liner 20 is worn over the user's head, and male segment 42 is engaged with female segment 43 of breakaway connector 40 . Many modern cellular telephones can send an audio (e.g., music) signal to speakers 28 . Generally, an audible signal will be transmitted on top of the audio signal when the user receives an incoming telephone call. The user may then momentarily activate slap switch 60 to answer the call, and activate it again to hang up. Alternatively, when the cellular telephone is being utilized as a portable music player, slap switch 60 is used to start, stop, and resume music play.
Operation for the configuration depicted in FIG. 2 is similar. Male speaker and microphone plugs are inserted into female speaker plug 85 and microphone plug 86 , respectively. The operation of slap switch 60 is as described above.
Since other modifications and changes to the novel headset will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the description above for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected by Patent is presented in the subsequently appended claims.
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The present invention relates to an apparatus and method to permit control and operation of an electronic device while participating in another activity, including a variety of sports and recreational activities. A fabric helmet liner, one or more speakers, a microphone, a breakaway connector, and a slap switch are provided and configured to enhance the ability of users to answer or end telephone calls or start, stop, or resume audio output t the speakers while a user is in motion or wearing gloves that would render the use of conventional call answer buttons difficult or impossible.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to microprocessor design, and more particularly to a system, circuit, and method for conditional execution evaluation.
2. Description of the Related Art
The following descriptions and examples are not admitted to be prior art by virtue of their inclusion within this section.
Over the years, the use of microprocessors has become increasingly widespread in a variety of applications. Today, microprocessors may be found not only in computers, but also in a vast array of other products such as VCRs, microwave ovens, and automobiles. In some applications, such as microwave ovens, low cost may be the driving factor in the implementation of the microprocessor. On the other hand, other applications may demand the highest performance obtainable. For example, modem telecommunication systems may require very high speed processing of multiple signals representing voice, video, data, etc. Processing of these signals, which have been densely combined to maximize the use of available communication channels, may be rather complex and time consuming. With an increase in consumer demand for wireless communication devices, such real time signal processing requires not only high performance but also demands low cost. To meet the demands of emerging technologies, designers must constantly strive to increase microprocessor performance while maximizing efficiency and minimizing cost.
With respect to performance, greater overall speed of a microprocessor may be achieved by improving the speed of circuit devices, which form the microprocessor as well as architectural development that allow for optimal performance and operations. Speed may be extremely important in a variety of applications. As such, designers have evolved a number of speed enhancing techniques and architectural features. Among these techniques and features may include an instruction pipeline system.
A pipeline consists of a sequence of stages through which instructions pass as they are executed. In a typical microprocessor, each instruction comprises an operator and one or more operands. Thus, execution of an instruction is actually a process requiring a plurality of steps. In a pipelined microprocessor, partial processing of an instruction may be performed at each stage of the pipeline. Likewise, partial processing may be performed concurrently on multiple instructions in all stages of the pipeline. In this manner, instructions advance through the pipeline in assembly line fashion to emerge from the pipeline at a rate of one instruction every clock cycle.
The advantage of the pipeline generally lies in performing each of the steps in a simultaneous manner. To operate efficiently, however, a pipeline must remain full. If the flow of instructions in the pipeline is disrupted, clock cycles may be wasted while the instructions within the pipeline may be prevented from proceeding to the next processing step. In some cases, the microprocessor may be forced to abort the instructions within the pipeline before the instructions are fully processed. In particular, most programs executed by the microprocessor do not have linear code sequences, and instead have to execute different code sequences depending on the changing real-time conditions. Instructions, such as conditional branches, may cause the processing of instructions to flow out-of-order, and thereby decreases the pipeline throughput. For example, a conditional branch instruction may force the processor to clear out the pipeline and reissue a different set of instructions due to the branch instruction such an event may cause a time penalty, and causes a reduction in the overall efficiency of the microprocessor. Therefore, it would be advantageous to develop a process to at least minimize if not entirely overcome the negative effects of branch instructions within a pipeline.
As mentioned above, many program codes are not linear in nature, and therefore, the complete elimination of such branch instructions is unfeasible, even though eliminating branch instructions within a code sequence would dramatically improve the performance of the microprocessor. Conditional execution instructions can be used to replace the branch instructions and thereby, increasing the performance of the microprocessor. A conditional execution instruction, as described herein, is an instruction comprising a condition of execution, in which the condition must be met before the execution of the instruction is completed. If the condition of the instruction is met, the result of the conditional execution instruction is written to a desired register. Conversely, if the condition of execution is not met, the result would not be stored, and the microprocessor would resume processing of subsequent instructions. In such a manner, the microprocessor may continually issue and execute instructions without having to possibly clear the pipeline for a branch instruction. Therefore, the evaluation of conditional execution instruction would thereby enhance the efficiency of the pipeline, and thus, improve the performance of the microprocessor.
An instruction typically comprises an opcode of a fixed length, in which the opcode is a set of bits corresponding to a type of execution. In order for the microprocessor to identify if the instruction is marked for conditional execution, the microprocessor may append a fixed number of bits to the opcode of the instruction. However, by altering the opcode of an instruction, the code density decreases, in which code density attributes to how much memory allocation is used for a single set of instructions. As such, the power consumption of the microprocessor increases and the overall performance of the microprocessor decreases.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Conditional execution instructions may improve the performance of a processor by allowing instructions to continually flow through the microprocessor without deterring from an issued set of instructions. Moreover, by efficiently evaluating such instructions, the performance of the processor may further be improved. For example, characterizing the types of conditional execution instructions may efficiently increase the evaluation process of a conditional execution instruction. The types of conditional execution instructions may include a dynamic, static and general-purpose. A dynamic conditional execution instruction, as described herein, uses a dynamic hardware flag register for the condition of execution. A static conditional execution instruction, as described herein, utilizes a static hardware flag register that indicates to the condition of execution for a static conditional execution instruction. A general-purpose register instruction, as described herein, uses the content of a general-purpose register for the condition of execution. Each of the types of conditional execution instructions contains a conditional field, in which the conditional field is a set of bits that are unique to the individual types of conditional execution instructions.
In addition, the grouping of conditional execution instructions may also serve to benefit the microprocessor. Specifically, within a block of conditional execution instructions comprising one or more conditional execution instructions, a number of conditional execution instructions may be grouped together based on a set of predetermined dependencies. The conditional execution instructions are grouped together dependent on each other and currently being processed within the pipeline. A block of conditional execution instructions may include one or more groups of conditional execution instructions, in which the number may vary and the block of conditional execution instruction groups are non-interruptible (i.e., all instructions within the blocks of one or more groups are executable without any intervening interrupts). Thus, a block of conditional execution instructions must all be executed without interruptions. By grouping instructions together, the processor may be able to determine the end of a block of conditional execution instructions and therefore, may be able to determine how many conditional execution instructions are within a block. This may enable the processor to process each conditional execution instruction within the block according to the specified condition. A processor may be adapted to allow more than one conditional execution blocks to be issued and executed in parallel. As such, the grouping of conditional execution instructions may also be pertinent in determining a grouping (i.e., number) of conditional execution instructions that belong to a particular block.
There are two types of dependencies that the processor is adapted to detect prior to grouping instructions together. First, in order to ensure a dynamic flag of the dynamic hardware register is stable, the processor may group two or more conditional execution instructions in which the first one is a dynamic conditional execution instruction and a second one is either a static or general purpose conditional execution instructions. If the grouped instruction is a dynamic conditional execution instruction, the static flags are updated with the dynamic flags in the next cycle. If a dynamic conditional execution instruction is grouped together with a static conditional execution instruction, the conditional evaluations for both dynamic and static instructions would be based on the dynamic flag for one cycle. After the update of static flags during the next cycle, the continuing static conditional instructions are evaluated based on the updated static flags. Secondly, to ensure that the dynamic flag of the dynamic hardware register is stable, the processor does not group two dynamic conditional execution instructions together. As such, the processor prevents a dynamic flag corresponding to a first dynamic conditional execution instruction from getting overwritten by second dynamic conditional execution instruction. In addition, the grouping of conditional execution instructions may further allow the complete execution of a block of conditional execution instructions, in which the block may span multiple cycles to complete. By grouping the conditional execution instructions, the end of a block may be determined and thus, the processor may be able to determine the number of cycles it may take to execute the entire block of conditional execution instructions.
Subsequently, during execution of the block of conditional execution instructions, the size of the block (i.e. the number of conditional execution instructions making up the block of conditional execution instructions), the grouping information, and the conditional field, will be used to efficiently execute the conditional execution instruction. The processor may be able to identify a conditional execution instruction more efficiently and thereby, determine if the condition of execution is met.
A processor capable of issuing multiple blocks of conditional execution instructions, determining the size of the blocks, the condition for execution of the blocks, and where each conditional execution instruction is located within the blocks may improve the conditional execution instructions efficiency of the pipeline. Furthermore, by grouping the conditional execution instructions based on a set of predetermined dependencies, the pipeline of the high-speed processor may be utilized in an optimal manner. As such, by grouping the conditional execution instructions, a processing unit may be able to resourcefully execute an entire block of conditional execution instructions prior to executing a subsequent block of conditional execution instructions. Identifying the conditional field for each conditional execution instruction entails a more efficient determination of the conditional execution instruction.
A system, a circuit, and a method are contemplated herein for receiving and evaluating a conditional execution instruction. The conditional execution instruction is from a grouped number of conditional execution instructions, in which the grouped number of conditional execution instructions is within a block of conditional execution instructions. The system, circuit, and method may further identify the conditional execution instruction processed by the functional unit, determining where within the block of conditional execution instruction the conditional execution instruction is located, and determine if the condition is met.
In one embodiment, a computer system is contemplated herein for executing conditional execution instructions. In some cases, the computer system may include an identifying unit coupled to receive a tag for each of the grouped number of conditional execution instruction and an execution tag from a functional unit. The functional unit may comprise a unit adapted to process an instruction. The functional unit may comprise an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) or a multiply-accumulate and arithmetic unit (MAU). The functional unit may be coupled to receive an instruction and generate an execution tag upon the complete processing of the instruction. In addition, the identifying unit may further be coupled to compare the tag for each of the group number of conditional execution instruction to the execution tag to determine if a functional unit processed a conditional execution from the grouped number of conditional execution instructions.
In addition, the computer system may further include an evaluation unit coupled to determine where a conditional execution instruction from the grouped number of conditional execution instructions is located within the block of conditional execution instructions. The type of dependency of a block of conditional execution instructions determines the instruction grouping and is made relative to a conditional field, in which the conditional field comprises a type of conditional execution instruction, and in which the type of conditional execution instruction may involve dynamic, static or general purpose register.
The computer system may include an execution unit coupled to receive an identification instruction. The identification instruction may include a size of a subsequent block of conditional execution instructions, in which the size may indicate the number of conditional execution instructions contained within the block of conditional execution instructions. The identification instruction may further include a condition of execution for the subsequent block of conditional execution instructions, in which the condition of execution may be utilized for each of the block of conditional execution instruction. An evaluation unit may be coupled to receive a conditional field, in which the conditional field may determine if the condition of execution for each of the grouped number of conditional execution is met.
A circuit for conditional execution evaluation is also presented herein. Such a circuit may include an identifying unit coupled to detect a conditional execution instruction processed by a functional unit. The identifying unit may further be coupled to receive an execution tag, corresponding to an instruction (i.e., a conditional execution instruction), from the functional unit. In addition, the identifying unit may receive a tag corresponding to the conditional execution instruction, in which the tag represents a conditional execution within a block of conditional execution instruction. Furthermore, the identifying unit may also be coupled to compare the execution tag to the tag to determine if the functional unit processes a conditional execution instruction. In addition, the conditional execution may be grouped with one or more conditional execution instructions based on a dependency related to the group, and in which the grouped number of instruction is within the block of conditional execution instructions.
In addition, after determining a conditional execution instruction processed by the functional unit, the circuit may further include an evaluation logic coupled to receive the tag. The evaluation logic is further coupled to determine a position of the conditional execution instruction relative to the block of conditional execution instructions grouped together in the same cycle. Furthermore, the circuit may also include an execution logic coupled to receive an identification instruction, in which the identification instruction comprises a condition of execution for the conditional execution instruction. In addition, the execution logic is also coupled to receive a conditional field corresponding to the conditional execution instruction, in which the conditional field may comprise a type of conditional execution instruction for the conditional execution instruction. Furthermore, the execution logic may further be coupled to determine if the condition of execution is met. If the condition of execution is met, the result of the conditional instruction may be stored. Conversely, if the condition of execution is not met, then the result will not be written and the circuit will continue to evaluate subsequent conditional execution instructions.
A method may also be provided for determining where a conditional execution instruction from a grouped number of conditional execution instructions is located within a block of conditional execution instructions. The method may first include receiving a tag corresponding to each of the grouped number of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, a functional unit processing an instruction may generate an execution tag, in which the execution tag and tag may be compared to determine if a conditional execution instruction of the grouped number of conditional execution instructions is currently being processed by the functional unit, If the tags matched, the position of the conditional execution instruction processed by the function unit is determined.
The method may also involve determining whether the conditional execution instruction satisfies the condition of execution. The method may include receiving a conditional field for each of the grouped number of conditional execution instructions, in which the conditional field comprises a type of conditional execution instruction. In addition, the method may also include receiving an identification instruction, in which the identification instruction comprises the condition of execution. To determine if the condition of execution is met, the type of conditional execution instruction may need to be identified. The method may advantageously reduce the code density, in which a conditional execution instruction is within a block of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, the identification instruction, preceding the block of conditional execution instructions comprises the size (e.g. the number of conditional execution instructions within the block of conditional execution instructions) and the condition of execution. In addition, the method may allow multiple conditional execution instructions to process within a clock cycle. Thus, the method improves the efficiency of the pipeline and the overall performance of the processor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a computer system for evaluating conditional execution instruction;
FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of an identification instruction;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a circuit for evaluating conditional execution instructions;
FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating exemplary data blocks represented within the circuit illustrated in FIG. 3 , in which a first and second block of conditional execution instructions are issued in parallel;
FIG. 4B is a block diagram illustrating exemplary data blocks represented within the circuit illustrated in FIG. 3 , in which the conditional field identifies the type of conditional execution instruction; and
FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for evaluating conditional execution instructions.
While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Turning to the drawings, exemplary embodiments of a system, circuit, and method for evaluating a block of conditional execution instructions are shown in FIGS. 1–5 . FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a computer system coupled to evaluate a block of conditional execution instructions. As shown in FIG. 1 , processing unit 100 includes instruction issue unit 102 , in which the instruction issue unit may comprise subsystem that forwards a block of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, instruction issue unit 102 , may further forward a tag. The tag is an encoded instruction, in which the position of a conditional execution instruction relative to a block of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, instruction issue unit 102 may further forward a conditional field, in which the conditional field, as described herein, is a set of bits that identifies the type of conditional execution instruction that is encoded. The type of conditional execution instruction may be used to determine if a conditional execution instruction meets a condition for execution.
In addition, instruction issue unit 102 may further forward an identification instruction. Turning briefly to FIG. 2 , an embodiment of the identification instruction 200 is shown. The identification instruction, as described herein, is an instruction that precedes the block of conditional execution instructions and comprises the size of the block. In an embodiment, the size of the block is represented by a block size field 210 representing, e.g., the number of conditional execution instructions that are within the block of conditional execution instructions. The identification instruction also defines a condition of execution for the corresponding instructions, represented, e.g., by an execution condition field 220 . The condition of execution is a criterion in which each of the conditional execution instructions within the block of conditional execution instructions must meet prior to the completion of the execution process.
Instruction issue unit 102 may further dispatch a grouped number of conditional execution instructions, in which the grouped number of conditional execution instructions is based on a type of dependency for the group. The type of dependency may be relative to the type of conditional execution instruction, in which the type may comprise a dynamic, static, or a general-purpose register, as previously described. For example, a dynamic conditional execution instruction may not be grouped with another dynamic conditional execution instruction because of a stability concerns. Each dynamic conditional execution instruction depends on a hardware flag register, in which the flag needs to be set until after the execution of the dynamic conditional execution instruction is complete. Therefore, if two dynamic conditional execution instructions were grouped together and issued by instruction issue unit 102 , then the hardware flag register for the first dynamic conditional execution instruction may be overwritten by the second dynamic conditional execution instruction. As such, the type of dependency may include grouping a first instruction (e.g., dynamic) and a second instruction (static or general-purpose register), wherein the second instruction may not interfere with the execution of the first instruction. Furthermore, the type of dependency may also include grouping a first instruction (e.g., static) and a second instruction (e.g. static), in which the stability of the static hardware flag of the second instruction may not interfere with the static hardware flag of the first instruction. By grouping a number of conditional execution instructions together based on a type of dependency, processing unit 100 may be certain that a result of a conditional execution instruction is properly written back to the intended register. As such, instruction issue unit 102 is coupled to send a tag, a conditional field, an identification instruction, and a conditional execution instruction from a grouped number of conditional execution instructions to implementation unit 112 via instruction bus 114 .
Processing unit 100 may include functional unit 110 . Functional unit 110 may comprise one or more functional units coupled to process an instruction. For example, functional unit 110 may comprise an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) coupled to compute an arithmetic function for an instruction. In another example, functional unit may include a multiply-accumulate and arithmetic unit (MAU) coupled to perform an arithmetic function. The functional unit (e.g., ALU or MAU) may be processing an instruction and, furthermore, may create an execution tag relative to the instruction. Functional unit 110 may be coupled to send the execution tag and status flags to implementation unit 112 , via tag bus 120 .
Processing unit 100 may include implementation unit 112 , in which implementation unit 112 may be coupled to receive instructions from instruction bus 114 and tag bus 120 . Implementation unit 112 may include an identifying unit 104 coupled to compare the tag from the instruction issue unit 102 and the execution tag from functional unit 110 . If the tags match, functional unit 110 may be processing a conditional execution unit within the grouped number of conditional execution instructions. As such, the conditional execution instruction may be evaluated to confirm if a condition of execution is met.
In addition, implementation unit 112 may further include evaluation unit 106 . Evaluation unit 106 is coupled to determine the position of the conditional execution instruction received from identifying unit 104 via transfer bus 116 . The evaluation unit 106 may be coupled to receive the tag, in which the tag may comprise the size (e.g., the number of instructions within the block of conditional execution instructions) and the position of the conditional execution instruction relative to the block of conditional execution instructions. By determining the position of the instruction, processing unit 100 may be able to determine how many more conditional execution instructions are forthcoming for the block.
Implementation unit 112 may further include execution unit 108 . Execution unit 108 is coupled to receive identification instruction, which comprises the condition of execution for a block of conditional execution instruction and the conditional execution instruction from evaluation unit 106 via instruction bus 118 . As such, execution unit 108 may further be coupled to determine if the condition of execution is met by the conditional execution instruction. Therefore, if the condition of execution is met, the result of the conditional execution instruction may be written to a destination register. Conversely, if the result is not met, processing unit 100 may continue to evaluate subsequent conditional execution instructions.
The computer system described above for evaluation of conditional execution instructions may be discussed in greater detail with references to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 . In particular, FIG. 4 is an example of the data blocks (i.e., a block conditional execution instructions), which corresponds to identifying unit 304 , evaluation unit 306 , and execution unit 308 , as shown in FIG. 3 .
Identifying unit 304 , as shown in FIG. 3 , is coupled to receive tag 310 corresponding to a conditional execution instruction contained within a grouped number of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, identifying unit 304 may further be coupled to receive execution tag 312 relating to an instruction processing on a functional unit. However, in some cases, there are multiple functional units processing multiple instructions at a given time. As such, in order to identify if a functional unit contains a conditional execution instruction, the functional unit sends execution tag 312 , which may be compared with tag 310 corresponding to a conditional execution instruction. If the tags match, then the conditional execution instruction is further evaluated. Conversely, if the tags do not match, then the instruction does not need to be evaluated to see if a condition of execution is met.
Alternatively, identifying unit 304 may receive multiple tags corresponding to multiple blocks of conditional execution instructions being issued by a processing unit in parallel. As such, tag 310 may further comprise a specific block identification. The block identification may determine which block a conditional execution instruction belongs to in the case of multiple blocks being issued. As mentioned above, there are multiple functional units processing multiple instructions at a time. Therefore, identifying unit 304 may compare more than one set of tags (e.g. the tags corresponding to the conditional execution instructions and the execution tags from the functional units).
Evaluation unit 306 may receive conditional execution instruction 318 to determine the position of the conditional execution instruction within a block of conditional execution instructions. Evaluation unit 306 may be coupled to receive tag 310 , in which the tag, as described above, corresponds to a position of the condition execution instruction relative to the block of conditional execution instructions. Evaluation unit 306 is coupled to determine the position of the conditional execution instruction by decoding a set of bits within tag 310 . Furthermore, by determining a position of the conditional execution instruction, the processing unit may be able to determine how many more subsequent instructions are to be evaluated for a block of conditional execution instructions.
Evaluation unit 306 may be coupled to receive more than one conditional execution instruction. Evaluation unit 306 may be coupled to receive more than one tag corresponding to a conditional execution instruction. The position of the conditional execution instruction determines how many subsequent instructions are remaining in a block of conditional execution instructions prior to evaluating the next block of conditional execution instructions. Therefore, evaluation unit 306 may be coupled to determine a position of conditional execution instruction for each of the first and second blocks of conditional execution instructions.
Execution unit 308 may be coupled to receive conditional execution instruction 318 to determine if a condition of execution for conditional execution instruction is met. Execution unit 308 may receive identification instruction 316 , in which identification instruction 316 may comprise a condition of execution. Conditional execution instruction 318 , must thereby, meet the condition of execution in order for the result to be valid. Furthermore, execution unit 308 may also be coupled to receive conditional field 314 , in which conditional field 314 may comprise a type of conditional execution instruction. Based on the type of conditional execution instruction, execution unit may determine if the condition of execution is met.
First block of conditional execution instructions 40 , as illustrated in FIG. 4 , may comprise 4 slots, each slot corresponding to an instruction. Identification instruction (e.g., instruction A) precedes the remaining slots of first block of conditional execution instructions 40 , wherein identification instruction comprises of the size of first block of conditional execution instructions 40 (e.g., 3 conditional execution instruction) and a condition of execution for first block 40 . Furthermore, for example, instruction B and C are grouped together based on a type of dependency. As such, first block 40 contains two grouped numbers of conditional execution instruction: first, instruction B and C and second, instruction D.
Prior to evaluation, a tag is generated for each of the conditional execution instructions within first block 40 (e.g. instructions B–D), in which the tag identifies that instructions B–D belong to first block 40 and a position for each instruction. For example, instruction B is the first conditional execution instruction, instruction C is the second conditional execution instruction, and instruction D is the third conditional execution instruction within first block 40 . Evaluation unit 306 of FIG. 3 may be coupled to determine from tag 310 , a position for a conditional execution instruction relative to a block of conditional execution instructions.
A conditional field for each of the instructions of first block 40 is also determined. FIG. 4B illustrates the set of bits that relate to the conditional field. Bits [ 2 : 0 ] correspond to the dynamic and static flags, and bit [ 3 ] determines if the static or dynamic flag is utilized. Bit [ 4 ] determines if the pointer to a load and store operation is updated depending on it the condition of a conditional execution instruction is met. By setting bit [ 4 ], the pointer can be updated even if the conditional execution does not meet the condition. Bit [ 5 ] informs if the condition of the conditional execution instruction is to be checked for flag set or flag reset status, e.g., start counting if flag set or stop counting if flag is reset. If bit [ 6 ] is set, then bits [ 2 : 0 ] and bit [ 3 ] are used to determine, of sixteen general-purpose registers, which register corresponds to the conditional execution instruction. As such, execution unit 308 , as illustrated in FIG. 3 , may be coupled to receive conditional field 316 , and identification instruction 314 to determine if a condition execution is met for a conditional execution instruction.
In some cases, processing units are capable of issuing more than one block of conditional execution instructions at a time. FIG. 4A illustrates a second conditional execution instruction 42 of conditional execution instructions F–H and an identification instruction, E. A tag and a conditional field corresponding to each of the instructions within second block 42 are determined. During the evaluation and execution of conditional execution instructions, evaluation unit 306 may further be coupled to determine if conditional execution instruction 318 belongs to a first block or a second block of conditional execution instructions. Furthermore, the positions of the conditional execution instructions are important to determine a remaining number of conditional execution instructions within the first block that need to be evaluated and executed prior to the evaluation and execution of the conditional execution instructions within the second block. As such, by grouping the number of conditional execution instructions and having an identification instruction preceding a block of conditional execution instructions, and by purging only the failed conditional execution instructions instead of the entire pipeline, the pipeline efficiency increases as well as the overall performance of a processing unit.
FIG. 5 illustrates the exemplary embodiment of a method for evaluating conditional execution instructions. Identifying unit 304 , as described in FIG. 3 , may receive an execution tag (step 500 ) sent by a functional unit processing an instruction and a tag corresponding to a conditional execution instruction (step 502 ). Identifying unit 304 may be coupled to compare the execution tag and the tag to determine if a functional unit has processed a conditional execution instruction (step 504 ). If the tags do not match identification unit 304 continues to compare subsequent tags (step 506 ). However, if the tags match, evaluation unit 306 receives the conditional execution instruction (step 508 ) and determines the position of the conditional execution instruction relative to the block of conditional execution instructions (step 510 ). In addition, execution unit 308 may be coupled to receive the conditional execution unit (step 512 ), a conditional field (step 514 ), and an identification instruction (step 516 ). The conditional field corresponds to conditional execution instruction received by execution unit 308 (step 512 ) and comprises the type of conditional execution instruction. Therefore, evaluation unit 308 may further be coupled to determine if the condition of execution, comprised within the identification unit, is met (step 518 ).
It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that this invention is believed to provide a system, circuit, and method for evaluation of conditional execution instructions. Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. The number of conditions based on which testing may be done can be increased or decreased. Also, the length of the queue (e.g., the number of instructions executed per cycle) and the number of conditional execution instruction blocks can be varied to fit the needs of a microprocessor. Furthermore, the method and system may be adaptive to wide-issue super scalar processors, wherein the set of instructions fetched from memory may be expanded or decreased based on the needs of an application. It is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such modifications and changes and, accordingly, the drawings and the specification are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.
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A system, circuit, and method are presented for evaluating conditional execution instructions. The system, circuit, and method are adapted to receive an identification instruction comprising the size and the condition of execution of a block of conditional execution instructions. The system, circuit, and method may also be coupled to determine a position and for a conditional execution instruction within a block of conditional execution instructions. The system, circuit, and method can determine whether a conditional field, in which the conditional field comprises a type of conditional execution instruction, meets a condition of execution. By determining the size of the block of conditional execution by an identification instruction and determining the type of conditional execution instruction, the system, circuit and method advantageously decreases the code density of a set of instruction, and advantageously increases the overall performance of a processor.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method for transferring a carbon film, including graphene, particularly relates to an efficient method for transferring a graphene film with low chemical and mechanical damages.
2. Description of Related Art
Carbon coatings ranging from sp 3 -bonded diamond films, diamond-like films with mixed sp 3 -bonding and sp 2 -bonding, to sp 2 -bonded graphene films and many others are of great interest and useful for many practical applications. Among them, the thinnest and most difficult to be handled or transferred from one substrate to the other is graphene films of only one atom or few atoms thick. Although the present invention relates to a method for transferring such a graphene film with low chemical and mechanical damage. The method is applicable to other carbon films including diamond films, diamond-like films, and other composite carbon films with or without metals of relevant dopants or additives.
The structure of a monolayer graphene film is formed by hexagonal rings of sp 2 -bonded carbon atoms that are tightly packed into a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice. The general term of graphene includes one layer of monolayer graphene, multiple layers of monolayer graphene of different sizes stacking in a variety of stacking orders, and graphene structures with one or more layers of monolayer graphene deposited horizontally on a substrate or growing vertically from a substrate as a standing graphene.
Graphene has excellent optical, electronic, and mechanical properties, and is applicable to transparent conductive layers, conductive composites, or flexible electronics due to its transparent nature. Also, it may be applied in a capacitor, a lithium electrode, or a mechanical reinforced composite.
Many graphene products are formed by transferring graphene from where it is synthesized to a application substrate. Furthermore, some products require stacking a plurality of graphene films in a manner of layer-by-layer transferring. Currently, a preferable method for synthesizing a graphene film is the thermal chemical vapor deposition, wherein the graphene film is formed on a catalytic metal and then adhered with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Therefore, using an etching process, the catalytic metal is separated from the graphene film adhered thereon, thereby transferring the graphene film onto PMMA. Next, a target substrate is laminated with the PMMA adhered with the graphene film, and then the PMMA is removed by heat, ultraviolet (UV) light, gas (H 2 and N 2 ), or acetone, to transfer the graphene film onto the target substrate, thus achieving transferring of the graphene film.
The above-mentioned method for transferring a graphene film may work efficiently. However, during the transferring of the graphene film from the catalytic metal to the target substrate, several chemical solution etching and mechanical impression processes are required, causing the graphene film to crack. Accordingly, it is desirable to develop a method for transferring a graphene film with efficiency, high yield, and low stress to exploit more applications of the graphene film.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a method for transferring a graphene film with low chemical and mechanical damage to improve the quality of graphene film transfer.
The present invention also provides a method for transferring a graphene film or for transferring a plurality of graphene films with high efficiency.
To achieve the above objects, the present invention provides a method for transferring a graphene film, comprising the following steps: (A) providing a carrier, wherein the carrier has a first surface and a second surface, and a first graphene film is formed on the first surface of the carrier; (B) disposing a patterned protection layer on the second surface of the carrier; (C) patterning the carrier to expose the first graphene film, wherein the pattern of the carrier corresponds to the patterned protection layer; (D) disposing the patterned carrier with the first graphene film on a target substrate; and (E) removing the patterned carrier to transfer the first graphene film onto the target substrate.
Of the present invention, the constituting material of the carrier may be a catalytic solid, including ceramics such as silicon, silicon dioxide, sapphire, and metals such as copper, nickel, iron, silver, or combinations thereof, and preferably copper, nickel, or combinations thereof. And the methods for producing graphene film from the carrier include thermal chemical vapor deposition, sputtering, or coating process, and preferably thermal chemical vapor deposition, so as to form the graphene film on a surface of the carrier, and any other surface of the carrier subject to the requirement. The thickness of the carrier for the graphene film is not particularly limited and is preferably 10-500 μm, and more preferably 50-200 μm. In addition, the method for forming the patterned protection layer is not particularly limited, for example, a selective etching process for patterning a coating which is resistant to the etchant used for etching the unprotected areas of the carrier, a process for directly writing or printing designed and patterned coatings of materials which are resistant to the etchants for etching the unprotected areas of the carrier, or preferably an adhesive tape or a plural of adhesive tape may be used to form a patterned protection layer.
In the step (C), the method for patterning the carrier is not particularly limited in variety, and a chemical or physical method, preferably a chemical method, and more preferably an etching process which etches the carrier but not the graphene, may be used for patterning the carrier. In the step (C), a chemical solution is employed for etching the carrier, wherein the chemical solution may be an ammonium persulfate solution, a ferric chloride solution, a phosphoric acid solution, a sulfuric acid solution, or combinations thereof, and preferably an ammonium persulfate solution.
The step (D) of the present invention may comprise the following steps: (D1) providing a suspension solution, wherein a target substrate is disposed therein; (D2) disposing the patterned carrier with the first graphene film in the suspension solution, wherein the patterned carrier suspends on the suspension solution; and (D3) removing the suspension solution. As such, after the first graphene film is adhered to the target substrate, the patterned carrier is removed to transfer the first graphene film onto the surface of the target substrate.
The transferring of a graphene film onto the target substrate in step (D) is performed by suspending the first graphene film having the patterned carrier on the suspension solution, and gradually removing the suspension solution such that the first graphene film gradually approaches to the surface of the target substrate on the suspension solution. After removing the suspension solution, the first graphene film having the patterned carrier can adhere to the surface of the target substrate. Finally, the patterned carrier is removed to complete the transferring of the first graphene film to the surface of the target substrate.
The graphene with tapes can be turned up-side-down with tape being on top of graphene to be transferred. It also can remain in the original orientation after etching of copper, i.e., the tape in below the graphene.
The graphene can be adhered (transferred) to a substrate by placing the substrate under the graphene and raising the substrate to lift the graphene off the solution.
The graphene can also be adhered (transferred) to a substrate, which is placed up side down, by putting the substrate facing down to touch the graphene from the air side of the floating graphene. Adhesion of the graphene to the substrate will allow it to be stick to the substrate and removed from the solution.
Alternatively, the step (D) may also include: (D1) providing a suspension solution, and disposing the patterned carrier with the first graphene film in the suspension solution, wherein the patterned carrier suspends on the suspension solution; (D2) lifting up the patterned carrier to scoop up the first graphene film from the suspension solution; and (D3) disposing the first graphene film on the target substrate. This method employs the patterned carrier as origin of force and the first graphene film may be lifted up from the suspension solution without touching the first graphene film, wherein the film may be lifted from bottom up. Next, the scooped-up first graphene film is adhered to the surface of the target substrate. In addition, after scooping up the first graphene film from the suspension solution, at least one surface of the first graphene film may further be subjected discretionarily to a surface treatment process, such as screen printing, spray coating, chemical vapor deposition, Atomic layer deposition, plasma treatment, oxygen plasma treatment, hydrogen plasma treatment, or metal sputtering etc. depending on requirements.
In the present method for transferring a graphene film, the step (A) may further comprise the following steps: (A1) providing a carrier and a carrier board, wherein a first graphene film and a second graphene film are formed respectively on the first surface and the second surface of the carrier, and a buffer layer is disposed on the surface of the carrier board; (A2) stacking the carrier on the carrier board, and the buffer layer, the first graphene film, the carrier, and the second graphene are stacked on the carrier board sequentially; (A3) removing the second graphene film to expose the second surface of the carrier.
The constituting material of the carrier board is a rigid material, for which the choice of material is not particularly limited, such as glass board, acrylic sheet, plastic board, ceramic board, and so on, and preferably glass board and acrylic sheet. In addition, the buffer layer has a property of being hard to adhere to the graphene film, and may be preferably paper, tissue paper, non-woven, or combinations thereof, and more preferably tissue paper.
In the above mentioned step (A) of the present invention, the first graphene film and the second graphene film are formed respectively on the first surface and the second surface of the carrier, wherein the method for removing the second graphene film includes: disposing the carrier having the graphene film formed thereon on the carrier board stacked with a buffer layer such that the buffer layer, the first graphene film, the carrier, and the second graphene are stacked on the carrier board sequentially. The first graphene film of the carrier contacts the buffer layer, and the second graphene film of the carrier is stacked on the topmost layer. As such, the second graphene film is exposed to surroundings for easy removal. The method for removing the second graphene film is not particularly limited, and it may be a chemical or a physical process, preferably a chemical process, and more preferably an etching process. The etching solution for removing the second graphene film may be a chemical solution for etching carbon, preferably a hydrogen peroxide solution, a nitric acid solution, a potassium hydroxide solution, or combinations thereof, and more preferably a mixture of a hydrogen peroxide solution and a nitric acid solution.
The method for transferring a graphene film may further comprise a step (A1′) after the step (A1): cleaning the first graphene film and the second graphene film, wherein the step (A)′ of cleaning the graphene films aims to wash away the chemical solution and impurities on the films such that the graphene films is more readily for the subsequent surface-treatment process or chemical reaction, such as plasma treatment, oxygen or hydrogen plasma treatment, metal sputtering, etching process, and so forth. The solution for cleaning the graphene film is not particularly limited to one choice as long as it can achieve the above object. Suitable solutions for cleaning the graphene film include solutions of: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, acetic acid, or phosphoric acid, and preferably hydrochloric acid.
The step (B) may further comprise a step (B′): cleaning the second surface of the carrier, for which the purpose aims to prevent the chemical solution and impurities remaining on the second surface of the carrier from negatively affecting the following chemical reaction and surface treatment, such as etching reaction. The solution for cleaning the surface of the carrier is not particularly limited as long as the solution can achieve the above object. The solution for cleaning the surface of the carrier comprises solutions of: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, acetic acid, or phosphoric acid, and preferably hydrochloric acid.
The step (C) of the present invention is patterning the carrier by various chemical reactions. In the present invention, the carrier with the first graphene film is disposed in an etching solution to pattern the carrier by etching process. After the carrier with the first graphene film is patterned, the carrier comprises: the patterned carrier and the first graphene film on the patterned protection layer.
In addition, following the step (C), it may further comprise a step (C′): surface-treating at least one surface of the first graphene film, wherein the surface-treatment comprises: plasma treatment, oxygen plasma treatment, hydrogen plasma treatment, metal sputtering, such as silver and platinum metal sputtering, painting of sulfur and sulfur compounds with binders, painting of graphite particles with binders.
The method for transferring a graphene film of the present invention may further comprise a step (F) after the step (E): repeating the steps (A)-(E), thus forming a plurality of graphene films on the target substrate.
In addition to transferring the graphene film using the patterned carrier, the present invention also provides a method for transferring a graphene film, comprising the following steps: (A) providing a carrier, wherein the carrier has a first surface and a second surface, and a first graphene film is formed on the first surface of the carrier; (B) disposing the carrier in a carrier-removing solution to remove the carrier, and the first graphene film suspends on the carrier-removing solution; (C) replacing the carrier-removing solution with a suspension solution, wherein the first graphene film suspends on the suspension solution; (D) separating the first graphene film from the suspension solution; and (E) transferring the first graphene film onto a target substrate.
Wherein the carrier-removing solution is a chemical solution for etching the carrier, and the chemical solution may be ammonium persulfate solution, a ferric chloride solution, a phosphoric acid solution, a sulfuric acid solution, or combinations thereof, and preferably an ammonium persulfate solution. The function of the suspension solution is preliminarily cleaning the remaining chemical solution on the carrier or the first graphene film, wherein the suspension solution may be a diluted carrier-removing solution, water, alcohol, acetone, or deionized water, and preferably deionized water.
The step (A) of the method for transferring a graphene film may further comprise the following steps: (A1) providing a carrier, wherein a first graphene film and a second graphene film are formed respectively on the first surface and the second surface of the carrier; and (A2) disposing the carrier on a graphene-removing solution, wherein the first graphene film is exposed to the surroundings, and the second graphene film contacts the graphene-removing solution to remove the second graphene film. In the step (A), a single graphene film of the carrier with the first and second graphene film is removed to obtain a carrier only with the first graphene film, wherein the graphene-removing solution is the same as the above-mentioned.
The method for transferring a graphene film may further comprise a step (A′) before the step (B): forming a marker on the first graphene film; and wherein the step (D) may further comprise: disposing a target substrate into the suspension solution, and determining a relative position between the first graphene film and the target substrate by the marker. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the carrier is removed without a patterned protection layer, so that only the first graphene film remains after the carrier is removed. However, because the graphene film is transparent and difficult to be seen by naked eyes, a marker is formed on the first graphene film before etching the carrier such that the first graphene film can be seen by naked eyes after the carrier is removed. The method for marking the first graphene film is not particularly limited as long as the first graphene film is not damaged. For example, pen or ink may be used to mark the graphene film.
In an alternative embodiment, the step (D) of the method for transferring a graphene film may further comprise: (D1) disposing a target substrate in the suspension solution; and (D2) removing the suspension solution to transfer the first graphene film onto the target substrate. During removal of the suspension solution, the target substrate is used for transferring the first graphene film through the adhesion force therebetween. A method for removing the suspension solution may be through suspension solution separation. In addition to sucking, the first graphene film can be scooped up from the suspension solution to be transferred to the surface of the target substrate directly.
In an alternative embodiment, the step (D) of the method for transferring a graphene film may further comprise a step (D′): scooping the first graphene film from the suspension solution, and surface-treating the scooped first graphene film. The surface treatment process may be plasma treatment, oxygen plasma treatment, hydrogen plasma treatment, or metal sputtering etc. In an alternative embodiment, the carrier and the first graphene film may be further washed by a cleaning solution to wash away the chemical solution and impurities remaining on the first graphene film, such that the first graphene film is more readily available for a surface-treatment process or a chemical reaction. The cleaning solution is the same as the above-mentioned.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1A to 1H illustrate the schematic cross-sections of the different stages of the process for transferring the graphene film according to Example 1 of the present invention.
FIGS. 2A to 2B illustrate the schematic cross-sections of the different stages of the process for transferring the graphene film according to Example 2 of the present invention.
FIGS. 3A to 3D illustrate the schematic cross-sections of the different stages of the process for transferring the graphene film according to Example 4 of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. However, one having an ordinary skill in the art will recognize that embodiments of the disclosure can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and processes are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring embodiments of the present disclosure.
EXAMPLE 1
Please Refer to FIGS. 1A to 1H for an Embodiment of the Present Invention.
First, as shown in FIG. 1 , a carrier 11 is provided, wherein the carrier is a copper carrier having a thickness of 25 μm. The carrier 11 has a first surface 111 and a second surface 112 . Thermal chemical vapor deposition is performed to form a first graphene film 113 and a second graphene film 114 on the first surface 111 and the second surface 112 of the carrier 11 respectively.
Then, as shown in FIG. 1B , a carrier board 12 is provided, wherein the carrier board is a glass board. A buffer layer 13 is disposed on the surface of the carrier board 12 , wherein the buffer layer 13 is a dust-free paper. Then, the carrier 11 is disposed on the buffer layer 13 with the first graphene film 113 facing the buffer layer 13 , such that the second graphene film of the carrier is exposed to the surroundings so as to protect the first graphene film 113 from corrosion of the subsequent chemical reaction. Next, a patterned protection layer 14 is disposed on the second graphene film 114 . In this Example, the patterned protection layer 14 is adhered tightly to the peripheral of the second graphene film 114 by a tape, thus completing the disposition of the patterned protection layer 14 . The object of the tight adhesion is to avoid penetration of the following chemical solution to corrode the first graphene film 113 .
Then, the exposed second graphene film 114 is etched by an etching chemical solution for etching carbon to complete the etching process of the second graphene film 114 , and the second surface 112 of the carrier 11 is thus exposed. The etching chemical solution for etching carbon used in this Example is a mixture of H 2 O 2 and HNO 3 .
As shown in FIG. 1C , after the etching process for the second graphene film 114 is done, the carrier is cut along the line A-A′ to separate the carrier 11 , the carrier board 12 , and the buffer layer 13 , thus exposing the first graphene film 113 as shown in FIG. 1D .
Next, as shown in FIG. 1E , the carrier 11 is dipped in a carrier-etching solution to remove the carrier 11 by chemical etching reaction to separate the first graphene film 113 from the carrier, and exposed to the first graphene film 113 . The carrier-etching solution of this Example is 4% of the solution of (NH 4 ) 2 S 2 O 8 . After the etching process of the carrier 11 is finished, only the patterned protection layer 14 and the patterned carrier 11 corresponding to the patterned protection layer remain on the first graphene film 113 .
Then, the first graphene film 113 of the etched carrier 11 is dipped in deionized water for several times, and the carrier-etching solution remaining on the first graphene film 113 is cleaned and diluted to facilitate the subsequent surface-treatment process.
After that, the first graphene film 113 of the etched carrier 11 is dipped in deionized water for several times, and the first graphene film 113 is suspended in the deionized water which serves as a suspension solution, as shown in FIG. 1F . Next, a target substrate 15 is disposed in the suspension solution and aligned to the first graphene film 113 suspending in the suspension solution, and the suspension solution is suctioned out gradually such that the first graphene film 13 gradually approaches the target substrate 15 .
Then, as shown in FIG. 1G , the first graphene film 13 is deposited on the surface of the target substrate 15 as the suspension solution is gradually removed. At this time, the suspension solution may remain between the first graphene film 13 and the target substrate 15 , so that the first graphene film 13 and the surface of the target substrate 15 are not adhered with each other completely. Therefore, subjecting the first graphene film 113 adhered with the target substrate 15 may operate to induce the remaining solution to leak out therebetween. Meanwhile, the patterned protection layer 14 which is adhered to the first graphene film 113 and the patterned carrier 11 corresponding thereto are removed, thus completing the object of transferring the first graphene film 113 onto the target substrate 15 .
EXAMPLE 2
In Example 2, the same procedure as in Example 1 is performed except that the first graphene film 113 of the etched carrier 11 is washed by deionized water for several times, and then the first graphene film 113 is suspended in the deionized water which serves as a suspension solution. As shown in FIG. 2A , using the patterned protection layer and the corresponding patterned carrier 11 as origin of force, the first graphene film 113 is lifted up from the suspension solution without touching the first graphene film 113 , to transfer the first graphene film 113 onto the target substrate 15 . The present method can transfer the first graphene film 113 onto the target substrate 15 more precisely, and the transferring of the first graphene film 113 onto the target substrate 15 is completed, as shown in FIG. 2B .
EXAMPLE 3
As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C , in this Example, the same procedure as in Example 1 is performed except that before the first graphene film 113 and the carrier 11 are etched, they are washed by a 5% HCl solution for several times to avoid impurities remaining thereon to negatively affect the etching efficiency of the second graphene film 114 and the carrier 11 subsequently.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 1E , the first graphene film 113 is washed by a 5% HCl solution on the first graphene film 113 and the etched carrier 12 to facilitate the surface treatment of the first graphene film.
EXAMPLE 4
The embodiment recited in this example is for the most part identical to the embodiment disclosed in Example 1, with the difference being that the first graphene film 113 is transferred without disposing the patterned protection layer 14 .
As shown in FIG. 2A , first, a carrier 11 is provided, wherein the carrier is a copper carrier having a first surface 111 and a second surface 112 . The carrier is heated to a temperature of 1000° C. in a mixture of methane and hydrogen, and a thermal chemical vapor deposition of the graphene film on the first surface 111 is performed under a pressure of 1 torr or below, to form the first graphene film 113 on the first surface 111 .
As shown in FIG. 2B , the carrier 11 having the first graphene film 113 is dipped in a carrier-etching chemical solution, i.e., 4% (NH 4 ) 2 S 2 O 8 solution, to etch the carrier 11 and separate the first graphene film 113 from the carrier 11 .
Then, the carrier-etching chemical solution suspended with the first graphene film 113 is diluted with deionized water for several times to form a suspension solution in which the first graphene film 113 is suspended. The dilution process of the carrier-etching chemical solution is employed to clean the remaining carrier-etching chemical solution on the first graphene film 113 .
Next, as shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D , the target substrate 15 is disposed in the suspension solution and aligned to the first graphene film 113 such that the first graphene film 13 is adhered to the target substrate 15 , thus completing the transferring of the first graphene film 113 onto the target substrate 15 .
EXAMPLE 5
The embodiment recited in this example is for the most part identical to the embodiment disclosed in Example 4. However, because of the inherent characteristic of the graphene film being transparent, it is more difficult to be studied by naked eyes, the first graphene film is marked by ink such that the first graphene film 113 can be studied by naked eyes after the carrier 11 is etched, to facilitate the alignment between the first graphene film 113 and the target substrate 15 .
While the disclosure has described by way of example and in terms of the preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements.
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The present invention relates to a method of transferring a graphene film comprising the steps of (A) providing a carrier, wherein the carrier has a first surface, and a second surface, and a first graphene film is formed on the first surface; (B) disposing a patterned protection layer on the second surface of the carrier; (C) patternin carrier with the first graphene film on a target substrate; (E) removing the the carrier to expose the first graphene film; (D) disposing the patterned carrier to transfer the first graphene film on the substrate.
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PRIORITY CLAIM
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/665,549, filed on Jun. 28, 2012, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the field of centrifugal pumps. More particularly, the present invention relates to such pumps that utilize a pitot tube.
Related Art
Many centrifugal pumps utilize pitot tubes to transport fluid under very high pressures. Examples of pitot tube pumps are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,776,658 to Erickson; U.S. Pat. No. 3,822,102 to Erickson, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,183,713 to Erickson, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,252,499 to Erickson and U.S. Pat. No. 4,279,571 to Erickson, which are each incorporated herein by reference to the extent they are consistent with the teachings herein.
Typically, pitot tubes installed within pumps include an elongated neck portion that is shaped to position the tip (or inlet) of the pitot tube near the periphery of a rotary casing within which an impellor is creating fluid flow. The tip of the pitot tube is generally positioned within the pump casing where the pressure and rotational velocity of the fluid are greatest.
While such pitot tube pumps have been used with some success, there are a number of problems associated with these conventional systems. For example, due to the rather awkward geometry of the neck of the pitot (which is typically necessary to position the tip of the pitot tube where desired), the body (or neck) of the pitot tube is subject to significant forces as the fluid flows over and around the body, which can lead to significant vibrational problems. In addition, it is often the case that the tip portion of the pitot tube becomes worn over time and must be replaced or refurbished. Removal of conventional pitot tubes often requires dismantling of the entire pump, which often requires removal of the pump from the system in which it is operating, which can lead to significant losses in down time, wasted labor hours, etc. Also, conventional pitot tubes often require very specialized mounting hardware and associated tools for mounting and removing the pitot tube from the pumps.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a centrifugal pump is provided that include a pump assembly, through which a fluid can be impelled. The pump assembly can include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a fluid casing, and an impellor positioned within the fluid casing. The impellor can be driven by a power source and can be operable to generate fluid flow within the fluid casing from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The pump assembly can also include a volute area formed on a periphery of the fluid casing, the volute area being operable to receive fluid pressurized by flow induced by the impellor. A pitot tube can be positioned within the volute area, the pitot tube being operable to receive pressurized fluid from the volute area and pass the fluid through an outlet having an expanding geometry that increases the flow rate of the fluid as it passes through the outlet.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example, features of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates an external view of a centrifugal pump in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom view of the centrifugal pump of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 3 Illustrates a side view of the centrifugal pump of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional view of the pump along section E-E of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 5 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of the pump along section A-A of FIG. 1 ;
FIGS. 6A-B show a top view and side cross sectional view along section H-H of the impeller blade;
FIG. 7 illustrates an impeller blade and shroud in accordance with prior art shroud design;
FIG. 8 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of the pitot tube chamber along section G-G of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 9 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of the 180 degree elbow along cross section D-D of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 10 illustrates a cross sectional view of the second stage of a two stage pump in accordance with one aspect of the present invention which shows a cross sectional view of the pump along section F-F of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 11 illustrates a cross sectional view of the pump along the section C-C of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross sectional view of the pump along the section A-A of FIG. 1 showing the two stages and two impellers of the two stage pump;
FIG. 13A-B illustrates a pitot tube in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14A-C illustrates a pitot tube in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles of the inventions as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.
It is noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” can include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a pitot tube” can include one or more of such tubes.
Definitions
In describing and claiming the present invention, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set forth below.
As used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint. The degree of flexibility of this term can be dictated by the particular variable and would be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to determine based on experience and the disclosure provided herein.
As used herein, relative terms, such as “upper,” “lower,” “upwardly,” “downwardly,” etc., can be used to refer to various components of the systems discussed herein, and related structures with which the present systems can be utilized, as those terms would be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the relevant art. It is to be understood that such terms are not intended to limit the present invention, but are rather used to aid in describing the components of the present systems, and related structures generally, in the most straightforward manner.
As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. As an arbitrary example, when an object or group of objects is/are referred to as being “substantially” symmetrical, it is to be understood that the object or objects are either completely symmetrical or are nearly completely symmetrical. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend upon the specific context. However, generally speaking, the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained.
The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. As an arbitrary example, an opening that is “substantially free of” material would either completely lack material, or so nearly completely lack material that the effect would be the same as if it completely lacked material. In other words, an opening that is “substantially free of” material may still actually contain some such material as long as there is no measurable effect as a result thereof.
As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary.
Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus 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.
As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 10 to about 50” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 10 to about 50, but also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 20, 30.5, and 40 and sub-ranges such as from 10-30, from 20-40, and from 30-50, etc. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value. Furthermore, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described.
It is noted that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. As such, various components of the invention may not be shown in correct proportion relative to one another. Also, in the interest of clarity, not all features of the invention are shown in each figure, even in the case where the example shown in the figure does include such features. As such, the figures should not be considered limiting, but are instead provided as examples of the various implementations of the present invention.
Invention
The invention relates generally to a centrifugal pump that includes a novel pitot tube arrangement that provides many advantages over conventional pitot tube pumps. These advantages include, without limitation, the ability to quickly and easily replace the pitot tube portion of the pump without requiring that the pump be dismantled, or removed from existing piping systems. The pitot tubes of the present invention are positioned such that vibrations resulting from fluid flow past the pitot tube are greatly reduced, if not avoided altogether. In addition, the design of the present invention allows the geometry of the pitot tube, and the area surrounding the pitot tube pickup, to be tailored to specific fluid applications.
FIGS. 1-3 illustrate general concepts of the invention. FIGS. 1 through 3 illustrate outer portions of a pump assembly 10 , while FIGS. 4 through 12 illustrate the various sections shown in FIGS. 1 through 3 .
With general reference to the figures, in operation, fluid enters the pump through a manner that will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, fluid can enter the pump via pipes or conduits connected to flange 20 . The fluid can then be routed into a fluid casing 12 which houses an impeller 24 (first shown in FIG. 5 ). The fluid can then be directed through the fluid casing 12 to the inlet 22 or suction side of the impeller 24 through common methods. The impeller pressurizes the fluid and discharges the fluid from the fluid casing 12 through the outlet piping and flange 60 ( FIG. 1 ).
As shown by example in FIG. 5 , the impeller vanes 26 can be enshrouded by a shroud portion 28 , wherein the shroud and the vanes of the impeller define a fluid flow chamber. The vane entry angle 30 can be determined by normal impeller design methods for optimization of the pump. The vane exit angle 32 can be selected in a variety of appropriate angles, and in one example can be approximately parallel to the axis of rotation of the impeller (see, for example, FIGS. 6A and 6B ). FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary vane exit angle that has been used in prior art devices.
Referring still to FIG. 5 , the shroud portion 28 of the impeller 24 can include two sides, one on the suction (or top) side of the impeller vane and one on an opposite discharge (or bottom) side of the vane. The top side shroud wraps about the impellor, and can include a parallel shroud section 34 ( FIG. 6B ) that is at least partially parallel to the axis of rotation of the impeller to more efficiently capture the dynamic pressure generated by the impeller. This shroud portion may be extended beyond the end of the impeller vane by a shroud extension portion 36 to improve performance of the pump, or as other conditions may dictate.
After the fluid has the dynamic centrifugal energy added to it by the impeller 24 , the fluid is then discharged into the pitot tube chamber 38 (see, for example, FIGS. 5, 8, 11 , etc.). The fluid flow can be maintained stable by the surrounding geometry of the pitot tube chamber 38 , which can be optimized for a particular application. A pitot tube chamber vane 40 can optionally be added that protrudes into the pitot tube chamber 38 for increased stabilization. A pitot tube 44 can be positioned within the pitot tube chamber 38 and can include a pitot tube opening 42 (see, for example, FIGS. 8 and 11 ).
Pitot tubes operate on the theory and design that any velocity energy or other dynamic centrifugal energy encountered at the area directly around the pitot tube tip is transferred into pressure energy. Thus, openings at the tip of the pitot tube allow fluid to enter at a high pressure with a near zero velocity, allowing for high pressure gradients through the pump at minimized flows. In one embodiment of the present invention, this pitot tube opening 42 can be small relative to the cross section area of the surrounding chamber. The pitot tube chamber 38 can be designed to receive the tip of a pitot tube 44 and introduce the tip of a pitot tube 44 . In this manner, the pitot tube opening 42 can be positioned within the pitot tube chamber so as to receive pressure energy from the pump and receive fluid from the pump. The compound pressurized fluid within the pump 10 enters the pitot tube opening 42 and proceeds into a hollow bore within the pitot tube 44 which has a gradually expanding geometry 46 from the tip end to a flange end or output end (see, for example, FIGS. 8, 11, 13A , etc.).
Fluid within the pitot tube 44 can then proceed to the pitot tube output. The interior of the pitot tube can include a continually expanding cross section. The fluid proceeds from the pitot tube 44 itself and into an output connecting pipe 48 (shown by example in FIG. 9 as a 180-degree elbow connecting to a second stage of a two-stage pump). The gradual, uniform expansion of the cross section area of pitot tube 44 stabilizes the flow and minimizes pressure loss due to turbulence.
In one aspect of the invention, the pump assembly can be configured as a two-stage pump, as shown by example in FIG. 12 . In this case, the fluid can proceed to the second stage 50 , following a similar flow path and pressure boosting result. The actual output pressure or head of each stage can, in theory, be about twice the pressure developed by the impeller alone. In some embodiments of the invention, however, it has been found that the output is about 1.6 times the theoretical centrifugal impeller capacity (due primarily to mechanical losses).
With reference to FIGS. 13A-13B , a pitot tube 42 is shown that can have a singular pitot tube opening 42 . The pitot tube opening 42 can be configured to be positioned within the pitot tube chamber (not shown in this figure), wherein the pitot tube opening 42 transitions to a concave chamber 46 within the pitot tube that includes a gradually expanding geometry. The pitot tube 44 may be maintained in position by a flange 52 which can be coupled between a flange of an output connecting pipe and a flange of the pump output, as shown by example in FIGS. 8 and 11 .
The flange of the pump output can include an annular groove formed therein that can be configured to receive the flange 52 of the pitot tube. This configuration allows easy service and, if necessary, replacement of the pitot tube 44 by the relatively easy removal of the output connecting pipe rather than by significant disassembly of the fluid casing of the pump. The outer surface of the pitot tube 44 can be tapered to fit within a coinciding concave sleeve of the fluid output pipe formed in the fluid casing of the pump. The pitot tube outer surface can further include an angled forward edge 54 through which the pitot tube tip and opening protrudes. This angled forward edge 54 provides clearance between the pitot tube outer surface and the vanes of the impeller within the pitot tube chamber, as well as providing for an orientation guide upon insertion of the pitot tube 44 into the sleeve during installation or replacement. The clearance between the angled edge 54 and the vanes can be seen in both FIGS. 8 and 11 .
In addition to providing a guide for proper orientation and clearance between the pitot tube within the pitot tube chamber, the angled edge 54 also provides for increased support of the pitot tube tip and reduces the risk of tip breakage, particularly along the end of the angled surface which extends toward the pitot tube tip and along the fluid casing of the pump away from the vanes of the impeller.
With reference to FIGS. 14A through 14 -C, a pitot tube 44 ′ is shown having a plurality of pitot tube openings 42 ′. Similar to the pitot tube of FIGS. 13A-13B the pitot tube openings 42 ′ are configured to be received by the pitot tube chamber (not shown) wherein the openings 42 ′ allow fluid to pass into a concave chamber 46 ′ within the pitot tube having a gradually expanding geometry. The pitot tube 44 ′ may be maintained in position by a flange 52 ′ which is coupled between a flange of the output connecting pipe and a flange of the pump output, as shown by example in FIGS. 7 and 11 . This configuration allows easy service and, if necessary, replacement of the pitot tube 44 ′ by removal of the output connecting pipe (not shown).
Similar to the single opening pitot tube of FIGS. 13A-13B the outer surface of the pitot tube 44 ′ can be tapered to fit within a coinciding concave sleeve of the fluid output pipe formed in the fluid casing of the pump. The pitot tube outer surface may also have an angled forward edge 54 ′ through which the pitot tube tip and opening protrudes. This angled forward edge 54 ′ provides clearance between the pitot tube outer surface and the vanes of the impeller within the pitot tube chamber, as well as providing for an orientation guide upon insertion of the pitot tube 44 ′ into the sleeve during installation or replacement (This clearance can be readily appreciated from FIGS. 8 and 11 ). Proper orientation of the pitot tube 44 ′ within the pitot tube chamber is critical as misalignment by may result in interference between the wider double hole pitot tube with the impeller.
By providing a plurality of pitot tube openings at the tip of the pitot tube greater flow may be provided and the output volume of the pump may be increased significantly while maintaining nearly the same pressure gradients across each stage.
FIG. 12 depicts a cross sectional view of a two stage pump 10 which has a first stage 50 , and a second stage 53 . The Two stages of the pump can both be equipped with pitot tubes into their respective outlets to further increase the pressure gradient over what a single stage pump may accomplish.
It is to be understood that the arrangements illustrated and discussed herein are illustrative of the application for the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements can be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention while the present invention has been shown in the drawings and described in connection with the exemplary embodiments(s) of the invention. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications can be made without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the examples.
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A centrifugal pump comprises a pump assembly, through which a fluid can be impelled. The pump assembly includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a fluid casing, and an impellor positioned within the fluid casing, the impellor being driven by a power source and being operable to generate fluid flow within the fluid casing from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The pump assembly also includes a volute area formed on a periphery of the fluid casing, the volute area being operable to receive fluid pressurized by flow induced by the impellor. A pitot tube is positioned within the volute area, the pitot tube being operable to receive pressurized fluid from the volute area and pass the fluid through an outlet having an expanding geometry that increases the flow rate of the fluid as it passes through the outlet.
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[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/046,582, filed Sep. 5, 2014, by Kent Winter and entitled “WEAR PLATES” and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the mining and construction industries, loading and moving of heavy materials such as sand, gravel and rock is often accomplished using heavy machinery such as scoop trams, front-end loaders and powered bucket digging devices. During operation, these buckets tend to wear along their leading and side edges due to abrasion when entering the material pile and during contact with the ground. During use, the leading or lip edges and side edges may tend to wear down, sometimes very quickly. After the lip edges and side edges wear down to a point where the base plate or bucket are threatened with wear, the bucket may typically be removed and sent to be refurbished by replacing the lips or lip edges and side edges. Bucket removal is a relatively common practice in the mining industry at present. Rework and replacement of bucket lips and side edges can be a major undertaking involving burning, cutting and welding. Time may be lost if the loader is transported to a shop where the bucket is to be replaced. In a mining setting, the loader may remain inside the mine, the bucket being cut into two pieces and transported out of the mine to the surface. The replacement bucket may be returned in two pieces and be welded together before being placed on the loader. If a replacement bucket is not available or the replacement process is too cumbersome at the time, an operator may continue operating the loader nonetheless. As a result the base plate or the bucket itself may be damaged through overuse and may then require much more extensive repair than would otherwise be expected. The replacement of the base plate or bucket may well be much more costly than the continued use gained by operating the loader for the extra time.
[0003] Alternatively, the mine may keep an inventory of repaired buckets available. It is advantageous to reduce the ratio of buckets in inventory to the number of buckets in use, since buckets held in inventory, or being refurbished, are capital assets that are not earning revenue. Thus, it is advantageous to facilitate relatively simple replacement of wear plates and teeth in the mine, and to reduce the number of major overhauls requiring bucket removal to the surface.
[0004] When a loader or underground scoop tram is used for loading or transporting materials it is common to weld a base plate to the lower front edge of the bucket, the welding join line running from side to side across the bucket. The bucket is usually made of mild steel and the base plate is made of a mild steel or high carbon steel. The base plate is sometimes of greater thickness than the bucket plate. The upper surface of the base plate is installed flush with the inner surface of the bucket. The base plate has a lead, provided by leading edges that extend forwardly at an angle from the lower corners of the bucket to converge at a central point or tip. Different leads are selected by different operators to suit specific conditions. It is common for base plates to have leads of six, eight, ten or twelve inches, the lead being the distance that the tip is located forwardly of a line joining the outside corners of the bucket. A number of known scoop tram buckets have widths in the range of 56 to 112 inches, the tangent of the angle of the lead, viewed from above, being the lead dimension divided by the half width of the bucket.
[0005] The supply of replaceable wear edge parts and plates for the aforementioned wear areas, namely the forward lips and side edges and adjacent wing leading edges and sides of excavating or loader buckets, or similar, is the subject of this application; as well as a system of standardization that includes the supply and installation of universal, removable, and replaceable, wing, lip, and side edge wear segments.
[0006] Loader buckets currently come in a variety of sizes. The present supplies of lip and side edge wear components, to meet the numerous different bucket leads, involve producing and stocking a wide variety of wear segments. As a result, many different sizes of lips and side edges may be manufactured and stocked to meet demand. This results in a need to maintain a relatively large inventory.
[0007] Replaceable and weldable, leading edge wear shroud kits have been used in the past, but have tended to include elements as much as 40 inches wide or more. Such a part may weigh three hundred pounds or more. In general, the greater the weight of the part, the more difficult it is to handle, whether by hand or by machine, whether in shipping, transferring from one form of transport to another, installation and/or removal.
[0008] In addition, the mating faces of the aforementioned parts may not be planar, and may not be aligned with the forward and rearward direction of the bucket. Where the mating interfaces are arcuate, curved, or splayed, it may not be possible to remove each part without first removing another neighboring part. The other part may not require replacement. This may complicate the occasional replacement of a single broken part, and may make general replacement of wear segments more time consuming than it need be. It would be advantageous to tend to avoid this complication by making the sides of adjoining segments straight and aligned, and preferably generally running in the fore-and-aft direction, to permit a segment to be slid into place between its neighbors. Although larger segments can be used, it would be advantageous to employ plates or segments that are in the range of 3 inches to 12 inches wide, and 6 inches to 6 feet long. Similarly, it would be advantageous to keep the weight of each wear segment, or as many of them as practicable, below about 80 lbs., and preferably below about 50 lbs. It would also be preferable to be able to remove any individual plate or segment without having to remove others first. That is, it would be advantageous to employ wear plates or segments that do not require a specific order of removal and installation.
[0009] It would be a further advantage, to adopt a wear plate or wear bar system involving relatively few components, and relatively simple installation methods such as may be made in place (i.e. on site) with only minor lifting devices and readily available welding tools (i.e. oxy-acetylene torches). Another option is to sell one size, or a relatively small number of sizes, of wear plates or bars that can be trimmed or cut by the user in the field to match the bucket size. In this manner, the wear parts or bars can be sold like lumber and cut to size at the job site.
[0010] The effectiveness of a loader is determined by the number of loads per hour that can be loaded for a given material. Currently, lips and side edges for attachment to base plates have wedge shaped or rectangular profiles. These profiles may not be conducive to easy rolling of muck or other materials into the bucket. As a result, the effectiveness of the loader is reduced as muck gets caught on the lips and side edges or if the muck is slow to roll off the lips and side edges into the bucket. It may be advantageous to have lips and side edges with profiles that tend to encourage rolling motion in the muck. It may also be advantageous to have a side edge profile in which accumulation of muck or other materials is deterred, or where accumulation is directed to certain areas.
[0011] It would be advantageous to be able to trim or cut a cast or forged part to a customizable size for installation in the field. It would also be advantageous if the shape and profile of the side edges were designed to encourage a rolling action in the material to be loaded and to minimize wear/abrasion to the wear part. It would also be advantageous to use a method for providing lips and side edges which reduces inventory variety and inventory costs while still supporting a wide variety of bucket widths and side edge configurations.
[0012] Accordingly, there is a need for new lips and side edges (i.e. front and sides) wear parts and a new method for providing and mounting such lip and side edge wear parts, and other wear parts.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0013] In one aspect of the invention, there is a set of wear plates, bars, sections, or segments developed to incorporate advantages over a number of existing systems. The wear sections can be cut and welded in place and are sized for relatively easy handling and installation. In a method aspect of the present invention, this may tend to permit replacement in place at the worksite location in the field, preferably without the use of heavy machinery or the bodily removal of a bucket, and without the need for plasma cutter torches.
[0014] In another aspect or feature of the invention, standardization of wear components to a limited number of sizes as required to meet a plurality of bucket sizes, may tend to reduce inventory stocking difficulties. In another feature of the invention, there can be a relatively small number of sizes of wear segments from which a selection of combinations and permutations will permit kits to be assembled to fit a relatively large number of bucket sizes. In an additional feature, wear segments of differing thicknesses can be provided to suit differing thicknesses of sides and base plates as chosen by operators according to bucket capacity and operating conditions. In another feature of the present invention, the weld-on segments can be relatively easily installed in place without the use of heavy equipment and with only the use of wry-acetylene torches or similar.
[0015] In still yet another additional feature, the wear plates or segments can include an upper surface extending rearwardly from the tip of the wear segment. The upper surface can include a plurality of spaced and raised nodules or plugs to encourage rolling action into and out of work material. In a further additional feature, the bucket can have a height in the range of 10 to 60 inches, and the leading edge of the base plate can be chosen from an inventory of segments consisting of segments of less than 9 inches in width.
[0016] In still a further additional feature, the bucket has a height in the range of 10 to 60 inches, and the wear segments for the sides are chosen from an inventory of wear segments including wear segments of at least two widths. In yet a further additional feature, at least two widths are chosen from an inventory of wear segments of up to four widths selected from a set of exemplary widths comprising (a) about 4 inches; (b) about 6 inches; (c) about 8 inches; and (d) about 10 inches.
[0017] In still yet another additional feature, the wear segment has a thickness measured between the first and second parallel planes, and the nodules have a depth, wherein the thickness being about the same as the depth.
[0018] In a further additional feature, the wear segment can have a thickness measured between the first and second parallel surfaces, and the nodules can have a depth, wherein the depth being greater than the thickness.
[0019] In still a further arrangement, the wear segment can have a thickness, and the nodules can have a depth, wherein the depth being less than the thickness.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] For a better understanding of the present invention and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example to the accompanying drawings , which show a wear plate according to an embodiment of the present invention and in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the wear plate;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a wear plate mounted to a work surface;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the wear plate taken along line 3 - 3 in FIG. 2 ;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pair of wear plates in an exemplary mounted orientation; and,
[0025] FIG. 5 is an exemplary orientation of a plurality of wear plates mounted on a bucket.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] The description that follows, and the embodiments described hereinafter, are provided by way of examples of particular embodiments of the principals of the present invention. These examples are provided by the purposes of illustration, and not of limitation, of those principals and of the invention. In the description that follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same respective numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated in order to more clearly depict certain features of the invention. In this description the terms “leading” or “forward” refer to the direction of advance of the equipment into a work substance, be it earth, or gravel, or rock, or some other substance.
[0027] By way of general overview, FIG. 5 shows an exemplary view of a bucket 10 of a front end loader having wear components or wear plates 30 installed thereon. The bucket 10 has a backshell assembly that can be in the form of a generally rectangular plate 12 formed on a curve of constant radius, terminating in a leading, or lower tangential plate portion 14 that forms the base wall of the bucket, and another planar portion 16 that forms the upper edge of the bucket. The curved backshell assembly is bounded at either end by left and right end walls 18 , 20 . The end walls 18 , 20 and backshell assembly cooperate to define the scoop area of the bucket 10 .
[0028] The bucket 10 is shown with a plurality of wear components or wear plates 30 tack welded along the outside of the end wall 18 . The wear plates 30 are shown in a rectilinear geometry but can comprise any desired shape or geometry.
[0029] The bucket 10 , when installed on a tram scoop (not shown) or front end loader (not shown), is raised or lowered by means of external mechanism, such as a boom assembly (not shown) which carries the weight of the bucket through pivot assemblies mounted at the main pivot points (not shown). The bucket 10 can be rotated about these points through some angular range of motion. Typically, the angular orientation of the bucket 10 relative to the booms upon on which it is mounted is controlled by means of one or more hydraulic cylinders, which can be exemplified by a centrally located powered cylinder in the nature of a hydraulic ram (not shown). The hydraulic ram can have one end connected to the boom assembly, and another end connected to a rearwardly oriented portion of the bucket exterior offset by a moment arm distance from pivot points such that extension or retraction will tend to cause the bucket to pivot. In addition to the bucket mechanisms, translational forward and rearward motion of the front end loader to force the bucket into a pile of material when excavating or digging is provided by the front end loaders engine and drive train.
[0030] As shown in the figures, each of the wear plates or bars 30 can include a plurality of holes 32 drilled from an outside face 34 . The holes 32 can be filled and/or over filled with a carbide matrix deposit 40 . When overfilled, the deposits 40 can take on the configuration of a “muffin top” or nodule over the respective holes 32 . It is to be appreciated that any number of wear plates 30 can be mounted to either side 18 , 20 or bottom edge of the bucket 10 . The wear plates 30 can be cut, using an oxy-acetylene torch, in order to reduce the size and/or to custom fit around preexisting mounts, pivot points, or other non-planar mechanisms protruding from the exterior of the bucket 10 . The holes 32 drilled into the wear plate 30 can also include a small through hole or pilot hole 33 extending all the way through the wear plate 30 . These through holes 33 can act as exhaust ports during the filling of the holes 32 with the carbide matrix deposit 40 . The depositing of the carbide matrix 40 can be referred to as “plug welds”. Each wear plate, and/or portions of wear plates, can be welded to the exterior surfaces of the bucket 10 in any orientation or position that accommodates the exterior geometry of respective buckets. It is to be appreciated that the present invention can be used on any number of different types and manufacturers of buckets and that the wear plates 30 can be cut to size and/or mounted in association with a plurality of wear plates 30 to meet the desired coverage of the wear surfaces. It is to be appreciated that the thicknesses t of the wear plates 30 , inclusive of nodules 40 , can come in a variety of dimensions for meeting particular applications.
[0031] In use, substrate material (i.e. excavation or mining substrate material) will adhere to the area 50 between the overfilled deposits. Eventually nearly all of the area 50 between the deposits or nodules 40 will comprise substrate material with the plugs 40 acting as “footers”. Further use will involve the anchored substrate material in abrasive contact with the substrate material being excavated (i.e. “substratum material against substratum material”). This in turn will reduce wear on the plugs 40 and prolong the life of the wear plates 30 and associated bucket 10 (for example). The combined surface area of the weld deposits 40 can be from about 30% to about 70% of the surface area of face 34 of the wear plate 30 .
[0032] In addition, the wear plates 30 can include a plurality of relatively larger through holes 42 to accommodate welding inside the perimeter of the through holes 42 for mounting of the wear plates 30 to the sides and/or bottom edges of the bucket 10 . In this manner, the wear plates 30 can include not only tack or fillet welds 60 around the exterior perimeter of the wear plate 30 , but can also include slot or fillet welds 62 within the perimeter of the through holes 42 . At a joint 43 between the wear plate 30 and the end wall 18 . This method of mounting will provide a plurality of secure welds 60 to the sides and/or bottom edges of the bucket, while also providing protection to, and shielding from abrasion, some of the fillet or slot welds 62 as the bucket 10 is used during operation ( FIG. 3 ). It is to be appreciated that the internal slot welds 62 are shielded from wear and abrasion.
[0033] It is to be appreciated that the wear plates 30 can come in any number of variable widths, sizes, and lengths. The wear plates 30 can be combined and used in conjunction with a plurality of other wear plates 30 for particular applications. In this manner, not only can any number of wear plates 30 be used during initial mounting, but as individual wear plates 30 show relative increased wear, individual wear plates 30 can be replaced as needed
[0034] Wear plates 30 can be affixed to any portion of bucket 10 by welding 60 , 62 or other rigid mounting means. The edges of wear plates 30 can be pre-machined with a chamfer (not shown). The chamfer can extend around the full perimeter of the wear plate.
[0035] The array of wear segments 30 , indicated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , can comprise any number of wear plates or portions of wear plates. The wear plates 30 can be cut to any size or geometrical shape to accommodate the particular mounting arrangement. The wear plates 30 can have a varying thickness (i.e. a uniformly tapering plane) to accommodate a sloping mounting surface.
[0036] As there are a variety of sizes of buckets, different sizes of lip and side edge wear segments are required. There are over two dozen standard widths of loader buckets in use in industry today. Thus, it has been determined that having an easily handled width and length of lip and side edge wear segments (or portions thereof) can be variously combined to yield plate sets or kits suitable for use with nearly all different standard size loader buckets. The use of a few standard lip and side edge wear segment sizes will reduce manufacturing costs, shipping costs and inventory costs as well as serve a wide variety of bucket sizes.
[0037] In operation, the loader forces bucket 10 into a material pile such as earth or ore and lifts bucket 10 upwards. The material rolls along lip and side edge wear segments. The curvature of the nodules 40 in lip and side edge wear segments 30 tends to allow for more efficient rolling motion of the bucket 10 into and out of the material.
[0038] Wear plate segments 30 are subject to wear during use. After some time an operator or maintenance technician, may observe that the nodules 40 have worn to such an extent that insufficient material is left for further use. Individual wear plates 30 can then be selectively replaced.
[0039] The exemplary embodiment has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. It is intended that the exemplary embodiment be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.
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A wear plate for attachment to an excavator bucket. The wear plate comprising a mounting surface for mounting to an exterior face of the excavator bucket. The wear plate having a plurality of holes extending along at least a portion of the wear plate. The holes include carbide matrix weldment therein overfilling the holes. The wear plate comprises a sacrificial and impermanent replaceable wear edge for the exterior faces of the excavator bucket.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
This application is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/761,362, filed Jan. 16, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,651, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/176,207, filed Jan. 14, 2000.
This application is related to co-pending, commonly-owned and commonly-invented U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/726,946, filed Nov. 29, 2000, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/168,114, filed Nov. 30, 1999, and which is incorporated fully herein by this reference to it.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention generally relates to distributed computer systems and/or networks of interconnected computer systems, and more particularly to a method and system of Web-site host consistency administration among inconsistent software-object libraries of remote distributed health-care providers.
Looked at differently, the problem addressed by the invention relates to person-to-machine interaction with data. By way of background, a Web-site host is entrusted to provide administration services over a client's data. The client—a very real person—receives access to the data in the form of requests transmitted to the host over the Internet. The invention deals with the consistent presentation of requested data on the client's machine. That way, the client (ie., the person) is less likely to mis-interpret the data if it is presented consistently the same time after time.
Preferably the invention is implemented over the Internet to take advantage of its far reach as an affordable communications medium to remote distributed machines. More preferably still is that the given communications transmitted between the Web-site host and its clients over the Internet use open or public domain protocols for doing so. These principally include to date for Web-page matter the languages or formats of HTML (hypertext markup language), SGML (standard generalized markup language), XML (extensible markup language), XSL (extensible style language), or CSS (cascading style sheets).
The present application claims relation to the above-referenced co-pending, commonly-owned and commonly-invented U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/726,946, filed Nov. 29, 2000, entitled “Process for Administrating over Changes to Server-Administrated Client Records in a Stateless Protocol.” The emphasis in that application is on administrating over the trustworthiness of the data. In contrast, the emphasis of the present application is on administrating over the trustworthiness in the presentation.
That is, in the present application the trustworthiness of the data is taken as a given. The problem is, however, even if the data is trustworthy, inconsistent presentation among different requests for the data can cause human error in interpretation of the data.
The matter of consistent presentation of data is critical in field of remote distributed healthcare providers because of the following factors. Medication decisions are based on the data. The data in such case may be the time of previous administration of medication to a patient. If this bit of information fails to land in the right place for it on the client's computer screen, the client might miss it. The client might also not search the screen for where the data is displayed, or not understand it if indeed seen since it's not inside its field. Hence the client might decide to administer the patient a next dose when it's too soon. That's one aspect of the problem.
At this stage, further background into the problem would provide a richer understanding of it. The clients of applicant's enterprise comprise a group of healthcare providers such as nurses (of several types), physicians, social workers, therapists (of several types), or dieticians. The profile of such persons in that group is that they are attending to patients or residents in locations other than big medical complexes like hospitals or the like. Example such “other” locations include home health care provided to a patient in his or her own home, long term care provided to residents of long-term care facilities (eg., nursing homes), or physician offices in rural areas or where otherwise remote from services of Information Technologists. These parties have sophisticated information processing needs. However, they may have no more access to a computer than a personal or laptop computer that can be hooked up to the Internet by a phone line. These parties sorely lack local personal service from a skilled Information Technician because IT's are in short supply about everywhere. These parties troubles will have to be solved on the server-side of operations.
As well understood by those skilled in the art, computers communicating over the World Wide Web (“Web”) do so by browser technology and in an environment described as a “stateless” or non-persistent protocol. “Intranet” generally refers to private networks that likewise implement browser technology. “Internet” generally includes the Web as well as sites operating not on browser-technology but perhaps maybe servers of mail or Internet chat and the like. At least in the case of the Web, the stateless protocol is denominated as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (“HTTP”).
One premise of the Web is that material on the Web may be formatted in open or “public domain” formats. Several have been named previously. Many if not most of these open formats are produced under the authority of W3C, which is short for World Wide Web Consortium, founded in 1994 as an international consortium of companies involved with the Internet and the Web. The organization's purpose is to develop open standards so that the Web evolves in a single direction rather than being splintered among competing factions. The W3C is the chief standards body for HTTP and HTML and so on.
On the Web, all information requests and responses presumptively conform to one of those standard protocols. Another premise of the Web is that communications vis-a-vis requests and responses are non-persistent. A request comprises a discrete communication which when completed over a given channel is broken. The response thereto originates as a wholly separate discrete communication which is likely to find its way to the requestor by a very different channel.
Additional aspects and objects of the invention will be apparent in connection with the discussion further below of preferred embodiments and examples.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a model method of Web-site host consistency administration among inconsistent software-object libraries of remote distributed health-care providers.
These and other aspects and objects are provided according to the invention in a method and system of Web-site host consistency administration for network communications between a server and remote distributed clients belonging to the health-care provider field and in a computing environment in which the clients are treated as communicating from machines stored with inconsistent software-object libraries.
Aspects of the method comprise the following.
A Web-site host is provided with a rich library of DLL objects, a full and complex operating system, an application source program, application data access program, network program, Internet protocols, application data, and application first-stage-compiled objects with DLL references.
The Web-site host is executing the operating system and further executing a repeatable cycle, which from a beginning comprises these steps.
The host executes the network program using the Internet protocols.
It receives a request from a client in the form of keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs.
It stores the received keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs.
The host analyzes the keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs and in consequence thereof, analyzing the request gotten thereby.
It selects, in accordance with the request, an applicable first-stage-compiled object with linked DLL references.
It selects requested data.
It executes a second-stage-compile/interpretation of the selected first-stage-compiled object with linked DLL references in order to derive object and referenced DLL's.
It executes the derivative code.
The host also develops screen images with requested data content.
It translates the developed screen images into an open or public domain protocol.
It executes the network program using Internet protocols.
The host transmits the translated screen images.
And then, the host goes back to the beginning of the repeatable cycle.
This method thereby provides high assurance that every client sees substantially the same result for the same request despite inconsistencies in DLL libraries onboard different client machines.
Preferably the open protocols comprise one of HTML (hypertext markup language), SGML (standard generalized markup language), XML (extensible markup language), XSL (extensible style language), or CSS (cascading style sheets).
The method may further comprise the following.
That is, a client is provide with a library of DLL objects (but these are presumed inconsistent with those of the server's library), at least a minimal operating system, a browser program, and Internet protocols.
The client executes the at least minimal operating system and further collects and stores keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs.
The client analyzes the keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs and either discontinues or else continues by further executing a repeatable cycle, which from a beginning comprises the following steps.
The client executes the browser program using the Internet protocols.
The client sends a request for Web-site host service in the form of the stored keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs.
The client executes the browser program using the Internet protocols.
The client receives the requested translated screen images with requested data content.
The client displays the screen images.
The client collects and stores keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs.
And then the client goes back to the step of analyzing the keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs at the beginning of the repeatable cycle. Again this further development of the method on the client-side of processing further provides high assurance a common look for every request despite inconsistencies in DLL libraries onboard different client machines.
In this method, the remote distributed clients belonging to the health-care provider field preferably include nurses of varying types, physicians, social workers, therapists of several types, or dieticians providing service to a patient at home, a resident of a nursing home, or a patient at a physician's office remote from a medical complex.
Additional aspects and objects of the invention will be apparent in connection with the discussion further below of preferred embodiments and examples.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
There are shown in the drawings certain exemplary embodiments of the invention as presently preferred. It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed as examples, and is capable of variation within the scope of the appended claims. In the drawings,
FIG. 1 is a block diagrammatic view of a prior art client/server model for network communications between a server and clients (one client shown);
FIG. 2 is a block diagrammatic view of a Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications between a server and remote distributed clients (one shown) belonging to the health-care provider field and in a computing environment in which the clients are treated as communicating from machines loaded with inconsistent software-object libraries;
FIG. 3 is a table of prior art server-side CPU activities for a server practicing the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 4 is a table of prior art client-side CPU activities for a client participating in the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 5 is a table comparable to FIG. 3 except showing server-side CPU activities for a server practicing the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 );
FIG. 6 is a table comparable to FIG. 4 except showing client-side CPU activities for a client participating in the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 );
FIG. 7 is a table comparable to both FIGS. 3 and 5 or more accurately, combining FIGS. 3 and 5 to show together in one table all server-side CPU activities presented in either FIG. 3 for the prior art client/server model or else in FIG. 5 for the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 8 is a table comparable to both FIGS. 4 and 6 or more accurately, combining FIGS. 4 and 6 to show together in one table all client-side CPU activities presented in either FIG. 4 for the prior art client/server model or else in FIG. 6 for the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 9 is a table-form flowchart of process sequence and logic for the server practicing the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 10 shows that FIGS. 10 a and 10 b combine as depicted since the content of FIG. 10 a continues over onto FIG. 10 b , wherein FIGS. 10 a and 10 b in combination provide a table-form flowchart of process sequence and logic for the client participating in the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 11 is a table-form flowchart comparable to FIG. 9 except showing process sequence and logic for a server practicing the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ); and,
FIG. 12 is a table-form flowchart comparable to FIGS. 10 a and 10 b except showing process sequence and logic for a client participating in the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 2 , then 4 – 6 and after that 11 – 12 illustrate a Web-site host consistency administration method in accordance with the invention for remote distributed health-care providers whose machines are presumed to store inconsistent software-object libraries.
Arguably, the best understanding of the invention is gotten by comparing FIG. 12 to the prior art shown by FIGS. 10 a and 10 b , or else FIG. 11 to the prior art shown by FIG. 9 . The views of FIGS. 1 through 8 might be best appreciated as providing support to an ultimate understanding of the matters presented in the latter views of FIGS. 9–12 .
The invention applies to network communications between a Web-site host and remote distributed clients. FIG. 12 shows CPU process sequence and logic for a client participating in the Web-site host consistency administration method in accordance with the invention (eg., FIG. 2 ). For comparison, FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show client-side CPU process sequence and logic for the prior art client/server model of operations.
FIG. 11 shows CPU process sequence and logic for the host practicing the Web-site host consistency administration method in accordance with the invention (eg., FIG. 2 ). For comparison, FIG. 9 shows server-side CPU process sequence and logic for the prior art client/server model of operations.
As a brief background in terminology, the term “server” or “host” is used fairly consistently as short for server domain. A server domain may comprise one or more server machines cooperating as a unitary server domain. The database and engines might be supplied to the server through a vendor such as ORACLE® or the like. The term “client” is most often used in context as an individual person who identifies him or herself with the server through an account.
FIG. 1 is a block diagrammatic view of a prior art client/server model for network communications between a server and a client. It is assumed that this model operates by means of an online, real-time, persistent protocol.
The advantages of this prior art model include taking advantage of distributed computing on a large even global scale. This involves a network of user machines (PC's or laptops?) connected via moderate bandwidth, low-latency networks which as a whole cooperate as a computing platform. The goal has been to take advantage of a large resource pool of PC's comprising hundreds of gigabytes of memory, terabytes of disk space, and hundreds of gigaflops of processing power that is often idle. This paradigm in computing was expected to impact the fundamental design techniques for large systems and their ability to solve large problems, service a large number of users, and provide a computing infrastructure. Hence substantial amounts of screen generation logic as well processing and data manipulation logic is moved onto the user machines. This reduced the load on the server processor by distributing the processing load among the users.
However, there are several disadvantages of this FIG. 1 model of operations. It is difficult to maintain consistent program functionality. The clients are likely to inconsistent software-object libraries and it is these inconsistencies which make it difficult to maintain consistent program functionality.
These software-object libraries store the Dynamic Link Library objects (eg., DLLs). On a Microsoft® operating system, these objects take the *.dll extension. DLLs provide a call to oft-used functionality. Microsoft provides standardized packages of DLLs in order to provide a consistent computing platform between machines transferring communications over a network. Revealing evidence has surfaced that DLLs are problematical, leading to incompatibilities. They fail to provide a homogeneous family of computing platforms.
Consider the Windows 95® operating system product. It is supposed to provide a homogeneous family of DLLs such that networked computers provide a homogeneous family of computing platforms. However, applicant is aware that the Windows 95® product was issued from Microsoft® in five different series of DLL packages. The Windows 95® product provide hundreds of DLL objects. But in each different series, the DLL packages differed slightly.
More troubling is that some third-party software providers are modifying Microsoft®'s standard DLLs. For example, say a given DLL is supposed to produce a blue button centered in a yellow box. If a third-party software programmer wants that functionality, then it call that object. What is happening is that some third-party software programmers want to vary that result slightly for their own programs. When that program is loaded onto a machine it overwrites the standard DLL with a modified DLL. Following that, perhaps every call to that DLL will produce a yellow-green box with a non-centered button.
It is believed that game software causes the most corruption of Microsoft®'s standard package of DLLs. Notwithstanding games, applicant provided the following demonstration of the problem. Applicant searched on a given PC operating on Windows 98® (second version) for all files “*.dll” file extension. Of the more than a thousand files, it was apparent that the majority of the files in the “c:/windows/systems” folder were last modified on Apr. 23, 1999, at 10:22 pm. Subsequent to that time, RealPlayer® was downloaded off the Internet at say Jan. 29, 2000, and 1:35 pm. That action seems to have produced a download of eighty new *.dll files. Significantly, that action seems to have produced the overwrite of four (4) original *.dll files in the “c:/windows/systems” folder. Over time, with successive loading of more software onto the operating system, this problem creeps up until such a significant portion of the standard DLL package has been corrupted that its functionality can be no longer assured.
To turn to the invention, FIG. 2 provides a block diagrammatic view of a Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention. The invention provides for network communications between a server and remote distributed clients (one shown) belonging to the health-care provider field and in a computing environment in which the clients are treated as communicating from machines loaded with inconsistent software-object libraries.
This field of clients classifies, more particularly, into the fields of Long Term Care (LTC), Home Health Care (HHC), and Physicians offices (PO). The following are some of the problems that exist currently. The majority of the LTCs are geographically dispersed, independent, and need no more than 5 to 10 users or computer nodes. But each has very sophisticated data needs. Program updates are needed frequently. The facilities do not have sophisticated computer support, and if it is available locally, and is likely too expensive. PC's are available locally, but the additional PCs purchased at different times, will not have the same operating system versions so installed user programs will not always work the same. This is the DLL problem referenced above. Microsoft® calls the problem Binary incompatibilities. Data storage and backups are a problem at the local level. If the facility is part of a group, installing a dedicated line to each facility is expensive.
The HHC industry's services are delivered by traveling nursing personnel. They go to each home and give care. They need a computer for record keeping and to support centralized billing at the agency office. The offices can be computer savvy but they have to be connected to the caregiver. Establishing a dedicated line to each customer is not possible. But almost every home has a phone line and then also a cell phone attached to a notebook computer and access the Internet is possible and will be common. The Internet is a perfect solution. The data needs for this area are very sophisticated and similar to the LTC industry.
POs that are geographically disbursed from the hospitals or else independent physicians need access to very sophisticated computer programs and data storage.
All of the above three groups have similar problems. They need sophisticated programs, data storage, patient/resident records, billing records, accounting, scheduling and so on. At the point of use, these groups likely have no adequate local information technology expertise available for help. Also, these groups are likely are wanting to use just cheap off-the-shelf PCs. Nevertheless all have access to phone lines or cell phones.
The invention provides the following advantages. Since the Internet is everywhere, sharing communication/phone lines so keeps the cost of the communications medium comparatively low. There is no need for local staff to write, maintain, modify programs, or to monitor data storage and backups. The Web-site host/service provider with a staff over the Internet provides these services.
To deal with PC's bought at different times having different operating systems causing loaded programs to not operate the same, the invention download HTML or XML code or the like on demand in real time, using only the low level and small browser within the operating system. As programs change, it is hard to load all the HHC PCs with the correct programs. Hence there is maintained only one copy of the most current programs at the service provider which downloads HTML or XML and or the like on demand in real time via phone line or cell phone attached to portable notebook computer. There is no retention of data on the client machines. If an HHC has to upload all of days or weeks activity and get schedules this is a big hassle and if lost the whole week is lost. If all the data is at the service provider the local PC has no data to upload or schedule to download.
The invention provides the following benefits. There is low cost in the communication connection. Communication is available from everywhere. Using HTML or XML code or the like that is downloaded on demand in real-time interactively via a browser solves the Binary incompatibility problem and makes any off-the-shelf PC a potential user machine. The invention allows for centralized program and data storage and solves the data version problem that currently exists in the client server method. Cell phones or satellite communications provide alternative channels to get to the Internet.
FIGS. 3 through 12 show how the problem of binary incompatibilities is solved or minimized. In short, the host communicates in way with the client that is least likely to contact the DLLs onboard the client. On the client, processing is achieved not only in the main CPU but in the network interface cards. The interface cards have DLL objects but as they are coded onto PROM chips they are virtually invulnerable to corruption by third-party software vendors.
FIG. 3 provides a table of prior art server-side CPU activities for a server practicing the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 . Activity 102 recites that a full and complex operating system gets loaded into secondary memory (eg., hard-drives) by processes that use DLL's. Activity 110 recited that the application program undergoes a first-stage compile process calling to produce a first-stage object with DLL references, which gets stored on secondary memory.
FIG. 4 provides a table of prior art client-side CPU activities for a client participating in the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 . Activity 219 recites that the requested first-stage object with DLL references undergoes a second-stage compile/interpretation process to derive an object and references to the DLLs* on the client machine. The DLLs* on the client machine are asterisked because there are potential differences between the DLLs on the server and the corresponding DLLs* on the client machine. Activity 220 recites that the client machine executes the derivative code so derived.
FIG. 5 is a table comparable to FIG. 3 except showing server-side CPU activities for a server practicing the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ). FIG. 6 is a table comparable to FIG. 4 except showing client-side CPU activities for a client participating in the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ).
Relatively speaking, the host in accordance with the invention is carrying a heavier processing load than the server in the prior art client/server model. Correspondingly, the client in accordance with the invention is carrying a lighter processing load than the client in the prior art client/server model.
FIG. 7 is a table comparable to both FIGS. 3 and 5 or more accurately, combining FIGS. 3 and 5 to show together in one table all server-side CPU activities presented in either FIG. 3 for the prior art client/server model or else in FIG. 5 for the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention. Similarly, FIG. 8 is a table comparable to both FIGS. 4 and 6 or more accurately, combining FIGS. 4 and 6 to show together in one table all client-side CPU activities presented in either FIG. 4 for the prior art client/server model or else in FIG. 6 for the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention.
FIG. 9 is a table-form flowchart of process sequence and logic for the server practicing the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 10 shows that FIGS. 10 a and 10 b combine as depicted since the content of FIG. 10 a continues over onto FIG. 10 b . FIGS. 10 a and 10 b in combination provide a table-form flowchart of process sequence and logic for the client participating in the prior art client/server model for network communications of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 11 is a table-form flowchart comparable to FIG. 9 except showing process sequence and logic for a server practicing the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ). FIG. 12 is a table-form flowchart comparable to FIGS. 10 a and 10 b except showing process sequence and logic for a client participating in the Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention for network communications (eg., FIG. 2 ).
Comparing FIG. 12 to the prior art client of FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show that the invention contacts many fewer of the DLL objects on the client machines than the prior art method. The critical screen painting activities optimally contact none.
Comparing FIG. 11 to the prior art server of FIG. 9 shows that the host in accordance with the invention is carrying a heavier processing load in relation to the server of the prior art client/server model.
The distinction of the invention and the prior art may be made more clear through the following example.
Assume that a client wants to administer a medication. The client needs to know if mediation was previously administrated according to schedule as well as if any conditions are noted to modify the administration of that medication. For example, should the client check blood sugar level and note the levels to allow administration of medication, or check blood pressure and compare to previous levels and note the levels to allow administration?
In general, the client shall do the following, regardless of the model. That is, the client connects to the host or server site (eg., the data center) and:
requests the patient's data, requests medication administration data, requests identified medication schedule and notes, performs the noted observation activity, enters results of observation, and receives the programs analysis.
The client then makes a decision if to administrate the medication. If so, the client records the activity.
If the client is participating in the prior art client/server model of operations, then the client CPU will do the following (ie., FIG. 11 ), ie, the client CPU will:
connect to data center, accept keystrokes/mouse inputs, analyze for forming a request, transmit the request to the data center, receive the First-stage Object and referenced DLLs, receive the requested data, execute the Second stage compile/interpretation of the object and referenced DLL's, develop the screen and screen content display the developed screen, accept keystrokes/mouse inputs, analyze keystrokes/mouse inputs, develop and display a different screen and screen content, accept keystrokes/mouse inputs, analyze keystrokes/mouse inputs, and either
build another different screen, or Transmit a request to data center for additional Data and First stage objects and DLL references, and so on continuing the process.
All of the above example could be executed with two or three requests to the Server CPU (depends on program design).
As the DLL's in this Client are not the same as the DLLs in the Server; the functionality and display of results on the Client CPU may not be the same. Computations may not be consistent and results may not be displayed in the expected area or with the expected nomenclature. All the above activity takes place within the Client CPU.
If we are using the inventive Web-site host consistency administration model in accordance with the invention ( FIG. 12 ), the Client CPU will do the following:
connect to data center, accept keystrokes/mouse inputs, transmit request to data center, receive first screen with data, display the screen accept keystrokes/mouse inputs, transmit keystrokes/mouse inputs, receive next screen with data, display the screen, and so on, in continuation of the process.
The above example could take more than ten (10) requests to the host CPU (depends on program design) to accomplish the same as two or three (2 or 3) requests pursuant to the prior art. As no computation is taking place on this CPU, all computation and screen content and generation is on the host server. The First sage objects with references to DLL and the same as the Second stage interpretation with the DLL of the server. Therefore the screen displays are consistent and the computations are consistent.
So while the invention requires many more transmissions than the prior art model to accomplish comparable functionality, the invention provides a higher assurance that a given request will produce the same results no matter what machine or in what state of corruption the onboard DLLs exist.
That is, the model in accordance with the invention prefers to send more data from host to client than the prior art, and many more times, rather than rely on the DLL package onboard the client's machines.
The client is going to make critical decisions based on the data. Accordingly, its trustworthiness is paramount, including its presentation. This way, the host is more highly assured that each client sees the identical same result for the same request. Or alternatively, a given person is more highly assured of seeing the identical same result for a same request no matter is sent from different machines during different sessions. That way, the presentation of the data is more assured of being consistent from time to time and therefore makes less chance of improper human interpretation.
Accordingly, the invention having been disclosed in connection with the foregoing variations and examples, additional variations will now be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Parts of the description uses terms for a computer network such as server, client, user, browser, machine and the like, consistent with the manner commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. The invention is not intended to be limited to the variations specifically mentioned, and accordingly reference should be made to the appended claims rather than the foregoing discussion of preferred examples, to assess the scope of the invention in which exclusive rights are claimed.
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A method of Web-site host consistency administration provides for consistent presentation of data despite presentation on client machines with inconsistent software-object libraries. The host sends screen images which contact the client's onboard DLLs as little as possible. That way, inconsistency problems called binary incompatibilities are avoided. The client is excused from most of the processing load. The client's role is practically limited to displaying the received screens and sending out keystrokes and cursor-moving device inputs. The light role given the client correspondingly shifts more of a load on server-side processing and data storage. Nevertheless, the method provides high assurance the any client sees substantially the same result for the same request despite differences or inconsistencies in software-object libraries onboard the client's machine.
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BACKGROUND
Gas chromatography is a process by which one or more compounds from a chemical mixture may be separated and identified. A carrier gas, for example, an inert gas such as nitrogen or helium, flows through a tube known as a column. Large columns may have inner diameters between about 3 mm and about 8 mm and lengths between about 1 meter and about 3 meters. Capillary columns may have inner diameters between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm and may be 100 meters or more in length. The large column may be packed with an inert packing medium coated with an active substance that interacts with compounds in the chemical mixture being analyzed. Capillary columns are preferably coated on their inner surface with the active substance.
A sample of the chemical mixture to be analyzed is injected into the column. As the sample is swept through the column with the carrier gas, the different compounds, each one having a different affinity for the active substance lining the column or coating the packing medium, move through the column at different speeds. Those compounds having greater affinity for the active substance move more slowly through the column than those having less affinity, and this speed differential results in the compounds being separated from one another as they pass through and exit the column.
The carrier gas with the separated compounds exits the column and passes through a detector, which identifies the molecules. Various types of detectors may be used, including a thermal conductivity detector, a flame ionization detector, electron capture detector, flame photometric detector, photo-ionization detector and a Hall electrolytic conductivity detector. A two dimensional plot of the detector measurements against elution time or volume, known as a chromatogram, may be made, and from the chromatogram or the digital representation thereof the compounds may be identified.
Injection of the sample chemical mixture into the column is effected using a sample inlet assembly. The sample inlet assembly has an injection port that receives a syringe for injecting the sample into the inlet assembly. The inlet assembly is connected to the column with a seal that provides a fluid tight joint between the relatively large diameter of the inlet assembly and the small diameter of the capillary column.
SUMMARY
The invention concerns a seal forming a fluid tight connection between a gas chromatography column and a sample inlet assembly. The sample inlet assembly comprises a conduit. The seal comprises a plate formed from metal powder using a metal injection molding process. The plate has a first surface on one side adapted for sealing engagement with the conduit. The plate has a second surface on an opposite side adapted for sealing engagement with the column. An aperture extends through the plate between the first and second surfaces, the aperture being positioned to provide fluid communication between the column and the sample inlet assembly.
The invention also includes a method of sealing a connection between a gas chromatography sample inlet assembly and a gas chromatography column. The inlet assembly has a conduit. The column has a ferrule. The method comprises:
providing a seal as described above made from metal powder using a metal injection molding process; compressing the first surface of the seal against an end of the conduit; inserting the column within the aperture; and compressing the ferrule against the second surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a sample inlet assembly shown with a gas chromatograph;
FIG. 2 is a view of a portion of the sample inlet assembly of FIG. 1 shown on an enlarged scale;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one side of a seal used with the sample inlet assembly of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the opposite side of the seal shown in FIG. 3 ;
FIG. 5 is a view of a portion of an alternate embodiment of the sample inlet assembly shown on an enlarged scale; and
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a seal used with the sample inlet assembly of FIG. 5 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1 shows a gas chromatograph apparatus 10 having a column 12 comprising a capillary tube 14 lined with an active substance for separating constituent compounds from a gas mixture. Capillary tube 14 has an outlet 16 connected with a detector 18 , for example, a thermal conductivity detector, a flame ionization detector, electron capture detector, flame photometric detector, photo-ionization detector, a Hall electrolytic conductivity detector or other detectors used in gas chromatography. Capillary tube 14 has an inlet 20 connected to a sample inlet assembly 22 . Sample inlet assembly 22 has a sample injection port 24 which is adapted to receive a syringe 26 containing the gas sample to be analyzed. The sample inlet assembly 22 is also connected to a source of carrier gas 28 , which may contain, for example, nitrogen or helium under pressure.
The sample inlet assembly 22 comprises a conduit 29 having a tubular outer shell 30 , preferably made of stainless steel. Outer shell 30 has a longitudinal bore 32 in which a liner 34 is positioned. Liner 34 is preferably glass or other inert material and has a longitudinal bore 36 . Preferably liner 34 has a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of shell 30 thereby creating an annular space 38 lengthwise between the liner and the shell. A vent port 40 is positioned within shell 30 and is in fluid communication with space 38 .
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , a fluid tight connection of the capillary tube inlet 20 to the sample inlet assembly 22 is effected using a seal 42 . Seal 42 preferably comprises a plate 44 having a first surface 46 on one side adapted for sealing engagement with an end 48 of shell 30 . Plate 44 is compressed against the end of the shell preferably by a threaded nut 50 that mounts on the end of the shell and engages compatible threads thereon. It is understood that plate 44 need not be flat, but should have a shape that accommodates whatever opposing surface it is to seal against.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , plate 44 has a second surface 52 on an opposite side from the first surface 46 . Second surface 52 is adapted for sealing engagement with the column 12 . In this example, the capillary tube 14 comprising column 12 has a ferrule 54 attached proximate to outlet 16 . Second surface 52 is shaped and sized to receive the ferrule and effect a fluid tight connection when the ferrule 54 is compressed against the second surface 52 . Compression of the ferrule against the second surface is effected using a threaded nut 56 that engages a nipple 58 that extends from the nut 50 used to compress plate 44 against end 48 of shell 30 . An aperture 60 extends through plate 44 between the first and second surfaces. Aperture 60 receives the capillary tube 14 and allows it to pass through the plate and into the liner bore 36 .
As best shown in FIG. 3 , a depression 62 , in this example shown as a groove, is positioned in the first surface 46 of plate 44 . Depression 62 is dimensioned and positioned so that it extends between the bore 36 of liner 34 and the space 38 between the liner and the shell. The depression provides fluid communication between the liner bore 36 and the space 38 . Depression 62 may have other shapes and configurations, and is not limited to the groove embodiment illustrated here.
In an alternate embodiment, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , a projection 64 , in this example shown as a rib, is positioned on the first surface 46 of plate 44 . Projection 64 extends outwardly from the first surface and engages the end 66 of liner 34 to create a gas space 68 between the liner and the plate 44 that provides fluid communication between the liner bore and the space 38 between the liner 34 and the shell 30 . Although shown as a rib in the example embodiment, the projection could have other forms and shapes as well, and is not limited to a rib. The opposite side of plate 44 shown in FIG. 6 is substantially identical to that shown in FIG. 4 .
Gas flow through the gas chromatograph apparatus 10 is described with reference to FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 . Carrier gas flows from the source 28 and enters the sample inlet assembly 22 where it flows down the bore 36 of liner 34 . The sample gas mixture to be analyzed is injected into the bore 36 through injection port 24 using syringe 26 . The sample gas mixture is swept along with the carrier gas through the inlet assembly. A first portion of the sample gas mixture and the carrier gas enter the inlet 20 of the capillary tube 14 which comprises the column 12 . The constituent compounds of the sample gas mixture are separated from one another as they travel through the column 12 and exit the column one after another through the outlet 16 which is connected to the detector 18 where the analysis is performed. A second portion of the gas bypasses the capillary tube inlet 20 , and flows further through the liner bore 36 and along depression 62 in plate 44 , best illustrated in FIG. 2 . Depression 62 is in fluid communication with space 38 , allowing the second gas portion to flow upwardly between the shell 30 and the liner 34 and outwardly through the vent port 40 in the shell. Alternately, the second gas portion bypasses the capillary tube inlet 20 , flows further through the liner bore 36 and into the gas space 68 between the liner end 66 and the plate 44 created by the projection 64 , shown in FIG. 5 . Gas space 68 provides fluid communication between the liner bore 36 and the space 38 between the liner and the shell, allowing the second gas portion to flow upwardly through the space 38 and exit at the vent port 40 .
Plate 44 may range in size between about 0.1 and about 0.6 inches in diameter and is made using metal injection molding. In this process, micron sized particles of metal are mixed with a thermoplastic binder. The mixture is heated to a molten state and injected into a mold. Upon curing, the molded part is subjected to a debinding process whereby the thermoplastic binder is removed. Debinding may be effected by heating, use of chemical solvents or a capillary process. After debinding, the part comprises predominantly micron sized metal particles which are then sintered at temperatures above 2400 degrees F. to drive off any remaining binder and create metallurgical bonds joining the particles together. Unlike a machined surface, the surface formed by metal injection molding comprises a surface having randomly oriented irregularities which are not conducive to forming paths permitting leakage. This makes the metal injected molded part advantageous for use as a seal. The part may then be polished or lapped if necessary to obtain a desired surface finish.
For sealing the sample inlet assembly a surface finish having no irregularities larger than about 0.4 microns deep is advantageous. The part may then be coated to provide an inert surface that does not react with the sample compounds being analyzed, as this may adversely affect column performance. The seal is preferably made of stainless steel which may be coated with nickel, nickel alloys as well as stainless steel alloys to improve the inert quality of the surface. The nickel also acts as a bed for receiving other metal coatings, such as gold or tantalum, which further increase the chemical inertness of the part by filling surface voids and thereby reducing the surface area. Metal coating may be by vacuum deposition, sputter, or electroplating techniques. Non-metal coatings such as silica, for example in the form of silicon dioxide, may also be used to coat the seal.
The use of metal injection molding to make seals for sample inlet columns may provide one or more or other various advantages over machined parts. For example, expensive and time-consuming machining steps may be eliminated from the manufacturing process. Machined parts must also be heat treated to the annealed condition so that the part will readily deform and create a fluid tight seal when compressed against the end of the shell. This heat treating procedure can be avoided in embodiments of the present invention since metal injection molded parts emerge from the sintering process in the annealed state. It is advantageous that the seals have a hardness between about 60 and about 80 on the Rockwell B scale so that they are deformable to achieve a fluid tight seal.
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A seal forming a fluid tight connection between a gas chromatography column and a sample inlet assembly is disclosed. The seal is formed by a metal injection molding process. The seal has a first surface adapted for sealing with the sample inlet assembly and a second surface adapted for sealing with the column. The seal has an aperture extending between the first and second surfaces. A method of sealing a connection between a gas chromatography sample inlet assembly and a gas chromatography column is also disclosed. The method includes providing a seal as described above, compressing the first surface of the seal against an end of the inlet assembly, positioning the column in fluid communication with the aperture, and engaging the column with the second surface.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a 371 of PCT/GB01/00168 filed on Jan. 16, 2001, now WO 01/53609 A1 published Jul. 26, 2001, and claims priority benefits of Great Britain patent application, GB 0001066.0 filed Jan. 17, 2000.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
(1) Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure and to a vessel suitable for use in such a method.
There are many structures, for example in the North Sea, that have been built and installed on the seabed for purposes connected with the offshore oil and gas industries. Such structures commonly comprise a supporting framework, usually referred to as a jacket, which stands on the seabed and extends up to a height above sea level, and a superstructure, often referred to as a deck, supported above sea level on the jacket. A jacket typically comprises a plurality of legs extending upwardly from the seabed to the top of the jacket and diagonal and cross bracing that together hold the legs against relative lateral movement; the vertical load carried by the jacket is borne principally by the legs. The nature of the deck is dependent upon the purpose of the structure. For example, it would commonly comprise principally a drilling rig but might consist exclusively of accommodation for workers on an adjacent rig. During installation, the jacket is commonly located in position on the seabed first and the deck thereafter placed on top of the jacket. The deck may be built as a single unit onshore, taken out to sea and placed on top of the jacket, or it may be built as a number of separate modules that are taken separately to the jacket and assembled only as they are placed on the jacket. Modules can also be added to a deck that has previously been placed on a jacket at a later stage to enhance or alter the capabilities of the deck.
It will be appreciated that the form of superstructure and the form of the supporting structure vary considerably from one structure to another and the terms “deck” and “jacket” as used herein need to be understood as correspondingly broad.
(2) Description of Related Art
As environmental considerations assume greater importance, so the need increases for satisfactory methods of removing a deck from a jacket of an offshore structure after the useful life of the structure is over. One way that may be adopted is to use a vessel with a large crane to lift the deck from the jacket and place it on a barge. Many other options have, however, also been proposed and in some cases also used in practice; in some of these options a floating vessel, which in plan view is generally U shape, is moved up to the structure with the opposite limbs of the “U” on opposite sides of the structure and some system, which may be a ballasting or a jacking system, used to lift the deck clear of the jacket.
In practice, however, it has proved difficult to provide a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure that (1) is able to remove a relatively large and heavy deck, (2) is able to bring the deck inshore all the way to a yard and (3) does not require a very great investment in equipment.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure that overcomes at least partly some or all of the difficulties referred to.
According to the invention there is provided a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure including a deck supported on a jacket, the method including the following steps:
a) positioning a floating vessel around the jacket with respective parts of the vessel on opposite sides of the jacket and trusses extending between the opposite parts of the vessel,
b) engaging parts of the trusses with legs of the jacket,
c) securing the trusses to the jacket,
d) relieving the load carried by portions of the legs of the jacket,
e) cutting through the portions of the,legs of the jacket to divide the jacket into a lower part and an upper part carrying the deck, the trusses being secured to the upper part of the jacket,
f) transferring the weight of the upper part of the jacket and of the deck via the trusses to the floating vessel, and
g) removing the floating vessel, with the trusses, the upper part of the jacket and the deck supported thereon, from the vicinity of the lower part of the jacket.
In the method just defined the steps are set out in one particular order which is the preferred order, but it should be understood that it is within the scope of the invention to make some alterations to the order. For example, it is within the scope of the invention for the step of relieving the load carried by portions of the legs of the jacket to be carried out before the trusses are secured to the jacket.
By cutting through the jacket below its top and then removing the deck by supporting the uppermost part of the jacket, rather than trying to remove the deck from the top of the jacket, a more reliable support of the deck is ensured: by continuing to support the deck through the jacket the nature of the support for the deck itself remains unchanged and therefore there can be confidence of adequate support for the deck; if the deck were removed from the jacket, however, the nature of its support would almost inevitably change and therefore there could be less confidence that its support would be satisfactory, especially in the case of a deck of modular construction and/or a deck to which structural alterations had been made subsequent to installation. Where reference is made herein to “cutting” a leg it should be understood that the term should not be regarded as restricted to any particular method of creating a separation of upper and lower parts of a leg; methods that may be employed and are to be regarded as cutting include, for example, a shearing action, application of heat and explosive methods.
Usually it will be advantageous for the trusses to be secured to the jacket above sea level. Also it will usually be advantageous for the legs to be cut above sea level.
The floating vessel preferably includes two barges, which may or may not be identical, for positioning on opposite sides of the jacket. The barges preferably are able to be separated and be used for another purpose as individual barges. Constructing the vessel in this way enables the cost of the vessel to be reduced.
Preferably the barges are connected together side-by-side with a space therebetween, by front and rear trusses, which preferably are detachably connected to the barges.
One of the trusses may be retractable, preferably by being separated into two parts, to leave an open-ended space between the barges. In such a case, step (a) of positioning the floating vessel preferably includes the sequential steps of retracting the retractable truss, positioning the vessel around the jacket with the barges on opposite sides of the jacket and the jacket positioned within the open-ended space, and returning the retracted truss to a position in which it extends across the gap between the barges on the opposite side of the jacket from the other truss.
As an alternative to the procedure described immediately above, step (a) of positioning the floating vessel around the jacket may include the following steps:
i) positioning the vessel adjacent to the jacket with one of the trusses immediately adjacent to the jacket,
ii) releasing the truss that is immediately adjacent to the jacket from the vessel, and
iii) moving the vessel away from the jacket and then to an opposite side of the jacket and repositioning the vessel around the jacket with respective parts of the vessel on first and second opposite sides of the jacket and the trusses extending between the opposite parts of the vessel on third and fourth opposite sides of the jacket.
The truss that is immediately adjacent to the jacket is preferably mounted on a buoyancy unit which supports at least most of the weight of the truss when the truss is released from the vessel. That avoids the need to have the offshore structure supporting the weight of the truss at this stage.
Preferably the step of releasing the truss that is immediately adjacent to the jacket from the vessel includes the step of adding ballast to the vessel to lower it.
Preferably the vessel is moved to the opposite side of the jacket and repositioned around the jacket in its lowered position and then raised to bring it back into a position in which it supports the truss that was previously released from the vessel.
In the common case where the jacket is of generally rectangular section at sea level, it is preferred that the trusses are positioned alongside the longer sides of the jacket. By enclosing the jacket within the vessel the vessel is assured of remaining in position and is able to be positioned immediately adjacent to all parts of the jacket. Placing the trusses alongside the longer sides of the jacket facilitates the engagement of the trusses with legs of the jacket. It is generally preferred that the trusses engage all the legs of the jacket although in some cases that may not be desirable.
Step (b) of engaging parts of the trusses with legs of the jacket preferably includes moving movable parts of the trusses into engagement with the legs. Preferably each leg is engaged by a part of one of the trusses at two locations vertically spaced from one another. Preferably at least one collar is fixed to each leg as a preliminary step in the method and vertical loads are transferred between the legs and the trusses by the collars. The provision of such pre-installed collars facilitates the effective transfer of the large loads involved, between the legs and the trusses.
Preferably the parts of the trusses that engage the legs include grippers that are able to transfer horizontal loads between the legs and the trusses.
Preferably the method further includes the step of detaching the trusses from the vessel after the trusses are secured to the jacket. Such a step may seem surprising but represents a useful step in the procedure because it enables the time for which there is a fixed connection between the vessel, that is floating on the sea, and the offshore structure, that is stationary, to be kept to a minimum, thereby making it easier to prevent undesirable forces or movements being generated by sea movements. The step of detaching the trusses preferably includes the step of retracting jacks positioned between the vessel and the trusses; it may also or instead include the step of ballasting the vessel.
Step (d) of relieving the load carried by portions of the legs of the jacket preferably serves to reduce the vertical load carried by the portions of the legs to substantially no vertical load. Step (d) preferably involves the steps of placing jacking systems around portions of the legs of the jacket, and actuating the systems such that vertical loads previously carried through the portions of the legs are carried through the jacking systems.
Step (e) of cutting through the portions of the legs of the jacket may include the step of cutting through diagonal bracing of the jacket. As will be appreciated, it is necessary prior to step (g) to have a complete separation of the upper and lower parts of the jacket. It may also be necessary to remove or sever risers, caissons and ‘J’ tubes.
Step (f) of transferring the weight of the upper part of the jacket and of the deck via the trusses to the floating vessel may include, in the case where trusses have been detached from the vessel, the step of reattaching the trusses. The transfer of weight may include the step of extending jacks positioned between the vessel and the trusses, and/or the step of deballasting the vessel and/or the step of actuating jacking systems placed around the legs of the jacket. Generally it will be desirable for at least part of step (f) to be carried out relatively quickly as the vessel and the structure are liable to be most exposed to undesirable effects, for example ones caused by sea movements, during, immediately before or immediately after the transfer of weight.
The method may further include the step of taking the vessel to shore and transporting the trusses, with the upper part of the jacket and the deck supported thereon, onto the shore. Such a procedure enables the step of transferring the upper part of the jacket and the deck onto the dry land to be simplified.
The method described above is the most preferred form of the invention. Some of the features described above as being preferred or advantageous rather than essential are in themselves capable of providing considerable advantages in methods which may not include all the features (a) to (g) of the method of the invention described above (referred to hereinafter as the method according to a first aspect of the invention).
Thus according to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure including a deck and a jacket, the method including the following steps:
placing jacking systems around portions of the legs of the jacket,
actuating the jacking systems to relieve the load carried by the portions of the legs of the jacket,
cutting through the portions of the legs of the jacket to divide the jacket into a lower part and an upper part carrying the deck, and
removing the deck from the jacket.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure, the method including the following steps:
providing a floating vessel comprising two barges, connected together side-by-side with a space therebetween, by front and rear trusses,
positioning the vessel adjacent to the structure with one of the trusses immediately adjacent to the structure,
releasing the truss that is immediately adjacent to the structure from the vessel,
moving the vessel away from the structure and then to an opposite side of the structure and repositioning the vessel around the structure with the barges on first and second opposite sides of the structure and the trusses extending between the barges on third and fourth opposite sides of the structure,
transferring the load of the deck via the trusses to the barges, and removing the barges, with the trusses and the deck supported thereon.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure, the method including the following steps:
providing a floating vessel comprising two barges connected together side-by-side with a space therebetween, by front and rear trusses,
retracting one of the trusses to leave an open-ended space between the barges,
positioning the vessel around the structure with the barges on opposite sides of the structure and the structure positioned within the open-ended space,
returning the retracted truss to a position in which it extends across the gap between the barges on the opposite side of the structure from the other truss,
transferring the load of the deck via the trusses to the barges, and
removing the barges, with the trusses and the deck supported thereon.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of removing a deck from an offshore structure including a deck supported on a jacket, the method including the following steps:
positioning a floating vessel around the jacket with respective parts of the vessel on opposite sides of the jacket and one or more trusses extending between the opposite parts of the vessel,
securing the trusses to the jacket,
detaching the trusses from the vessel,
cutting through the jacket to divide the jacket into a lower part and an upper part carrying the deck, the trusses being secured to the upper part of the jacket,
reattaching the trusses to the vessel and transferring the weight of the upper part of the jacket and of the deck via the trusses to the floating vessel, and
removing the floating vessel, with the trusses, the upper part of the jacket and the deck supported thereon from the vicinity of the lower part of the jacket.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of removing a deck from a jacket of an offshore structure, the method including the following steps:
bringing a floating vessel to the structure;
engaging legs of the jacket with parts of the vessel;
separating upper portions of the legs of the jacket from lower portions;
transferring an upper part of the jacket that includes the upper portion of the legs, with the deck attached thereto, onto the vessel; and
removing the upper part of the jacket and the deck from the vicinity of the lower part of the jacket.
It should be understood that the method of any of the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth aspects of the invention may further include any of the advantageous or preferred features referred to above in connection with the first aspect of the invention.
The invention still further provides a vessel suitable for carrying out any of the methods described above.
One example of a suitable vessel comprises two barges connected together side-by-side with a space therebetween, by front and rear trusses, the trusses being detachable from the barges.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
By way of example certain methods of removing a deck from a jacket of an offshore structure will now be described with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, of which:
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a vessel for use in a first method,
FIG. 2A is a plan view of the vessel approaching a structure,
FIG. 2B is an elevation view of what is shown in plan view in FIG. 2A,
FIG. 3 is a plan view of the vessel positioned around the structure,
FIG. 4A is a plan view of the vessel fixed in position around the structure,
FIG. 4B is an elevation view of what is shown in plan view in FIG. 4A,
FIG. 5 is an elevation view of the vessel with the upper part of the structure separated from the lower part and carried on the vessel,
FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the structure being offloaded from the vessel at a yard,
FIG. 7 is an elevation view of a portion of a leg of the jacket illustrating preparatory work carried out on the leg,
FIG. 8A is an elevation view showing a detail relating to the mounting of a truss on a barge of the vessel at a preliminary stage of the removal process,
FIG. 8B is an elevation view showing a part of the truss engaging the leg portion of the jacket at the preliminary stage of the removal process,
FIG. 9A is an elevation view similar to FIG. 8A but showing the parts at a first subsequent stage of the removal process,
FIG. 9B is an elevation view similar to FIG. 8B but showing the parts at a first subsequent stage of the removal process,
FIG. 10A is an elevation view similar to FIG. 9A but showing the parts at a second stage, subsequent to the stage of FIG. 9A, of the removal process,
FIG. 10B is an elevation view similar to FIG. 9B but showing the parts at a second stage, subsequent to the stage of FIG. 9B, of the removal process,
FIG. 11A is an elevation view similar to FIG. 10A but showing the parts at a third stage, subsequent to the stage of FIG. 10A, of the removal process,
FIG. 11B is an elevation view similar to FIG. 10B but showing the parts at a third stage, subsequent to the stage of FIG. 10B, of the removal process,
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the mounting of the truss on the barge of the vessel at a fourth stage, subsequent to the stage of FIG. 11 A and viewed in a direction perpendicular to the direction of viewing of FIG. 11A;
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a modified vessel positioned around an offshore structure in an early stage of a second method,
FIG. 14A is a plan view of the modified vessel positioned in the vicinity of the offshore structure in a subsequent stage of the second method,
FIG. 14B is an elevation view of the arrangement shown in plan view in FIG. 14A,
FIG. 15 is a plan view of the modified vessel after it has moved to a new position in the vicinity of the offshore structure in a subsequent stage of the second method,
FIG. 16A is a plan view of the modified vessel positioned again around the offshore structure in a subsequent stage of the second method, and
FIG. 16B is an elevation view of the arrangement shown in plan view in FIG. 16 A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows the vessel 10 that is employed in the first method of the invention. The vessel generally comprises two barges 1 , 2 connected together by a first boxed truss 3 and a second boxed truss 4 which retain the barges 1 , 2 in a spaced side-by-side relationship. A module 5 , which extends for the full depth of the barges, is fitted between the barges immediately ahead of the truss 4 and an appropriately shaped assembly 6 fitted to the front of the module 5 to define a bow for the vessel. The module 5 includes a dynamic positioning system for the vessel, control systems including ballast control systems and accommodation.
In the example of the invention described, the barges 1 , 2 are multi-purpose barges and are able to be used as separate barges in other situations. The trusses 3 , 4 , the module 5 and the bow 6 are, however, designed specifically for the removal procedure of the invention and the barges are adapted to provide appropriate mountings for the trusses. Certain requirements of those mountings will become apparent from the description of the removal procedure given below.
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the positioning of the vessel 10 relative to an offshore structure 11 at a preparatory stage of the removal procedure. The vessel 10 will have been brought to the site by tugs. As best seen in FIG. 2B, the structure 11 is in this example a production oil rig and comprises a jacket 12 on top of which a deck 13 is mounted. The jacket 12 comprises a framework resting on the seabed 14 and including legs 15 which extend upwardly from the seabed to a height above sea level. Cross bracing 16 and diagonal bracing 17 holds the legs 15 against movement relative to one another and thereby adds strength to the structure. The weight of the deck 13 carried by the jacket is, however, carried substantially by the legs 15 alone, rather than by the bracing 16 , 17 .
It will be understood that the deck 13 and jacket 12 are of a construction known per se.
In FIGS. 2A and 2B, it should be noted that the truss 3 has been retracted from the position shown in FIG. 1 in which it extends between and connects the barges 1 , 2 and that for this purpose the truss 3 is actually formed in two separate halves 3 A and 3 B which are able to be skidded laterally from the positions shown in FIG. 1 to the positions shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B (after the two halves 3 A, 3 B that were secured together in FIG. 1 have been unfastened). The barges 1 , 2 are provided with appropriate arrangements to allow this skidding to take place.
With the vessel 10 orientated as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B it is manoeuvred, using a dynamic positioning system (not shown) provided on the vessel, into the position shown in FIG. 3 . An active pneumatic fender system (not shown) is provided to prevent damage to either the vessel or the jacket while the vessel 10 is in position around the jacket 12 . It will be understood that because the jacket is resting on the seabed and the vessel is floating there is the possibility of vertical or horizontal movement (including a rolling or pitching movement) of the vessel 10 while the jacket remains stationary. It may be necessary to remove certain boat landing areas, sea escape ladders or other equipment from the jacket 12 before the vessel 10 is brought into its final position.
The two halves 3 A, 3 B of the truss 3 are then skidded back to the position shown in FIG. 1 and the adjoining ends of the truss 3 secured together. The whole of the truss 3 is then skidded along the barges 1 , 2 towards the truss 4 so as to arrive at the general arrangement shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In this case it will be seen that the trusses 3 , 4 extend along opposite, longer sides of the jacket 12 and that the barges 1 , 2 extend along opposite, shorter sides of the jacket. In the particular example shown each of the trusses 3 , 4 lies adjacent to four respective legs 15 of the jacket.
Parts of the trusses 3 , 4 are then engaged with portions of the legs 15 of the jacket 12 , the legs of the jacket (and any diagonal bracing) are cut and the part of the jacket above the line of the cut, together with the deck 13 , lifted by the trusses 3 , 4 and the barges to a position vertically clear of the remaining, lower, part of the jacket 12 . That stage in the procedure is shown in FIG. 5 . It will be appreciated that the cutting of the jacket legs and raising of the upper part of the structure is a critical part of the procedure and a more detailed description of it is given later.
Once the upper part of the structure has been lifted clear as shown in FIG. 5, the vessel 10 is manoeuvred back away from the remaining, lower, part of the jacket using the dynamic positioning system. The upper part of the structure is then carried on the vessel to a quay 20 of a yard, the vessel being towed by suitable towing tugs, which may be replaced by harbour tugs in the vicinity of the yard. An advantage of the vessel 10 being formed principally of the barges 1 , 2 is that the draught of the vessel can be reasonably small enabling the vessel to be docked at various yards. FIG. 6 shows the removed structure being skidded off the barges 1 , 2 at a yard. It will be seen that the trusses 3 , 4 , the upper part of the jacket 12 and the deck 13 are all transferred to shore as a single unit. (In FIG. 6 the unit is shown both in its initial position on the vessel and in its transferred position on shore with an arrow showing the direction of movement of the unit.) The barges 1 , 2 are provided with appropriate skid arrangements 18 to allow the skidding of the truss units to take place and appropriate skid beams 19 are provided on the quay. Once on the quay, the structure can be dismantled and removed from the trusses which can then be returned to the barges if the vessel is to be used again to remove another structure. Alternatively the module 5 and bow 6 can be removed from the barges 1 , 2 , allowing the barges to be used separately for other purposes.
In this example the two barges are not identical and it will be noted that the two hulls at the bow of the vessel are not aligned, but that the hulls are aligned at the stern.
The procedure referred to very briefly above of engaging parts of the trusses with the jacket, cutting the legs of the jacket and lifting the upper part of the jacket and the deck off the lower part of the jacket will now be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 12 .
FIG. 7 illustrates certain preparatory work that is carried out on each leg 15 of the jacket 12 , only one leg being shown in FIG. 7 . An upper collar 30 and a lower collar 31 are fixed to the leg 15 at a preselected height above sea level and below the deck 13 . The upper collar 30 is provided with a pair of diametrically opposite, upwardly projecting locating pins 32 (only one of which is visible in FIG. 7 ). The lower collar 31 is provided with a pair of diametrically opposite locating bores 33 (one of which is shown in dotted outline in FIG. 7 ).
Referring now also to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the trusses 3 , 4 are mounted on jacks 35 on the barges 1 , 2 (FIG. 8A shows the arrangement for the truss 3 and the barge 1 , but it should be understood that substantially the same arrangement is employed for the truss 4 and for the barge 2 ). At appropriate places on the trusses 3 , 4 they are provided with retractable upper and lower forks 36 , 37 respectively, those forks being placed such that when extended (that is moved to the right to the position shown in FIG. 8B) they each encompass a respective leg 15 of the jacket; the height of the truss with the jacks 35 raised is such that the upper fork 36 is above and spaced from the upper collar 30 and the lower fork 37 is above and spaced from the lower collar 31 . The pair of arms of the upper fork 36 are each provided with respective bores 38 (one of which is shown in dotted outline in FIG. 8B) which are aligned with the locating pins 32 on the upper collar 30 , whilst the pair of arms of the lower fork 37 are each provided with respective downwardly projecting locating pins 39 (one of which is visible in FIG. 8 B), which are aligned with the locating bores 33 on the lower collar 31 . The locating pins 39 on the lower forks are retractable. The upper and lower forks 36 , 37 are also each provided with grippers 40 which, when actuated, grip the leg 15 of the jacket and prevent lateral movement of the jacket leg relative to the truss. The lower fork 37 is also provided with several (for example, four) upper-jacks 41 extending upwardly from the fork and a corresponding set of lower jacks 42 extending downwardly from the fork. As shown in FIG. 8B, the jacks 41 , 42 are at this stage retracted and the weight of the deck 13 is transferred to the seabed along the full length of each of the legs 15 . The weight of the truss is supported by the barges 1 , 2 via the jacks 35 and the grippers 40 are not actuated.
During appropriate sea conditions, the jacks 35 on the barges 1 , 2 are retracted and the trusses 3 , 4 therefore move down the legs 15 of the jacket until each upper fork 36 rests on a respective upper collar 30 with the pins 32 of the upper collar engaging the bores 38 in the upper fork 36 . As the jacks 35 are then further retracted the weight of the trusses is transferred progressively to the legs 15 of the jacket and the barges 1 , 2 rise slightly in the water. Once all the weight is transferred, further retraction of the jacks 35 separates them from the barge, as shown in FIG. 9 A.
As shown in FIG. 9B, the upper jacks 41 are also extended at this stage until they engage the upper collar 30 thereby securing the connection through the locating pins 32 of the forked part of the truss to the jacket leg 15 . Furthermore, the lower jacks 42 are extended downwardly until they engage the lower collar 31 , with the locating pins 39 being extended and therefore engaging the bores 33 in the lower collar 31 .
The lower jacks 42 are extended sufficiently, not only to contact the lower collar 31 but to bear against the collar with sufficient force to cancel out the compressive load in the portion of the leg between the collars 30 and 31 . Thus the vertical compressive load carried in the leg 15 by virtue principally of the weight of the deck passes down the leg 15 from its top as far as the upper collar 30 , is then diverted through the collar 30 , upper jacks 41 , lower fork 37 , lower jacks 42 and the lower collar 31 , before continuing down the leg 15 to the seabed. Thus the portion of the leg 15 between the collars 30 , 31 is substantially unstressed.
The grippers 40 on the upper and lower forks 36 , 37 are then actuated to complete the process of connecting the trusses to the jacket legs and, as shown in FIG. 10B, with a portion of the leg 15 substantially unstressed, it is now cut at a position immediately above the lower collar 31 . At this stage any diagonal bracing 17 at the level of the cuts through the legs 15 can also be cut, since the trusses 3 , 4 are able, via the grippers 40 , to provide the necessary support. To facilitate cutting, equipment may be pre-installed on certain members of the jacket.
Once cutting is complete and provided sea conditions are appropriate the jacks 35 on the trusses 3 , 4 are extended. First the jacks engage the barges 1 , 2 and then as they are further extended the weight of the part of the jacket 12 above the cut and the weight of the deck 13 is progressively transferred to the barges 1 , 2 via the trusses 3 , 4 . Once all the load has been transferred further extension of the jacks 35 raises the trusses 3 , 4 and also raises the upper part of the jacket clear of the lower part. During this raising of the trusses 3 , 4 the lower jacks 42 and the locating pins 39 are retracted immediately separating further the upper and lower parts of the jacket in the region of each leg. The vertical load is transferred from the legs of the upper part of the jacket 12 to the trusses 3 , 4 via the upper collar 30 and the upper jacks 41 ; the grippers 40 transfer principally horizontal loads. FIGS. 11A and 11B show the arrangement at the completion of the steps just described.
As already indicated the vessel 10 is then manoeuvred to a position clear of the lower part of the jacket. At that stage, the jacks 35 are retracted lowering the trusses 3 , 4 down onto the decks of the barges 1 , 2 . As can be seen in FIG. 12, the trusses 3 , 4 are provided with integrated skid shoes 43 which extend perpendicular to the trusses and are aligned with and rest upon the longitudinal skid arrangements 18 provided on the barges 1 , 2 . Once the skid shoes 43 are resting on the barges, appropriate fastenings can be applied to retain the trusses 3 , 4 , the upper part of the jacket 12 and the deck 13 is position as the vessel is towed to,its destination.
Whilst one particular example of the invention has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood that many variations can be made to the described example without departing from the scope of the invention. One example of a modified arrangement is described below with reference to FIGS. 13, 14 A, 14 B, 15 , 16 A and 16 B where corresponding parts are referenced with the same reference numerals as in the other drawings.
In the modified arrangement, the only substantive change to the vessel 10 is that the truss 3 comprising separate halves 3 A and 3 B is replaced by a truss 103 and an associated buoyancy unit 104 , with the truss 103 and the buoyancy unit 104 being completely separable from the vessel when required. As can be seen for example in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the buoyancy unit 104 is mounted immediately below the truss 103 along a middle portion only of the length of the truss.
In use, the vessel 10 is brought into the position shown in FIG. 13 with the offshore structure 11 , from which the deck 13 is to be removed, positioned between the stern portions of the barges 1 , 2 and with the truss 103 immediately adjacent to the structure 11 . While the vessel is being brought into the position shown in FIG. 13, the weight of the truss 103 and of the buoyancy unit 104 is taken wholly or substantially by the barges 1 , 2 with the buoyancy unit 104 being held either entirely above sea level or at least above a position in which it serves to support a significant part of the weight of the truss 103 . Once the vessel 10 is in the position shown in FIG. 13, however, it is ballasted down to such an extent that the buoyancy unit 104 is sufficiently submerged in the sea that it takes not only its own weight but also the weight of the truss 103 . At this stage the truss 103 is temporarily secured to the jacket 12 , but it will be understood that this securing need not be a major load bearing connection, because the weight of the truss 103 is taken by the buoyancy unit 104 . As shown in FIG. 14B, the buoyancy unit 104 projects, when viewed in plan, beyond the truss 103 in a direction away from the structure 11 , but does not project beyond the truss 103 in the opposite direction, thus enabling the truss 103 to be positioned immediately adjacent to the jacket 12 .
After completion of ballasting down of the vessel 10 and temporary securing of the truss 103 to the jacket 12 , the vessel 10 is withdrawn from the structure 11 leaving the truss 103 and buoyancy unit 104 with the structure 11 . This situation is shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B (with the vessel 10 not being shown in FIG. 14 B).
The vessel 10 is then manoeuvred around to the other side of the structure 11 and turned through 180° so as to bring it into the position shown in FIG. 15 . Then the vessel 10 is moved towards the structure 11 into the position shown in FIG. 16A, with the barges 1 , 2 passing under the truss 103 and on first and second opposite sides of the structure 11 and the buoyancy unit 104 . The trusses 103 and 4 extend between the barges 1 , 2 on third and fourth opposite sides of the structure 11 . Once the vessel is in the position shown in FIG. 16A, ballast is removed to raise the vessel to a position in which it is once again supporting the truss 103 , as shown in FIG. 16B, and the temporary securing of the truss 103 to the jacket 12 is released.
It will be appreciated that the arrangement reached at this stage is substantially the same as that shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The procedure subsequently followed in the modified embodiment employing the truss 103 is substantially the same as that described above with reference to FIGS. 5 to 12 , with references to the truss 3 being treated as references to the truss 103 .
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A method of removing a deck from an offshore structure is provided. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also described.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to belt tensioning devices, and more particularly to spring-biased belt tensioning devices adapted for maintaining an optimum tension on endless driving members, such as belts or chains, of internal combustion engine drive systems.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
In the automotive engine industry, it has become the practice to use a single endless member, such as a belt or chain, to maintain synchronous operation of a "primary" system of engines components, such as the crank shaft, the camshaft, the spark distributor, the ignition, the fuel injecion, the valves, and in some cases, balance shafts. In typical engine applications, the single endless member is driven in motion by a pulley or sprocket gear connected to the engine crank shaft. The endless member, in turn, is coupled by appropriate means with a "secondary" system of engine components, such as the alternator, various pumps and accessory equipment.
A frequently encountered problem in using single endless belts as power transmission members involves maintaining contact between the belt and the belt-engaging members carried by the various primary and secondary components of the engine in order to provide a desired level of tensioning of the belt. Single endless belts used in this environment for this purpose are typically formed with a surface specifically adapted for engagement with the component carried, belt-engaging members. Typically, where the belt-engaging members are embodied as pulleys, the belt is provided with a smooth, flat surface, while where the belt-engaging members are embodied as sprocket wheels or gears, the belt is provided with ribbing or other similar surface protrusions. In either case, it is mandatory to ensure that contact between the belt and the belt-engaging members of the primary system components be maintained so that synchronus operation be sustained. It is furthermore desirable to maintain contact between the belt and the belt-engaging members of the secondary system components so that optimum operating efficiency can be achieved.
Loss of contact between the belt and the belt-engaging member is evidenced in different ways, depending on the structure of the belt-engaging member. In the case of pulley-type belt-engaging members, loss of contact is manifested by slipping of the belt, which arises as a result of stretching of the belt or through a whipping condition caused by repeated, sudden, accelerations and decelerations of the belt. In the case of sprocket-type belt engaging members, loss of contact is manifested by the belt "jumping" from one tooth to another or slipping off any one of the teeth. In either case, the result is a diminishment of efficiency in the operation of the engine, and worse, the possibility of damage to the engine, the primary and secondary components, or the belt itself. Therefore, to minimize the possibility of occurrence of such damage and to ensure optimum operating efficiency for the engine and the driven primary and secondary components, it has become necessary to apply, through suitable mechanims, an "optimum tension" to the single endless belt. As used above and hereinafter, "optimum tension" refers to the minimum tensioning force which can be applied to the belt while still being of sufficient amount to prevent slippage of the belt relative to the pulley or jumping of the belt off or over the teeth of a sprocket wheel or gear.
Numerous tension applying devices have been proposed to accomplish these purposes. One type of tensioner uses a bushing formed of an elastomeric material which is placed in compression by some mechanical means for continuously exerting a tensioning force on a belt. Tensioner constructions of this type, however, have the disadvantage that the high load rate which they exert on the belt results in a rapid loss of tensioning as the belt stretches, and the load rate limits the stroke of the belt-engaged idler pulley to a shorter distance than desired. Also, sudden acceleration and deceleration of the drive belt can cause a whipping action to occur which creates a time lag before full damping is achieved.
Other belt tensioning devices use coil springs which are either in compression or tension, for applying and maintaining the tensioning force on a belt-engaging pulley or sprocket. Devices of this kind, some of which employ the biasing force of a coil spring in combination with hydraulic-actuated members, regulate the amount of applied tensioning force, depending on whether the engine is running or shut off. These devices, however, have the disadvantage that the coil springs develop undesirable vibration harmonics, which when the engine is running, diminish the effectiveness of the devices as tensioners by causing periodically excessive tightening and loosening conditions.
Still other known tensioning devices and arrangements include biasing mechanisms in combination with some type of mechanical retaining means. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,634,407 to Holtz, a ratchet and pawl retainer is employed to maintain a minimum amount of tensioning force on a belt, while in U.S. Pat. No. 4,392,840 to Radocaj, a one-way roller clutch is used to permit movement of a tensioner in a belt tensioning direction when the belt extends, while preventing movement in the reversed, non-tensioning direction. The retaining mechanisms of these devices, however, suffer the disadvantage that the tensioning force on the endless drive belt can only be increased, and no mechanism is provided for the accommodation of undesirable belt whipping effects, (e.g., excessive stressing).
Still other tensioner devices are known which address the problem of resonant forces that have been set up within the tensioner devices. Such resonant forces, e.g., varying loads and vibrations, typically occur as a result of cyclic loading and unloading of valve springs, or as a consequence of piston power strokes. One tensioner device (U.S. Pat. No. 4,583,962 to Bytzek et al) purports to accommodate such undesirable internal resonant forces by incorporating a nylon sleeve between a fixed pivot member and a pulley-supporting member pivotally mounted on the pivot member. However, the sleeve of this tensioner is made of a material which has the approximate hardness of wood and functions only as a bearing sleeve, thereby providing primarily only sliding friction damping and substantially no solid damping. Thus, any forces or torques transmitted from the belt and engine to the pulley-supporting member which tend to move the pulley-supporting member in an orbiting manner about the pivot member are undamped, thereby resulting in the undesired internal resonant vibrations from which all other known tensioning devices suffer.
An additional problem, which has been recognized but not solved by any of the known prior devices, involves the effects of temperature changes on tension in the belt. From engine start-up until engine shut-down, temperatures of, and in the vicinity of, the engine fluctuate to such an extent that temperature-dependent operational parameters (e.g., pulley or sprocket diameters, belt length, and relative positions of the components) of the belt drive system vary, resulting in increased tension on the belt.
Therefore, in order to accommodate the variance of such temperature-dependent operational parameters as well as belt stretching and whipping and the effects of resonant forces, while maintaining an optimum tension on the belt, it would be desirable to provide a mechanism capable of continuousl self-adjusting, contemporaneously with operation of the engine, to vary the amount of tensioning force applied to the belt. Since adjustments of this kind are almost impossible, if not impractical, to make while the engine is operating, it would be desirable to provide a belt-tensioning device having an automatic mode of self-adjustment so that the changes in dimension and position of the components, which occur as the temperature of the engine changes and which alter the tensioning requirements for the belt, can be effected by the belt tensioning device itself, without human intervention.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore a principal object of the present invention to overcome all the drawbacks and disadvantages of the prior tensioning devices by providing a tensioning apparatus adapted for use with an endless power transmission member, such as a belt or chain, which will continuously apply a tensioning force against the endless member while permitting automatic adjustment of the tensioning force throughout all modes of operation of the engine.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a belt tensioning apparatus capable of continuously maintaining a predetermined amount of tension on the drive belt of an engine, while compensating for belt harmonics and automatically adjusting the amount of applied tension in response to thermally-induced component expansion and contraction.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a belt-tensioning mechanism capable of movement in one direction for applying a tensioning force to an engine belt to eliminate slack and minimize belt whipping on engine start-up, and further capable of limited movement in the opposite direction for automatically adjusting the applied tensioning force during engine operation or on engine shut-down.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a belt-tensioning mechanism for dampening harmonic vibrations imparted to the belt by various systems and devices attached to, and driven by, an engine.
Yet another object is to provide a belt-tensioning mechanism which is of simple construction, compact, and easily installable in its intended environment without the need for special tools.
Still another object is to provide a tensioning mechanism which is adapted to be preset so that, upon installation of the tensioning mechanism, its biasing force may be released merely by removing a preinstalled pin.
These and other objects that may hereinafter become apparent are accomplished according to the invention by providing a belt-tensioning apparatus which is adapted for mounting adjacent an endless belt and for applying to the belt an optimum tensioning force. The belt-tensioning apparatus includes a pivot member defining a first pivot axis, a housing arranged concentrically about the first pivot axis and supporting a rotatable belt-tensioning member eccentrically of the first pivot axis, biasing means for driving the housing and the belt-tensioning member about the first pivot axis in a belt tensioning direction, and a cam assembly coupled with the housing for enabling limited movement of the housing about the first pivot axis in the opposite, tension-diminishing direction. An assembly pin secures the apparatus in its spring loaded state until installation, upon which time, after the pin is removed, the biasing means drives the belt-tensioning member into belt-tensioning engagement with the endless belt.
Preferably, the belt-tensioning member is a pulley and bearing assembly, and the housing is provided with an axial protrusion defining a second pivot axis, disposed eccentrically of the first pivot axis, on which the bearing assembly is mounted.
The cam assembly includes a clutch engaged with the pivot member, a cam housing mounted concentrically about the clutch, and a plurality of camming elements interposed between the cam housing and the pulley-supporting housing. The clutch is preferably of the type known as a one-way clutch, and is adapted to permit rotation only in the belt-tensioning direction. The cam housing is secured to the one-way clutch, and is capable of rotation only in the belt-tensioning direction about the pivot member.
The outer surface of the cam housing is provided with axially extending camming lobes which correspond in configuration with recesses provided on the inner surfaces of cam follower elements secured about the cam housing. Preferably the cam lobes and recesses are configured to impart radial movement to the cam follower elements as these elements ride over the cam lobes. Pin members disposed on the exterior of the cam follower elements engage in slots provided in the wall of the pulley-supporting housing. Preferably, the length of the slots is determined as a function of engine, pulley and material parameters, and limits the amount of reverse rotation of the belt-tensioning apparatus accordingly.
When the tension in the endless belt increases, the pulley-supporting housing is urged by the belt to rotate about the pivot member in an opposite reversed direction. In turn, the pulley-supporting housing urges the cam follower elements, by means of the pin and slot engagement, to ride up onto the cam lobes of the rotationally limited cam housing and move radially outwardly to lock up with the inner surface of the pulley-supporting housing whereby further reverse rotation of the belt-tensioning apparatus is prevented.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated from the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which the same or like reference numbers designate the same or corresponding parts throughout and in which:
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view looking toward the side of an engine and illustrating an endless drive belt operatively connected to and driving various engine components, with the improved belt tensioner apparatus of the present invention engaged with the belt;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the belt tensioner apparatus of the invention installed on the engine;
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the belt tensioner apparatus taken along section line 3--3 in FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged detailed view of the automatic tension adjusting mechanism incorporated into the belt tensioner apparatus of the present invention, and illustrating a first tension adjustment position;
FIG. 5 is an enlarged detailed view of the automatic tension adjusting mechanism incorporated into the belt-tensioner apparatus of the present invention, and illustrating a tension adjustment position; and
FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the principal components of the tension adjusting mechanism of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 of the drawings schematically illustrates the improved belt tensioner apparatus 10 of the present invention mounted on the side of an engine and disposed in tensioning engagement with an endless flexible member 12, such as a ddrive or timing belt, of a power transmitting drive system. The drive system of FIG. 1 typically consists of a plurality of belt pulleys or sheaves having configurations and diameters determined by the particular engine components with which they are associated and their locations relative to one another. The pulleys illustrated are supported on their respective engine components, which in turn are mounted on an engine (not shown) in a usual manner known in the art. Belt 12 preferably is operated in a single vertical plane to eliminate binding and skewing of the belt.
The belt drive system 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes the belt 12, a main driving pulley 14 operatively coupling the output of the main drive or crank shaft of the engine to the belt 12, a pulley 16 operatively coupling the belt 12 to an accessory drive shaft, and a pulley 18 operatively coupling belt 12 to a camshaft. The belt tensioner apparatus 10 is positioned between the main driving pulley 14 and the camshaft pulley 18, but its position may be varied depending upon engine size and/or component location. The belt tensioner apparatus 10 includes a pulley 20 which rotatably engages the belt 12. The pulley 20 is mounted for rotation on the belt tensioner apparatus 10 about a first axis 22, and is urged into tensioning engagement with the belt 12 by pivoting of the belt tensioning apparatus 10 (in a clockwise direction as shown in FIG. 1) about a second axis 24 offset from the first axis 22. It is to be understood that the belt drive system shown in FIG. 1 could be adapted for driving components associated with other systems, such as pumps and vehicle accessories.
FIGS. 2, 3 and 6 of the drawings illustrate in greater detail the components which comprise the belt tensioner apparatus 10 and, in particular, the automatic tension adjusting mechanism of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates the belt tensioner apparatus 10 in a side sectional view. FIG. 3 is a cross-section of the apparatus taken along section line 3--3 in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 shows the principal components of the belt tensioner apparatus in an exploded perspective view.
Referring now to the drawings in detail, and in particular to FIG. 6, it can be seen that the principal components of the belt tensioner apparatus 10 include a primary torsion spring 100, a pivot shaft 200, a pivot housing 300, a secondary torsion spring 400, a cam clutch assembly 500, a cam follower assembly 600, a garter spring 700, a pulley housing 800 and a belt engaging pulley assembly 900. Torsion springs 100 and 400, pivot shaft 200, pivot housing 300, cam clutch assembly 500, cam follower assembly 600, spring 700 and pulley housing 800 comprise the automatic tension adjusting mechanism.
Primary torsion spring 100 is a helical coil spring having a coil body 105, a first end 110 and a second end 120. Although not essential to the operation of the belt-tensioning apparatus, the spring ends 110, 120 have been illustrated as being radially inwardly turned. The primary torsion spring 100 is employed to pivotally urge the belt tensioner apparatus 10 about the pivot axis 24 (in a clockwise direction as seen in FIG. 1) so that the belt tensioner apparatus 10 can apply a tensioning force to the belt 12. Secondary torsion spring 400 is a helical coil spring having a coil body 405, an axially turned first end 410 and an axially turned second end 420, with the first and second ends preferably being oppositely directed (as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 6). The spring constants of torsion springs 100 and 400 are determined as a function of the materials and thermal properties of the various pulleys, the belt, and the engine and components, as well as the range of temperatures to which these components will be subjected during operation of the engine, and the desired optimum belt tension to be achieved.
As seen in FIG. 2, the pivot shaft 200 is a one piece, cylindrical member having a first end 210 adapted to seat on the engine block E, a second end 212, and a centrally disposed bore 214 extending from the first end to the second end. The longitudinal axis of the bore 214 constitutes the pivot axis 24 of the belt tensioner apparatus 10 schematically depicted in FIG. 1. The radially outer surface of the pivot shaft 200 preferably includes a first section 222 and a second shaft section 224 having an outside diameter greater than the outside diameter of the first section 222. An annular groove 230 is formed in the first shaft section 222 at a location adjacent the second end 212 of the pivot shaft 200.
Pivot housing 300 comprises a cup-shaped member which includes an annular base portion 310, having a concentric, axially extending, throughbore 312, an axial extending annular boss 320 located at the radially inner region of the base portion, and an axially extending annular flange 330 disposed about the radially outer periphery of the base portion. The throughbore 312 is formed with an internal diameter of a dimension corresponding to the external diameter of the second shaft section 224 of the pivot shaft 200. The pivot housing 300 is secured to the shaft section 224 of the pivot shaft 200 in any conventional manner which will prevent rotation of the pivot housing 300 relative to the pivot shaft 200, as for example, by means of a friction press fit, a key and slot fit, or by a weld. Alternatively, the pivot housing 300 and the pivot shaft 200 may be formed as a single, unitary piece. An annular recess 332 is formed in the region of the radially inner face of the annular flange 330 adjacent the annular base portion 310, and an annular elastomeric friction element 334 is disposed in the recess 332. A first aperture 340 extends axially through the base portion 310 and the annular boss 320, and a second aperture 350 extends radially into the base portion 310 at the intersection of the base portion 310 and the annular flange 330.
Cam clutch assembly 500 comprises a cylindrical cam housing 510 having a centrally disposed, axially extending bore 512, and a conventional one-way clutch assembly 520 (shown schematically). The clutch assembly 520 is tightly secured to cam housing 510 in bore 512 by any suitable manner, as for example by a press or friction fit. The invention also contemplates forming the cam housing 510 and the clutch assembly 520 as a single unitary part. The clutch assembly 520 is mounted on the second shaft section 224 of pivot shaft 200 and functions to permit rotation of the cam housing 510 about pivot shaft 200 in one direction only, i.e., clockwise as seen in FIG. 3.
The exterior surface 514 of cam housing 510 includes a plurality (four are shown) of peripherally disposed, axially extending, cam lobes 530. The exterior surfaces of each of the cam lobes 530 have a generally cylindrical configuration, and constitute camming surfaces (the purpose of which will be described below). An axially extending opening 540 is formed in one end surface of the cam housing 510 and is radially located therein in order to receive and secure the axially extending second end 420 of the torsion spring 400.
Cam follower assembly 600 comprises a plurality of discrete arcuate follower elements 610 having a shape which is adapted for a specified manner of engagement with the exterior surface of the cam housing 510. Each cam follower element 610 includes a radially inner surface 612 having an arcuate shape with a first radius, and a radially outer surface 613 having an arcuate shape with a second radius larger than the first radius. The central region of the inner surface 612 of each cam follower element is provided with an axially extending, partially cylindrical recess 620 having a configuration which is adapted to receive a respective one of the cylindrically shaped cam lobes 530 located on the exterior surface of the cam housing 510. Each recess 620 (illustrated more clearly in FIGS. 3 and 4) comprises a first leading surface 622 and a second trailing surface 624. The leading surface of each recess 620 is substantially cylindrical and has a contour that is substantially congruous with the contour of the leading edge 532 of cam lobe 530. The trailing surface 624 of each recess 620 is substantially planar, with the portion of trailing surface 624 adjacent the leading surface 622 having a greater radial extent than the portion of trailing surface 624 farthest from the leading surface. The outer surface 613 of each cam follower element is provided with a circumferential groove 614 located about one-half the axial extent of the element. A pair of axially aligned, radially extending pins 640, 650 are provided on the outer surface of each cam follower element. The pins are disposed adjacent to one another on opposite sides of the circumferential groove 614, and in a position on the outer surface 613 which is in alignment with the recess 620 on the inner surface 612. Each cam follower element 610 is mounted on the exterior surface of the cam housing 510 so as to locate a respective one of the cam lobes 530 in the recess 620. The cam follower elements are maintained in this assembled state by garter spring 700 which is placed about the plurality of cam follower elements in the respective circumferential grooves 614 formed in the outer surface of the cam follower elements.
Pulley housing 800 comprises a first cylinder 810 of a first external diameter and a second cylinder 820 having an external diameter smaller than the first external diameter. The second cylinder 820 is formed integrally with, and extends axially from, the end wall 812 of the first cylinder 810, with the longitudinal axis 22 of the second cylinder 820 being laterally offset from the longitudinal axis 24 of the first cylinder 810. Extending from the surface 822 of the second cylinder to and through the wall 812, is a cylindrical bore 830, the longitudinal axis of which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the first cylinder 810. The diameter of the bore 830 is slightly larger than the outside diameter of the first shaft section 222 of the pivot shaft 200 and pulley housing 800 is supported on pivot shaft 200 for rotation about the shaft longitudinal axis (i.e., pivot axis 24). The annular wall 814 of the first cylinder 810 is formed with a plurality of equidistantly spaced, circumferentially extending slot formations 840, 850. The slot formations may consist of axially separated slot pairs (as illustrated) or a single slot. The circumferential extent of the slot formations is determined as a function of the thermal expansion characteristics of the engine block and cylinder head to which the tnnsioner is being applied, as well as the physical size of the engine, the material and construction of the endless belt, the diameter and material of the other pulleys (or sprocket gears), and the geometric configuration of the pulley (or sprocket gears) and belt system. The function of the slot formations (which will be described in greater detail in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5) is to provide limits for the amount of reverse rotation which the belt tensioning apparatus will accommodate. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, each slot formation corresponds with the pin formation carried by the cam follower elements 610. In particular, each pair of slots consist of a first slot 840, and a second slot 850 spaced axially from the first slot by a distance corresponding to the distance between pins 640, 650. The number of pairs of slots corresponds to the number of cam lobes 516 provided on the exterior surface of cam housing 510, and each of slots 840, B50 includes a leading edge 842, 852 and a trailing edge 844, 854 (see FIGS. 3 and 4), and is dimensioned to receive a respective one of pins 640, 650 carried on each cam follower element 610. The annular wall 814 of the first cylinder is further provided with a first aperture 860 preferably located between two adjacent first slots 840 and a second aperture 870 preferably located above one of the pairs of axially aligned first and second slots.
Belt engaging pulley assembly 900 comprises a pulley member 920 having an external surface 924 for engaging the belt 12, and a conventional bearing assembly 930. The bearing assembly 930, which is firmly secured within pulley member 920 in a conventional manner, includes an inner race (FIG. 2) 932 which is mounted on the second cylinder 820 of pulley housing 800. The outer race 934 of the bearing assembly 930 rotates freely along with pulley member 920, relative to the bearing assembly inner race 932, about the longitudinal axis 22 of the second cylinder 820.
Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the assembled belt tensioner apparatus 10 of the present invention is seen to include pivot shaft 200 positioned with its first end 210 in engagement with engine block E and its bore 214 aligned with the bore B in the engine block E. Clutch assembly 520 is mounted on the larger diameter second shaft section 224 of pivot shaft 200, as is the pivot housing 300. Pulley housing 800 is rotatably supported on the smaller diameter shaft section 222 of pivot shaft 200. The annular wall 814 of the pulley housing lower cylinder 810 is nested within the pivot housing annular upstanding flange 330 with a small amount of diametrical clearance. The annular elastomeric friction element 334 is carried in the annular recess 332, and is loaded in compression by engagement between the radially external surface of annular wall 814 and the radially internal surface of recess 332. Friction element 334 acts to dampen belt harmonics generated by cyclic loading and unloading of valve springs, and by crankshaft power strokes, which are transmitted to the pulley housing 800. Pulley member 920 of the pulley assembly is rotatably carried by pivot housing 800, with the inner race of the bearing assembly 930 disposed in frictional engagement with the second cylinder 820 of the pulley assembly. Relative rotation between the inner race 932 and the second cylinder 820 is thereby prevented, and the longitudinal axis of the second cylinder 820 becomes the axis of rotation for pulley member 920. A flat washer 240 clamps the inner race of the bearing assembly onto the shoulder between the first and second pivot shaft sections, and an annular fastener ring 250, which snaps into the annular groove 230 on pivot shaft 200, holds the pulley assembly 900 securely in place on the pivot shaft. A bolt 252 extends through the pivot shaft, and is threadedly engaged into the bore B in the engine E to secure the belt tensioning apparatus 10 to the engine. Preferably, the friction generated by the axial force of the bolt 252 through the pivot housing 300, and the contact of the pivot housing and the engine, prevent the pivot housing 300 from rotating relative to the bolt 252. Alternatively, either of the pivot housing 300 or the pivot shaft 200 could be provided with a pin; tab, or like protrusion which could fit into a receiving bore in the engine to prevent rotation, as well as for providing an assist in initially locating the apparatus on the engine.
Rotatably supported within the pivot housing 300 on pivot shaft 200 are the cam housing 50 and the cam follower elements 610. Each cam follower element 610 is held in contacting engagement with the exterior surface of cam housing 510 by garter spring 700 such that each cam follower element surrounds a respective cam lobe 530. Spring 700 surrounds all the cam follower elements and engages in the circumferential groove 614 of each element. Cam follower assembly 600 is positioned in the interior of the cylinder 810 of the pulley housing 800, with the axially aligned pair of pins 640, 650 of each cam follower element engaging within a respective pair of the axially aligned arcuate slots 840, 850 formed in the annular wall of cylinder 810. The primary torsion spring 100 is situated concentrically about the annular upstanding flange 330 of the pivot housing 300. The first end 110 of the primary torsion spring 100 is engaged in the second aperture 350 in the base portion of the pivot housing 300. The second end 120 of the primary torsion spring 100 engages in the opening S70 in the annular wall 814. The primary torsion spring 100 is loaded to drive pulley housing 800 with a rotational force about the pivot axis 24 in a belt tensioning direction (clockwise in FIG. 1). The secondary torsion spring 400 is disposed concentrically about the annular boss 320 of the pivot housing 300, with its first end 410 engaged in the axial opening 540 of cam housing 510 and its second end 420 engaged in the axially extending aperture 340 of the pivot housing 300. The secondary torsion spring 400 is loaded in such a manner as to urge cam housing 510 in a second, opposite rotational direction about pivot axis 24, i.e., counterclockwise as seen in FIG. 3. A pin 50 fits through a hole 315 in the annular flange 330 of the pivot housing and through a corresponding hole 815 in the annular wall of the pulley housing first cylinder 810 and is provided to prevent relative rotation of the two housings during assembly of the belt tensioner apparatus, and during installation of the apparatus onto the engine.
OPERATION OF THE INVENTION
Once the belt tensioner apparatus of the invention is assembled and installed on the engine, the pin 50 is removed and discarded, and tensioning of the belt 12 shown in FIG. 1 begins. When pin 50 is removed, the primary torsion spring 100 pivots pulley housing 800 eccentrically about pivot axis 24, i.e., about the longitudinal axis of pivot in a clockwise direction until pulley 920 engages belt 12. Upon engagement of the belt by the pulley 920, the belt 12 is placed under tension. The amount of tension is determined as a function of the torsional force of spring 100, the geometry of the pulley 920 and pulley housing 800 and the belt wrap angle. More particularly, the amount of tension is determined in accordance with the following equations and accompanying diagram: ##EQU1## ##SPC1## where:
T=Belt Tension
F T =Force Acting Thru Pulley Center Resulting from T
B=Belt Wrap Angle
θ=Angle Between Centers and F T
X=Offset
M S =Spring Moment
M O =O-Ring Moment
M F =Friction Moment
When belt tensioning takes place, prior to starting the engine and afterwards while the engine is operating, harmonic vibrations of the engine must be accommodated. These vibrations tend to urge pulley 920 to rotate about pivot axis 24 in a direction opposite to the belt tightening direction, i.e., in a belt loosening direction. However, such harmonic vibrations are damped out by the elastomeric friction element 334 disposed in recess 332 of pivot housing annular flange 330.
As the engine warms to operating temperature, the centerline distances between the camshaft, the crankshaft and the belt tensioner pulley 920 increase due to thermal expansion of the engine. In addition, the diameter of each belt-engaging pulley or sprocket wheel increases with the increased engine temperature. The combined effect of such thermally-produced expansions is the application, by the belt 12, of a force to the belt tensioning apparatus 10 in the belt-loosening direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by the arrow B shown in FIG. 1). Movement of the belt tensioning apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 in the belt-loosening direction of arrow B would permit a reduction in the tension which initially was applied to the belt 12 or, in the alternative, the maintenance of a predetermined optimum tension. Movement of the belt-tensioning apparatus 10 in the belt- loosening direction is made possible by the automatic tension adjusting mechanism of the present invention, shown in detail in FIGS. 4 and 5.
When the belt-tensioning apparatus 10 of the invention is pivoted into belt-tightening engagement with the belt 12, (clockwise in FIG. 1) the one-way clutch 520 facilitates pivoting of the pulley housing 800, along with all elements contained within pulley housing 800, about the pivot axis 24. When the belt-tensioning apparatus is pivotally urged in a belt-loosening (counterclockwise) direction about pivot axis 24, the pulley housing 800 pivots counter-clockwise about pivot axis 24, but the one-way clutch assembly 520, along with the cam housing 510, is prevented from pivoting in this counter-clockwise belt-loosening direction. Garter spring 700 holds each of the cam follower elements 610 in contact with a respective cam lobe 530, and the small amount of clearance between the radially outer surfaces 613 of the cam follower elements and the radially inner surface of the annular flange 810 of the pulley housing 800 allows the cam follower elements 610 to remain stationary relative to the cam housing 510. As the belt-tensioning apparatus pivots about axis 24 in the counter-clockwise tension reducing direction, pulley housing 800 rotates relative to the cam follower elements 610, and insofar as the pins 640, 650 are always engaged within slots 840, 850 in the pulley housing first cylinder 810, when the engine reaches its maximum operating temperature, each slot 840, S50 moves from a first position in which the pins 640, 650 are positioned adjacent the leading edges 842 of their respective slots (see FIGS. 3 and 4) to a second position in which the pin 640, 650 is positioned adjacent the trailing edge 844 of its respective slot (see FIGS. 3 and 4). Further rotation of the pulley housing 800 about pivot axis 24 causes the cam follower elements 610 to be driven in rotation by the trailing edges 844 of the slots 840, 850 relative to the cam housing 510. When this happens, the trailing edges 624 of the recess 620 in the cam follower elements are forced into camming engagement with the cam lobes 530, and as each trailing edge 624 rides up over its respective cam lobe 530, the rotational movement of the associated cam follower element 610 relative to the cam housing 510 is converted to radial movement. The result is that the cam follower elements 610 are moved radially toward, and into engagement with, the annular wall 810 of the pulley housing lower cylinder. At this point, the pulley housing 800 is operatively connected to the one-way clutch 520 and further reverse rotation of the pulley housing 800 is thus prevented.
As the temperature of the engine decreases, whether during operation or after shut-down of the engine, pulley housing 800 reverses its rotational movement relative to the cam housing 510, i.e., moving clockwise in FIGS. 3-5. The cam follower elements 610 are held in their radially extended positions by the wedging action of the cam lobes 530 with the trailing edges 624 of the recesses 620, as the leading edges 842 of the pulley housing slots move back in the clockwise direction under the rotational biasing of the primary torsion spring 100.
During this reverse rotational movement of pulley housing S00, the secondary torsion spring 400 acts on cam housing 510 to restrain it from rotating, along with the pulley housing 800, in the clockwise direction. The leading edges 842 of the slots then rotate, with rotation of the pulley housing 800, from the position shown in FIG. 5 to the position shown in FIG. 3 so that the leding edges 842 about the leading edges 642 of the cam follower elements. Further rotation of the pulley housing 800 in the clockwise direction causes the trailing edges 624 of the cam follower element recesses 620 to become disengaged from cam lobes 530. The cam follower elements 610 are thereby moved inwardly by garter spring 700 and pulley housing 800 is then released for free rotational movement in the clockwise, belt-tensioning direction.
Although only preferred embodiments are specifically illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.
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Apparatus for applying an optimum tensioning force to an endless belt or the like, including a pivot defining a first pivot axis, a belt engagement element supported for rotation about the first pivot axis, a biasing element for urging the belt engagement element in a first direction of rotation about the pivot axis into belt-tensioning engagement with the belt, and a belt tension adjuster, responsive to externally induced changes in tension of the belt, for automatically varying the tensioning force applied to belt. The belt tension adjuster is disposed within the biasing element and includes a limiter for limiting the amount of decrease in applied tensioning force, whereby the tension in belt is optimally maintained.
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RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/152,203 entitled “LOCKING DISPLAY GUN RACK” by the same inventor, incorporated herein for all that it discloses and teaches, and claims benefit of priority for common subject matter.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The subject matter relates generally to firearm safety and display and more specifically to a secure gun display.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Firearms are vulnerable to theft and misuse because they are valuable, portable, and desirable for trading, recreation, self-protection, and criminal activity. Since bearing arms is a Constitutional right, many Americans proudly display favorite hunting, military, and antique guns. Display of a gun, however, such as the proverbial mounting of a family rifle above the fireplace, can make the displayed gun even more vulnerable to theft or misuse.
[0004] The tension between the wide availability of guns due to the right to bear arms and the vulnerability of guns to theft and misuse has resulted in many types of gun locks, racks, and cases to secure the guns. Unfortunately, these security measures can provide too little safety for a displayed gun, or, the unsightliness provided by the security measure defeats the purpose of displaying the gun. Some conventional gun racks lack security features, such as a holding member through the trigger loop. Many gun racks touted as secure are relatively easy to disassemble or are quite easy to pry, saw, or cut apart, as those who have lost guns to these devices can attest. Other security gun racks can be foiled by disassembling the gun. This happens when a professional burglar desires the gun or more commonly when a depressed person or a child in the home has extended time to figure out how to dismantle the gun, freeing the gun from the security device.
[0005] Various conventional gun racks have security flaws and many conventional gun racks have the distinct disadvantage of being designed for a particular model or size of gun. A conventional gun rack may hold a particular gun securely but lacks a universal holding mechanism or at least lacks a mechanism for preventing insertion of a gun that the gun rack cannot hold securely. In other words, it is often possible to place a smaller or larger gun in a conventional gun rack than is intended to be held securely by the design of the conventional gun rack. For example, in some conventional gun racks, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,887,730 to St. George, U.S. Pat. No. 4,624,372 to Brolin, U.S. Pat. No. 3,618,785 to Newman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,078,279 to Hancock et al., etc., placing too small a gun in a shackle of the St. George rack (in a curved enclosing member of the Brolin rack, in a locking member of the Newman rack, or in a holding unit of the Hancock rack) would defeat one or more security features of these gun racks. Many of these conventional gun racks allow a tool such as bar or chain cutter to be inserted around the part of the shackle or other holding member, especially if a smaller than anticipated gun is introduced. A secure gun rack should not allow a bar cutter to be inserted around a holding member of the gun rack, despite the size of the gun being secured. Even thick and hardened metal bar stock used in automotive steering wheel locks, such as THE CLUB, can be cut by a portable bar or chain cutter-if the cutter can gain access around the metal bar stock.
[0006] On the other hand, a gun may be too large for the St. George, Brolin, Newman, Hancock, etc., gun racks. With respect to the St. George and other racks, for example, a mounted scope on some gun models would preclude the use of these racks. The gun and scope would be too large for the shackle, or would compromise security if the shackle was placed around an unintended part of the gun in order to avoid the presence of the scope. With respect to the Brolin and other racks, a wider or thicker stock would preclude the use of these racks or necessitate an unintended positioning of the gun. In each of the above-cited patent references, if the securing shackle or loop proceeds through a gun's trigger guard the shackle or loop goes straight up over the breech of the weapon eliminating many guns from fitting in the rack: guns with scopes will not fit, due to lack of clearance; guns with bolt actions will not fit, as the bolt is in a vertical line with the trigger guard; guns with wide breeches will not fit due to the required size of the shackle or loop. If the conventional shackle or loop avoids the trigger guard to secure only around the stock (as in several of the above-cited patent references) the security of the gun rack is severely reduced as the stock can easily be cut and replaced or on many models the gun itself can be dismantled and removed. Conversely, if the conventional gun rack secures only the trigger guard of the gun the trigger guard itself can easily be removed on many models.
[0007] Locking a gun in an unmovable safe may provide good security but does not allow display. For displayed guns in the home, children, thieves, and the emotionally distraught may defeat conventional gun locks, racks, and gun cases to cause subsequent tragedy and loss.
FIGURES
[0008] [0008]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example secure gun display, according to one example implementation.
[0009] [0009]FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an example secure gun display, according to one example implementation.
[0010] [0010]FIG. 3 is side cutaway view of an example stock mount assembly and lock, according to one example implementation of the subject matter.
[0011] [0011]FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an example secure gun display, according to one example implementation.
[0012] [0012]FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of an example secure gun display.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0013] [0013]FIG. 1 shows an exemplary implementation of a secure gun display 100 that provides safety by exploiting a common design feature of most guns. Despite differences in the many characteristics that a gun can possess-model, style, materials, dimensions, size, shape, etc.—most guns are universally designed to be held and fired by a human hand in a “trigger-pulling position” 101 , as shown in FIG. 1. A user's hand can assume an almost infinite number of shapes and positions, but most guns are designed to be held by a hand in the trigger-pulling position 101 , that is, between the thumb and forefinger with the thumb wrapped “up” around the side of the gun stock or over the top of a gun stock, e.g., behind a gun breech, and the forefinger wrapped “down” and “around” in front of a trigger. Thus, most guns have a gun section near the trigger where the dimensions are very consistent and designed to be held by a user's hand in the trigger-pulling position 101 . Even though human hands differ somewhat in size, the relevant dimensions of variously-sized hands in the trigger-pulling position 101 do not vary much with respect to those parts of a hand that hold and fire a gun. Hence gun-makers do not vary much from one-size-fits-all dimensions for the part of a gun that the firing hand grips. Although the parts of a gun around which the thumb and forefinger wrap in order to pull a trigger are almost universally the same across different guns, still, the consistently dimensioned parts form an unusual curve, i.e., the curve of a hand in the trigger-pulling position 101 . Additionally, scopes and other mounted accessories superior to the stock, trigger, and/or breech of a gun are universally situated to avoid interference with the presence of a hand in the trigger-pulling position 101 .
[0014] An exemplary restraint 106 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a member that emulates or approximates the relative configuration and curvature of a thumb and forefinger of a hand in a trigger-pulling position 101 . Geometrically, an exemplary restraint 106 has a shape similar to a short segment of a helix, a non-planar spiral. On a 3-dimensional axis system, an exemplary restraint 106 corkscrews through all three dimensions: in one implementation, the curvature of an exemplary restraint 106 can be reproduced by beginning a curve along one directional axis, gradually changing the direction vector of the curve to an adjacent axis, gradually changing the direction vector of the curve to the remaining (third) axis, but before proceeding far along the third axis, looping around to retrace along the first axis and continuing the curve until proceeding backwards in the opposite direction of the third axis. In other words, viewing a gun from a side of the gun (now called the front) the curvature of an exemplary restraint 106 begins near the top rear of the gun typically above and behind a trigger, proceeds straight out towards the observer, curves down, then curves forward towards the barrel end of the gun (and toward a trigger guard) while still curving down, begins to stop curving down while beginning to curve back towards the rear side of the gun, continues curving until proceeding straight back towards the stock end of the gun.
[0015] The helical curvature of an exemplary restraint 106 surrounds the part of each secured gun that has consistent dimensions across many types and sizes of guns. Therefore, the exemplary restraint 106 remains snug around a gun, preventing large bar cutting tools from gaining access to the exemplary restraint 106 , while allowing guns that have mounted scopes and other accessories to be secured without interfering with the scope or other accessory. Conventional gun racks cannot provide these advantages. In short, an exemplary locking gun rack that uses an exemplary restraint 106 can accommodate many different styles and sizes of guns and accessories and afford a high degree of security. The exemplary restraint 106 emulates the shape of a person's hand and fits on the gun as the hand would. Guns come in many shapes and sizes but the dimensions around which an exemplary restraint 106 fits must remain relatively constant as guns must be made to accommodate the average person's hand.
[0016] In another aspect of the subject matter, the curves of an exemplary restraint 106 , as opposed to simple rectangular shackles of conventional gun racks, also deflect many of the types of tools used to defeat locks and safety devices.
[0017] In its various implementations, the secure gun display 100 provides security and can have an appearance that accentuates the firearm being displayed, thereby avoiding the obtrusive and unattractive appearance expected in gun racks that try to provide more than nominal security. In general, the secure gun display 100 secures a gun such that disassembling the gun to foil the secure gun display 100 would prove difficult or impossible.
[0018] In its implementations, the secure gun display 100 can possess an elegant streamlined smoothness imparting a beauty to the displayed gun equal to or surpassing that of the gun itself. The visibility of the secure gun display 100 is kept to a minimum, so that an observer sees mostly the gun, not the secure gun display 100 . The streamlined smoothness is also a utility feature making the secure gun display 100 difficult or impossible to pry apart or breach in any way. When assembled to hold a gun, the various parts of the secure gun display 100 become one or more smooth, tough assemblies (e.g., 102 , 104 ) with no appreciable places for a cutter, saw, or pry-bar to gain a foothold.
[0019] In some implementations, a barrel loop 104 may be used for a long gun, such as a rifle, carbine, or shotgun. If the barrel loop 104 is used, the parts of the secure gun display 100 continue to form smooth, thief-resistant assemblies when displaying a gun that are highly resistant to prying, cutting, sawing, and other dismantling of the secure gun display 100 or the gun itself.
[0020] In one example implementation, a secure gun display 100 has a stock mount assembly 102 and a barrel loop 104 assembly. The rifle depicted in dotted lines is not part of the subject matter but is included to show context and relative proportion. The stock mount assembly 102 further includes an exemplary restraint 106 , a face plate 108 , and a wall piece 110 . A lock 112 may be included on the face plate 108 or elsewhere to secure the face plate 108 and the exemplary restraint 106 to the wall piece 110 . The face place 108 and the wall piece 110 are just one example of a device for securing the exemplary restraint 106 to a secure surface. Other techniques for securing the exemplary restraint 106 to a secure surface could be used. The barrel loop 104 is illustrated as a single piece including a mounting attachment 114 . In variations, however, the barrel loop 104 may be made of a composite of parts including, of course, detachable mounting hardware.
[0021] [0021]FIG. 2 shows an exploded view 200 of one example implementation of a secure gun display 100 . The exemplary restraint 106 can have a first tapered key end 202 and a second tapered key end 204 . The exemplary restraint 106 can be passed around the stock of a gun through a trigger guard on the gun and the first tapered key end 202 and second tapered key end 204 can be inserted into tapered keyways 206 , 208 in the face plate 108 . The exemplary restraint 106 may be constructed of cut-resistant, saw-resistant and pry-resistant material such as brass alloy or case-hardened steel. The material is cast, molded, shaped, etc. into a curved configuration that emulates a hand in the trigger-pulling position 101 . In one implementation the exemplary restraint 106 is cast or molded in a single piece, or shaped from a single bar. In variations fasteners, such as the tapered key ends 202 , 204 , can be attached after the remainder of the exemplary restraint 106 is manufactured.
[0022] A face plate 108 , after being coupled with an exemplary restraint 106 , is secured, e.g., by inserting into a channel 210 in the wall piece 110 . In the illustrated implementation, the face plate 108 has tapered edges 212 to slide into a taper-edged channel 210 in the wall piece 110 .
[0023] In one implementation, a tapered fit between the face plate 108 and the wall piece 110 renders the stock mount assembly 102 highly resistant to prying apart. A pry bar edge cannot penetrate a crack between the face plate 108 and the wall piece 110 to achieve any leverage for prying apart the secure gun display 100 . The tapered key ends 202 , 204 of the exemplary restraint 106 participate in the tapered fit between the face plate 108 and the wall piece 110 and in the illustrated implementation form part of the tapered edge 212 of the face plate 108 when the tapered key ends 202 , 204 are inserted in the keyways 206 , 208 of the face plate 108 .
[0024] A lock 112 may be coupled with the face plate 108 , as will be discussed more fully below. In one implementation, the lock 112 uses a key 205 that is resistant to lock picking.
[0025] In one implementation, the barrel loop 104 is an independent member although in some implementations the barrel loop 104 could be integrated in a single rack with the wall piece 110 . In the illustrated implementation, the barrel loop 104 has a mounting attachment, such as a screw, bolt, or wall anchor. If a screw is used for the mounting attachment 114 , the presence of a gun barrel inside the barrel loop 104 eliminates the possibility of unscrewing the barrel loop 104 from a surface to remove the gun.
[0026] Mounting attachments can also be used for the wall piece 110 , as when the particular implementation uses a wall piece 110 separated from the barrel loop 104 . The mounting attachment 114 can be, for instance, a screw, bolt, or wall anchor. Other mounting attachments 114 are feasible depending on the surface to which the secure gun display 100 will be attached.
[0027] [0027]FIG. 3 shows one example implementation of a lock 112 coupled with a face plate 108 . The lock 112 may extend a bolt 302 into a hole 214 in the wall piece 110 to secure the face plate 108 , the exemplary restraint 106 , (and the gun) to the wall piece 110 . Other types of locks 112 or locking mechanisms may be used. One type of lock 112 that may be employed retracts flushly with a surface 304 on the face plate 108 so that when locked only the key-receiving surface 306 of the lock 112 is exposed. The retracted lock 112 , flush with the surface 304 on the face plate 108 , is highly resistant to prying open. A pry tool large enough to achieve significant leverage on the lock 112 cannot be inserted in any crack space around the retracted lock 112 .
[0028] [0028]FIGS. 4 and 5 depict an example method of using a secure gun display 100 . In FIG. 4, one end of an exemplary restraint 106 , in this case including tapered key ends 202 , 204 , is inserted through a trigger guard of a gun ( 402 ). The example tapered key ends 202 , 204 are secured in keyways 206 , 208 in a face plate 108 ( 404 ). In FIG. 5, the face plate 108 is secured to the wall piece 110 ( 502 ). In one implementation, the face plate 108 has tapered edges that slide into a tapered channel in the wall piece 110 . The method may further comprise securing the face plate 108 to the wall piece 110 with a lock 112 . In some implementations, the method may further comprise inserting the barrel of a long gun through a barrel loop 104 .
[0029] The methods and apparatuses are presented as examples of an exemplary secure gun display 100 that includes an exemplary restraint 106 . Modifications can be made without departing from the basic scope of the subject matter. The particular implementations that have been presented herein are not provided to limit the subject matter but to illustrate it. The scope of the subject matter is not to be determined by the specific examples provided above but by the claims below.
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Described herein is a secure gun display, comprising a restraint for holding a gun through a trigger guard of the gun and around a stock of the gun, wherein the restraint provides increased security by approximating the configuration of a thumb and forefinger of a human hand in a trigger-pulling position.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to date related event management and more particularly to recurring event management.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Date management refers to the scheduling of events according to an occurrence date, time or both. Often discussed in the context of calendaring systems and personal information managers, date management extends beyond calendaring systems to include scheduling systems in general in which events or tasks are scheduled to occur at a particular date or time. Even management logic minimally can include a view to a sequence of events or tasks scheduled to occur at a particular date or time. Generally, the event or task can be associated with a textual description of the event or task. More advanced implementations also permit the association of the scheduled event with a particular contact, a particular project, or both.
[0005] Several software products include support for Calendaring & Scheduling (C&S). Known C&S products include Lotus Notes, Microsoft Outlook, and web-based products like Yahoo! Calendar. These products allow one to manage personal events including appointments and anniversaries. C&S products also typically allow one to manage shared events, referred to generally as meetings. Notably, many C&S products as well as other date management systems include the concept of repeating events. The creation of repeating events is generally straightforward. The user interface permits one to define the first instance of the repeating series and to specify how the series repeats. The definition of a repeating series often is referred to as a “recurrence rule”.
[0006] More specifically, an important feature of a date management system includes the ability to schedule a recurring event without requiring the end user to individually set an event on each recurring date. For example, where a meeting is to occur every week on a particular time over the course of several months, the end user can schedule the event as recurring every week at the particular time for the course of the several months. The date management system, in turn, can schedule each event in an automated fashion based upon the recurrence pattern. Advantageously, the end user subsequently can modify any one of the recurring events, or the end user can apply a single modification to all of the recurring events responsive to which the date management system can apply the single modification to all of the recurring events in an automated fashion.
[0007] When deployed in the enterprise, a date management system can require the interoperation of basic date management with the functionality of the enterprise. Synchronization of date driven data in different client computing devices represents an important aspect of the functionality of the enterprise. In many cases, data synchronized within the enterprise can be limited to a data subset filtered by date. Computing the subset can be complicated and resource consuming where the filter is complex or where the data set is large. To compound matters, date driven data conforming to a recurrence rule can further complicate synchronization. To accelerate the process of synchronization, oftentimes, the computed subset of date driven data driven by a filter can be cached for later use. Managing the caching of date driven data conforming to a recurrence rule, however, can even yet further complicate matters.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to filtering and caching recurring date driven data and provide a novel and non-obvious method, system and computer program product for data range determination for cached date driven values. In one embodiment of the invention, a date driven date selective retrieval method for recurrences in date driven data can include defining a date range, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data, selecting only those recurrences that fall within the date range according to the three cached instances for each of the recurrences, and adding the selected recurrences to a subset of the date driven values, and otherwise excluding remaining ones of the recurrences from the subset.
[0009] Defining the date range can include defining a date range as bounded by an earliest point in time (LW) and a latest point in time (RW). As such, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data can include retrieving a first cached instance in the recurrence (V 1 ) that occurs before a designated point in the date range, a first instance in the recurrence that occurs after the designated point (V 2 ), and a last instance in the recurrence (V 3 ). Selecting only those recurrences that fall within the date range according to the three cached instances for each of the recurrences can include selecting recurrences having a V 2 that is later than the LW of the date range, further selecting recurrences having a V 3 that is later than the LW of the date range and earlier than the RW of the date range, and deferring a selection of all other recurrences to a full evaluation.
[0010] Notably, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data can include identifying a special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence that occurs after the designated point is the last instance of the recurrence, and retrieving the last three instances of the recurrence. Similarly, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data can include identifying another special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence that occurs before the designated point is the last instance of the recurrence, and retrieving the last three instances of the recurrence. Yet further, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data can include identifying yet another special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence occurs after the designated point, and retrieving the first two instances and the last instance of the recurrence.
[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, a data processing system can be configured for date driven data management. The data processing system can include a data store of date driven values and a cache of recurrence instances, the cache including exactly three instances for each recurrence among the date driven values in the data store. For instance, the date driven values can include time/date sensitive instances such as events, tasks, electronic mail, and inventory. Finally, the system can include date range determination logic. The logic can include program code enabled to filter the date recurrences in a filtered subset to meet an established date range utilizing only the three instances for each recurrence in the cache.
[0012] Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The aspects of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The embodiments illustrated herein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a client-server data processing system configured to synchronize cached date driven values to client computing devices over a communications medium; and,
[0015] FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating a process for generating a filtered subset of date driven values for caching in the system of FIG. 1 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016] Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and computer program product for date range determination of cached date driven values. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, three date driven values can be cached for each recurrence. The three date driven values can include the first instance in the recurrence that occurs before a designated time or date, the first instance in the recurrence that occurs after the designated time or date, and the last instance in the recurrence. Subsequently, a filter can be applied to the three cached values exclusively to determine whether or not to include the entire recurrence in a subset of the date driven values, or whether a full evaluation of the recurrence is required.
[0017] Notably, the date range determination can be applied to the synchronization of the subset to client computing devices over a communications medium. In further illustration, FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a client-server data processing system configured to synchronize cached date driven values to client computing devices over a communications medium. As shown in FIG. 1 , the data processing system can include a host computing platform 120 coupled to one or more client computing devices 110 over a communications medium 130 that can range from a direct, serial link (either wireless or wire bound), to a data communications network such as the global Internet.
[0018] The host computing platform 120 can support the operation of a server portion of an application 140 which can operate upon date driven data 160 . Each of the client computing devices 110 , in turn, can support the operation of a client portion 180 of the application 140 . To that end, a synchronization engine 150 can be coupled to the host computing platform 120 and the server portion of the application 140 to manage the synchronization of a filtered subset of the date driven data 160 to the client portions 180 of the application 140 over the communications medium 130 .
[0019] Importantly, date range determination logic 200 can be coupled to the synchronization engine 150 and to the host computing platform 120 . The date range determination logic 200 can include computer program code enabled to process each recurrence among the date driven data 160 to filter those recurrences required to meet a specified date range. To facilitate the filtering process, three values for each recurrence can be disposed in a cache 170 which values can be used to properly filter the date driven data 160 for synchronization.
[0020] The cached values within the cache 170 for each recurrence can include the first instance in the recurrence (V 1 ) that occurs before a designated time or date (such as the then current time or date), the first instance in the recurrence that occurs after the designated time or date (V 2 ), and the last instance in the recurrence (V 3 ). In the special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence that occurs after the designated time is the last instance of the recurrence, then the last three instances of the recurrence can be cached. Likewise, in the special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence that occurs before the designated time is the last instance of the recurrence, then the last three instances of the recurrence can be cached. Finally, in another special circumstance where the first instance of the recurrence occurs after the designated time, then the first two instances and the last instance of the recurrence can be cached.
[0021] Subsequently, the filter can be applied to the three cached values exclusively to determine whether or not to include the entire recurrence in a subset of the date driven values, or whether a full evaluation of the recurrence is required. Utilizing only the three cached values, recurrences that can be safely ignored can be filtered out efficiently without incurring processing overhead, whereas only a small grouping of recurrences can require a full evaluation under the filter. Consequently, resources can be conserved in the synchronization process.
[0022] In yet further illustration of the operation of the date range determination logic, FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating a process for generating a filtered subset of date driven values cached in the system of FIG. 1 . Beginning in block 210 , a date range can be defined to be bounded by an earliest point in time (LW) and a latest point in time (RW). In block 220 , the three cached values, V 1 , V 2 and V 3 for all recurrences among the date driven data can be selected where V 3 is later than LW, where V 1 is earlier than RW, and where either V 1 is later than LW or where V 2 is earlier than RW. Thereafter, in block 230 , a first recurrence in the selection can be selected for processing.
[0023] In decision block 240 , if for the selected recurrence V 2 is determined not to occur before LW, then the selected recurrence can be added to a subset of date driven data in block 250 . Otherwise, in decision block 260 , if V 3 falls between LW and RW, then the selected recurrence can be added to the subset of date driven data in block 250 . Otherwise, the selected recurrence can be flagged for full evaluation in block 270 . In decision block 280 , if the selected recurrence is determined to be added to the subset, in block 250 the selected recurrence can be added to a subset of date driven data. Otherwise, the selected recurrence excluded from the subset of date driven data in block 290 .
[0024] Thereafter, in decision block 300 , if additional recurrences remain to be evaluated, in block 310 a next recurrence can be selected for processing and the method can repeat through block 240 . When no further recurrences remain to be process in the cache in decision block 300 , in block 320 filtered subset can be provided for processing. As an example, a synchronization engine can utilize the filtered subset in performing a synchronization of date driven data, such as events, to-dos, inventory aging, and generally any other types of values that are date driven.
[0025] Embodiments of the invention can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment containing both hardware and software elements. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is implemented in software, which includes but is not limited to firmware, resident software, microcode, and the like. Furthermore, the invention can take the form of a computer program product accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readable medium providing program code for use by or in connection with a computer or any instruction execution system.
[0026] For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computer readable medium can be any apparatus that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The medium can be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or a propagation medium. Examples of a computer-readable medium include a semiconductor or solid state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk and an optical disk. Current examples of optical disks include compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) and DVD.
[0027] A data processing system suitable for storing and/or executing program code will include at least one processor coupled directly or indirectly to memory elements through a system bus. The memory elements can include local memory employed during actual execution of the program code, bulk storage, and cache memories which provide temporary storage of at least some program code in order to reduce the number of times code must be retrieved from bulk storage during execution. Input/output or I/O devices (including but not limited to keyboards, displays, pointing devices, etc.) can be coupled to the system either directly or through intervening I/O controllers. Network adapters may also be coupled to the system to enable the data processing system to become coupled to other data processing systems or remote printers or storage devices through intervening private or public networks. Modems, cable modem and Ethernet cards are just a few of the currently available types of network adapters.
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Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to filtering and caching recurring date driven data and provide a method, system and computer program product for data range determination for cached date driven values. In one embodiment of the invention, a date driven date selective retrieval method for recurrences in date driven data can include defining a date range, retrieving exactly three cached instances for each of the recurrences in the date driven data, selecting only those recurrences that fall within the date range according to the three cached instances for each of the recurrences, and adding the selected recurrences to a subset of the date driven values, and otherwise excluding remaining ones of the recurrences from the subset.
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TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to engines, and in particular to swash plate internal combustion engines.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] An internal combustion engine derives power from the volumetric compression of a fuel-air mixture, followed by a timed ignition of the compressed fuel-air mixture. The volumetric change generally results from the motion of axially-reciprocating pistons disposed in corresponding cylinders. In the course of each stroke, a piston will vary the gas volume captured in a cylinder from a minimum volume to a maximum volume. In an Otto cycle, or “four-stroke” internal combustion engine, the reciprocal motion of each piston compresses the fuel-air mixture, receives and transmits the force generated by the expanding gases, generates a positive pressure to move the spent gases out the exhaust port and generates a negative pressure on the intake port to draw in a subsequent fuel-air gas charge.
[0003] The modern internal combustion engine arose from humble beginnings. As early as the late 17 th century, a Dutch physicist by the name of Christian Huygens designed an internal combustion engine fueled with gunpowder. It is believed that Huygens engine was never successfully built. Later, in the early nineteenth century, Francois Isaac de Rivaz of Switzerland invented a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. It is reported that this engine was built, but was not commercially successful.
[0004] Although there was a certain degree of early work on the idea of the internal combustion engine, development truly began in earnest in the mid-nineteenth century. Jean Joseph Etienne Lenoir developed and patented a number of electric spark-ignition internal combustion engines, running on various fuels. The Lenoir engine did not meet performance or reliability expectations and fell from popularity. It is reported that the Lenoir engine suffered from a troublesome electrical ignition system and a reputation for a high consumption of fuel. Approximately 100 cubic feet of coal gas were consumed per horsepower hour. Despite these early setbacks, a number of other inventors, including Alphonse Beau de Rochas, Siegfried Marcus and George Brayton, continued to make substantial contributions to the development of the internal combustion engine.
[0005] An inventor by the name of Nikolaus August Otto improved on Lenoir's and de Rochas' designs to develop a more efficient engine. Well aware of the substantial shortcomings of the Lenoir engine, Otto felt that the Lenoir engine could be improved. To this end, Otto worked to improve upon the Lenoir engine in various ways. In 1861, Otto patented a two-stroke engine that ran on gasoline. Otto's two-stroke engine won a gold medal at the 1867 World's Fair in Paris. Although Otto's two-stroke engine was novel, its performance was not competitive with the steam engines of the time. A successful two-stroke engine would not be developed until 1876.
[0006] In or around 1876, at approximately the same time that an inventor named Dougald was building a successful two-stroke engine, Klaus Otto built what is believed to be the first four-stroke piston cycle internal combustion engine. Otto's four-stroke engine was the first practical power-generating alternative to the steam engines of the time. Otto's revolutionary four-stroke engine can be considered the grandfather of the millions of mass-produced internal combustion engines that have since been built. Otto's contribution to the development of the internal combustion engine is such that the process of combusting the fuel and air mixture in a modern automobile is known as the “Otto cycle” in his honor. Otto received U.S. Pat. No. 365,701 for his engine.
[0007] Ten years after Klaus Otto built his first four-stroke engine, Gottlieb Daimler invented what is often recognized as the prototype of the modern gasoline engine. Daimler's engine employed a single vertical cylinder, with gasoline imparted to the incoming air by means of a carburetor. In 1889, Daimler completed an improved four-stroke engine with mushroom-shaped valves and two cylinders. Wilhelm Maybach built the first four-cylinder, four-stroke engine in 1890. The carbureted four-stroke multi-cylinder internal combustion engine became the mainstay of ground transportation from the early 1900s through the 1970s, ultimately being supplanted by fuel-injected engines in the 1980s.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is a swash-plate engine having a number of features and improvements distinguishing it not only from traditional crankshaft engines, but also from prior swash plate designs.
[0009] In a first embodiment, the present invention is a power-generation device comprising at least one cylinder having an internal volume, an internal cylinder surface, a central axis, a first end and a second end. At least one cylinder head, having an internal cylinder head surface, is disposed at, and secured to, the first end of one of the at least one cylinders. At least one piston, having an axis of motion parallel to the central axis of at least one of the cylinders, and having a crown disposed toward the internal surface of the cylinder head secured to that cylinder, is disposed in the internal volume of the cylinder. The crown of the piston, an internal cylinder surface, and the internal surface of the cylinder head for that cylinder together form a combustion chamber for that cylinder.
[0010] The first embodiment further includes an output shaft, having a central axis having a fixed angular relationship to the central axis of the cylinder. A swash plate, having a first swash plate surface having a normal axis disposed at a first fixed angle to the central axis of the output shaft, is fixed to the output shaft. At least one connecting rod, having a principal axis, a first end axially and rotationally fixed to a piston, and a second end, is secured to at least one piston. At least one follower, having a first follower surface having a normal axis disposed at the first fixed angle to the principal axis of the connecting rod to which it is secured, is secured to the second end of a connecting rod. The first follower surface contacts, and conforms to, the orientation of the first swash plate surface.
[0011] In a second embodiment, the present invention is a power-generation device comprising an output shaft, having a central axis, and at least two cylinders, disposed symmetrically about the central axis of the output shaft. Each cylinder has a central axis parallel to the central axis of the output shaft, an internal volume, an internal cylinder surface, a central axis, a first end and a second end.
[0012] At least two cylinder heads, each having an internal cylinder head surface, is disposed at, and secured to, the first end of one of the cylinders. The device includes at least two pistons, each piston having an axis of motion aligned to the central axis of a cylinder, disposed in the internal volume of the cylinder and having a crown disposed toward the internal surface of the cylinder head secured to that cylinder. The crown of the piston, an internal cylinder surface, and the internal surface of the cylinder head for that cylinder together form a combustion chamber for that cylinder.
[0013] A swash plate is fixed to the output shaft, having a swash plate clocking interface fixed to the orientation of the output shaft about the central axis of the output shaft. At least two connecting rods, each having a principal axis, a first end and a second end are each axially and rotationally fixed to a piston. At least two followers, having a follower clocking interface fixed to the orientation of the connecting rod about the principal axis of the connecting rod and the orientation of the swash plate clocking interface, are each secured to the second end of a connecting rod.
[0014] In a third embodiment, the present invention is a power-generation device comprising an output shaft, having a central axis, four cylinders, disposed symmetrically and regularly about the central axis of the output shaft and axially-movable with respect to the output shaft, four cylinder heads, and four pistons connected to a swash plate by four followers.
[0015] The four cylinders are disposed symmetrically and regularly about the central axis of the output shaft and are axially-movable with respect to the output shaft. Each cylinder has a central axis parallel to the central axis of the output shaft, an internal volume, an internal cylinder surface, a central axis, a first end and a second end. The four cylinder heads, each have an internal cylinder head surface, an intake port, and an exhaust port. Each such cylinder head is disposed at, and secured to, the first end of a cylinder.
[0016] Each of the four pistons has an axis of motion aligned to the central axis of a cylinder, is disposed in the internal volume of the cylinder, and has a crown disposed toward the internal surface of the cylinder head secured to that cylinder. The crown of the piston, an internal cylinder surface, and the internal surface of the cylinder head for that cylinder together form a combustion chamber for that cylinder.
[0017] The swash plate is fixed to the output shaft, and has a substantially-planar swash plate surface having a normal axis disposed at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the central axis of the output shaft. The four connecting rods, each having a principal axis, a first end axially and rotationally fixed to a piston, and a second end, are connected to the swash plate by four followers, each secured to the second end of a connecting rod. Each of the followers has a substantially-planar follower surface fixed to the connecting rod and has a normal axis disposed at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the central axis of the output shaft.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] For more complete understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention, reference is now made to the detailed description of the invention along with the accompanying Figures.
[0019] FIG. 1 depicts a partial cutaway isometric view of an internal combustion engine according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 depicts an isometric view of the reciprocating assembly of the internal combustion engine of FIG. 1 ;
[0021] FIG. 3 depicts an front view of the reciprocating assembly of the internal combustion engine of FIG. 1 ;
[0022] FIG. 4 depicts an right side view of the reciprocating assembly of the internal combustion engine of FIG. 1 ;
[0023] FIG. 5 depicts a top view of the reciprocating assembly of the internal combustion engine of FIG. 1 ;
[0024] FIG. 6 depicts an isometric view of a piston used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0025] FIG. 7 depicts a front view of a piston used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0026] FIG. 8 depicts a side view of a piston used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0027] FIG. 9 depicts a top view of a piston used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0028] FIG. 10 depicts an isometric view of the swash plate used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0029] FIG. 11 depicts a front view of the swash plate used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0030] FIG. 12 depicts a side view of the swash plate used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0031] FIG. 13 depicts a top view of the swash plate used in the reciprocating assembly of FIG. 2 ;
[0032] FIG. 14 depicts a side section view of the cylinder head and crankcase assembly of FIG. 1 ;
[0033] FIG. 15 depicts an isometric section view of the cylinder head along line 15 - 15 of FIG. 14 ; and
[0034] FIG. 16 depicts an isometric section view of the cylinder head along line 16 - 16 of FIG. 14 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0035] Although the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention, and do not delimit the scope of the invention.
[0036] Engine 100 incorporates cylinder block 102 and crankcase 104 disposed about output shaft 106 . A swash plate 108 is rigidly secured to the output shaft 106 . Swash plate 108 has a generally-planar bearing surface 118 having a normal axis disposed at an angle to the principal longitudinal axis of the output shaft 106 . A set of four cylindrical pistons 110 are disposed in four corresponding cylinders 112 and operably connected to swash plate 108 through connecting rods 114 via rod feet 116 , which ride on bearing surface 118 of swash plate 108 . Each of rod feet 116 has a generally planar bottom surface having a principal normal axis disposed at an angle to the principal longitudinal axis of the connecting rod 114 to which it is secured.
[0037] Each piston 110 incorporates a skirt 150 and a crown 152 . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-9 , the crown 152 incorporates a pair of valve pockets 154 and 156 , although alternate embodiments may omit either or both of pockets 154 and 156 . Similarly, while pockets 154 and 156 are shown as being symmetrical and having a particular shape, pockets 154 and 156 may have different shapes in alternate embodiments.
[0038] Piston skirt 150 incorporates a compression ring groove 158 and oil control rings 160 and 162 . Alternate embodiments may incorporate more or fewer piston ring grooves 158 - 162 as a particular application demands. It will be understood by those of skill in the art that a wide variety of piston ring styles may be employed in the present invention, again depending on the particular application.
[0039] Connecting rod 114 connects piston 150 to an elliptical rod foot 116 . Rod foot 116 incorporates an upper surface 164 , a lower surface 166 and an outer edge 168 . When assembled to swash plate 108 , rod foot 116 is captured by inner ridge 120 and outer ridge 122 against upper surface 164 , while lower surface 166 rides against swash plate bearing surface 118 . Swash plate 108 incorporates a conical transition 200 to brace the wash plate 108 against moment loading on the swash plate bearing surface 118 .
[0040] Those of skill in the art will recognize that engine 100 differs markedly from traditional internal combustion engines. In the most common layout of the traditional internal combustion engine, the engine's pistons are tied to a rotary crankshaft through a set of connecting rods, in order to convert the reciprocal axial motion of the pistons into continuous rotary motion of the crankshaft. Although a wide variety of cylinder layouts have been devised and implemented, including the well-known “V” geometry (as in “V8”), in-line, opposed (also known as “flat”) and radial geometries, all such engines share the basic crankshaft geometry described above.
[0041] Despite their overwhelming successes, crank-articulated reciprocating powerplants incorporate certain inherent limitations. Except at two discrete points in the range of piston motion—namely top dead center and bottom dead center—the connecting rod is disposed at an angle to the center line of the cylinder within which the piston is exposed. Axial forces in the connecting rod must, therefore, be counteracted at the interface between the piston and the cylinder wall. The load on the cylinder wall by the piston is known as “side loading” of the piston. As the pressure in the cylinder rises, side-loading can become a serious concern, with respect to durability as well as frictional losses. Further, dynamic centrifugal loads on the engine components rise geometrically with engine speed in a crankshaft engine, limiting both the specific power output and power-to-weight ratio of crankshaft engines.
[0042] In a crankshaft engine, the geometry of the crankshaft and connecting rod is such that, as the crank rotates and the piston moves through its range of motion, the piston spends more time near bottom dead center (where no power is generated) than near top dead center (where power is generated). This inherent characteristic can be countered somewhat with the use of a longer connecting rod, but the motion of the piston with respect to time can only approach, and cannot ever match, perfectly sinusoidal motion. The magnitude of this effect is inversely related to the ratio of the effective length of the connecting rod to the length of the crankshaft stroke, but is particularly pronounced in engines having a connecting rod-to-stroke ratio at or below 1.5:1.
[0043] The rate of acceleration of the piston away from top dead center in an engine having a low rod-to-stroke ratio is such that useful combustion chamber pressure cannot be maintained at higher crank speeds. This occurs because the combustion rate of the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, which governs the pressure in the combustion chamber, is limited by the rate of reaction of the hydrocarbon fuel and oxygen. In a long stroke, short rod engine running at a high crankshaft speed, the increase in volume caused by the piston motion outstrips the increase in pressure caused by combustion. In other words, the piston “outruns” the expanding fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, such that the pressure from the expanding mixture does not contribute to acceleration of the piston or, therefore, the crankshaft.
[0044] The dwell time of the piston near top-dead-center can be increased somewhat through the use of a larger rod-to-stroke ratio. A larger rod-to-stroke ratio can be achieved either with a shorter stroke or a longer connecting rod. Each of the two solutions presents its own problems. With respect to the use of a shorter stroke, although shorter stroke engine can be smaller and lighter than a longer stroke engine, the advantages are not linear. For example, the length of the crankshaft stroke does not have any effect on the size and weight of the pistons, the cylinder heads, the connecting rods or the engine accessories. A shorter stroke does allow for a somewhat smaller and lighter crankshaft and cylinder block, but even these effects are not linear, that is, a halving of the crankshaft stroke does not allow for a halving of the mass of the crankshaft or cylinder block.
[0045] With all other performance-related engine attributes being equal, a shorter-stroke engine will have a proportionally-lower displacement as compared to a longer-stroke engine. Accordingly, the shorter-stroke engine will generally produce a lower torque output as compared to the longer-stroke engine. This lower torque output translates to a lower power output at the same crankshaft speed. Accordingly, the shorter-stroke engine will have to be run at a higher speed in order to generate the same power output. The loss of torque resulting from the lower displacement could also be offset with efficiency enhancements, such as more-efficient valve timing, better combustion chamber design or a higher compression ratio. More efficient valve timing and combustion chamber designs, however, generally require substantial investment in research and development, and the maximum compression ratio in an internal combustion engine is limited by the autoignition characteristics of the engine fuel. For naturally-aspirated engines running premium grade gasoline, there is a practical compression ratio limit of approximately 11:1 imposed by the autoignition characteristics of the fuel-air mixture, thereby limiting the efficiency improvements available from an increase in compression ratio alone.
[0046] The lost output caused by the shortening of the stroke can also be recouped by increasing the bore diameter of the engine cylinders, thereby increasing engine displacement. While the displacement of the engine is linearly proportional to the stroke length, it is geometrically proportional to the cylinder bore diameter. Accordingly, a 10% reduction in stroke length can be more than offset with a 5% increase in cylinder bore diameter. All other things being equal, an increase in cylinder bore diameter requires an increase in piston mass, which requires a corresponding increase in connecting rod strength and crankshaft counterweight mass. If two or more of the engine's cylinders are arranged in a line, as is common in most modern crankshaft engines, the larger-diameter cylinders will also require a longer cylinder block, cylinder heads and crankshaft, thereby increasing engine size and weight.
[0047] A second approach to increasing the rod-to-stroke ratio is to lengthen the rods. This has the advantage of increasing the rod-to-stroke ratio without reducing the engine displacement. Lengthening the rods while leaving all other parameters of the engine alone, however, will move the top-dead-center position of the pistons further away from the centerline of the crankshaft. In other words, a one-inch increase in connecting rod length will result in a one-inch increase in the distance between the crankshaft centerline and the top of a piston crown at top-dead-center. This will require a corresponding increase in the length of the cylinders in order to provide sufficient operating volume for the pistons. Again, the engine size and mass are increased.
[0048] In contrast to the trade-offs inherent in the construction of a traditional crankshaft engine, a swash plate engine of the type depicted and shown herein can move the piston along a sinusoidal profile, thereby increasing the dwell time at top dead center, and therefore the performance potential of the engine.
[0049] In addition to the kinematics advantages realized from the use of a swash plate, the movement of the pistons within the cylinders can be exploited to improve the performance and versatility of the engine, and particularly so in a two-stroke configuration, although the design is by no means limited to that configuration. As one of skill in the art can appreciate, alternate embodiments of the present invention may employ any of the power cycles known for producing power in the art of thermodynamics, including but certainly not limited to the four-stroke (Otto) cycle, the Diesel cycle, the Stirling cycle, the Brayton cycle, the Carnot cycle and the Seiliger (5-point) cycle, as examples.
[0050] Engine 100 shown in FIGS. 1-16 is a two-stroke configuration, having intake and exhaust ports disposed in the sidewalls of the cylinders 112 . The layout of the cylinder block 102 and intake and exhaust porting of engine 100 is shown in detail in FIGS. 14-16 . Cylinder block 102 is secured to crankcase 104 by capscrews 250 . Cylinder block cover 254 is secured to crankcase 104 by capscrews 252 . Swash plate 108 is secured vertically within crankcase 104 between upper bearing race 256 and lower bearing race 258 . A set of connecting rod guides 260 , shaped and sized to receive and guide the connecting rods 114 , is disposed on top of the crankcase 104 .
[0051] Air and fuel passes into each cylinder 112 through a set of intake ports 270 - 274 . Alternate embodiments may make use of more or fewer intake ports, as appropriate. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14-16 , fuel is introduced to the intake charge by means of a single fuel injection port 290 disposed in each intake port 270 . Depending on the application, alternate embodiments may make use of one or more fuel injection ports disposed in one or more alternate locations, or may make use of carburetion or throttle-body fuel injection, as appropriate. As the piston crown descends on the downward power stroke, burned air/fuel mixture exits each cylinder 112 through one or more exhaust ports, such as ports 280 - 284 .
[0052] The flow of intake through ports 270 - 274 and exhaust through ports 280 - 284 is controlled by the position and orientation of the piston 110 disposed within each cylinder 112 . While traditional two-stroke engine designs have been known to use the axial position of the piston to control the timing of intake and/or exhaust valving, engine 100 employs the axial position of each piston 110 in combination with the radial orientation of each position 110 to control the timing of intake and/or exhaust timing. Accordingly, engine 100 provides a significant degree of additional flexibility to engine designer and tuner as compared to the degree of flexibility available from previous designs.
[0053] Although this invention has been described in reference to illustrative embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and combinations of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description. It is therefore intended that this description encompass any such modifications or embodiments.
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A power-generation device comprising at least one cylinder, at least one cylinder head, at least one piston and an output shaft, having a central axis having a fixed angular relationship to the central axis of the cylinder. A swash plate, having a first swash plate surface having a normal axis disposed at a first fixed angle to the central axis of the output shaft, is fixed to the output shaft. At least one connecting rod is connected to at least one piston. At least one follower is secured to the second end of a connecting rod. The first follower surface contacts, and conforms to, the orientation of the first swash plate surface.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of Swiss Patent Application No. 00339/11, filed Feb. 28, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The invention is directed to a method for cutting the lower and at least one upper thread at the end of a sewing or embroidering process, a method for lead-in stitching at the beginning of a sewing or embroidering process, as well as a device for performing these methods.
[0003] A flawless beginning of a sewing or embroidering stitching always requires that the upper and the lower thread exhibit a suitable length and, if possible, position in reference to the sewing or embroidering material. This condition is usually not given, though, when a sewing or embroidering process is ended in the usual fashion. When the threads are not located in a defined good position no optimal first stitch and/or first knot is achieved. This can lead to problems in further processing of the sewing or embroidering material, and particularly it is undesirable for esthetic and functional aspects.
SUMMARY
[0004] One objective of the present invention comprises providing a method and a device for a sewing machine with a CB-hook (central bobbin-hook) like device or a CB-hook, which allows at the end of a sewing or embroidering process the cutting-off of the upper and the lower thread at a desired length and provides the loose ends of the upper and the lower thread at the machine in an optimal position for lead-in stitching and/or sewing. Another objective of the invention comprises providing a device for implementing such a method.
[0005] These objectives are attained in the methods as well as the device according to the invention.
[0006] These objectives are flawlessly attained in a displacement of the upper and the lower thread perpendicularly in reference to the axis of the needle during the stitch formation and by a temporary holding and/or braking of the upper thread underneath the stitching plate. The use of the thread cutting and/or lead-in stitching unit according to the invention allows performing the processing steps without any additional thread tensioning or thread clamping system or any inversing of the rotary direction of the machine and/or its primary shaft. The thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit holds the loose thread(s) until the second stitch and allows a tight knot in the material. The drive of this unit occurs by coupling it via a stroke magnet to the primary drive train, which magnet acts as an actuator. A mandatorily guided cam drive provides the required kinematics. The differentiation if the thread cutting function or the lead-in stitching function is to be performed occurs exclusively via the electrification of a stroke magnet, dependent on the upper shaft, at the respectively predetermined rotary angle of the primary shaft. It is advantageously achieved to increase the cutting speed or to reduce the cutting time and to obtain a high lead-in stitching quality. Here, the risk of the thread jamming in the hook path can be minimized. Additionally, any lateral displacement of the needle is not required for and/or during the thread cutting function. Furthermore, the method according to the invention allows thread cutting the lead-in stitching with CB-hook systems and rotary hook systems.
[0007] The activation mechanics for performing the thread cutting and lead-in stitching functions comprise a very simple design and includes a number of plates located over top of each other with different configurations and ends specifically embodied for said functions. Some of these plates are jointly pushed forward and backward by a linearly acting drive and, in order to bring the thread ends into an optimal position, engage additional stationary arranged plates with suitable recesses for a temporary deflection and/or clamping of the threads, depending on the feed position. The drive of the activation mechanism can be triggered directly via the upper shaft and occur with the cam mechanics on the primary shaft synchronously in reference to the rotary angle of the two shafts.
[0008] Alternatively, the drive can be performed by a servomotor or a stepper motor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The invention is explained in greater detail using illustrated exemplary embodiments. Shown are:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective, sectional illustration of the stitching plate and the hook located underneath thereof as well as a thread cutting and lead-in stitching mechanism at the beginning of the first stitch, upper shaft position 220°,
[0011] FIG. 2 is a view of an arrangement similar to FIG. 1 after a rotation of the upper shaft by 50°, a thread catcher begins to move in the x-direction and grasps the lower thread with a lower thread-catching edge,
[0012] FIG. 3 is a view with a rotary angle of 290°; the lower thread is ejected by the lower thread edge and held in a thread receiver; the needle pierces into the material,
[0013] FIG. 4 is a view of the arrangement at 320°, the thread catcher reaches its end position, the lower thread is maximally deflected,
[0014] FIG. 5 is a view of the arrangement after a rotation of 190° at 50°, the hook tip engages the upper thread,
[0015] FIG. 6 is a view of the needle thread and the material thread being spread (80°),
[0016] FIG. 7 is a view at 110°, the needle and material thread are maximally spread, the thread catcher begins to move in the x-direction,
[0017] FIG. 8 is a view of the arrangement at 140°, the thread catcher engages the needle and the material threads with separate catching contours,
[0018] FIG. 9 is a view at 175°, the needle thread is pulled forward by the thread lever into the required length and the upper thread and the lower thread are in a position shortly before being severed,
[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the free cutting arrangement, comprising several plates located over top and displaceable in reference to each other,
[0020] FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the cutting device in FIG. 10 in the severing moment (the lower thread is shown),
[0021] FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 11 , immediately after cutting,
[0022] FIG. 13 is a view at 185°, the thread catcher reaches its initial position, the upper thread is pulled by the thread lever out of the thread catching mechanism, the lower thread is located in a defined position on the thread guiding plate and is here held in its position,
[0023] FIG. 14 is a view at 220°, the first cycle is concluded, at least one upper and the lower thread are separated and pulled forward to the required length, ready for stitching or lead-in embroidering, the machine stops, a new work piece can be inserted,
[0024] FIG. 15 is a view as the machine begins to generate the first stitch at an upper shaft angle of 220°,
[0025] FIG. 16 is a view at 30°, the upper thread-loop has been created and the hook engages the upper thread-loop,
[0026] FIG. 17 is a view at 60°, the thread catcher beings to shift towards the right,
[0027] FIG. 18 is a view at 80°, the upper thread-loop engages the material thread as well as the needle thread at the thread catcher in the recesses arranged appropriately,
[0028] FIG. 19 is a view at 90°, the material thread has been pulled by the thread catcher under the stitching plate,
[0029] FIG. 20 is an enlarged section view from FIG. 19 ,
[0030] FIG. 21 is a view at 95°, the thread braking plate is opened by the thread catching unit at the site marked A and the thread wiper is operated by the central thread catcher,
[0031] FIG. 22 is a view at 100°, the thread brake plate briefly closes (the threads are located equivalent to the arrangement in FIG. 21 ),
[0032] FIG. 23 is a view at 120°, the thread lever reaches the end position and pulls the existing thread through the opened low-friction thread braking plate to the desired length, the first stitch is completed,
[0033] FIG. 24 is a view at 240°, the second stitch begins and the thread braking plate closes briefly and acts as a temporary thread brake, which is impinged to an increased force,
[0034] FIG. 25 is a view at 255°, the thread catcher is returned into its initial position and the upper thread is now retained by the thread braking plate with a defined holding force, a tight knot forms, and the thread wiper wipes at least one upper thread and the lower thread into a defined position,
[0035] FIG. 26 is a view at 265°, equivalent to an enlarged illustration of a section of FIG. 25 ,
[0036] FIG. 27 is a view at 30°, the second stitch is generated,
[0037] FIG. 28 is a view at 50°, the hook pulls the thread loop away from the needle,
[0038] FIG. 29 is a view at 150°, the thread lever pulls back the upper thread,
[0039] FIG. 30 is a view at 170°, the needle thread is located slightly below the stitching plate,
[0040] FIG. 31 is a view at 190°, the lower thread is engaged by the upper thread and the thread lever pulls the knot to the underside of the material, and
[0041] FIG. 32 is a view at 220°, the thread lever has pulled the upper thread-loop with the engaged lower thread to the underside of the material and a tight knot is completed,
[0042] FIG. 33 a is an enlarged view of the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit in the initial position,
[0043] FIG. 33 b is an enlarged view of the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit in the initial position, however in the end position,
[0044] FIG. 33 c is a detailed view of the thread cutting unit from the top after catching the upper thread,
[0045] FIG. 33 d is a view of the thread cutting unit after another step,
[0046] FIG. 33 e is a view of the thread cutting unit after another step, thread in the thread receiver,
[0047] FIG. 34 is an exploded illustration of the thread cutting and lead-in stitching device,
[0048] FIG. 34 a is a view showing one situation of the thread position,
[0049] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the thread wiper and thread braking unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0050] In the illustration according to FIG. 1 a hook is marked with the reference character 1 and a stitching plate with the reference character 3 . A thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit 5 is discernible between the hook 1 and the stitching plate 3 . The thread cutting unit 5 comprises a multitude of movable plates, located over top of each other, partially arranged fixed and partially in a manner movable synchronously in reference to each other, serving as thread catchers and thread deflectors and redirectors (in FIG. 10 shown in an exploded illustration). The description and/or functions of the individual plates occur partially in the individual processing steps, shown in the following figures.
[0051] FIG. 1 shows the initial position of the thread cutting unit 5 and none of the plates engages any of the threads (upper thread 7 or lower thread 9 ). The performance of the last stitch at the end of a sewing or embroidering stitching is described based on FIGS. 1 through 14 . It is assumed that the upper thread 7 and the lower thread 9 are essentially located in the position shown in FIG. 1 and form a stitching. At the beginning of the last stitch at an angle of the upper shaft of 220° the last stitch begins and the needle 11 holds the upper thread between the stitching hole 13 stretched essentially in a straight line; the lower thread 9 extends essentially straight from its exit from the bobbin case 15 towards the stitching hole 13 . Now a synchronous shifting starts of the three thread catching plates, i.e. the upper, central, and lower thread catchers 19 a , 19 b , and 19 c for short, a thread stretching plate 31 , and a clamping plate 61 . At an upper shaft angle of 270°, i.e. after a rotation by 50°, the control edges 17 a , 17 b engage the upper thread catcher 19 a and the central thread catcher 19 b , i.e. the plates of the thread cutting unit 5 , the lower thread 9 ( FIG. 2 and FIG. 33 c ). After another angular rotation of 20°, i.e. at an angle of the upper shaft of 290°, using their control and separating edges 17 a , 17 b , the upper thread catcher 19 a and the central thread catcher 19 b have deflected the lower thread 9 after ejection towards the right in FIG. 3 and in detail in the FIGS. 33 d and 33 e . In these positions the lower thread 9 is ejected from the control edges 17 a , 17 b and glides into a thread receiver 21 in a stationary thread guiding plate 33 .
[0052] At an upper shaft angle of 320° the tip of the needle 11 has crossed the stitching plate 3 and after another 50° the hook tip 23 has engaged the upper thread loop 25 and deflected the upper thread 7 towards the left between the stitching hole 13 and the hook tip 23 ( FIG. 5 ). After another 30°, i.e. at an angle of the upper shaft of 80° the needle 7 has already left the stitching plate 3 towards the top and the upper thread loop 25 is further spread apart by the edges 17 e and 17 d of the thread catcher 19 a and 19 b . After another 30°, i.e. at an angle of the upper shaft of 110°, the upper thread loop 25 is spread almost completely. The needle thread 7 a is engaged by the edge 17 c . Simultaneously the upper and the central thread catchers 19 a and 19 b pull the lower thread 9 between the stitching hole 13 and the thread receiver 21 towards the left, so that it extends between the stitching hole 13 and the thread catcher 19 a approximately in the direction of the needle 11 ( FIG. 7 ).
[0053] In FIG. 8 the upper thread loop 25 has passed below the nadir of the hook 1 and is located in the ejection position. The lower thread 9 is deflected further to the left by the continued retracting thread catchers 19 a , 19 b and now extends above the upper thread catcher 19 a at an acute angle in reference to the stitching hole 13 . Simultaneously the needle thread 7 a is braked and/or decoupled ( FIG. 34 d ) and the thread tension (tensile organ not shown) is opened so that the needle thread 7 a can be pulled forward by the thread lever out of the thread bobbin to the required length ( FIG. 8 ).
[0054] At an angle of the upper shaft of 175° the material thread 7 b of the upper thread 7 and the lower thread 9 are cut and/or severed ( FIG. 9 ).
[0055] The cutting occurs as shown in FIG. 11 for the lower thread 9 by the lower and the upper thread 7 being held at the position A in the thread guide plate 33 and is pulled at the position B over a fixed arranged blade 29 and cut. Using the spring blade 31 the lower thread 9 is braked before it is cut. Prior thereto, the steps occurred that at an angle of the upper shaft of approximately 175° the upper thread 7 to be cut was pulled towards the blade 29 by the edges 17 a , 17 b , 17 c at the thread catchers 19 a , 19 b , 19 c , i.e. towards the left, to reach the required length ( FIG. 11 ). This (occurs) without any increase in tension upon the upper thread 7 in order to avoid negatively influencing the already sewn seam. Shortly before the stationary fastened blade 29 is reached, a thread tension is impinged locally upon the thread 7 to be cut by the spring blade 31 at the thread cutting unit 5 (see FIGS. 10 and 34 ), its frontal edge 32 acting as the spring. Now, the upper thread 7 and the lower thread 9 can be pulled as “stationary loops” through the blade 29 and securely cut here ( FIG. 12 ).
[0056] After another rotation of the upper shaft to an angle of 185° the thread catchers 19 have reached their initial position. The upper thread 7 is pulled by the thread lever (not shown) out of the thread catchers 19 . Now the lower thread 9 is located in the defined position C ( FIG. 12 ) on the thread guide plate 33 and is held here in its position.
[0057] At an angle of the upper shaft of 220° the cycle is concluded. The sewing foot (not shown) is raised and the material to be sewn (not shown) can be removed. The upper thread 7 and the lower thread 9 are separated from the material and pulled forward to the required length ( FIG. 14 ).
[0058] Contrary to the angle of the upper shaft of 220° at the beginning of the last stitch at the end of a seam now the upper thread 7 and the lower thread 9 are no longer stretched from the needle 11 to the stitching hole 13 and/or from the bobbin case 15 to the stitching hole 13 . At least one upper thread 7 is loose and the lower thread 9 is positioned by the thread cutting unit 5 . They are now located in an optimal starting position for the lead-in embroidering and/or sewing of a new seam.
[0059] Through the use of the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit 5 both the upper thread 7 as well as the lower thread 9 are located at the end of a sewing or embroidering seam in an optimal position for lead-in stitching (cf. FIG. 15 ) a new lead-in embroidering or sewing occurs at an angle of the upper shaft of 220°. As discernible from FIGS. 14 and 15 a loop 63 is formed in the lower thread 9 , which extends from the exit of the lower thread 9 out of the bobbin case 15 towards the right and therefrom back in the direction towards the stitching hole 13 . The loop 63 is now positioned, but not held. After the needle has pierced the material at an angle of the upper shaft of 30° the hook 1 has engaged the upper thread loop; here, the loop 63 of the lower thread 9 has not been changed. At an angle of the upper shaft of 60° ( FIG. 17 ) the upper thread loop is guided counter-clockwise towards the left around the hook 1 and the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit 5 moves according to a predetermined motion process towards the right, driven by the primary shaft or by a motor. After further rotation of the upper shaft by 20° ( FIG. 18 ) the loose material thread 7 b of the upper thread 7 is engaged by the recesses 45 and the needle thread 7 a of the upper thread 7 by respective recesses or slots at the thread catchers 19 a , 19 b , 19 c , with the free end of the material thread 7 b being pulled underneath the stitching plate 3 . FIG. 19 now shows the material thread underneath the stitching plate 3 and in an enlarged illustration in FIG. 20 it is clearly discernible how the material thread 7 b (top) and the needle thread 7 a (bottom) are guided at a distance from the lower thread catcher 19 c . After another rotation of the upper shaft by approx. 5° a thread braking plate 65 ( FIG. 35 ) has been opened by the thread catcher 19 ( FIG. 17 f , FIG. 34 ) and according to FIG. 22 the thread braking plate 65 briefly closes at an angle of the upper thread of 100°. The position of the threads is unchanged with regards to the angle of the upper thread of 95°.
[0060] At an angle of the upper thread of 120° a temporary end position has been reached and the thread braking plate 65 is opened again. The thread lever pulls the existing upper thread 7 through the opened low-friction thread braking plate to the required length. At an angle of upper shaft of 240°, i.e. after the completion of an entire machine rotation by 360°, the thread braking plate 65 briefly closes. This provides additional important process security because the loose upper thread 7 cannot be entrained by the thread catcher 19 (position D) out of the thread braking plate 65 . At 255° the thread catchers 19 a - 19 c return into the initial position and the upper thread 7 is retained by a defined holding force in order to allow the formation of a tight knot and additionally the loose upper thread loop cannot be pulled through the hole in the material ( FIGS. 25 and 26 ). In FIG. 27 it is discernible how the stitch is generated; this at an angle of the upper shaft of 25°. At an angle of the upper shaft of 50° the hook 1 pulls the upper thread 7 of the following (second) stitch away from the needle 11 ( FIG. 28 ) and at 150° the lower thread 9 is engaged by the upper thread 7 and the thread lever pulls the knot in the direction towards the underside of the material ( FIG. 29 ). After another rotation of the upper shaft by 20° the thread lever has engaged the upper thread loop with the engaged lower thread loop pulled to the underside of the material and the desired tight knot is realized.
[0061] At 200° the lead-in stitching function is successfully concluded after two stitches and the next stitches can occur. In turn, FIGS. 33 a and 33 b essentially show the thread cutting unit 5 , as already shown in FIG. 1 , however in an enlarged scale and additionally the wiper unit and the thread braking unit 37 are integrated in addition to the already described thread catchers 19 a - 19 c and the thread guide plate 33 , once more illustrated in FIG. 35 in an enlarge fashion.
[0062] In FIGS. 33 c, d , and e it is shown enlarged how the thread reaches the thread receiver 21 . The reference character 45 a marks a thread contour at the thread catcher 19 a and the contour 45 b at the thread catchers 19 b is not active in FIG. 33 . However, according to FIG. 33 e the thread is guided from the two v-shaped contours 47 a and 47 b at the frontal ends of the thread catchers 19 a and 19 b via the contour 47 c at the thread catcher 19 c into the thread receiver 21 . All transfers of the thread occur by the displacement of the elements 19 a - 19 c as well as 31 and 61 of the thread cutting unit 5 in reference to the elements of the wiper and thread braking unit 37 arranged fixed at the sewing machine. Only a linear displacement according to a predetermined speed progression occurs. Only the wiper and thread braking unit 37 , with the wiper lever 51 and the thread braking plate mounted thereat, performs a motion laterally extending in reference to the direction of feed of the thread cutting unit 5 , which is triggered by the guiding edge 17 g at the central thread catching plate 19 b . The wiper unit 37 is locally fixed arranged in the lower arm of the sewing machine. Two pivotal and spring-loaded levers are arranged on the wiper and thread braking unit 37 , namely the thread braking plate 65 and a wiper lever 51 . For this purpose, the two-arm wiper lever 51 carries on the first of its arms a pin 53 located parallel in reference to the rotary axis of the wiper lever 51 , which is pushed laterally by the lower thread catcher 19 c (contour 17 f ). When pivoting the wiper lever 51 the cut-off ends of the threads are pushed sideways and then rest in an optimal lead-in embroidering and/or sewing position.
[0063] FIGS. 33 a and 33 b once more show the mutual arrangement of the thread catchers 19 a - 19 c as well as the spring blade 31 in reference to the fixed arranged thread wiper unit 37 in the resting position. FIG. 33 b shows the thread catchers 19 a - 19 c as well as the spring blade 31 and the thread guide plate 33 , which are mutually connected to each other, moved towards the right and considerably more intersecting the thread wiper unit 37 . FIGS. 33 c - 33 e shows the position of the thread during the different phases.
[0064] For a better understanding, FIG. 24 shows the parts of the thread cutting unit 5 in an exploded illustration.
LEGEND OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS
[0000]
1 hook
3 stitching plate
5 thread cutting unit
7 upper thread
9 lower thread
11 needle
13 stitching hole
15 bobbin case
17 control edge and separating edge
19 first thread catcher, lower thread catcher
21 thread receiver
23 hook tip
25 upper thread loop
27 second thread catcher, upper thread catcher
29 blade
31 spring blade
32 front edge of 31
33 thread guide plate
35 second thread catcher
37 wiper and thread braking unit
39 thread catcher
41 thread tension plate
43 clamping plate
45 slot
47 slot
51 wiper lever
53 pin
55 second arm
59 ejection edge (lower thread)
61 clamping plate
63 loop
65 thread braking plate
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A method for cutting the lower and at least one upper thread for lead-in embroidering or lead-in sewing is performed with a device including thread catchers ( 19 a - 19 c ) connected with each other in a fixed manner and layered over top of each other, formed of sheet metal, as well as spring and thread tightening plates ( 31 and 41 ) arranged above and below the thread catchers, which move back and forth against a blade ( 29 ), and a thread wiper unit. The device is exclusively operated by a drive moving back and forth and driving the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit ( 5 ).
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This application is a continuation-in-part of Kim U.S. patent application Ser. No. 454,732, filed Dec. 30, 1982, now abandoned.
This invention relates to antiviral compounds.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In general, the invention features, in one aspect, compounds having in vivo antiviral activity and having the general formula: ##STR2## wherein each R 2 , independently, is H or lower (fewer than 6 carbon atoms) alkyl; each R 3 , independently, is H or lower alkyl; R 0 is H or lower alkyl, R 1 is H or lower alkyl; 1≦n≦11; n-2≦m≦2n; 0≦p≦3; z is 0 or 1; and p≦q≦2p; each n, m, p and q being selected so that the sp 3 valence shell of each carbon atom in each ring is filled; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
In preferred embodiments, the antiviral compound is 2-amino-4-oxo-5, 6, 7, 8-tetrahydroquinazoline; 2-amino-5, 6, 7, 8, 9-pentahydrocyclohepta (d) pyrimidin-4-ol; or 2-amino-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14-decahydro-cyclododeca (d) pyrimidin-4-ol.
In another aspect, the invention features antiviral compounds having antiviral activity and having the general formula ##STR3## wherein X is (CH 2 ) n where 1 n 3, ##STR4## where R 4 is lower alkyl; CH 2 S; or CH 2 O; R 3 is H, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy (lower alkyl also containing oxygen), a halogen, C═N, nitro, amino, lower alkylamino, lower dialkylamino, lower arylamino, carboxy, lower alkoxycarbonyl (containing an ester linkage); provided that, when X is (CH 2 ) 2 , R 3 cannot be H; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
In a preferred embodiment the antiviral compound is 2-amino-4-oxo-5, 6, 7-trihydrobenzocyclohepta (5, 6-d)-pyrimidine.
In another aspect the invention features compounds having antiviral activity and having the general formula: ##STR5## wherein X and R 3 are as defined above for Formula (2) except R 3 can be H when X is (CH 2 ) 2 , or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
In another aspect, the invention features treating a mammal suffering from a viral infection, preferably a herpes infection, most preferably a herpes simplex type II viral infection, by administering to the mammal an antivirally effective amount of 2-amino-4-oxo-3, 4, 5, 6-tetrahydrobenzo (h) quinazoline, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
The compounds exhibit potent antiviral activity, are chemically stable, are not toxic to mammals, and do not decompose in the stomach. The compounds can be particularly valuable in the treatment of immunocompromised patients, e.g. cancer patients, who are at risk of contracting viral infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type II infections.
Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, and from the claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
We turn now to a description of preferred embodiments of the invention.
DRAWING
The FIGURE is a plan view, partially broken away, of a packet containing a towlette impregnated with an antiviral compound of the invention.
STRUCTURE
The compounds have the general formulae recited in the Summary of the Invention above. Examples of preferred compounds within those formulae are those referred to as preferred embodiments above.
The compounds all have an aminopyrimidone ring fused to a non-aroma ring. A third ring can also be present.
For Formula (1) compounds, where there is no third ring present, the non-aromatic ring can have up to 15 carbon atoms. When there is a third ring present, the second ring will generally have fewer carbon atoms, i.e. 6 or less; i.e. n will be 1 or 2 when p is greater than 0.
The compounds, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, can be administered alone or in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
Acceptable salts include those made with, e.g., hydrochloric, hydrobromic, hydroiodic, sulfuric, maleic, or fumaric acid; or with potassium, sodium hydroxide, or dicyclohexylamine.
For oral administration the pharmaceutical composition can most conveniently be in the form of capsules or tablets. The composition can also take the form of an ingestible liquid, e.g., syrup. The compounds can also be provided in the form of topical preparations, e.g., ointments, lotions, creams, powders, and sprays.
Referring now to the FIGURE, flexible sheet 10 of fibrous, absorbant paper can be impregnated with an antiviral compound of the invention, diluted, if desired, with a carrier, e.g. distilled water. The impregnated towelette 10 is folded and enclosed in rectangular, sealed, gas tight envelope 12, having fused periphery 14, in a manner such as is described in Clancy U.S. Pat. No. 3,398,826 or Williams U.S. Pat. No. 3,057,467, hereby incorporated by reference. The towlette is impregnated using conventional techniques, e.g. that disclosed in Bauer U.S. Pat. No. 3,786,615, hereby incorporated by reference.
SYNTHESIS
To synthesize a compound of Formula 1, 2, or 3, a mixture of the appropriate alpha-ketoester and guanidine carbonate in xylene is refluxed overnight, and the final product is then collected by filtration and purified.
The alpha-ketoester, if not commercially available, can be prepared by any of several methods, e.g., the reaction of a cyclic ketone with diethyloxalate followed by pyrolysis; or esterification of the commercially available alpha-keto acid, e.g. camphor carboxylic acid; or the reaction of a cyclic ketone with diethylcarbonate at elevated temperature in the presence of guanidine salts in an appropriate solvent, e.g., alcohols, xylene, toluene.
General references describing the synthesis of alpha-ketoesters can be found in The Pyrimidines, A. Weissberger, Ed., Interscience, New York, 1962; J. Org. Chem., 30, 1837 (1965); J. Org. Chem. 33, 4288 (1968); J. Het. Chem. 7, 197 (1970); J. Het Chem., 13, 675 (1976); Org. Syn. 47, 20 (1967).
Another method of synthesizing a compound of Formula 1, 2, or 3 involves the formation of a 2, 4-diaminopyrimidine derivative by the reaction of a cyclic ketone with dicyandiamide, either in the absence of or in an appropriate solvent, e.g., dimethylformamide, ethoxyethoxyethanol, followed by selective hydrolysis of one amino group.
Specific compounds of Formula (1) were made as follows.
2-amino-4-oxo-5, 6, 7, 8-tetra-hydroquinazoline
A mixture of ethyl-2-cyclohexanone carboxylate (2.0 g) and guanidine carbonate (2.66 g) in xylene (40 ml) was refluxed overnight; after cooling the solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, methanol, and dried over MgSO 4 . 0.6 g of a white solid having a m.p. >300° C. was recovered. The solid was dissolved in Con. HCl, and excess HCl was removed in vacuo to dryness. The gummy residue was treated with methanol-ether to afford a colorless plate (0.6 g).
2-amino-5, 6, 7, 8, 9 pentahydro cyclohepta (d) pyrimidin-4-ol
A mixture of ethyl-2-cycloheptanone carboxylate (880 mg) and guanidine carbonate (950 mg) in xylene (20 ml) was refluxed overnight; after cooling, the white solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, and dried. The crude product was recrystallized from methanol. Mass: 179 (mol. ion).
2-Amino-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,14-decahydrocyclododeca (d) pyrimidin-4-ol
A mixture of ethyl-2-cyclododecanone carboxylate (4.0 g) and guanidine carbonate (3.12 g) in xylene (50 ml) was refluxed overnight; after cooling the white solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, and recrystallized from ethanol. 2.15 g of a white powder were recovered.
2-amino-5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10-hexahydrocycloocta (d) pyrimidin-4-ol
A mixture of ethyl-2-cyclooctanone carboxylate (3.5 g) and guanidine carbonate (3.82 g) in xylene (50 ml) was refluxed overnight; after cooling the white solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, and dried to yield 2.0 g of product.
A specific compound of Formula (2) was made as follows.
2-amino-4-oxo-5, 6, 7-trihydrobenzocycohepta (5, 6-d)-pyrimidine
First 2-ethoxycarbonyl-1-benzosuberone was prepared by placing 3.4 g of 50% NaH mineral oil dispersion in a 250 ml three-necked flask, fitted with an additional funnel and a water condenser, under a nitrogen atmosphere. The mineral oil was removed by washing with dry benzene several times, and the residue was then resuspended in dry benzene (34 ml). Diethylcarbonate (5.9 g) was then added all at once. After reflux the mixture was treated with dropwise addition of a solution of 1-benzosuberone (4.0 g) in dry benzene (10 ml) over a 3 hour period, and refluxing was continued for another 1/2 hour. The mixture was cooled to room temperature, treated with acetic acid (5 ml) and ice-water (17 ml) to dissolve the solid, and the organic layer was then washed with water several times and then dried (MgSO 4 ). After evaporation of solvent the residue was subjected to fractional distillation to give a colorless oil product (3.12 g) at 135-140/0.3 mm Hg.
A mixture of 2-ethoxycarbonyl-1-benzosuberone (2.82 g), guanidine carbonate (2.62 g) in xylene (50 ml) was refluxed overnight. After cooling to room temperature, the resulting solid was collected by filtration, washed with water and then ether and then dried. The solid was redissolved in 2N-HCl with heating, then cooled in an ice bath. The white precipitate was collected by filtration, washed with ether, then dried to yield a white powder (900 mg).
2-amino-4-oxo-3, 4, 5, 6-tetrahydrobenzo (h) quinazoline
First, 2-ethoxycarbonyl-1-tetralone was made by placing 4.65 g of 50% NaH mineral oil dispersion in a 250 ml three-necked flask, fitted with an additional funnel and a water condenser, under a nitrogen atmosphere. The mineral oil was removed by washing with dry benzene several times and NaH was then resuspended in dry benzene (48 ml), and diethylcarbonate (8.1 g) was added all at once. After refluxing, the mixture was treated with a dropwise addition of a solution of alpha-tetralone (5 g) in dry benzene (1 ml) over a 3 hour period, and refluxing was continued for another 1/2 hour. The mixture was cooled to room temperature, treated with acetic acid (7 ml) and ice-water (23 ml) to dissolve solid and organic layers, washed with water several times, dried (using anhydrous MgSO 4 ). After evaporation of solvent, the residue was subjected to fractional distillation to yield product (2.3 g) at 151-157/0.2 mm Hg.
A mixture of 2-ethoxycarbonyl-1-tetralone (0.65 g) and guanidine carbonate (0.65 g) in xylene (15 ml) was refluxed overnight and, after cooling to room temperature, the tan solid was collected by filtration, washed with water and alcohol, and then dried to yield 0.24 g of tan solid, m.p.>300° C. The solid was dissolved in Con.-HCl, concentrated in vacuo to dryness, and recrystallized from ethanol to yield a colorless solid product, (0.28 g).
USE
When administered to mammals (e.g., orally, nasally, topically, parenterally, intravenously, or by suppository), the compounds have an antiviral effect, and are particularly effective against herpes simplex viruses occurring in the eye, cutaneously, orally, genitally, or in upper respiratory areas.
Good in vivo test results, compared to in vitro results, suggest that the compounds, rather than acting directly on the virus, act via some other mechanism, e.g. immunomodulation or inducement of interferon production.
The compounds can be administered to a mammal, e.g. a human, in a dosage of 25 to 300 mg/kg/day, preferably 100 to 200 mg/kg/day.
Referring again to the FIGURE, when it is desired to apply an antiviral compound topically, sealed envelope 12 containing the impregnated towlette 10 is torn open and the towlette is removed and used, and the packet and used towlette are then discarded.
The impregnated towlette can be used in the treatment and or prevention of herpes simplex type II infections. In the case of the treatment of a skin lesion associated with herpes, the impregnated towlette can be used to apply the antiviral compound to the affected area and then discarded. For prevention of herpes infections, the impregnated towlette can be used to apply the antiviral compound to an area which the user suspects has been recently exposed to herpes virus, e.g., to the genitals following sexual relations.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
Other embodiments are within the following claims. For example, the impregnated sheet can be, in addition to absorbant paper, another suitable material such as unwoven fabric. Instead of sealing wet towlettes in individual packets, multiple impregnated sheets can be provided in one container, e.g. a jar or a metal or plastic can. Impregnated towlettes can be used to treat or prevent other viral infections, e.g. the common cold; for treatment of colds, for example, facial tissues could be impregnated with an antiviral compound, application of the tissue to the nose providing the antiviral compound to that area.
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In one aspect, compounds having antiviral activity and having the general formula: ##STR1## wherein each R 2 , independently, is H or lower (fewer than 6 carbon atoms) alkyl; each R 3 , independently, is H or lower alkyl R 0 is H or lower alkyl, R 1 is H or lower alkyl; 1≦n≦11; n-2≦m≦2n; 0≦p≦3; z is 0 or 1; and p≦q≦2p; each n, m, p and q being selected so that the sp 3 valence shell of each carbon atom in each ring is filled; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to methods for co-production of alkylbenzene and biofuel using hydrocracking, and more particularly relates to methods for producing renewable alkylbenzene and biofuel from natural oils.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Linear alkylbenzenes are organic compounds with the formula C 6 H 5 C n H 2n+1 . While n can have any practical value, current commercial use of alkylbenzenes requires that n lie between 10 and 16, or more specifically between 10 and 13, between 12 and 15, or between 12 and 13. These specific ranges are often required when the alkylbenzenes are used as intermediates in the production of surfactants for detergents. Because the surfactants created from alkylbenzenes are biodegradable, the production of alkylbenzenes has grown rapidly since their initial uses in detergent production in the 1960s.
[0003] While detergents made utilizing alkylbenzene-based surfactants are biodegradable, processes for creating alkylbenzenes are not based on renewable sources. Specifically, alkylbenzenes are currently produced from kerosene derived from fossil fuels. Due to the growing environmental concerns over fossil fuel extraction and economic concerns over exhausting fossil fuel deposits, there may be support for using an alternate source for biodegradable surfactants in detergents and in other industries.
[0004] There is also an increasing demand for the use of biofuels in order to reduce the demand for and use of fossil fuels. This is especially true for transportation needs wherein other renewable energy sources are difficult to utilize. For instance, biodiesel or green diesel and biojet or green jet fuels may provide for a significant reduction in the need and use of petroleum based fuels.
[0005] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide methods and systems for co-production of alkylbenzene and biofuel from natural oils, i.e., oils that are not extracted from the earth. Further, it is desirable to provide methods and systems that provide renewable alkylbenzenes and biofuels from easily processed triglycerides and fatty acids from vegetable, nut, and/or seed oils. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the invention and the appended claims, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing and this background of the invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Methods for the co-production of an alkylbenzene product and biofuel from a natural oil are provided herein. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the method deoxygenates the natural oil to form paraffins. A first portion of the paraffins is hydrocracked to form a first stream of normal and lightly branched paraffins in the C 9 to C 14 range and a second stream of isoparaffins. The first stream is dehydrogenated to provide mono-olefins. Then, benzene is alkylated with the mono-olefins under alkylation conditions to provide an alkylation effluent comprising alkylbenzenes and benzene. Thereafter, the alkylbenzenes are isolated to provide the alkylbenzene product. A second portion of the paraffins and the isoparaffins are processed to form biofuel.
[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for the co-production of an alkylbenzene product and a biofuel from natural oil source triglycerides. In this embodiment, the triglycerides are deoxygenated to form a deoxygenated product comprising water, carbon dioxide, propane, a first portion of paraffins, and a second portion of paraffins. This stream is fractionated to separate first and second streams of paraffins. Then, the first stream of paraffins is hydrocracked to form a normal paraffin stream and an isoparaffins stream. The normal paraffin stream is dehydrogenated to provide mono-olefins. The mono-olefins are used to alkylate benzene under alkylation conditions to provide an alkylation effluent comprising alkylbenzenes and benzene. Thereafter, alkylbenzenes are isolated to provide the alkylbenzene product. The second stream of paraffins and the isoparaffins stream are processed to form biofuel.
[0008] In accordance with another embodiment, a method for co-production of an alkylbenzene product and biofuel from a natural oil is provided. In the method, the natural oil is deoxygenated with hydrogen to form a stream comprising paraffins. The paraffins are hydrocracked to form a normal paraffin stream and an isoparaffin stream. The normal paraffin stream is dehydrogenated to provide mono-olefins and hydrogen. According to the exemplary embodiment, the hydrogen provided by dehydrogenation is recycled to deoxygenate the natural oils. The mono-olefins are used to alkylate benzene under alkylation conditions to provide an alkylation effluent comprising alkylbenzenes and benzene. Then, the alkylbenzenes are isolated from the effluent to provide the alkylbenzene product. The isoparaffins stream is processed to form biofuel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing FIGURE wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a system for co-production of alkylbenzene and biofuel in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] The following Detailed Description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding Background or the following Detailed Description.
[0012] Various embodiments contemplated herein relate to methods and systems for co-production of an alkylbenzene product and biofuel from natural oils. In FIG. 1 , an exemplary apparatus 10 for producing an alkylbenzene product 12 and biofuel 13 from a natural oil feed 14 is illustrated. As used herein, natural oils are those derived from plant or algae matter, and are often referred to as renewable oils. Natural oils are not based on kerosene or other fossil fuels. In certain embodiments, the natural oils include one or more of coconut oil, babassu oil, castor oil, canola oil, cooking oil, and other vegetable, nut or seed oils. The natural oils typically comprise triglycerides, free fatty acids, or a combination of triglycerides and free fatty acids.
[0013] In the illustrated embodiment, the natural oil feed 14 is delivered to a deoxygenation unit 16 which also receives a hydrogen feed 18 . In the deoxygenation unit 16 , the triglycerides and fatty acids in the feed 14 are deoxygenated. Structurally, triglycerides are formed by three, typically different, fatty acid molecules that are bonded together with a glycerol bridge. The glycerol molecule includes three hydroxyl groups (HO—) and each fatty acid molecule has a carboxyl group (COOH). In triglycerides, the hydroxyl groups of the glycerol join the carboxyl groups of the fatty acids to form ester bonds. Therefore, during deoxygenation, the fatty acids are freed from the triglyceride structure and are converted into normal paraffins. The glycerol is converted into propane, and the oxygen in the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups is converted into either water or carbon dioxide. The deoxygenation reaction for fatty acids and triglycerides are respectively illustrated as:
[0000]
[0000] During the deoxygenation reaction, the length of a paraffin chain R n created will vary by a value of one depending on the exact reaction pathway. For instance, if carbon dioxide is formed, then the chain will have one fewer carbon than the fatty acid source (R n ). If water is formed, then the chain will match the length of the R n chain in the fatty acid source. Typically, water and carbon dioxide are formed in roughly equal amounts, such that equal amounts of C n , paraffins and C n−1 paraffins are formed.
[0014] In FIG. 1 , a deoxygenated stream 20 containing normal paraffins, water, carbon dioxide and propane exits the deoxygenation unit 16 and is fed to a separator 22 . The separator 22 may be a multi-stage fractionation unit, distillation system or similar known apparatus. In any event, the separator 22 removes the water, carbon dioxide, and propane from the deoxygenated stream 20 . Further, the separator 22 may provide a first portion of paraffins 23 and a second portion of paraffins 21 . In certain embodiments, the first portion of paraffins 23 has carbon chain lengths of C 10 to C 14 . In other embodiments, the first portion of paraffins 23 has carbon chain lengths having a lower limit of C L , where L is an integer from four (4) to thirty-one (31), and an upper limit of C U , where U is an integer from five (5) to thirty-two (32). The second portion of paraffins 21 may have carbon chains shorter than, longer than, or a combination of shorter and longer than, the chains of the first portion of paraffins 23 . In a preferred embodiment, the first portion of paraffins 23 comprises paraffins with C 10 to C 13 chains and the second portion of paraffins 21 comprises paraffins with C 17 to C 18 chains.
[0015] As shown in FIG. 1 , the first portion of paraffins 23 is introduced to a hydrocracking unit 24 . The hydrocracking unit 24 preferably holds a mild hydrocracking catalyst, such that results in lower isoparaffin production. Hydrocracking of the paraffins 23 results in a stream of normal and lightly branched paraffins 25 and an isoparaffin stream 26 . Preferably, the normal and lightly branched paraffins 25 are in the C 9 to C 14 range. As shown, the normal and lightly branched paraffin stream 25 is fed to an alkylbenzene production zone 28 . Specifically, the normal and lightly branched paraffin stream 25 is fed into a dehydrogenation unit 30 in the alkylbenzene production unit 28 . In the dehydrogenation unit 30 , the normal and lightly branched paraffin stream 25 is dehydrogenated into mono-olefins of the same carbon numbers as the paraffin stream 25 . Typically, dehydrogenation occurs through known catalytic processes, such as the commercially popular Pacol process. Di-olefins (i.e., dienes) and aromatics are also produced as an undesired result of the dehydrogenation reactions as expressed in the following equations:
[0000] Mono-olefin formation:C X H 2X+2 →C X H 2X +H 2
[0000] Di-olefin formation:C X H 2X →C X H 2X−2 +H 2
[0000] Aromatic formation:C X H 2X−2 →C X H 2X−6 +2H 2
[0016] In FIG. 1 , a dehydrogenated stream 32 exits the dehydrogenation unit 30 comprising mono-olefins and hydrogen, as well as some di-olefins and aromatics. The dehydrogenated stream 32 is delivered to a phase separator 34 for removing the hydrogen from the dehydrogenated stream 32 . As shown, the hydrogen exits the phase separator 34 in a recycle stream of hydrogen 36 that can be added to the hydrogen feed 18 to support the deoxygenation process upstream.
[0017] At the phase separator 34 , a liquid stream 38 is formed and comprises the mono-olefins and any di-olefins and aromatics formed during dehydrogenation. The liquid stream 38 exits the phase separator 34 and enters a selective hydrogenation unit 40 , such as a DeFine reactor. The hydrogenation unit 40 selectively hydrogenates at least a portion of the di-olefins in the liquid stream 38 to form additional mono-olefins. As a result, an enhanced stream 42 is formed with an increased mono-olefin concentration.
[0018] As shown, the enhanced stream 42 passes from the hydrogenation unit 40 to a lights separator 44 , such as a stripper column, which removes a light end stream 46 containing any lights, such as butane, propane, ethane and methane, that resulted from cracking or other reactions during upstream processing. With the light ends 46 removed, stream 48 is formed and may be delivered to an aromatic removal apparatus 50 , such as a Pacol Enhancement Process (PEP) unit available from UOP. As indicated by its name, the aromatic removal apparatus 50 removes aromatics from the stream 48 and forms a stream of mono-olefins 52 .
[0019] In FIG. 1 , the stream of mono-olefins 52 and a stream of benzene 54 are fed into an alkylation unit 56 . The alkylation unit 56 holds a catalyst 58 , such as a solid acid catalyst, that supports alkylation of the benzene 54 with the mono-olefins 52 . Hydrogen fluoride (HF) and aluminum chloride (AlCl 3 ) are two major catalysts in commercial use for the alkylation of benzene with linear mono-olefins and may be used in the alkylation unit 56 . As a result of alkylation, alkylbenzene, typically called linear alkylbenzene (LAB), is formed according to the reaction:
[0000] C 6 H 6 +C X H 2X →C 6 H 5 C X H 2X+1
[0000] and is present in an alkylation effluent 60 .
[0020] To optimize the alkylation process, surplus amounts of benzene 54 are supplied to the alkylation unit 56 . Therefore, the alkylation effluent 60 exiting the alkylation unit 56 contains alkylbenzene and unreacted benzene. Further the alkylation effluent 60 may also include some unreacted paraffins. In FIG. 1 , the alkylation effluent 60 is passed to a benzene separation unit 62 , such as a fractionation column, for separating the unreacted benzene from the alkylation effluent 60 . This unreacted benzene exits the benzene separation unit 62 in a benzene recycle stream 64 that is delivered back into the alkylation unit 56 to reduce the volume of fresh benzene needed in stream 54 .
[0021] As shown, a benzene-stripped stream 66 exits the benzene separation unit 62 and enters a paraffinic separation unit 68 , such as a fractionation column. In the paraffinic separation unit 68 , unreacted paraffins are removed from the benzene-stripped stream 66 in a recycle paraffin stream 70 , and are routed to and mixed with the paraffin stream 25 before dehydrogenation as described above.
[0022] Further, an alkylbenzene stream 72 is separated by the paraffinic separation unit 68 and is fed to an alkylate separation unit 74 . The alkylate separation unit 74 , which may be, for example, a multi-column fractionation system, separates a heavy alkylate bottoms stream 76 from the alkylbenzene stream 72 .
[0023] As a result of the post-alkylation separation processes, the linear alkylbenzene product 12 is isolated and exits the apparatus 10 . It is noted that such separation processes are not necessary in all embodiments in order to isolate the alkylbenzene product 12 . For instance, the alkylbenzene product 12 may be desired to have a wide range of carbon chain lengths and not require any fractionation to eliminate carbon chains longer than desired, i.e., heavies or carbon chains shorter than desired, i.e., lights. Further, the feed 14 may be of sufficient quality that no fractionation is necessary despite the desired chain length range.
[0024] In certain embodiments, the feed 14 includes oils substantially having C 22 fatty acids. In other certain embodiments, the feed 14 is substantially homogeneous and comprises free fatty acids within a desired range. For instance, the feed may be palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD). Alternatively, the feed 14 may comprise triglycerides and free fatty acids that all have carbon chain lengths appropriate for a desired alkylbenzene product 12 .
[0025] In certain embodiments, the natural oil source is castor, and the feed 14 comprises castor oils. Castor oils consist essentially of C 18 fatty acids with an additional, internal hydroxyl groups at the carbon-12 position. For instance, the structure of a castor oil triglyceride is:
[0000]
[0000] During deoxygenation of a feed 14 comprising castor oil, it has been found that some portion of the carbon chains are cleaved at the carbon-12 position. Thus, deoxygenation creates a group of lighter paraffins having C 10 to C 11 chains resulting from cleavage during deoxygenation, and a group of non-cleaved heavier paraffins having C 17 to C 18 chains. The lighter paraffins may form the first portion of paraffins 23 and the heavier paraffins may form the second portion of paraffins 21 . It should be noted that while castor oil is shown as an example of an oil with an additional internal hydroxyl group, others may exist. Also, it may be desirable to engineer genetically modified organisms to produce such oils by design. As such, any oil with an internal hydroxyl group may be a desirable feed oil.
[0026] As shown in FIG. 1 , the second portion of paraffins 21 and the isoparaffin stream 26 are co-fed to a system 80 for producing biofuel 13 such as diesel or jet fuel, such as synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK). Typically, no further deoxygenation is needed in the biofuel production system 80 . Rather, in the system 80 , the second portion of paraffins 21 are typically isomerized in an isomerization unit 82 or cracked in a cracking unit 84 to create the isoparaffins of equal or lighter molecular weight than the second portion of paraffins 21 . Hydrogen may be separated out from the resulting biofuel 13 to form a hydrogen stream 86 that is recycled to the deoxygenation unit 16 . While shown feeding the deoxygenation unit 16 directly, the hydrogen stream 86 could be fed to hydrogen feed 18 . In particular, in certain embodiments, the isoparaffin stream 26 is in the naphtha range, and system 80 includes a reformer that produces hydrogen 86 from the isoparaffin stream 26 .
[0027] In order to create biodiesel, the biofuel production system 80 primarily isomerizes the second portion of paraffins 21 with minimal cracking. For the production of biojet or green jet fuel, some cracking is performed in order to obtain smaller molecules (with reduced molecular weight) to the properties required by jet specifications.
[0028] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing Detailed Description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the foregoing Detailed Description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended Claims and their legal equivalents.
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Embodiments of methods for co-production of linear alkylbenzene and biofuel from a natural oil are provided. A method comprises the step of deoxygenating the natural oils to form paraffins. A first portion of the paraffins is hydrocracked to form a first stream of normal and lightly branched paraffins in the C 9 to C 14 range and a second stream of isoparaffins. The first stream is dehydrogenated to provide mono-olefins. Then, benzene is alkylated with the mono-olefins under alkylation conditions to provide an alkylation effluent comprising alkylbenzenes and benzene. Thereafter, the alkylbenzenes are isolated to provide the alkylbenzene product. A second portion of the paraffins and the isoparaffins are processed to form biofuel.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/262,198 filed on Nov. 18, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
The present invention was not developed with the use of any Federal Funds, but was developed independently by the inventors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Conventional buck converters are often controlled by comparison of inductive energize time with a voltage error term. Inductive energize time is often represented by a ramp signal. An auxiliary feedback loop based on current mode control is sometimes used in conjunction with voltage control to improve performance during continuous conduction mode (CCM). There are many prior art “slope compensation” techniques that modify the slope of the ramp signal to improve the stability of the converter control loop and/or to improve its dynamic response. Such techniques are effective to the extent that they approximate the underlying equations relating energy to voltage and current, which formulas for energy transfer relate to the squares of the voltages and currents involved. To the extent that prior art techniques fail to conform to the underlying energy equations, they fail to optimize regulation dynamics and flexibility.
When the voltage error term in a conventional power converter is too small, or too delayed, to provide adequate and timely feedback, its control loop is effectively opened and instability results. Conventional converters are often only stable over a restricted range of duty cycles. Once the feedback loop is opened, or an element of positive feedback is introduced, poor transient response, oscillation or even a destructive runaway condition may result.
Additionally, even with per-cycle energy balancing, recovery from severe transients may suffer if energy balance information is destroyed at the beginning of each chopping cycle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Since energy demand is responsive to output error, which error remains uncorrected without energy balance, an energy demand signal tends to be self-preserving from cycle to cycle, even if partial error correction has occurred. In most converters, some sort of ramp more or less accurately represents energy supply. If this ramp be reset for each chopping cycle, whilst an inductor continues to charge from a given cycle to a later cycle, this ramp will grossly misrepresent energy supply. If, however, inductive current, or a volt-time representation thereof, is incorporated into the energy supply term, energy supply information survives from cycle to cycle allowing inductive energy supply to be controlled to match energy demand over multiple cycles. By thusly controlling a switched-mode buck power converter with energy balancing, its main feedback loop may be kept closed even when balance of energy demand and energy supply is not attained within a single chopping cycle. Such multi-cycle balance control optimizes transient response and stability. It should be noted that a substantially accurate estimate of inductor pedestal, or valley, current is needed to maintain energy balance in a converter operating in the CCM. Linear and squared control terms are piecewise-proportional when those terms remain close to unity. Accordingly, the advantages of energy balancing in a buck converter are limited until the converter becomes significantly out of energy balance. For that reason, this invention also teaches multi-cycle energy balancing buck converter control based on voltage and time, as a volt time product can approximate energy.
Partial implementations of this invention, squaring neither demand nor supply terms, or squaring but one of the two, are possible. Note that most partial implementation would only make sense in a parts-constrained analog environment. With a digital controller, there would be little reason to forgo the improvement provided by squared terms. As more energy terms are represented by squares, (combined with appropriate gain corrections) dynamic performance improves. Because inductive current varies over the widest range, it is the most important term to square, be it a time term, a volt-time product, or a measured current. Note that an AC coupled inductive current term can be sufficient, since time alone is adequate for determining the supply term under static conditions. The inductive current signal is only needed to correct for energy stored in the inductor during rapidly changing conditions, or across multiple cycles. Another utile partial implementation would practice conventional control for steady-state operation, but switch to energy balancing control if regulation was lost.
Control loops according to this invention not only work over a range of duty cycles from under 1% to over 80%, but can also remain stable over multiple control cycles. Predictive energy balancing control can also lower component stresses to improve reliability by minimizing unnecessary swings in inductor current and undesired swings in output voltage.
Under any one set of operating conditions, converters practicing prior-art control can be made stable through compensation techniques and appropriate gain settings. The circuits and methods taught here allow stable operation over a wider range of conditions. Component's resistance, capacitance and inductance change with time and temperature, and load capacitance and current can change unpredictably, so flexibility brings benefits even under constrained conditions. Also, more responsive control allows more aggressive digital power management strategies. The ability to maintain stable operation over a wider range of conditions improves utility and reliability.
In a switched-mode buck power converter, a switch of conventional character is alternately used to charge and discharge an inductive reactor to cause a DC input voltage to be regulated to a lower DC output voltage. To regulate such a converter according to this invention, a quantity representing the square of an output voltage, appropriately scaled, is subtracted from a quantity representing the square of a desired output voltage to generate a difference representing per-cycle energy demand. Another quantity representing the square of the time having elapsed since the commencement of inductive energy charging is compared with the per-cycle energy demand. When the time-squared quantity exceeds the energy demand quantity, the switch is operated to cease inductive reactor charging and commence inductive discharge.
In practice, both the actual instantaneous output voltage of the converter and a reference voltage representing the desired output voltage may be squared by well-known multipliers. A well-known subtractor (difference amplifier) may subtract the output of the output voltage multiplier from that of the reference voltage multiplier to produce a difference output.
A well-known ramp generator, representing time, may be fed to yet another multiplier to produce a signal representing the square of elapsed inductive charging time. A well-known comparator may be used operate the switch to terminate inductive charging when the time-squared output exceeds the aforementioned difference output.
When this converter is operated in the continuous current mode (CCM), stability and transient response may be improved by adding inductive current pedestal control according to this invention. It is well-known that the duty-cycle of a lossless buck converter is equal to output voltage divided by input voltage. Thus, the time of inductive charging equals the product of cycle period and desired voltage divided by input voltage. For a loss-less converter, such time control alone of a switch controlling an inductor might provide correct average output voltage, albeit with perhaps unacceptable transient behavior. Real converters, however, require closed feedback loops to improve transient behavior and to accommodate losses. The portion of the invention described above provides regulation and superior transient response in the discontinuous current mode (DCM), but may be improved according to this invention, as shown below, when the converter is operated in the CCM.
To practice pedestal control according to this invention, first the time of the ideal duty cycle is determined as described above, and a quantity representing this ideal inductive charging time is generated. This steady-state time quantity is subtracted from the actual elapsed inductive charging time to provide a change-of-pedestal quantity, which is squared and appropriately scaled. Since squaring removes the sign of the change-of-pedestal quantity, its sign is detected, and applied to the squared output to generate a correction quantity. The correction quantity is subtracted from the aforementioned time-squared quantity to provide a corrected inductive energy quantity for energy balancing. If the energize period is ended before the steady state time, the pedestal will drop. If terminated after, the pedestal will rise. Because stable operation requires a stable pedestal under steady conditions, pedestal prediction serves to reduce the tendency to terminate the energize period early, which then causes the pedestal to droop, which then requires a longer energize period in the subsequent cycle, thereby inducing sub-harmonic oscillation. The pedestal energy prediction also acts to reduce the tendency toward oscillation by increasingly favoring termination of the energize period late in the chopping cycle. Note that the stability thereby obtained is due to matching the shape of the pedestal feedback to the underlying energy transfer, as distinct from prior-art slope compensation based on voltage and/or current, but not on energy.
In practice, the reference voltage and a voltage representing cycle period may be applied to the multiply inputs of a well-known multiplier-divider, and input voltage be applied to the divide input thereof. The resulting signal represents ideal inductive charging time. A well-known subtractor circuit may subtract this time signal from the aforementioned ramp signal representing elapsed inductive charging time. The resulting difference signal may be fed to two inputs of a well-known multiplier and to a well-known comparator circuit. To a third multiplier input a scaling input may be connected. To the output of the multiplier may be connected one pole of an SPDT switch and a well-known inverter. To the output of the inverter the other pole of the switch may be connected. The comparator may be used to operate the switch to apply the sign of the difference signal to the multiplier output. The resulting pedestal energy correction signal may be applied to another subtractor to be subtracted from the time-squared signal. The resulting corrected inductive energy signal may then be used to determine energy balance to control inductive charging.
It should be understood that, at a point in time during any given cycle, the inductive current pedestal for that cycle cannot be explicitly measured until the cycle has ended. At cycle's end, the output voltage ripple has already descended.
Therefore if the pedestal of that cycle has been too low or too high, it is too late to add or refrain from adding inductive energy during that cycle. Correction must then be made, in accordance with the prior art, in subsequent cycles, which invites sub-harmonic ripple generation and inferior transient response. Correction according to this invention predicts whether the inchoate inductive current pedestal will match energy demand. If either under-supply or over-supply is predicted, this pedestal control adjusts inductive reactor charging time immediately to control inductive energy, without waiting for output voltage to drop or rise. Thus transient load regulation is improved and sub-harmonic ripple generation is reduced.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a switched-mode buck power converter embodying energy-balancing regulation according to this invention.
FIG. 2 shows the intersection in time of energy supply and energy supply signals and the attainment of energy balance.
FIG. 3 shows a switched-mode buck power converter also embodying pedestal control according to this invention.
FIG. 4 shows the transient response of a buck converter embodying both regulation and pedestal control according to this invention.
FIG. 5 shows a switched-mode buck power converter that also embodies multi-cycle energy balancing according to this invention.
FIG. 6 shows the transient response of a buck converter embodying regulation, and pedestal control, and multi-cycle energy balancing according to this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring first to FIG. 1 , a conventional totem-pole switch comprises SWU and SWL, upper and lower switches respectively. Driven by D flip-flop FF, at some duty cycle between the voltage from power source PWR on terminal VI and the voltage on terminal COM, the totem pole switch presents some average voltage to inductive reactor L. Reactor L and filter capacitor C form an output filter to smooth the output voltage presented to load LOAD through terminal VO. Inverter INV and AND-gate AND prevent FF from being reset during the clock pulse from clock generator CLK. These circuit functions are well known in the prior art.
According to this invention, the voltage at VO is also applied to both inputs of multiplier OMULT, the output of which, representing the square of actual output voltage at VO, is applied to the negative input of SUBT. A voltage from source REF, proportional to desired output voltage, is applied to both inputs of multiplier RMULT, the output of which, representing the square of desired output voltage, is applied to the positive input of SUBT. The output of SUBT represents the amount by which the square of actual output voltage is less than the square of desired output voltage. This difference signal is applied to one input of multiplier SCLMULT, which scales its output, KdV 2 proportional to the voltage from scaling source SCL. KdV 2 , representing energy demand, is applied to the negative input of comparator BAL. It should not be imagined that the energy demand signal is some DC level. It is rather a dynamic signal that responds nearly instantaneously to inflections of output voltage ripple at VO.
The rising edge of the clock signal sets FF by propagating the logical “1” present its “D” terminal to its output terminal Q. This logical “1” turns ON SWU and turns OFF SWL, applying across L the voltage between terminals VI and VO. The clock signal not only sets flip-flop FF, but also triggers a ramp generator RAMP, which produces an voltage dT that rises linearly in time from an initial voltage at the setting of FF.
The current change in an inductor is proportional to the time for which it is connected to a given voltage. Thus, at the setting of FF, current in L begins to rise, flowing both into C, and through VO to LOAD. Being synchronously started dT is therefore proportional to the change of inductive current since L has begun to be energized.
Inductive energy is proportional to the square of inductive current. Signal dT is applied to both inputs of multiplier TMULT, which produces a voltage dT 2 proportional to the square of the elapsed time for which L has been energized since the setting of FF. Thus dT 2 approximates the inductive energy in L. Signal Dt 2 is applied to the positive input of BAL.
Eventually inductive energy signal dt 2 exceeds the energy demand signal KdV, causing BAL to reset FF through AND, thus causing Q to fall, turning OFF switch SWU and turning ON switch SWL. This switching places L in shunt with the voltage between terminals VO and COM. Thus the voltage across L is reversed in polarity and the current therein begins to fall. Current continues to flow into the load, but the inductive energy is decreases until the next setting of FF, at which time dT is re-initialized, and a new time ramp begins along with a new charging of L with inductive energy.
This regulator, therefore, seeks to cause the actual output energy to equal the desired output energy by adjusting inductive energy to annihilate any inequality thereof.
FIG. 2 shows waveforms obtained from a SPICE simulation of the converter of FIG. 1 . A dT 2 signal may be seen rising from the origin. This signal is not linear inasmuch as it represents the square of elapsed inductive charge time. This signal does approximate inductive energy supply. Descending from the left of the graph is a signal KdV, which looks very much like the ripple at VO. Its descent represents the increasing energy demand at output VO. When KdV intersects dT 2 , comparator BAL produces the rising edge labeled BAL OUT, which generates the signal that resets the flip-flop FF to end the charging of inductive reactor L. Since energy supply has matched demand, ceasing to charge is the appropriate action. A first cycle ends at the center of the time axis, to be followed by another such cycle.
FIG. 3 is identical to FIG. 1 , save that a pedestal error correction circuit PEDCOR has been inserted in the path of the dT 2 signal on its way to balance comparator BAL, the VI signal and the REF signal have been connected to PEDCOR, a mathematical relationship, indicated by a dashed line, has been established between the CLK signal and PEDCOR.
Pedestal correction functions as follows:
A signal source representing clock period is depicted as voltage source PER which is applied to a multiply input of multiplier-divider IDMULT. To a second multiply input thereof is applied the signal REF, representing the desired output voltage. To a third, divide input of IDMULT is applied the input power source voltage VI. From the product terminal P of IDMULT issues the signal SS, representing the time in the cycle period when an ideal lossless converter would be switched to produce the desired voltage as a steady-state voltage at VO. This ideal voltage is subtracted by subtractor TSUBT from the ramp signal dT to produce a signal dP representing a predicted change of inductor pedestal current. The ramp can be offset in the negative direction to begin below zero volts. This offset predisposes the pedestal correction to overcorrect, eliminating any tendency to alternate cycles. Any overcorrection is removed by the gain of the loop, which can be higher once the tendency to alternate cycles is eliminated.
Signal dP is applied to two multiply inputs of multiplier CORMULT and to a sign comparator SGNCOMP. To a third multiply input of CORMULT is applied a signal from a scaling source CORSCL. From product output P of CORMULT issues a signal representing the scaled square of the difference between dT and SS, which represents an energy correction to be applied to dT 2 to adjust the inductive current pedestal to supply the correct predicted inductive energy to meet demand. When the steady state has been attained, and during DCM operation, this term is zero. Since squaring removes needed sign information from the output of TSUBT, an analog inverter SGNINV provides a negative copy of the information at terminal P of CORMULT. Comparator SGNCMP operates switch SGNSW to select the polarity of information matching signal dP. Subtractor CORSUBT subtracts the polarity-selected information from signal dT 2 to provide a corrected predicted energy supply signal to comparator BAL. Thus the time of cessation of inductive charging is controlled to provide the predicted energy supply.
FIG. 4 shows waveforms from a SPICE simulation of the converter with pedestal correction embodied. The output voltage VO can be seen to be closely tracking the desired voltage REF, which is changing between 5 and 4 volts. Despite line variations shown by the VI voltage trace and some large, 30 amps per uS, load transients, the converter responds gracefully and accurately.
FIG. 5 is identical to FIG. 3 , save that a signal representing iL has been substituted for dT, and iMULT replaces TMULT. iL can be a measured current, a volt-time product, or estimation based on time alone. iL is squared by iMULT to produce iL 2 . iL 2 includes energy information from the previous cycle or cycles. The incorporation of a representation of the recent inductive energy history allows the energy balance to straddle chopping cycles. Note that if the inductive energy can reverse sign, sign restoration, like that for DP, would be needed for the iL 2 term.
FIG. 6 shows waveforms from a SPICE simulation of the converter with multi-cycle inductive energy balance embodied. The output voltage VO can be seen to more closely track the desired voltage, REF.
To practice this invention, the reference may be represented by a digital quantity and all the processes described above may be embodied in a well-known micro-controller or digital signal processor. In the simplest form of FIG. 1 , the actual output voltage is the only analog quantity that needs to be processed, probably by a well-known analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Time can be easily tracked using the micro-controller's clock. The input to the totem-pole switch acts as a single bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), through which the feedback loop through the power circuitry to the converter actual output voltage measurement is closed. When pedestal control is to be practiced, a second A/D channel is required. If a voltage proportional to VI is used as the A/D reference, the conversion result for voltage REF will be the ratio of REF to VI, the desired quantity.
For multi-cycle energy balance to be most useful without measuring the DC component of the inductive current, the inductor size, chopping period, and voltages ratios should be chosen such that the inductor can charge or discharge at least 5% of its maximum current in a single cycle.
The low-side switch in the buck converter totem pole can be replaced by a diode, as is common in the art. That substitution may require minor adjustments in the scaling and gain factors for optimization, but will not materially effect the controls described. Some loss of efficiency is expected with the diode substitution.
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A switched-mode buck power converter includes a power source, a first switch, an inductor for storing energy, a diode or second switch, and control circuitry. The inductor has a first end connected to an output node of the power converter, wherein the first switch is connected between the power source and a second end of the inductor. The diode or second switch is connected, at the second end of the inductor, between the first switch and a common node of the power converter. The control circuitry is configured to (i) characterize per cycle energy demand of the power converter, (ii) characterize per cycle inductive energy of the power converter, and (iii) compare the characterized energy demand to the characterized inductive energy to control the first switch.
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RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/421,336, filed Apr. 23, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,039.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of Invention
The invention relates to fasteners, namely threadless fasteners and more particularly to a threadless fastener for retaining two or more structures through apertures formed in each structure.
Detent pins are well known in industry. Many of these pins fall into the category of safety bolts. Safety bolts have a threaded end to which a nut can be attached to as well as a detent mechanism along the length of the bolt. The main fastening mechanism in safety bolts is threading the nut on the end of the bolt. These products are often used in the aircraft industry so an extra safety factor is present in case vibrations cause the nut to loosen or someone forgets to tighten the nut. The detent mechanism is this extra safety factor. However, these dual fasteners make safety bolts more difficult and thus more expensive to manufacture. Additionally there are some applications where such a bolt cannot be used because it is either impractical or impossible to access the threaded end of the bolt after it is inserted through an aperture. Also, screwing the nut on the end of the bolt causes an increase in assembly time.
Cotter pins are also well known in industry. A bolt with a cotter way is inserted through an aperture. A cotter pin is then inserted through the cotter way so the bolt cannot be removed from the aperture. It is thus obvious that access to the backside of the workpiece is necessary for a cotter pin to be utilized. Here again, insertion of the cotter pin in the cotter way is an extra step that will take more time during assembly.
There is a need in the market for a self-locking pin which is simple to manufacture and can be installed with little effort and in applications where there is no access to the opposing side of the workpiece and thus a nut cannot be applied to the threaded end of a pin.
2. Description of Prior Art
One type of prior art bolt is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,759,671 to Duran. Duran discloses a self-retaining bolt assembly in which the detent is a solid spherically shaped ball element with cut out sections and these cut out sections must be configured to saddle protuberances in the hole to prevent rotation. The periphery of the hole is peened in order to retain the detent in the hole. The shaft and detent of this bolt must both be machined carefully to assure a proper fit and retention for the detent.
Another prior art bolt is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,561,516 to Reddy. Reddy discloses a bolt with diametrically opposed detents slidably disposed in one hole. Each detent has a lateral passage with a sloped cam surface. These sloped cam surfaces engage a cam member which retains the detents in the hole. The detents are pulled into the hole when a force is exerted on the cam surface of the cam member by the cam surfaces of the detents. The detents are moved outwardly by the biasing means disposed between the detents. A number of carefully machined parts, which are difficult to install properly, are required. Additionally, the passageway extending along the axis of the bolt weakens the bolt.
A prior art bolt is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,361,491 to Nagin. Nagin disclosed a detent, generally circular in section, with a 45-degree slope at the upper end. A V-shaped groove with plane cam faces is formed in the body of the detent. The detent is slidably disposed in a hole in the shank. A circular passage extends along the bolt axis. A pin is slidably disposed in this passage. The pin is biased with a spring to engage the V-shaped groove and retain the detent in the hole. This bolt also must be carefully machined and installed to operate correctly. Additionally the passage in the shaft weakens the bolt.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention, a self-locking pin, provides a pin with a uniquely shaped detent or plunger, which facilitates easy installation of the pin through an aperture in an object. In addition, the novel plunger in combination with a staking process non-rotatably retains the detent in its hole.
In one embodiment the self-locking pin has an elongated shaft with a first end and a second headed end. The shaft has a hole bored in it with a plunger slidably disposed in the hole. The plunger has a lower cylindrical portion and an upper wedge-shaped portion. A shoulder is formed on the lateral sides of the plunger where these two portions meet. The plunger is biased in the hole. The shaft of the pin is staked on lateral sides of the plunger with a perpendicular radius punch to retain the plunger in the hole. The location of the staking corresponds to the plunger's shoulders.
In an alternate embodiment, the plunger is formed with shoulders on its leading and trailing sides. In this embodiment, the shaft is then staked on the leading and trailing sides of the plunger.
In yet another embodiment, the plunger is formed with a shoulder only on its trailing side. In this embodiment, the shaft is staked on the trailing side of the plunger.
In a final embodiment, the hole is bored through the entire shaft. Two plungers are then disposed in the hole and each opening to the hole is staked on lateral sides of the plungers.
The plunger can have different shapes depending upon the application. Another alternate embodiment includes a plunger that can be locked in its depressed position allowing the pin to be freely inserted or removed until the plunger is unlocked.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pin in accordance with the invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pin in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 2A is an alternate exploded perspective view of the pin in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 2B is another alternate exploded perspective view of the pin in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 2C is yet another alternate exploded perspective view of the pin in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the pin of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the pin of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 5 is an end elevation view of the pin of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the pin of FIG. 3 taken along line 6 — 6 of FIG. 3 .
FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 7 .
FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 8 .
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the pin of FIG. 1 with a spring retaining cavity.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment of the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a double-wedged embodiment of the plunger.
FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a conical embodiment of the plunger.
FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a radiused embodiment of the plunger.
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the pin with two wedge-shaped plungers taken along line 13 — 13 of FIG. 16 .
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the pin of FIG. 1 using the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 11 .
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the pin of FIG. 1 using the wedge-shaped plunger of FIG. 11A .
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the pin of FIG. 13 .
FIG. 17 is a side elevation view of the pin of FIG. 1 installed in an aperture through a panel.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another alternate embodiment pin, similar to the pin shown in FIG. 14 .
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the alternate embodiment pin showing the plunger being locked.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the alternate embodiment pin with the plunger locked.
FIG. 21 is a cross-section view taken along line 21 — 21 of FIG. 20 showing the locked plunger.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
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. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
FIG. 1 illustrates the presently preferred embodiment of the self-locking pin 20 according to the invention. The pin 20 has a generally cylindrical shaft 22 with a first end 24 and a second end 26 . The second end 26 may have an enlarged head 28 .
As seen in FIG. 2 , a re-entrant bore 30 extends partway though the shaft 22 near the first end 24 . The bore 30 extends radially inwardly towards the axis of the shaft. The bore 30 may or may not intersect the central longitudinal axis of the shaft. A plunger 32 is slidably disposed in the bore 30 . The plunger 32 has a cylindrical portion 34 and a wedge-shaped portion 36 . The plunger sits upon a helical coil spring 54 . As shown in FIG. 2A , a leaf spring 70 may be used as the biasing means. As shown in FIG. 2B , compressible material 72 may be used as the biasing means. As shown in FIG. 2C , an elastic material 74 may be utilized as the biasing means.
FIGS. 3 , 4 , and 5 , show views of the pin 20 from the top, side, and end respectively.
FIG. 6 shows a cross section of the pin 20 . This illustrates the spring 54 biasing the plunger 32 . While the preferred embodiment uses a helical coil spring, other acceptable biasing means such as, but not limited to, a leaf spring, or a cushion of sufficiently elastic material could be utilized.
The plunger 32 can either sit directly on top of the spring 54 , or a cavity 56 can be counter-bored in the bottom surface of the plunger 32 to act as a spring seat and retain the spring 54 . The phantom lines in FIG. 10 denote this cavity 56 .
The preferred embodiment of the plunger is further illustrated in FIGS. 7 , 8 , and 9 . The plunger 32 has a transitional angle 38 at the point where the configuration of the plunger 32 changes from cylindrical 34 to wedge-shaped 36 . This transitional angle 38 forms a tapered shoulder 40 . As will be described hereinafter, the shoulder 40 helps retain the plunger 32 in the bore 30 . Referring to FIG. 9 , the side of the wedge-shaped portion proximate to the first end 24 of the pin 20 is the wedge leading side 42 . The side of the wedge-shaped portion proximate to the second end 26 of the pin 20 is the wedge trailing side 44 . As seen in FIG. 8 , the wedge also has oppositely disposed lateral sides 46 . In the preferred embodiment, shoulders 40 are formed on each of the lateral sides 46 of the plunger 32 . An abutment 50 is formed on the side opposite leading side 42 .
As can be best seen in FIGS. 1 and 4 , when the plunger 32 is in its normal position in the bore 30 , the cylindrical portion 34 resides below the surface of the shaft 22 and the wedge-shaped portion 36 extends above the surface of the shaft 22 . Referring to FIGS. 4 and 9 , the wedge leading side 42 of the plunger 32 is proximate the surface of the shaft 22 . The top surface of the plunger 32 extends angularly upwardly away from the surface of the shaft 22 to define a ramped engaging surface 48 and the abutment 50 . The abutment 50 is perpendicular or normal to the axis of the shaft 22 and faces the direction of the second end 26 .
The plunger 32 and shaft 22 could be made from any suitable materials such as, but not limited to, alloy steels, carbon steels, stainless steel, or aluminum alloys.
To assemble the self-locking pin 20 , the spring 54 is first placed in the re-entrant bore 30 . Next, the plunger 32 is placed in the bore 30 in the correct orientation. The pin 20 is held in place, with the plunger 32 in its depressed position, by one tool while another tool punches the shaft 22 using a radius stake punch perpendicular to the pin 20 . The staking 52 causes a change in the shape of the shaft 22 around the entrance to the bore 30 . The smooth round bore 30 is formed to a substantially oval shape with some depth as best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . In the preferred embodiment, the shaft 22 is staked on the lateral sides of the wedge. The staking 52 forms inwardly extending marginal portions. This is best shown in FIG. 10 . These inwardly extending portions abut the shoulder 40 of the plunger 32 (see FIGS. 7 through 9 ) as the spring 54 urges the plunger 32 outwardly of the bore 30 . The edge of the staking 52 abuts the flat lateral sides 46 and surface 40 of the plunger 32 and prevents the plunger 32 from rotating or being removed from the bore 30 . Alternately, and as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 respectively, a single stake may be placed behind the plunger or a pair of stakes may be placed in front of and behind the plunger.
FIGS. 11 and 11A show first alternate embodiments of the plunger. The plunger 132 embodied in FIG. 11 has a transitional angle 138 on only the wedge trailing side 144 . This creates only one shoulder 140 , which is located on the wedge trailing side 144 . Using this plunger 132 embodiment, the shaft 22 is preferably staked only on the plunger trailing side as shown in FIG. 14 .
The plunger 232 embodied in FIG. 11A has transitional angles 238 on both the wedge trailing side 244 and the wedge leading side 242 . This creates shoulders 240 on both the wedge trailing side 244 and the wedge leading side 242 . Using this plunger 232 embodiment, the shaft is preferably staked on both the wedge trailing side 244 and the wedge leading side 242 as shown in FIG. 15 .
FIGS. 12 , 12 A and 12 B show other alternate embodiments of the plunger. FIG. 12 depicts a double-wedge plunger 332 having opposite ramped engaging surfaces 348 , 350 that meet at an edge 352 . FIG. 12A shows a conical plunger 432 terminating at a point 434 and FIG. 12B depicts a radiused plunger 532 having a smooth, domed top 534 . It is to be understood that any of the plungers could be staked in any of the pins as described.
FIGS. 13 and 16 show an alternate embodiment of the self-locking pin 20 in which two plungers 132 are utilized. As shown in FIG. 13 , the two plungers 132 are disposed in one bore 30 . The plungers 132 are separated by a spring 54 , biasing each plunger 132 in an outward direction. Each plunger 132 is of the preferred embodiment of the plunger 132 . The shaft 22 is staked on the lateral sides 46 of each plunger 132 .
FIG. 17 shows the self-locking pin 20 inserted through an aperture. In regular use, the self-locking pin 20 is inserted through an aperture in at least one object with a restraining surface 60 . The ramped engaging surface 48 of the plunger 32 abuts the inner surface 62 of the aperture. The force of the inner surface 62 of the aperture against the ramped engaging surface 48 of the plunger 32 causes the plunger 32 to be pushed inwardly against the bias of the spring 54 into the bore 30 until the abutment 50 is no longer exposed. The pin 20 can then be installed completely by continuing to push the pin 20 through the aperture. Once the pin 20 is installed and the ramped engaging surface 48 clears the aperture the plunger 32 pops back up against the bias of the spring 54 . As shown in FIG. 17 , the flat abutment 50 of the plunger 32 abuts the restraining surface 60 of the object, preventing the pin 20 from being withdrawn from the aperture in a similar manner.
FIGS. 18 through 21 show an alternate embodiment of the self-locking pin 20 further including a lockable plunger 80 . Plunger 80 includes a recess 82 formed in its ramped engaging surface 48 for receiving a tool T. A single stake 52 is placed behind the plunger 80 . When partially depressed (typically with the use of the tool) the plunger 80 may be rotated, as shown in FIG. 19 . The rotation allows plunger 80 to be trapped beneath the stake 52 and therefore hold the plunger in a depressed or retracted position (see FIG. 21 ). Rotating the plunger 80 in either direction allows the plunger to return to its former position where it can be freely depressed and extended. Alternately, the orientation of the plunger may be changed by one hundred eighty degrees (180 degrees).
The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, 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. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
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A self-locking pin having a shaft, a headed end, and detent means biased in a bore in the pin. The portion of the detent or plunger that extends outwardly from the bore is wedge-shaped, while the portion of the plunger disposed inside the bore is cylindrical. A transitional angle is formed at the point where the configuration of the plunger changes from cylindrical to wedge-shaped. The transitional angle defines shoulders on either side of the plunger. The shaft is staked at points along the perimeter of the bore so that the inwardly extending surface created by the staking abuts the shoulders and prevents the plunger from rotating or being removed from the bore. In an alternate embodiment, the plunger may be rotated to a locked depressed position.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a bone fixation assembly and, in particular, to a low profile fastening assembly for securing an orthopedic device to bone tissue.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As is known in the field of orthopedic surgery, and more specifically spinal surgery, orthopedic fasteners may be used for fixation or for the anchoring of orthopedic devices or instruments to bone tissue. An exemplary use of fasteners may include using the fastener to anchor an orthopedic device, such as a bone plate, a spinal rod or a spinal spacer to a vertebral body for the treatment of a deformity or defect in a patient's spine. Focusing on the bone plate example, fasteners can be secured to a number of vertebral bodies and a bone plate can be connected to the vertebral bodies via the bone anchors to fuse a segment of the spine. In another example, orthopedic fasteners can be used to fix the location of a spinal spacer once the spacer is implanted between adjacent vertebral bodies. In yet another example, fasteners can be anchored to a number of vertebral bodies to fasten a spinal rod in place along a spinal column to treat a spinal deformity.
However, the structure of spinal elements presents unique challenges to the use of orthopedic implants for supporting or immobilizing vertebral bodies. Among the challenges involved in supporting or fusing vertebral bodies is the effective installation of an orthopedic implant that will resist migration despite the rotational and translational forces placed upon the plate resulting from spinal loading and movement. Also, for certain implants, having low profile characteristics is beneficial in terms of patient comfort as well as anatomic compatibility.
Furthermore, over time, it has been found that as a result of the forces placed upon the orthopedic implants and fasteners resulting from the movement of the spine and/or bone deterioration, the orthopedic fasteners can begin to “back out” from their installed position eventually resulting in the fasteners disconnecting from the implant and the implant migrating from the area of treatment.
As such, there exists a need for a fastening system that provides for low profile placement of the bone anchor or screws and provides a mechanism where the fasteners are blocked to prevent the anchors from “backing out” of their installed position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an anchor assembly that can be used for the fixation or fastening of orthopedic implants to bone tissue. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a low profile variable angle or fixed angle fastener assembly that is able to securely connect the orthopedic device to bone tissue. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention further provides a fastener assembly having a locking mechanism that will quickly and easily lock the anchor assembly with respect to the orthopedic device.
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 or exemplary embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an fastening assembly;
FIG. 2 is a cross sectional side view of the fastening assembly shown in FIG. 1 ; and
FIG. 3 is schematic cross sectional side view of a prior art anchor system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 , a preferred embodiment of a fastening assembly 10 is illustrated. The fastening assembly 10 preferably includes a fastener 12 , a polyaxial locking head 24 and a locking mechanism 14 . The fastening assembly 10 is preferably constructed from any biocompatible material including, but not limited to, stainless steel alloys, titanium, titanium based alloys, or polymeric materials. Although the fastener 12 will be discussed in the context of an orthopedic screw, it is contemplated that the fastener 12 can be any type of fastening element including, but not limited to, a hook, a pin, or a nail.
In a preferred embodiment, the fastener 12 includes, concentric to a longitudinal axis 16 , a head portion 18 , a neck portion 20 and a shank portion 22 . The head portion 18 connects to the shank portion 22 through the neck portion 20 . The neck portion 20 of the fastener 12 , preferably, integrally connects the head portion 18 with the shank portion 22 . The diameter of the neck portion 20 is preferably dimensioned to match a minor diameter of the fastener 12 . By having the diameter of the neck portion 20 dimensioned at least as large as the minor diameter of the fastener 12 , the overall rigidity and strength of the fastener 12 is increased.
In a preferred embodiment, the shank portion 22 of the fastener 12 includes a shaft 23 surrounded at least in part by a thread portion 25 . The diameter of the shaft 23 is the minor diameter of the fastener 12 . In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the shaft 23 remains generally constant from a proximal end of the shaft 23 toward a distal end of the shaft 23 . The constant diameter of a majority portion of the shaft 23 allows for optimal fastener positioning when the fastener 12 is inserted into a predetermined area in the bone tissue. The constant diameter also allows for varying the depth positioning of the fastener 12 in the bone. For example, if a surgeon places the fastener 12 into bone tissue at a first depth and decides the placement is more optimal at a second, shallower depth, the fastener 12 can be backed out to the second depth and still remain fixed in the bone. In another embodiment, the diameter of the shaft 23 may vary along its length, including increasing in diameter from the proximal end to the distal end or decreasing in diameter from the proximal end to the distal end.
With continued reference to FIGS. 1-2 , the thread portion 25 surrounding the shaft 23 extends, in a preferred embodiment, from the distal end of the shaft 23 to the neck portion 20 . In another preferred embodiment, the thread portion 25 may extend along only a portion of shaft 23 . The thread portion 25 is preferably a Modified Buttress thread but the thread can be any other type of threading that is anatomically conforming, including, but not limited to Buttress, Acme, Unified, Whitworth and B&S Worm threads.
In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the thread portion 25 decreases towards the distal end of the fastener 12 . By having a decreased diameter thread portion 25 near the distal end of the fastener 12 , the fastener 12 can be self-starting. In another preferred embodiment, fastener 12 may also include at least one flute to clear any chips, dust, or debris generated when the fastener 12 is implanted into bone tissue.
As best seen in FIG. 1 , in a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the head portion 18 of the fastener 12 has a generally spherical shape and is preferably surrounded by the polyaxial locking head 24 . In another preferred embodiment, the polyaxial locking head 24 includes at least one extension 26 , but, preferably includes two extensions 26 ; each extension 26 being located diametrically opposite to the other on the polyaxial locking head 24 . Preferably, also located on polyaxial locking head 24 is at least one, but preferably two, notches or openings 28 . The notches 28 are configured and dimensioned to correspond with the end of a driving instrument (not shown) designed to engage the polyaxial locking head 24 . This engagement allows a user to manipulate the polyaxial locking head 24 through the driving instrument. Similarly, the head portion 18 of the fastener 12 also preferably includes a cavity or opening 30 configured and dimensioned to correspond with the end of the same driving instrument or a separate driving instrument (not shown) designed to engage the fastener 12 . This engagement allows a user to drive the fastener 12 into bone tissue and otherwise manipulate the fastener 12 .
Turning back to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the generally spherical shape of the head portion 18 is configured and dimensioned to be received within a correspondingly shaped cavity 32 in the polyaxial locking head 24 . The shape of the head portion 18 and the correspondingly shaped cavity 32 allows the fastener 12 to pivot, rotate and/or move with respect to the polyaxial locking head 24 . It should be noted that the head portion 18 and the cavity 32 are dimensioned such that the head portion 18 cannot be removed or otherwise disengaged from the cavity 32 of the polyaxial locking head 24 . In another embodiment, instead of allowing the fastener 12 to pivot, rotate and/or move with respect to the polyaxial locking head 24 , the head portion 18 and the correspondingly shaped cavity 32 may be configured and dimensioned to keep the fastener 12 in a fixed position. In a preferred embodiment, the head portion 18 may include texturing 35 that extends along at least a portion of the head portion 18 . The texturing 35 on the head portion 18 provides additional frictional surfaces which aid in gripping the fastener 12 and holding the fastener 12 in place with respect to the polyaxial locking head 24 .
In an exemplary use with an orthopedic device, the fastener 12 with the polyaxial locking head 24 is received in an opening 34 in an orthopedic device 36 . The opening is appropriately configured and dimensioned to receive the fastener 12 and the polyaxial locking head 24 such that the polyaxial locking head 24 can be rotated with respect to the device 36 and the fastener 12 can be pivoted, rotated or moved until the desired orientation is met with respect to the polyaxial locking head 24 and/or the device 36 . In a preferred embodiment, the opening 34 includes an upper opening 37 which receives the polyaxial locking head 24 and the head portion 18 of the fastener 12 and a lower opening 39 which receives the shank portion 22 . In a preferred embodiment, the upper opening 37 also includes extensions 38 which are configured and dimensioned to receive the extensions 26 .
As mentioned above, in a preferred embodiment, the fastener assembly 10 includes the locking mechanism 14 . The locking mechanism 14 will lock the fastener assembly 10 with respect to the orthopedic device 36 thereby preventing the fastener assembly 10 from disengaging or “backing out” from the orthopedic device 36 . The locking mechanism 14 further assists in engaging the fastener 12 and the polyaxial locking head 24 with the opening 34 in the orthopedic device 36 in a low-profile arrangement. In a preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism 14 includes extensions 26 of the polyaxial locking head 24 , corresponding extensions 38 in the opening 34 , and grooves 40 . In a preferred embodiment, the grooves 40 extend from one extension 38 to the other extension 38 and are generally radial. Preferably, the grooves 40 are located between the upper surface 42 and a lower surface 46 of the device 36 .
In an exemplary use of the fastener assembly 10 with the orthopedic device 36 , the orthopedic device 36 is first oriented and placed in the area of treatment. The orthopedic device 36 is then fastened to the bone tissue via at least one fastener assembly 10 which is received in at least one opening 34 of the orthopedic device 36 . More specifically, looking at FIGS. 1-2 , in a preferred embodiment, the fastener 12 and the polyaxial locking head 24 are received in opening 34 such that the shank portion 22 passes through the lower opening 39 and the polyaxial locking head 24 and head portion 18 are receiving and seated in the upper opening 37 . The fastener 12 via notch 30 can then be driven into the bony tissue. As best seen in FIG. 2 , when received in the opening 34 , the polyaxial locking head 24 and the fastener 12 are received in a low profile manner. In other words, regardless of the position of fastener 12 , even when the fastener 12 is rotated, pivoted, or otherwise moved, the head portion 18 of the fastener 12 will not breach the plane defined by an upper surface 42 of the device 36 . This is in contrast to prior art systems, one of which is shown in FIG. 3 , where the head of a fastener will breach the plane defined by the upper surface of the orthopedic implant. This is particularly true when the fastener is installed at a steep or sharp angle.
Once the fastener assembly 10 is seated in the cavity 34 , the fastener assembly 10 can be locked in the opening 34 by actuating the locking mechanism 14 . In a preferred embodiment, a user actuates locking mechanism 14 by rotating the polyaxial locking head 24 via notches 28 in a first direction. The rotational movement causes the extensions 26 which are seated in the extensions 38 to rotate into the grooves 40 . Although only one groove is shown in broken lines in FIG. 1 , it should be understood that there are two sets of diametrically opposed grooves 40 which extend in an annular fashion between the extensions 38 . In a preferred embodiment, the grooves 40 include a stop to provide feedback to the user that the polyaxial locking head 24 has been fully rotated and the locking assembly 14 is engaged. In another preferred embodiment, the grooves 40 change in dimension so that the protrusions 26 can be captured in grooves 40 in an interference manner as the polyaxial locking head 24 is rotated. In yet another preferred embodiment, the grooves 40 include protrusions that provide audible and tactile feedback to the user as the user locks the fastening assembly 10 .
With the polyaxial locking head 24 rotated, the fastener assembly 10 is locked in the opening 34 since the protrusion 26 in the grooves 40 prevents the polyaxial locking head 24 and fastener 12 from disengaging or “backing out” from the opening 34 . If a user wants to unlock the locking mechanism 14 and remove fastener assembly 10 from the opening 34 of device 36 , the user would simply rotate the polyaxial locking cap 24 via notches 28 in a second direction thereby rotating the protrusions 28 out of grooves 40 and into extensions 38 . At that point the locking mechanism 14 is disengaged and the fastener assembly 10 can be removed from the opening 34 of the orthopedic device 36 .
The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
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In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fastener assembly that can be used for the fixation or anchoring of orthopedic devices or instruments to bone tissue. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a low profile variable angle or fixed angle fastener assembly that is able to securely connect the orthopedic device to bone tissue. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fastener assembly having a locking mechanism that will quickly and easily lock the fastener assembly with respect to the orthopedic device.
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[0001] The present invention relates to the fixation of structural components to a substrate, and in particular to the laser welding of a semiconductor material, e.g. silicon, indium phosphide (InP), and gallium arsenide (GaAs), structural components to a like substrate, used in the fiberoptics industry.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The basic building block for many of the new fiber optics devices is a semiconductorbased substrate commonly known as an optical micro-bench. Optical components, such as lenses, amplifiers and switches, are mounted on the optical microbench, while the ends of optical fibers are fixed to the optical micro-bench in optical alignment with the components. Two major concerns when using optical micro-benches are: the alignment of the fibers, and the hermetic sealing of the components. Up until now these concerns have been addressed using several very different techniques.
[0003] Optical fiber alignment techniques are divided into two classes, passive and active. Passive alignment techniques usually rely on grooves etched in the micro-bench using very strict tolerances. Alternatively, separate structural components, which are positioned relative to the micro-bench using one of a variety of visual or structural keys, can also be used. In the method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,118,917 issued Sep. 12, 2000 to Lee et al, the separate structural components are aligned using alignment platforms, which include corresponding bumps and grooves. The structural components are fixed to the micro-bench using an optical adhesive or by welding metal plates, previously deposited on corresponding surfaces.
[0004] In active alignment techniques the fiber is moved relative to the optical component until optical coupling above a certain level is measured. Subsequently, the fiber is fixed to the micro-bench. In the method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,547 issued Oct. 27, 1987 to Enochs, Scott R metal layers and pads coated on the various elements are required to fix everything together. In the method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,811 issued May 11, 1993 to Avelange et al, metal aligning plates are laser soldered to a metal sleeve surrounding an optical fiber, after the fiber has been aligned with a laser. U.S. Pat. No. 5,319,729 issued Jun. 7, 1994 to Allen et al discloses an alignment technique in which silica fibers are welded directly to a silica block. This patented method necessitates the use of a CO 2 laser to raise the temperature of the block to over 2000° C., which causes all of the elements subjected to the laser to locally deform.
[0005] Similarly, in the area of hermetic sealing, various techniques have been used to seal a casing around an optical component. Most of the prior art techniques, including the one disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,104 issued Jun. 13, 2000 to Higashikawa, relate to fixing structural components of different materials using some form of adhesive, e.g. solder, glue, low-melting glass. Typically, special coatings or plates are required to enable the various elements to bond. Alternatively, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,400,870 issued Aug. 30, 1983 to Islam, a separate housing is provided to encapsulate the substrate. In this case a separate plate is needed to mount the substrate to the housing.
[0006] Another example of a method of fixing a structural component to a micro-bench is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No 5,995,688, wherein a structural component is fixed to the micro-bench using solder, which connects predisposed bonding sites on the structural component to corresponding predisposed bonding sites on the microbench.
[0007] As evidenced by the aforementioned examples, the prior art alignment and hermetic sealing techniques utilize a variety of different labor-intensive methods to fix the various elements together. Most of these examples require special metal coatings or plates and usually require some form of separate bonding medium.
[0008] An object of the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a method of fixing a semiconductor structural component, e.g. one made of silicon, InP or GaAs, to a micro-bench of similar material without the need for specially interposed mounting surfaces, without the need for a separate bonding material, and without the need for laser wavelengths and excessive temperatures harmful to the remainder of the elements.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for hermetically sealing an optical component on a semiconductor micro-bench, by directly joining a semiconductor cap to the micro-bench, thereby hermetically sealing the optical component therein.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a method of fixing a first semiconductor component to a second semiconductor component comprising the steps of:
[0011] a) providing a first semiconductor component, such as a micro-bench, typically for supporting an optical element;
[0012] b) providing a second semiconductor structural component, typically for fixation to the micro-bench;
[0013] c) positioning the first semiconductor component in close proximity to the second semiconductor component establishing a fixation area, where the first and second semiconductor components will be joined together; and
[0014] d) directing an optical beam at the fixation area with sufficient power to fix adjacent portions on both first and second semiconductor components together.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The invention will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, wherein:
[0016] FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrate several laser welded melt runs using the laser parameters detailed in Table 1;
[0017] [0017]FIG. 4 illustrates the difference in weld quality between a weld conducted in an air atmosphere and a weld conducted in an inert (argon) atmosphere;
[0018] [0018]FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the method of the present invention involving a passive alignment technique;
[0019] [0019]FIG. 7 is a plan view of a device resulting from the use of the method of the present invention involving an active alignment technique;
[0020] [0020]FIG. 8 is a side view of a device resulting from the use of the method of the present invention involving a hermetic sealing technique; and
[0021] [0021]FIG. 9 is a plan view of the device of FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The following description refers specifically to silicon, however, the same basic principles hold true for all semiconductor materials.
[0023] Silicon is a brittle material-being crystalline, the ductility is essentially zero. Moreover, in typical metals, the density of the molten form is lower than that of the solid at the same temperature by 5-10%. However, in Silicon the reverse situation applies, with the liquid form having a higher density than the solid by about 8%. This phenomenon is likely to lead to a rather different crack formation mechanism. In metals, cracks and voids can occur if the cooling and contracting molten material fails to fully flow back towards the melt center before it solidifies. This can be controlled to some extent by external parameters controlling the cooling rates. The surface stresses in welded metals, therefore, tend to be tensile.
[0024] In general very high power short pulses lasers tend to drill into the silicon, while low power, long pulse lasers cause severe ablation and cracking. Typically, CO 2 lasers at wavelengths of between 9000 and 11000 nm are used for welding applications, e.g. for silica, due to the high powers obtainable thereby. However, silicon is effectively transparent to wavelengths above 1200 nm. There will be some absorption above this wavelength level, but very high power levels will be required to obtain the required melt condition. Accordingly, the choice of lasers is usually limited to ones from ultraviolet (150 nm) up to 5000 nm, including more commonly available lasers such as pulsed Copper Vapor Lasers (CVL) at 511 nm or 589 nm, doubled frequency Neodymium:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers at 532 nm, and continuous wave (CW) or pulsed Nd:YAG lasers at 1064 nm. The optical window for the other semiconductor materials, e.g. InP and GaAs, will be slightly different and may require a different laser selection. Moreover, any optical beam that generates enough power can be used, however lasers are an obvious choice.
[0025] Particularly good results using silicon have been observed from the long pulse (0.1 ms to 20 ms Nd:YAG laser@1064 nm) having a peak power density in the range of 5 to 20 MW/cm 2 . Even more specifically, when the laser has pulse duration of between 8 and 16 ms, peak power between 100 and 500 W, pulse energy between 1 and 4 J, a pulse repetition frequency of 3 to 16 pps, and an average power of 4.8 to 32 W. The following table details the various laser parameters for the tracks, using silicon and a 1064 Nd:YAG laser, illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 .
TABLE 1 Laser Parameters for Silicon Melt Runs of FIGS. 1 to 3 Pulse Peak Pulse PRF Ave Track Durations (ms) Power (W) Energy (J) (pps) Power (W) 1 .5 3000 1.5 1 1.5 2 1 1500 1.5 1 1.5 3 2 750 1.5 1 1.5 4 4 300 1.2 1 1.2 5 4 300 1.2 2 2.4 6 8 150 1.2 2 2.4 7 8 150 1.2 3 4.8 8 8 150 1.2 8 9.6 9 8 300 2.4 8 19.2 10 8 500 4 8 32 11 10 200 2 8 16 12 10 100 1 16 16 13 10 100 1 16 16 14 16 150 2.4 6 14 15 16 100 1.6 6 9.4 16 8 200 1.6 6 9.6 17 4 400 1.6 6 9.6 18 4 200 0.8 6 4.8 19 4 100 0.4 12 4.8 20 4 50 0.2 24 4.8 21 4 30 0.12 50 6
[0026] As can be seen from the Table, the laser pulse energy in tracks 1 to 4 remained essentially the same, but the peak power was reduced from 3 kW to 1.5 kW to 750W and 300W. The high peak power tracks show significant disturbance and ejected material. This material is brown in color and is therefore assumed to contain some elemental Silicon. At the lower peak powers, there is more evidence of material re-flow rather than ejection. There is also a white edge to the spots or tracks. This is also evident in FIG. 2, and was presumed to be Silicon oxide. For track 5 the pulse repetition rate was doubled to 2 pps and again to 4 pps for track 7 and 8 pps for track 8 . These tracks show the melting caused by single pulses joining into a coherent melt-run. The crack visible at the bottom of the right hand image in FIG. 1 is the same one as appears at the top of the left-hand image in FIG. 2 and may be caused by the run 10 which removed a significant amount of material. In the lower power runs, in particular nos. 12 & 13 , the surface of the Silicon appears to have been “torn away”.
[0027] To avoid oxidation of the semiconductor material, it is highly recommended that the welding be carried out in an inert atmosphere, such as Argon, Nitrogen, Helium, Xenon, and Krypton. The inert atmosphere can be provided by simply flowing the inert gas over the fixation area or by positioning all of the elements in a sealed chamber flushed with an inert gas. FIG. 4 illustrates the difference between a melt run in air and a melt run in an Argon atmosphere. The melt run in air displays uneven tearing on the surface, while the Argon run has a clear, almost metallic finish.
[0028] It was found experimentally that, when welding samples with polished face against polished face, if the gap between the edges to be welded was less than 10 μm, there was a tendency for a crack to form in the bottom (center) of the weld. This effect appeared reproducible across about 10 samples. Conversely, using the same laser parameters, cracks did not form where the gap was >10 μm.
[0029] Typical melt depths, which give adequate strength, are in the order of 100-150 μm for a 100 μm radius spot size and a translation speed of from 0.1 mm/s to 1 mm/s. FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate one form of a passive alignment system in which an optical fiber 1 is brought into alignment with an optical component, which is mounted on a semiconductor (Si, InP, GaN, SiC or GaAs) substrate 3 . Initially, a groove 4 is provided for supporting the fiber 1 on the substrate 3 . The groove 4 can be etched directly from the substrate 3 or alternatively can be provided in a separate fiber holder 6 , which is mounted on the substrate 3 . Next the optical component, e.g. a lens, a laser, a photodetector, a dichroic filter, a waveguide, a switch, a polarizer, a waveplate or a polarization rotator, is mounted in a structural component 2 , which is constructed of the same material as the substrate, e.g. silicon, InP or GaAs. Then the structural component is positioned on the substrate 3 in a predetermined location in alignment with the groove 4 . A fixation area is created at the intersection of the structural component 2 and the substrate 3 . Subsequently, an optical beam, e.g. a laser (not shown), directs a beam at the fixation area, creating a joint 11 , which fixes the structural component 2 to the substrate 3 . The joint 11 is preferably a solid weld; however an intermittent weld or any other joint, e.g. brazing, with strength enough to hold the components together will do. Finally, the fiber 1 is positioned in the groove 4 and held therein, using mounting clips 7 . The mounting clips 7 can take any form, however they preferably take the form of spring fingers extending from the sides of a groove 4 etched from the holder 6 or substrate 3 . In this position minor adjustments can be made to the fiber, however, when the end 12 of the fiber 1 is satisfactorily aligned with the optical component, the fiber 1 is fixed to the mounting clips 7 using any known fixation process, including welding or the use of well-known solders or adhesives.
[0030] The fiber holder 6 can also be laser welded to the substrate 3 using the process according to the present invention resulting in weld 13 . The weld 13 can either be a continuous weld or a series of intermittent welds. Accordingly, it is possible to use a laser welder to connect all of the components together without the need for any special coatings or adhesives.
[0031] In another embodiment, the welding step is divided into two or more steps, each step including directing the beam at only a portion of the total fixation area and making minor adjustments to the position of the structural component 2 until the optical component and the fiber 1 are optically aligned.
[0032] [0032]FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a device, which has been aligned using an active alignment system. In this embodiment the optical fiber 1 is aligned with the optical component 2 , mounted on the substrate 3 , using a structural component in the form of a movable platform 16 . The substrate 3 includes a groove 18 for receiving the fiber 1 , and mounting clips 19 for securing the fiber 1 in the groove 18 . In the illustrated embodiment the movable platform 16 is etched from the substrate 3 using a deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) process, creating a groove 21 therearound. The platform 16 is comprised of a spring portion 22 and a mounting portion 23 . The spring portion 22 is in the form of a baffle spring, which has one end 24 extending from the wall of the groove 21 . The mounting portion 23 includes a groove 26 , aligned with groove 18 , for receiving the fiber 1 , and mounting clips 27 for securing the fiber 1 in the groove 26 . The mounting portion 23 is also provided with a hole 28 , which enables the mounting portion 23 to be engaged by an actuator (not shown). Movement of the platform 16 by the actuator enables the end 11 of the fiber 1 to be moved relative to the optical device 2 until sufficient optical coupling is established. When optical coupling above a predetermined threshold is achieved, a beam of light from a laser is directed at one or more fixation areas creating welds 29 . In this case the two welded surfaces do not abut. Accordingly, the welds 29 span the groove 21 between the platform 16 and the substrate 3 . After the platform 16 has been welded to the substrate 3 , the end 24 of the baffle spring 22 is cut, thereby releasing any stress therein. In this case both the substrate 3 and the platform 16 may comprise integrated circuitry.
[0033] [0033]FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate how the method of the present invention is used for hermetically sealing an optical component 2 on the substrate 3 . In this case the structural component is a semiconductor (Si, InP, GaN, SiC or GaAs) cap 31 , which is positioned over top of the optical component 2 . The fixation area extends all the way around the cap 31 , i.e. where the cap 31 meets the substrate 3 . In the illustrated embodiment the optical component 2 is a photodiode, which uses the cap 31 as an optical window, i.e. the semiconductor cap is transparent to wavelengths between 1300 and 1500 nm. A lens (not shown) can also be provided integral with the cap 31 for directing the light. Dependent upon the ultimate use of optical component 2 , the substrate 3 may comprise an integrated circuit (IC). The various electrical leads and optical waveguides can be coupled to the IC through hermetic metalized vias in the substrate 3 or cap 31 . To hermetically seal the component 2 , a laser with the aforementioned characteristics creates a semiconductor-to-semiconductor welded joint 32 , corresponding to the fixation area, around the entire cap 31 . The joint 32 may itself form the basis for an electrical contact.
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Many optical components now use a microelectronic substrate called an optical micro-bench as a base from which to build. Conventional devices use one or more methods of fixing the various elements together and/or onto the semiconductor micro-bench. Typically these conventional methods require special coatings to be deposited on the substrate, and the use of a separate bonding material, e.g. solder, glass or adhesive. The present invention relates to the direct fixation of a semiconductor, e.g. silicon, indium phosphide or gallium arsenide, structural component to the micro-bench made of a similar material using a laser welding technique, which uses wavelengths that are not harmful to the other elements of the component. The present invention eliminates the use of any separate bonding material, as well as several steps in the bonding process.
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This application is a 35 U.S.C. §371 National Stage Application of PCT/EP2013/065867, filed on Jul. 29, 2013, which claims the benefit of priority to Serial No. DE 10 2012 217 225.4, filed on Sep. 25, 2012 in Germany, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
The disclosure relates to an internal gear pump. Internal gear pumps of this kind are used in slip-controlled and/or power-operated vehicle brake systems in place of piston pumps that are normally used, and are often referred to, though not entirely accurately, as return pumps.
BACKGROUND
Internal gear pumps are known. They have a pinion, that is to say an externally toothed gearwheel, which is arranged eccentrically in an internally toothed annulus and meshes at one point on the circumference or in a circumferential segment with the annulus. The pinion and the annulus can also be understood as gearwheels of the internal gear pump. By driving one of the two gearwheels in rotation, normally the pinion, the other gearwheel, that is to say normally the annulus, is also driven in rotation at the same time, and the internal gear pump delivers fluid in a manner known per se, delivering brake fluid in a hydraulic vehicle brake system.
Opposite the circumferential segment in which the pinion meshes with the annulus, the internal gear pump has a crescent-shaped free space between the pinion and the annulus, here referred to as a pump space. Arranged in the pump space is a divider, which divides the pump space into a suction zone and a discharge zone. Owing to its typical shape, the divider is also referred to as a crescent or crescent piece, and another name is filler piece. A typically convex inner side of the divider rests on tooth tips of teeth of the pinion, and a typically outwardly curved outer side of the divider rests on tooth tips of teeth of the annulus, with the result that the divider encloses fluid volumes in tooth gaps between the teeth of the gearwheels of the internal gear pump. Driving in rotation causes the gearwheels to pump the fluid in the tooth gaps from the suction side to the discharge side.
German Laid-Open Application DE 10 2009 047 643 A1 discloses an internal gear pump of this kind, the divider of which is of multipart construction and has an inner part, the inner side of which rests on the tooth tips of the teeth of the pinion, and an outer part, the outer side of which rests on the tooth tips of teeth of the annulus. The inner part and the outer part of the divider of the known internal gear pump are supported in a circumferential direction against a pressure in the discharge zone by a pin, which forms an abutment. The pin forming the abutment is arranged on the suction side of the divider and passes transversely or parallel to the axis through the pump space.
SUMMARY
The internal gear pump according to the disclosure has a multipart divider having an inner part, which rests on tooth tips of teeth of a pinion, and an outer part, which rests on tooth tips of teeth of an annulus. According to the disclosure, the inner part and the outer part of the divider are connected to one another movably in a radial direction Like the terms “circumferentially”, “circumferential direction” and “axially” used below, “radially” relates to the internal gear pump and to an envisaged installation position of the parts. Mobility of the inner part and of the outer part in a direction other than in a radial direction is not excluded. The mobility of the inner part and of the outer part in a radial direction of the internal gear pump allows the envisaged contact of the inner part and the outer part with the tooth tips of the teeth of the gearwheels of the internal gear pump. The connection of the inner part to the outer part allows handling of the multipart divider as one component and simplifies assembly of the internal gear pump.
Advantageous embodiments and developments of the disclosure are found in the claims.
According to one embodiment, the inner part and the outer part engage one behind the other with play in a radial direction in order to provide the connection with mobility in a radial direction. The development according some embodiments envisages that the outer part reaches around the inner part or vice versa at circumferential ends. These embodiments of the disclosure allow simple connection of the inner part and of the outer part of the divider with mobility in a radial direction without additional components.
According to one embodiment, the inner part is supported on the outer part in a circumferential direction. This means that the inner part rests on the outer part, simplifying sealing between the inner part and the outer part. According to another particular embodiment, the pump includes the reverse situation, i.e. that the outer part is supported on the inner part in a circumferential direction. Preferably, just one of the two parts of the divider is supported directly on an abutment of the internal gear pump in a circumferential direction, while the other part is supported indirectly on the abutment via the first part.
According to yet another embodiment, the design of components of the divider comprises a subassembly that can be preassembled, which, after being preassembled, can be inserted like a single component into the pump space between the gearwheels of the internal gearwheels.
The internal gear pump according to the disclosure is provided, in particular, as a hydraulic pump for a hydraulic slip-controlled and/or power-operated vehicle brake system. In slip-controlled vehicle brake systems, hydraulic pumps are also referred to as return pumps and are nowadays predominantly embodied as piston pumps.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The disclosure is explained in greater detail below by means of an embodiment illustrated in the drawing. The single FIGURE shows an internal gear pump according to the disclosure in an end view.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The internal gear pump 1 according to the disclosure illustrated in the drawing has an externally toothed gearwheel, referred to here as pinion 2 , and an internally toothed gearwheel, referred to here as annulus 3 . The pinion 2 is arranged parallel to the axis and eccentrically in the annulus 3 in such a way that the pinion 2 meshes with the annulus 3 . The pinion 2 is fixed for conjoint rotation on a pump shaft 4 , by means of which the pinion 2 and, via the pinion 2 , the annulus 3 meshing therewith can be driven in rotation. A direction of rotation is indicated by arrows P. The annulus 3 is provided with rotary sliding support in a bearing ring 5 .
Opposite a circumferential segment in which the pinion 2 meshes with the annulus 3 , the internal gear pump 1 has a crescent-shaped free space, which is referred to here as pump space 6 . Arranged in the pump space 6 is a multipart divider 7 , which is likewise crescent- or semi-crescent-shaped and which divides the pump space 6 into a suction zone 8 and a discharge zone 9 . The suction zone 8 communicates with a pump inlet 10 , which is embodied as a bore and opens transversely, i.e. parallel to the axis, with respect to the internal gear pump 1 from one side into the suction zone 8 of the pump space 6 . The discharge zone 9 communicates with a pump outlet 11 , which is embodied in this embodiment as an arc-shaped slot and opens from one side into the discharge zone 9 of the pump space 6 . The arc-shaped pump outlet 11 is partially overlapped by the divider 7 and extends by a certain amount beyond a discharge end of the divider 7 into the discharge zone 9 of the pump space 6 in a circumferential direction.
The multipart divider 7 has an arc-shaped inner part 12 and a likewise arc-shaped and stirrup-shaped outer part 13 . A concave and cylindrical inner side of the inner part 12 rests on tooth tips of teeth of the pinion 2 and a convex cylindrical outer side of the outer part rests on tooth tips of teeth of the annulus 3 . Through the contact with the tooth tips of the pinion 2 and of the annulus 3 , the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 of the divider 7 enclose fluid in tooth gaps between the teeth of the pinion 2 and of the annulus 3 , whereby fluid is pumped from the suction zone 8 to the discharge zone 9 when the pinion 2 and the annulus 3 are driven in rotation. In the case of the envisaged use of the internal gear pump 1 as a hydraulic pump of a hydraulic vehicle brake system, the fluid delivered is brake fluid.
At the circumferential ends, the outer part 13 reaches around the inner part 12 to such an extent that a rear engagement is formed which connects the inner part 12 to the outer part 13 with play in a radial direction. The inner part 12 connected by the rear engagement or surrounded at the ends by the outer part 13 are movable relative to one another in a radial direction.
Arranged in a gap between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 is a leaf spring 14 , which pushes the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 apart and, as envisaged, thereby pushes them into contact with the tooth tips of the teeth of the pinion 2 and of the annulus 3 . In order to bring about a spring force, the leaf spring 14 can be flat, or can be curved with a different curvature to that of the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 or can be corrugated in the undeformed state. This list is not exhaustive.
At the end adjacent to the discharge zone, the gap between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 , in which the leaf spring 14 is arranged, communicates with the discharge zone 9 , with the result that the same pressure prevails in the gap between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 as in the discharge zone 9 . This pressure likewise pushes the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 of the divider 7 apart and against the tooth tips of the teeth of the pinion 2 and of the annulus 3 .
At the end adjacent to the suction zone, a sealing element 15 is arranged between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 of the divider 7 , forming a seal between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 and axially at end or side walls (not shown) of a pump casing and/or at what are referred to as axial disks of the internal gear pump 1 , which delimit the pump space 6 laterally. In the embodiment illustrated, the sealing element 15 is cylindrical in the undeformed state. Other shapes are possible for the sealing element.
The outer part 13 of the divider 7 is supported in a circumferential direction against the pressure prevailing in the discharge zone 9 on an abutment 16 , which is arranged at an end of the divider 7 adjacent to the suction zone. In the embodiment illustrated, the abutment 16 is a cylindrical pin with a flat 17 , on which the end of the outer part 13 of the divider 7 which is adjacent to the suction zone rests. The pin forming the abutment 16 passes through the pump space 6 of the internal gear pump 1 transversely, i.e. parallel to the axis, in the suction zone 6 .
The inner part 12 of the divider 7 is not supported directly on the abutment 16 but indirectly via the outer part 13 . An end of the inner part 12 adjacent to the suction zone rests on the end of the outer part 13 adjacent to the suction zone, which reaches around said end. The fact that the inner part 12 rests on the outer part 13 simplifies sealing between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 , for which purpose a simple seal, such as the cylindrical sealing element 15 , is sufficient. An expensive, complex or multipart seal is not necessary.
As described, the ends of the outer part 13 which reach around the ends of the inner part 12 bring about a rear engagement with play, which connects the inner part 12 movably to the outer part 13 in a radial direction of the internal gear pump 1 . The leaf spring 14 arranged between the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 , which pushes the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 apart, causes friction which holds the inner part 12 axially or in a lateral direction in the outer part 13 . The parts of the divider 7 , namely the inner part 12 , the outer part 13 , the leaf spring 14 and the sealing element 15 , form a subassembly which can be preassembled outside the internal gear pump 1 . During the assembly of the internal gear pump 1 , the divider 7 , which is designed as a subassembly, is inserted into the pump space 6 between the pinion 2 and the annulus 3 as a single component, for which purpose all that is required is to push the inner part 12 and the outer part 13 together radially, with the result that the spacing between them is no larger than the gap between the tooth tips of the teeth of the pinion 2 and of the annulus 3 . As a result, the fitting of the divider 7 in the internal gear pump 1 is simple, this being a considerable advantage in the case of small components, as is the case with an internal gear pump 1 which is used as a hydraulic pump in a hydraulic vehicle brake system.
The internal gear pump 1 according to the disclosure is provided as a hydraulic pump in a hydraulic, slip-controlled and/or power-operated vehicle brake system (not shown), where it is used for slip control operations, such as antilock, traction control and/or vehicle dynamics control operations and/or in hydraulic power-operated vehicle brake systems to produce brake pressure. Such hydraulic pumps are also referred to, if not entirely accurately, as return pumps. The abbreviations ABS, ASR, FDR and ESP are customary for the slip control operations mentioned. Vehicle dynamics control operations are also referred to in common parlance as antiskid control operations.
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The disclosure relates to an internal gear pump for a slip-controlled hydraulic vehicle brake system. According to the disclosure a separating piece of the internal gear pump is formed having an inner part and an outer part, which engages around the end of the inner part with allowance for tolerance. In this way, the inner part and the outer part are movably connected to one another in a radial direction, and can be installed in the internal gear pump as a pre-mounted assembly.
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TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of materials science, and more specifically to a cobalt-base superalloy with a γ/γ′ microstructure. Embodiments herein particularly relate to a composition of high temperature resistant, tungsten free cobalt based superalloy.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the embodiments herein. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed embodiments, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] For a vast majority of materials, the yield strength decreases with increasing temperature. As is obvious, a decrease in yield strength at high temperature becomes a limiting factor for use of such materials for high temperature applications. However, certain alloys such as superalloys (nickel, iron and cobalt based) exhibit superior mechanical properties even at high temperatures. These are a class of high performance alloys that exhibit excellent mechanical strength and resistance to creep at high temperatures: good surface stability: and corrosion and oxidation resistance. Their development has been driven primarily by aerospace and power industries on account of their requirements of materials for manufacture of blades of gas or marine turbines and hot sections of jet engines that operate at high temperatures.
[0004] Superalloys are based on Group VIIIB elements of periodic table and usually consist of various combinations of Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), and Chromium (Cr), as well as lesser amounts of Tungsten (W), Molybdenum (Mo), Tantalum (Ta), Niobium (Nb), Titanium (Ti), and Aluminum (Al). Three major classes of superalloys based on their base alloying element include nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), or nickel-iron. Some of the well-known superalloys developed include Hastelloy, Inconel (e.g. IN100, IN600, IN713), Waspaloy, Rene alloys (e.g. Rene 41, Rene 80, Rene 95, Rene N5), Haynes alloys, Incoloy, MP98T, disk alloys such as TMS alloys and cast equiaxed, directionally solidified and single crystal alloys such as CMSX (e.g. CMSX-4).
[0005] In a class of nickel based superalloys the strength is achieved as a result of precipitation during which strengthening, intermetallic constituent Ni 3 (Al, Ti) is formed. This intermetallic phase is a primary strengthening phase in these superalloys and is known as gamma prime (hereafter referred as γ′), which is present in a continuous matrix called as gamma (hereafter referred as γ). Typically, γ is a face-centered-cubic (FCC) structure that usually contains a high percentage of solid-solution elements such as Co, Cr, Mo, and W. These γ′ precipitates, cuboidal in shape, have L1 2 structure which is coherent with the γ-Ni matrix with a lattice mismatch less than 0.5% at the interface making the interfacial energy very low and hence increasing microstructural stability for long time exposure at high temperature.
[0006] Since Co has a higher melting point metal than nickel, superalloys are also developed with Co as the matrix. Nickel based alloys exist in FCC form throughout the temperature range of application, while Co transforms to hexagonal close pack (HCP) structure at room temperature. Cobalt based superalloys, such as Vitallium (Co—Cr—Mo) and Co—Ti alloys are biocompatible, and hence are used for orthopaedic implants because of their extremely high corrosive wear resistance. Alloys such as Co—Cr—W—C(Stellite, Hayness) are used where both high temperature strength and corrosion resistance is required such as valves for IC engines. In these alloys the strengthening comes from the solid solution and metal carbides. Carbon, added at levels of 0.05-0.2%, combines with reactive and refractory elements such as titanium, tantalum, and hafnium to form carbides (e.g., TiC, TaC, or HfC). During heat treatment, these begin to decompose and form lower carbides such as M 23 C 6 and M 6 C, which tend to form on grain boundaries.
[0007] Recently, several patents (US0080185078, US20100061883, US20120312434, and CN103045910) reported γ-γ′ microstructure in W containing cobalt based alloys similar to that of nickel based super alloys. These patent discloses in the composition range (0.1%-10% Al, 3%-45% W, and Co as a remainder) stable cuboidal L1 2 (γ′) precipitates of Co 3 (Al, W) in γ-Co FCC matrix. These precipitates are stable at high temperature and have lattice misfit of around 0.53%. Subsequently, several alloying additions such as Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti), Tantalum (Ta), Niobium (Nb), Zirconium Zr, Vanadium (V) or Hafnium (Hf) were added to replace some part of Aluminum (Al) or Tungsten (W) or Cobalt (Co) in order to increase the solvus temperature and high temperature strength. However, these alloys have high density, low creep strength, and ductility. Tungsten (W) addition is crucial and essential in this class of alloys to stabilize the γ′ phase although it reduces specific strength due to its high density.
[0008] It is well known that thermal efficiency of gas turbines used in jet engines or power plant facilities can be most effectively increased by elevating temperature of combustion gases. However, limiting factor for achieving this objective is availability of materials capable of withstanding higher temperatures without losing strength. Achieving higher strength at elevated temperatures with higher density does not provide a solution as turbine blades with higher mass shall inherently generate higher stresses. Therefore, there is a need to provide materials having higher specific strength at elevated temperatures than those already available.
[0009] With these considerations in mind, there is a need in the art for new Co-based superalloy compositions that exhibit a desirable combination of properties noted above, such as environmental resistance, high-temperature strength, and ductility.
[0010] Prior inventions considered tungsten (W) as an essential element to stabilize γ′ in Co base alloys. Since, tungsten (W) is not desirable because of high density, very high melting point making homogenization difficult, therefore current invention demonstrates tungsten (W) free Co base superalloys.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide γ-γ′ cobalt based superalloys that are free of tungsten (W).
[0012] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide low density tungsten (W) free γ-γ′ cobalt based superalloys having a microstructure that is stable at high temperature.
[0013] It is an object of present disclosure to state that no other phase except γ-γ′ phases are present in the invented class of alloys.
[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure to declare a new class of superalloys with high temperature strength.
[0015] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a γ-γ′ cobalt based superalloys having better specific strength, compressive as well as tensile, good ductility in combination with good creep strength and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures.
[0016] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide exemplary heat treatment process for tungsten free γ-γ′ cobalt based superalloys for achieving claimed mechanical properties.
SUMMARY
[0017] In view of the foregoing, embodiments herein present the invention of a class of Tungsten (W) free Cobalt based (γ-γ′) superalloys with the basic chemical composition comprising in % by weight: 0.5 to 10 Aluminium (Al) and 1 to 15 Molybdenum (Mo) with at least one or both of 0.5 to 12 Niobium (Nb) and 0.5 to 12 Tantalum (Ta), with the reminder being Cobalt (Co). Some part of the cobalt can be replaced by nickel (50% or less). Nickel added alloys can be added further with at least one among the transition metals zirconium (5% or less), hafnium (5% or less), vanadium (5% or less), titanium (5% or less), and yttrium (5% or less), boron (2% or less), carbon (2% or less), rhenium (10% or less), ruthenium (5% or less) for further fine tune the solvus temperature, volume fraction of γ′ and creep properties.
[0018] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a number of exemplary combinations of all or some of the above alloying elements to obtain superalloys exhibiting different capabilities. Achievable superalloys are not limited to these exemplary ones and it is possible for one conversant in the art to work out many other combinations to achieve claimed properties in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0019] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method for heat treatment of disclosed superalloys in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) diffraction pattern in [001] zone axis showing L1 2 super-lattice reflections along with matrix reflections for Co-4.6Al-8.2Mo-3.2Nb alloy (alloy 1) after final aging heat treatment.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) darkfield image taken from 010 super lattice L1 2 spot in [001] zone axis for Co-4.6Al-8.2Mo-3.2Nb alloy (alloy 1) after final aging heat treatment.
[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary comparison of densities of present invented alloys with other available cobalt based superalloys.
[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary comparison of DSC curves of present invented alloys (Alloy 1, Alloy 5, Alloy 6, and Alloy 8) with Co-3.6Al-24W alloy.
[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates exemplary comparison of 0.2% compressive proof stress of present invented alloys with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy at room temperature.
[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates exemplary comparison of specific 0.2% compressive proof stress of present invented alloys with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy at room temperature.
[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates exemplary comparison of 0.2% compressive proof stress of present invented alloys with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy at 870° C. temperature.
[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates exemplary comparison of specific 0.2% compressive proof stress of present invented alloys with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy at 870° C. temperature.
[0030] FIG. 10 illustrates exemplary comparison of tensile test curves of Alloy 1 as an example and Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy.
[0031] FIG. 11 illustrates exemplary comparison of 0.2% tensile proof stress of Alloy 1, Alloy 4, Alloy 5 and Alloy 7 with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W and other commercially available cobalt superalloys.
[0032] FIG. 12 illustrates exemplary comparison of specific 0.2% tensile proof stress of Alloy 1, Alloy 4, Alloy 5 and Alloy 7 with known Co-3.6Al-24.7W and other commercially available cobalt superalloys.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] The following discussion provides many example embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the embodiments herein are considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly described.
[0034] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0035] Embodiments described herein generally relate to the field of materials science, and to a cobalt-base superalloy with a γ/γ′ microstructure. The described embodiments herein, more particularly relate to compositions of high temperature resistant tungsten free cobalt based superalloys. Embodiments herein describe Tungsten (W) free Cobalt based superalloy with base chemical compositions comprising in % by weight: 0.5 to 10 Aluminium (Al), 1 to 15 Molybdenum (Mo), and one or both of 0.5 to 12 Niobium (Nb) and 0.5 to 12 Tantalum (Ta), with the remainder being Cobalt (Co). Cobalt can be replaced by nickel (50% or less) in the base alloy mentioned above. Further, transition metals such as chromium, platinum, palladium, iridium, titanium, vanadium, zirconium, hafnium, platinum, palladium, chromium, yttrium, iron, iridium, ruthenium, rhenium, carbon and boron, at least one among these can be a part of the Nickel added composition with respective purposes.
[0036] Table 1 shows eight different exemplary compositions of Co based superalloys in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. It should be appreciated that the below compositions are purely exemplary in nature and any other suitable composition within the above mentioned range is completely within the scope of the present disclosure. Each superalloy composition is designated with a number and referred as alloy 1, alloy 2, alloy 3, alloy 4, alloy 5, alloy 6, alloy 7 and alloy 8.
[0000]
TABLE 1
Composition of alloys weight % (atomic %)
Alloy No.
Co
Ni
Al
Mo
Nb
Ta
Ti
1
84
(83)
—
4.6
(10)
8.2
(5)
3.2
(2)
—
—
2
83.3
(83)
—
4.6
(10)
8.2
(5)
2.4
(1.5)
1.5
(0.5)
—
3
82.6
(83)
—
4.6
(10)
8.1
(5)
1.6
(1)
3.1
(1)
—
4
81.5
(83)
—
4.5
(10)
8
(5)
—
6
(2)
—
5
53.7
(53)
30.3
(30)
4.6
(10)
8.2
(5)
3.2
(2)
—
—
6
51.8
(51)
30.4
(30)
4.7
(10)
8.3
(5)
3.2
(2)
—
1.6
(2)
7
52.1
(53)
29.4
(30)
4.5
(10)
8
(5)
—
6
(2)
8
50
(51)
29.5
(30)
4.5
(10)
8.3
(5)
—
6.1
(2)
1.6
(2)
[0037] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary process flow chart ( 100 ) for producing above mentioned exemplary tungsten (W) free cobalt based superalloys. According to one embodiment, the process ( 100 ) can include heat treatment required to be performed on superalloys to achieve desired physical propertied of materials. At step 102 , constituent elements required to make above mentioned compositions (table 1), can be melted, for example but not limited to, in an electric arc furnace. In an implementation, 30 grams of these constituent elements were melted in a laboratory scale electric arc furnace having a water-cooled copper hearth. During this step, constituents were melted a number of times to ensure homogeneity. In an embodiment of laboratory scale process, this was done 12 to 15 times to ensure homogeneity. However, such melting is not limited to any specific number of steps any change in the process or steps involved there in are within the scope of the present invention.
[0038] At step 104 , molten material can be cast/molded in a mold, such as a copper mold, into desired shapes. Casting is a process of manufacturing, wherein liquid metal or pliable raw material is given a required shape using a rigid frame called a mold. In a laboratory scale embodiment, this can, for example, be done using water cooled copper mold, wherein the cast shape can be say a cylindrical rod.
[0039] At step 106 , cast alloy can be subjected to solution heat treatment (solutionized). Solution heat treatment (SHT) can be typically done on age or precipitation hardenable alloys, which gain strength due to presence of fine second phases formed during precipitation hardening. SHT can be carried out before final ageing or precipitation heat treatment to re-introduce solute into a matrix so that it can be utilized to form a fine dispersion of phases on subsequent processing. The solutionising temperature can be between 1100 to 1400° C. for time between 1 to 20 hours. In an embodiment, cylindrical rods were solutionised at 1300° C. temperature for 15 hrs in a vacuum furnace.
[0040] At step 108 , SHT can be followed by water quenching, wherein quenching involves rapid cooling of an alloy to obtain supersaturated solid solution (SS) at room temperature. It prevents low-temperature processes, such as phase transformations, from occurring by providing only a narrow window of time in which reaction is both thermodynamically favorable and kinetically accessible. Important parameters of quenching process include solutionising temperature from which alloy is quenched, and medium of quenching. In an embodiment, solutionising temperature depends on the alloy being processed and the medium determines the rate of cooling, which also depends on the alloy. In an embodiment, quenching of disclosed superalloys can be carried out from 1300° C., with water being used as the cooling medium.
[0041] At 110 , solutionised and quenched alloys can be subjected to process of aging, otherwise known as precipitate hardening. Upon rapid cooling from high temperatures for example after quenching, alloys retain solute in the matrix at low temperatures. Aging of these alloys at intermediate temperatures decomposes supersaturated solid solution. Aging or precipitation hardening relies on this change in solid solubility with temperature to produce secondary phase—gamma prime (γ′) in the subject matter and hardens the material. Alloys must be kept at intermediate temperature for hours to allow precipitation or aging to take place. The intermediate aging temperature can be between 500° C. to 1100° C. for the present invented alloys. In an implementation herein, all alloys (with reference to table 1) were vacuum sealed in quartz tube and aged at 800° C. upto to the time when peak hardness was achieved. The time varies according to the alloy composition and is shown in table 2.
[0042] At step 112 , aged alloys can be cooled through furnace cooling, air cooling or quenching in water from the temperature at which aging was done. In the present embodiment all alloys were furnace cooled. For Ni added alloys (alloy 5, alloy 6, alloy 7 and alloy 8), cooling can be done by both air cooling or quenching in water. Air cooling and quenching in water was not done for alloy 1, alloy 2, alloy 3 and alloy 4 to avoid the transformation of FCC matrix (α-Co) to HCP (ε-Co).
[0043] In the exemplary embodiments described in succeeding paragraphs, the densities of the alloys were measured in accordance with ASTM standard B311-08 at room temperature. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) FEI F30 is used for microstructural studies and Differential Scanning calorimetry (DSC) NETZSCH STA 449 F3 Jupiter is used for determination of melting and solvus temperature of the alloys. Peak age time for all the alloys was determined by measuring Vickers hardness (Hv) using 0.5 Kg load. Compressive and tensile tests for peak aged samples were done on DARTEC tensile testing machine at a strain rate of 10 −3 at both room temperature and at 870° C. However, it would be appreciated that any such technique/mechanism is purely for experimental purpose and does not limit the scope of the invention in any manner whatsoever, and hence any change in construction/structure can be used for preparation/evaluation/testing of the superalloy composition of the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary TEM diffraction pattern for Alloy 1 after final aging heat treatment, along [001] zone axis showing L1 2 γ′ super lattice reflections along with γ matrix reflections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary TEM darkfield micrograph of alloy 1 taken from 010 super lattice L1 2 spot which corresponds to γ′, in [001] zone axis in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It is clear from darkfield micrograph that microstructure contains L1 2 ordered cuboidal γ′ precipitates throughout the γ matrix. Their size ranges from 25 to 50 nm.
[0046] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary comparison of densities of the present invented alloys (table 1) with other commercially available cobalt superalloys and tungsten (W) containing cobalt superalloy (Co-3.6Al-24.7W) in accordance with the embodiment herein. Clearly the present invented alloys have much lower densities compared to Co-3.6Al-24.7W and other cobalt superalloys (L-605, Hayness 188, Stellite). Density of the alloys described in embodiments herein i.e. alloy 1, alloy 2, alloy 3, alloy 4, alloy 5, alloy 6, alloy 7 and alloy 8 are 8.36, 8.42, 8.46, 8.61, 8.38, 8.29, 8.65 and 8.56 gm/cm 3 respectively which are much lower than 9.82 gm/cm 3 of Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy. It is clear from the illustration that alloys described in the embodiments herein, have lower density and are comparable to existing nickel based superalloys.
[0047] FIG. 5 shows exemplary comparison DSC heating curves of alloy 1, alloy 5, alloy 6 and alloy 8 with Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy in accordance with the embodiment herein. As illustrated in the heating curve, the melting points for alloy 1 and alloy 5 are found to be 1315° C. and 1355° C. respectively, which are in the range of incipient melting points of nickel based superalloys. The solvus temperatures for Alloy 1 and Alloy 5 are 866° C. and 976° C. which are lower compared to Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy (986° C.). But, the Alloy 6 and Alloy 8 have values of 1026° C. and 1068° C. which higher than the Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy and commercially used nickel based superalloy (waspalloy).
[0048] Table 2 below shows exemplary peak hardness values for all the alloys (with reference to table 1) and Co-3.7Al-24.7W alloy (heat treatment schedule was given according to the reference [1]) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Alloy 1 attains peak hardness after aging of 2 hours, alloy 2, alloy 3, alloy 4, alloy 6 and alloy 8 get peak hardness after aging of 10 hours while for Alloy 5 and Alloy 7, peak hardness is attained in 5 hours.
[0000]
TABLE 2
Peak hardness and aging time
Alloy No.
Peak Hardness (Hv)
Aging Time (hours)
Co-3.6Al-24.7W
390
24
Alloy 1
392
2
Alloy 2
395
10
Alloy 3
395
10
Alloy 4
405
10
Alloy 5
410
5
Alloy 6
395
10
Alloy 7
445
5
Alloy 8
410
10
[0049] FIG. 6 shows exemplary results of compression tests performed at room temperature on all the alloys after subjecting them to heat treatment as disclosed above and compared with Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy (heat treated according to the reference [1]). As illustrated, compressive strength values for all present disclosed alloys are above the Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy except alloy 1. Alloy 7 showed 0.2% compressive proof stress value of about 890 MPa which is higher than 780 MPa of Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy.
[0050] FIG. 7 shows specific 0.2% compressive proof stress for all the alloys and it is clear that all present invented alloys have much higher values compared to Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy. Among these, Alloy 7 has a higher value of 103 MPa/gm·cm −3 compared to 79.4 MPa/gm·cm −3 for Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy.
[0051] FIG. 8 shows exemplary results of compression tests performed at elevated temperature (at 870° C.) on all the alloys after subjecting them to heat treatment as disclosed above and compared with Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy. As illustrated, Alloy 5 (535 MPa), Alloy 6 (520 MPa) and Alloy 7 (530 MPa) showed higher 0.2% compressive proof stress values than Co-3.6Al-24.7W (485 MPa) alloy and Alloy 4 (480 MPa) and Alloy 8 (490 MPa) show similar values as Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy.
[0052] FIG. 9 shows specific 0.2% compressive stress values at 870° C. for all the alloys. It is clear that present disclosed alloys (except alloy 1 and alloy 2) have much higher values (highest among these, Alloy 5 with 63.8 MPa/gm·cm −3 ) than the Co-3.6Al-24.7W having 49.4 MPa/gm·cm −3 . Table 3 shows comparison of density, peak hardness (Hv) and compression test results among all the present disclosure alloys and Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy.
[0000]
TABLE 3
Comparison of density, hardness and compression test results
0.2%
Sp. 0.2%
Peak
compressive
compressive PS
Alloy
Density
Hardness
PS (MPa)
(MPa/gm · cm −3 )
designation
Alloys
(gm · cm −3 )
(Hv)
RT
at 870° C.
RT
at 870° C.
Co—3.6Al—24.7W
Co—3.6Al—24.7W
9.82
390
780
485
79.4
49.4
Alloy 1
Co—4.6Al—8.2Mo—3.2Nb
8.36
392
720
390
86.1
46.7
Alloy 2
Co—4.6Al—8.2Mo—2.4Nb—1.5Ta
8.42
395
805
420
95.6
49.9
Alloy 3
Co—4.6Al—8.1Mo—1.6Nb—3.1Ta
8.46
395
825
440
97.5
52.0
Alloy 4
Co-4.5Al-8Mo-6Ta
8.61
405
840
480
97.6
55.7
Alloy 5
Co—30.3Ni—4.6Al—8.2Mo—3.2Nb
8.38
410
800
535
95.5
63.8
Alloy 6
Co—30.4Ni—4.7Al—8.3Mo—3.2Nb—1.6Ti
8.29
395
810
520
97.7
62.7
Alloy 7
Co—29.4Ni—4.5Al—8Mo—6Ta
8.65
445
890
530
102.9
61.3
Alloy 8
Co-29.5Ni—4.5Al—8.3Mo—6.1Ta—1.6Ti
8.56
410
850
490
99.3
57.2
[0053] FIG. 10 shows exemplary tensile test curve as an example for peak aged alloy 1 and for Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy at room temperature. Comparison of 0.2% tensile proof stress for alloy 1, alloy 4, alloy 5 and alloy 7 with Co-3.6Al-24.7W and other cobalt based superalloys (L605, Hayness 188, Stellite) were shown in FIG. 12 . We see that for Co-3.6Al-24.7W (made by us under identical condition) shows 0.2% tensile proof stress of about 760 MPa but fracture immediately (from the curve) without any elongation. But, alloy 1, alloy 4, alloy 5 and alloy 7 shows ultimate tensile strength of about 835 MPa with 19% elongation, 925 MPa with 16% elongation, 950 MPa with 16% elongation and 1000 MPa with 16% elongation respectively (table 4). Alloy 1, alloy 4, alloy 5 and alloy 7 have much higher values than L-605 (460 MPa), Hayness 188 (485 MPa), Stellite (635 MPa) and comparable to Co-3.6Al-24.7W alloy. FIG. 12 shows comparison of specific 0.2% tensile proof stress for all above mentioned alloys and it is clear that Alloy 1, alloy 4, Alloy 5 and alloy 7 have much higher values than other cobalt based superalloys. Table 4 shows comparison of all tensile results among these superalloys.
[0000]
TABLE 4
Yield Strength and Specific Yield Strength
at room temperature and 900° C.
Tensile Properties
Specific
0.2% PS
UTS
0.2% PS
Alloy
(MPa)
(MPa)
% El
(MPa/gm · cm −3 )
L-605
460
1005
59
50.4
Hayness 188
485
960
70
54
Stellite
635
1010
11
75.8
Co-3.6Al-24.7W **
737
1090
20
75.1
Co-3.6Al-24.7W ****
760
—
—
81.2
Alloy 1
730
835
19
88.6
Alloy 4
800
925
16
93.3
Alloy 5
810
950
16
96.7
Alloy 7
880
1000
16
101.7
** K. Ishida et.al, science, 312, 2006, 90-91
**** Our experiment
|
Embodiments herein present the invention of a class of Tungsten (W) free Cobalt based (γ-γ′) superalloys with the basic chemical composition comprising in % by weight: 0.5 to 10 Aluminium (Al) and 1 to 15 Molybdenum (Mo) with at least one or both of 0.5 to 12 Niobium (Nb) and 0.5 to 12 Tantalum (Ta), with the remainder being Cobalt (Co). Some part of the cobalt can be replaced by nickel (50% or less). In Nickel added alloys, some part of either cobalt of nickel can be replaced by at least one among the transition metal selected from the group consisting of 10% or less Iridium, 10% or less Platinum, 10% or less Palladium, 15% or less Chromium and combination thereof. Again in nickel added alloys, further addition of at least one among the transition metals zirconium (5% or less), hafnium (5% or less), vanadium (5% or less), titanium (5% or less), and yttrium (5% or less), boron (2% or less), carbon (2% or less), rhenium (10% or less), ruthenium (5% or less) for further fine tune the solvus temperature, volume fraction of γ′ and creep properties.
| 2
|
PRIORITY OF INVENTION
The present invention is a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 14/076,461 filed Nov. 11, 2013, which is a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 13/653,852, filed Oct. 17, 2012. The present invention further incorporates by reference and claims priority to Provisional Application No. 61/629,443, Filed Nov. 18, 2011, Provisional Application No. 61/631,734, Filed Jan. 10, 2012, and Provisional Application No. 61/824,189, Filed May 16, 2013.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a weightlifting system and selector pin component thereof. In particular, this invention relates to a selector pin assembly, track and/or weight plate for use with body building equipment, and more particularly to a selector pin which is not removable from a car or ball which travels either along a track or within the weight plate bodies which can then be inserted through the car or ball and the track into a throughbore or selection point in a weight plate or through the car directly into the throughbore in order to safely, reliably and easily engage a connection union with a vertically or horizontally running selector stem.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND PRIOR ART
A traditional weight stack for use on what is known in the commercial fitness industry as “selectorized” or “Nautilus” strength training machines incorporates a weight stack in which similar or identically sized or shaped weight plates are stacked vertically atop one another. Formed into each plate and in identical locations on each plate in the are four throughbores: three throughbores extending vertically from the top surface through to the bottom surface of a given plate and one horizontally extending throughbore from the front surface (i.e., the surface facing the person selecting the weight level for the machine) through to the rear surface opposite the front surface. Two of the three vertical throughbores are of the same size and are located equally and on either side of the third, centrally located and larger vertical throughbore.
Inserted downward through the two smaller vertical throughbores are poles or “guide rods,” the purpose of which is to permanently affix the weight stack to the machine and to ensure proper alignment of the stack before, during and after the user performs an exercise on the machine. The third, centrally located and larger vertical throughbore is meant to accept a “selector stem” or third and moveable rod which is permanently attached to the topmost or highest plate on the weight stack but which is not permanently attached to any other plate in the stack. The selector rod is of at least equal length as the stacked plates forming the weight stack.
In these prior art systems, at the top of the selector stem a cable or belt which runs over a pulley or series of pulleys and/or cams and is attached at the other end to the “movement arm” which is the piece of the machine the user moves when performing the desired exercise. Formed horizontally through the selector stem are throughbores equal in number and vertically placed in an identical orientation to the horizontal throughbores formed from the front surface to the back surface of each individual weight plate. The purpose of this design is so that when a user wants to select the appropriate amount of resistance or weight desired to perform the exercise, that user inserts a “selector pin” into the horizontal throughbore on the surface of the weight stack and through the throughbore in the selector stem forming a non-permanent, selectable engagement so that when the user moves the movement arm, all plates above the temporary union formed by inserting the selector pin horizontally through the horizontal throughbore and selector stem are lifted vertically and against the force of gravity providing the strength training resistance when the user moves the movement arm and performs the exercise.
Although traditional weight stacks, such as those described above, have succeeded in carrying out the intended weight lifting purpose, there are many areas for substantial improvement.
One key problem often associated with traditional weight stacks is that the selector pin is removable and, as a result, is often misplaced, stolen or damaged whereupon it is replaced with a functionally and/or structurally inadequately sized pin. This inappropriate replacement historically has caused bodily injury when the system fails due to the violation of the inherent design of the apparatus.
The removable pin also permits the user to easily modify the operation of the apparatus outside the manufacturer's design criteria for the plates and/or weight stack, which can create unacceptable safety risks for the user and/or bystanders.
Additionally, there is a level of dexterity and hand to eye coordination required to insert the selector pin in the horizontal throughbore of the weight and the center post which further limits the true and effective result, and potentially frustrates the user such that the equipment receives less use.
In addition, an improper or incomplete mating between the selector pin and selector stem could result in an in situ decoupling with the weight stock dropping (through gravity) with potential for damage to the system and/or injury to bystanders standing in proximity to the weight stack.
Therefore, there exists a need for a safer, simpler and better arranged weight selection mechanism system such as the selector pin, car or ball and weight plate mechanism which cannot be misplaced, stolen or lost, and can be safely, simply and conveniently be engaged with thereby minimizing user error, complication and compromise in user safety.
Existing prior art approaches do not fully satisfy these problems. One approach calls for weight plates with rotating latches on the weight plates that once rotated engage with a groove molded into the center post (Itaru U.S. Pat. No. 5,306,221). This device, however, is overly complicated and unreliable with frequent slips and malfunctions.
There also exists a sliding plate mechanism (Reach U.S. Pat. No. 772,906), however, this approach also results in high manufacturing costs and creates inherent safety issues.
There also exists an imbedded system featuring a selector pin imbedded in a cartridge, imbedded in every weight plate and an external toggle lever switch mounted on the surface of each plate that is manipulated laterally from left to right on a weight stack (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,608,021 to Nalley) by the user in order to engage the imbedded selector pin through the throughbore in order to engage the imbedded selector pin into the center post. This system is confusing to the user as one, more than one, or in fact all of the selector pins can be engaged at one time creating user confusion and numerous safety issues if and when the user mistakenly and dangerously attempts to perform an exercise with a weight amount he/she is physically incapable of lifting or moving.
Still another existing reference is to Pacheco (U.S. Pat. No. 8,152,702 B2) which purports to disclose a pulley based system which uppermost Weight plate of the plurality of Weight plates. A body is slidably coupled to the at least one rail. However this reference fails to teach the elimination of belts, pulleys or similar devices for transferring energy for the movement of a weight stack.
In addition to inherent safety issues in design or and confusion and unavoidable user error and/or injury, these latter devices and mechanisms are unable to be applied, added to or retrofitted onto existing exercise apparatus in the marketplace.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The selector pin of the present invention includes a variety of embodiments, but is generally displaced within and is not removable from a moveable car, ball or similar sliding mechanism which is continuously engaged but able to travel continuously the length of a horizontal or vertical weight stack either via a continuous, yet separable segmented track affixed to the surface of the plate body or within a continuous, yet separable cavity running internally within and the length of the weight stack, which is continuous and not separated when the user is not using the exercise apparatus. When the user is not performing exercise, the full weight stack is aligned, and the user may thus select and/or adjust the desired weight amount for exercise. The mobility of the car or ball and pin assembly allowing for the selector pin to be inserted into the selector pin throughbore in any weight plate in the weight stack in order to engage or disengage a connecting union with the center post running vertically or horizontally through the center throughbore of the weight stack without allowing the selector pin to ever be removed from the car or ball which in turn is continuously engaged with the track, cavern or recess within the weight stack.
In certain preferred embodiments, the selector pin is slightly larger at the tip or has a similar preventive design (e.g., a ball) which allows disengagement from the selector stem and withdrawal from the throughbore and allowing for car travel within the segmented track or continuous cavern, but preventing removal from the car. Likewise, in such embodiments, the selector pin has a knob or other gripping surface on the user end, or a vertically rotating or horizontally rotating latch or lever, preventing the pin from being pushed through the car when inserted through the car and into the selector pin borehole for engagement with the centerpost or selector stem. In one preferred version, the selector pin and car mechanism have spring-loaded ball bearings embedded in the car and grooves cut into the pin which accept the spring-loaded ball bearings which provide the user with tactile sensation when the pin is at its full insertion position or its full extracted position and may also have a locking mechanism further guaranteeing complete insertion and proper union with the centerpost.
The weights stack features of the present invention includes a number of embodiments. In a first version of a weight stack practicing the present invention, stacked weight plates for physical fitness equipment are employed, including a plate body with an upward, radial extending cavity (e.g., a “U-shaped” recess) allowing for acceptance of a horizontal centerbar or selector stem which is affixed to the exercise apparatus only at the movement arm end. The centerbar has multiple diametric throughbores to receive a selector pin which passes through a horizontal throughbore disposed intermediate to the opposing surfaces of the plate body and entering into the weight plate at a 90 degree angle to the tangent of the front surface of the weight plate. The horizontal bore connects the upward, radial extending cavity with a horizontally running internal cavity. A selector pin is movably mounted, but not removable from the movable car traveling within the horizontal internal cavity when the selector pin is disengaged from the selector stem within the radial extending cavity. Thus, each plate may be independently selected by way of manually or otherwise inserting a selector pin. The horizontally stacked weight plates, which can be made of steel, lead, iron, rubber, urethane or a composite are of a shape that as the moveable selector pin is engaged into a plate farther from the fixed end, all plates between the selected insertion point and the fixed end of the horizontal selector stem will provide resistance thereby allowing the user to select more or less weight with the use of only a single selector pin and car or sliding mechanism. As a result, once the selector pin is engaged with the centerbar or selector stem, all plates between the selected insertion point and the fixed end of the horizontal centerbar will be lifted or moved via a cable, lever, belt, movement arm or lift apparatus or the like.
In a second version of the weight stack employed by the present invention, horizontally stacked weight plate for physical fitness equipment is disclosed including a plate body with an upward, radial extending cavity allowing for acceptance of a horizontal centerbar which is affixed to the exercise apparatus only at one end which has multiple diametric throughbores to receive a selector pin which passes through a segmented track connected to the front surface of the weight plate and connected to the central throughbore by a horizontal bore disposed intermediate the opposing surfaces of the plate body and entering into the weight plate through the segmented track at a 90 degree angle to the tangent of the front surface of the weight plate. A selector pin is movably mounted, but not removable from the movable car traveling within the segmented track when the selector pin is disengaged from the selector stem within the radial extending cavity. Thus each plate may be independently selected by way of manually or otherwise inserting a selector pin. The horizontally stacked weight plates which can be made of steel, lead, iron, rubber, urethane or a composite are of a shape that as the moveable selector pin is engaged into a plate farther from the fixed end of the selector stem, all plates between the selected insertion point and the fixed end of the horizontal selector stem will provide resistance thereby allowing the user to select more or less weight with the use of only a single selector pin and car mechanism. As a result, once the selector pin is engaged with the centerbar all plates between the selected insertion point and the fixed end of the horizontal centerbar will be lifted or moved via a cable, lever, belt, movement arm or lift apparatus or the like.
In a third embodiment, a vertically stacked weight plate for physical fitness equipment is disclosed including a plate body with central throughbore for connection and at least one, preferably two, throughbores which pass vertically therethrough for receiving guide rods or the like. The plate body additionally has an internal cavity connected to the central throughbore by a horizontal bore disposed intermediate the opposing surfaces of the plate body and entering into the weight plate at a 90 degree angle to the front surface of the weight plate. Typically, the horizontal bore intersects the central vertical throughbore. A selector pin is movably mounted, but not removable from the movable car traveling within the additional internal cavity when the selector pin is disengaged from the center post within the third, center borehole. The center post has multiple diametric throughbores to receive the selector pin which passes through the fourth throughbore and forms a connection with the center post. Thus, each plate may be independently selected by way of manually inserting or otherwise engaging the selector pin when the travelling car is moved to the appropriate level or weight plate. As a result of such selection, once the selector pin is engaged with the center post all weight plates above the weight plate where the selector pin is inserted or otherwise engaged with the center post will be lifted or moved via a cable, lever, belt, movement arm or lift apparatus or the like.
A fourth embodiment teaches a vertically stacked weight plate for physical fitness equipment, including a plate body with central throughbore for connection and at least one, preferably two, throughbores which pass vertically therethrough for receiving guide rods or the like. The plate body additionally has an external segmented track (e.g., a track which could be retrofitted to existing weight stack configurations), where the track connected to the front surface of the weight plate and connected to the central throughbore by a horizontal bore disposed intermediate the opposing surfaces of the plate body and entering into the weight plate through the segmented track at a 90 degree angle to the front surface of the weight plate. Typically, the horizontal bore intersects the central vertical throughbore. A selector pin is movably mounted, but not removable from the movable car which travels and is continuously engaged along the external track when the selector pin is disengaged from the center post within the third, center borehole. The center post has multiple diametric throughbores to receive the selector pin which passes through a selector pin throughbore and forms a connection with the center post. Thus, each plate may be independently selected by way of manually or otherwise inserting the selector pin when the travelling car is moved to the appropriate level or weight plate. Once the selector pin is engaged with the center post, all weight plates above the weight plate where the selector pin is inserted and engaged with the center post will be lifted or moved via a cable, lever, belt, movement arm or lift apparatus or the like.
Thus, one object of the present invention is to provide a component for a weight lifting system which prevents the loss of a selector pin and the misuse of a weight training machine resulting from the loss thereof.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a selector pin and related car, ball or holder thereof which enables the continuous connection of the selector pin to a weight lifting device.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a track or groove in a weight stack for a selector pin to enable the improved selection of a desired weight to be lifted.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for the easy engagement of a selected weight level so as to reduce the possibility of an improper mating of the selector pin and the weight stack, thereby reducing the possibility of any in situ failure of the weight lifting machine.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a weight lifting machine that can eliminate the need for belts, pulleys or similar devices for transferring energy for the movement of a weight stack.
It should be noted that not every embodiment of the claimed invention will accomplish each of the objects of the invention set forth above. In addition, further objects of the invention will become apparent based on the summary of the invention, the detailed description of preferred embodiments, and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of a best mode embodiment thereof, and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a side view of a weight plate assembly known in the prior art.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the weight plate stack with guide rods and a selector stem as known in the prior art.
FIG. 3 is a perspective in situ view of the weight plate stack with guide rods and selector stem shown of FIG. 2 in the assembled condition with the selector pin in the engaged position.
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a weight plate and selector pin engagement as known in the prior art
FIG. 5 shows a side view of a weight stack assembly in accordance with some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 6 shows a side view of a weight stack assembly in accordance with some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention in operation wherein the user has selected to lift all weights in the stack, leaving the tray empty.
FIG. 7 shows a side view of a weight stack assembly in accordance with some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention in operation wherein the user has selected to lift only a portion of the weights in the stack, leaving the remaining weight plates in the tray.
FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of the weight plate and selector pin engagement in accordance with some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the selector pin showing the knob and slider features for engaging with the weight plate cavity of some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the weight stack engaging the movement arm while at rest in the tray as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a side view of a weight plate as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a weight plate as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a profile view of a weight plate as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the weight stack partially engaged with the selector stem as shown in FIG. 7 .
FIG. 15 is an exposed side view of an engaged selector pin and weight stack in operational engagement with the pivot point and movement arm plate as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is an exposed side view of an disengaged selector pin and weight stack in operational engagement with the pivot point and movement arm plate as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 17 a - b are exposed profile views of the selector pin car and track, respectively as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 18 a - b are exposed profile views of the selector pin and selector pin car in disengaged and engaged positions, respectively, as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 19 a - b are exposed profile views showing details of the selector pin and the stubby plunger used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 20 a - b are side and exposed side views of the stubby plunger, including the ball bearing component used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 21 a - b are exploded profile views showing the selector pin and cart combination and the weight plate with cart cavity as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the selector pin and cart and weight stack as details in FIG. 21 a - b.
FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of an attachable selector pin track used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 24 is a front view showing the detail of track elements of the attachable selector pin track shown in FIG. 23 .
FIG. 25 is a top view showing the profile of a track element as shown in FIG. 24 .
FIG. 26 is a side view of a selector pin and selector pin cart for use the some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 27 a - b is a front view of the selector pin cart are front and top profile views of the selector pin cart of FIG. 26 in operational engagement with the attachable selector pin track shown in FIG. 25 .
FIG. 28 shows an exploded profile view showing an alternative of the weight plate with a bulbous pin cavity as used in some preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIGS. 29 a - b depict side views of a further selection pin configuration in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention in disengaged and engaged positions, respectively.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Set forth below is a description of what is currently believed to be the preferred embodiment or best examples of the invention claimed. Future and present alternatives and modifications to this preferred embodiment are contemplated. Any alternatives or modifications which make insubstantial changes in function, in purpose, in structure or in result are intended to be covered by the claims in this patent.
A typical weight lifting apparatus 10 as known in the prior art is shown by way of example in FIGS. 1-4 . Generally, such an apparatus 10 includes a weight stack assembly 20 , a movement assembly 40 for receiving work or force from a user, and a pulley system 50 to facilitate or translate the gravitational force from the weight stack assembly 20 so as to provide resistance to the movement assembly 40 . The movement assembly 40 typically includes a movement arm 42 which is displaced by the user during exercise, and a pivot point 44 which permits rotation of the user's force against the resistance of the weight stack assembly.
As shown in FIG. 2 , the weight stack assembly 20 typically comprises a selector pin 22 so that the user can select the appropriate level of weight or resistance, a series of guide rods 24 for aligning and supporting the weight stack assembly 20 during exercise, and a series of plates 26 , each plate having a weight plate throughbore 28 for receiving a selector pin 22 . Thus, as a user selects a given weight plate throughbore 28 , only that portion of weight stack assembly 20 which is at the level of the selector pin or above is engaged.
As shown in FIG. 3 , the connection between the selector pin 22 and the cable 52 of pulley system 50 is accomplished by a selector stem 30 . The selector stem 30 is typically permanently attached to the weight plate 26 which is at the top of the stack. The selector stem further includes a series of throughbores 32 which receive the selector pin 22 extending through the weight plate throughbore 28 . As shown in FIG. 4 , the weight stack assembly 20 further includes a selector stem bore 34 and guide rod bores 36 for receiving the selector stem 30 and guide rods 24 , respectively.
By comparison, a first preferred embodiment of a weight lifting apparatus 110 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 5-7 . In this embodiment, the weight lifting apparatus, includes a movement assembly 140 comprising movement arm 142 and pivot point 144 , a weight stack assembly 120 (which is supported at rest by tray 125 ), and a selector stem 130 . However, in this embodiment, the selector stem 130 extends horizontally and is integral with or attached directly to the movement arm 142 , and is preferably permanently attached to and inseparable from the movement arm. Thus, there are no pulley systems required between the weight plates and the movement arm, making it the present embodiment inherently safer, as there are no “pinch points” where a user or bystander can injure a finger or other body part. The weight stack assembly comprises a series of weight plates 126 , and the “first” plate (i.e., the weight plate 126 closest to movement arm 142 ) may be permanently attached to the union of the movement arm 142 and the selector stem 130 which, when moved around a pivot point 144 , makes the movement arm heavier at the selector stem end than at the pivot point end. Thus, when the user performs the exercise, the selector stem 130 and the first plate travel upwards against the force of gravity to provide resistance to the user.
In this embodiment, each individual weight plate 126 is of a similar or identical size and shape and are arranged in a horizontal stack, in similar fashion to books on a bookshelf. As shown in FIG. 10 , the weight plates 126 at rest are located in a basket or tray 125 or the like, which is permanently attached to and immoveable from the weight lifting apparatus 110 . As shown in FIGS. 8-9 and 11 , each of the weight plates 126 include an identical, “U shaped” upward radiating cavity 121 so as to permit movement of the selector stem 130 when a given weight plate is not selected. Each weight plate further includes an additional frontward radiating, contoured cavity 127 which forms a track. The engagement of the frontward radiating cavity 127 and the selector pin 122 and slider 123 (which is a type of a car or cart) creates a track for engagement such that the selector pin can be moved from one weight plate 126 to another, while preventing the selector pin 122 from being removed from the weight stack assembly 120 . Each weight plate 126 plate has a selector pin throughbore 133 connecting the frontward radiating cavity 127 with the upward radiating cavity to as to be able to receive selector pin 122 . Likewise, the selector stem contains a selector pin throughbores 132 such that the selector pin may traverse the weight plate 126 and selector stem 130 when in the engaged position.
As shown in FIGS. 12-14 , this embodiment also includes the use of a configuration for a weight plate 126 that provides for horizontal stacking such that a single selector pin 122 , when engaged, can support the lifting of multiple weight plates 126 . Each weight plate 126 , when viewed from front position, preferably includes an overlapping flange 134 or similar shape that overlaps and forms a union with the lower portion of the adjoining weight plate 126 farther away from the union of the movement arm 142 and the selector stem 130 , and is overlapped by and a union is formed by the upper portion of the adjoining weight plate 126 closer to the union of the movement arm 142 and the selector stem 130 . The farthest weight plate 126 from the union of the movement arm 142 and the selector stem 130 is of similar or identical size and shape as the other plates in the weight stack 120 but, being the farthest plate in the stack from the union of the movement arm and the selector stem has no farther plate to form a union with and instead overlaps and forms a union with the tray 125 .
FIGS. 15 and 16 show the engagement and disengagement of the selector pin 122 in this embodiment. When the movement arm 142 and weight plates 126 are in the “at rest position” and there is no user on the machine, the selector stem 130 and permanently attached “First Plate” end of the movement arm, due to the force of gravity, come to rest within the upwardly radiating cavity 121 of weight plates 126 , which in turn are held solidly and reliably in place by their overlapping flanges 134 and the tray 125 . The user then selects the desired amount of resistance by withdrawing the selector pin into the “disengaged position” and sliding the selector pin 122 using the slider which is sized to slide along the channel formed by the accumulation of front facing cavities 127 formed by the weight plates. If the user desires greater resistance (more weight), the combination of the selector pin 122 and slide 123 is moved outward away from the union of the selector stem 130 and the movement arm 142 , and inward towards the union of the selector stem 130 and movement arm 142 if he desires less resistance (less weight). Then the user inserts the selector pin 122 into the “engaged position” through the selector pin throughbore 132 of the weight plate 126 and through the selector pin throughbore 132 in the selector stem 132 , the throughbores being properly spaced in order to form a mechanical union between selector pin 122 , weight plate 126 and selector stem 130 . The user then performs the exercise and is provided resistance based on the number of weight plates 126 located between the insertion point of the selector pin 122 and the union of the movement arm 142 and selector stem 130 due to the overlapping design of the weight plates 126 .
This embodiment provides several benefits. Because the union of the movement arm 142 , selector stem 130 and first plate 126 is an integrated, there is no need for pulleys, cables or belts between the source of resistance and the movement arm 142 . The resistance is effectively and safely put on the movement arm 142 itself. Unlike the traditional weight stack 20 , this embodiment has less moving parts and therefore there is less likelihood for mechanical failure and subsequent injury making it inherently safer. Additional design safety comes from the fact that since there are no pulleys, belts or cables, there are no “pinch points” caused by these mechanisms which exist as “necessary evils” on the traditional horizontal weight stack. Further benefit is derived from the fact that due to the fact that there are no guide rods requiring lubrication. With fewer moving parts, breakable mechanisms, or the like, the invention will be less expensive to manufacture and maintain than the traditional horizontal weight stack.
Additionally, due to the non-removable selector pin mechanism the likelihood of the user using the wrong pin in the wrong machine which is a common occurrence and safety hazard in traditional horizontal weight stacks, often resulting in injury and the cost of replacing lost or stolen pins is greatly minimized. Also, due to the overlapping flange design feature, the embodiment only requires the use of one, non-removable selector pin 122 mechanism versus several. The invention is thereby more intuitive and eliminates potential injury and confusion due to inappropriate resistance selection and the need to engage more than one selection mechanism or a different selection mechanism to select a different amount of resistance. Additionally, since there are fewer selection mechanisms and since all plates are of identical size, weight and shape, the cost of manufacture will be less. Unlike the approach commonly referred to in the commercial fitness industry as “plate loaded” equipment, this embodiment also represents a significant improvement for several reasons. Due to the tray 125 and flange 134 /overlapping weight plate 126 design, the weight stack assembly 120 is permanently attached to the weight lifting apparatus 110 , eliminating the need for the user to locate, gather, lift up and load matching weight plates onto each of the two the movement arms of the equipment which is how current “plate loaded” equipment must be made ready for exercise. This process in and of itself is dangerous as numerous injuries have resulted from the act of loading and unloading the “plate loaded” equipment.
In addition, this embodiment eliminates the need for not only the purchase of weight plates by the health club owner, but storage racks for those weight plates as well. It also leads to a neater and better organized and safer exercise environment. It is a common occurrence for not all users to unload the traditional “plate loaded” equipment after completing their exercise session, leaving the next potential user in the unsafe or compromised position of having to unload the weight plates from the loaded piece of equipment to achieve the desired amount of weight or resistance or, in the event that the loaded weight plates are too heavy to unload, simply get discouraged and not use the piece of exercise equipment at all.
Of course, the present invention includes other embodiments which include other types of weight stack assemblies, even including prior art weight lifting assemblies such as those discloses in FIGS. 1-4 . For instance, as shown in FIGS. 17-20 , the invention can simply address embodiments which rely upon a selector pin 122 which uses a car 160 or similar sliding mechanism to engage a track 164 or similar channel, but includes a stubby plunger 162 or similar bias and detent mechanism for permanently retaining the selector pin 122 in the car 160 , and in turn in the track 164 . For instance, as shown in FIGS. 19 a - b , the selector pin includes grooves 166 , with the groove furthest from the knob for a “disengaged” position, and the groove closes to the knob for an “engaged” position. As shown in FIGS. 20 a - b , the stubby plunger 162 is permanently fixed inside the car 160 and includes a ball bearing 168 which is biased inwards by a spring (not shown). Thus, when the selector pin 122 is inserted or removed by a user, the ball bearing 168 couples with a groove 166 to provide a locking mechanism for the “engaged” or “disengaged” positions.
In yet another embodiment, the selector pin 222 and car 224 combination can be sized to fit within a contoured cavity 228 located within a conventional shaped vertically stacked group of weight plates. In this embodiment as shown in FIGS. 21-22 , the car includes ball bearings 225 to slide up and down the weight stack 220 until the user selects a desired weight plate corresponding to a desire weight level.
As shown in FIGS. 23-27 , the present invention can be used with a selector pin and cart which in connected to a weight stack via an attachable track. In other words, using this embodiment of the present invention permits the present invention to be retrofitted to existing weight lifting devices. In this embodiment, the track 360 is comprised of individual track elements 362 which are permanently affixed to corresponding weight plates 326 in a weight stack 320 , each track element 326 having a selector pin throughbore 364 , and each element being capable of locking or connecting to other, similar elements using male 366 and female 368 connectors. Collectively, the track provides a channel for a cart 324 to slide through, the cart having ball bearings 325 to enable sliding up and down the track to the desired level in the track 360 corresponding to a desired level in the weight stack 320 , such that the selector pin 322 (which is permanently connected to cart 324 ) can extend through the selector pin throughbore 364 and the weight plate 326 , using grooves 370 to facilitate engaged and disengaged positions.
In yet another alternative embodiment as shown in FIG. 28 , the selector pin 422 can be in the shape of a bulbous pin sized to fit within a contoured cavity 428 located within a conventional shaped vertically stacked group of weight plates. In this embodiment, the selector pin 422 is embedded and unremoveable from the weight plates due to contoured, enveloping cavity 428 within in each plate while still allowing for freedom of selection on a piece of variable resistance.
The selector pin 422 has a knob 424 on the user end that the user grasps to disengage the union between the selector pin 422 and the selector stem 30 , which runs vertically downward through the center of each plate. The “front end” of the pin, the end opposite the “knob end” is bulbous and larger in radius, diameter and circumference at the tip than at the shaft of the pin, which is consistent in size, but thinner than the tip. The bulbous tip 426 of the pin is slightly smaller than the weight plate throughbores 32 running horizontally through each plate allowing for insertion and union with the selector stem 30 . However, the bulbous tip 426 is slightly larger than the entrance to the contoured, enveloping cutout in each plate, thus preventing complete removal from any plate in the when the pin 422 is moved by the user into the extracted position, breaking the union between the selector pin and the selector stem.
When the invention is in the extracted position the bulbous tip 426 of the pin 422 is free to travel up and down inside a contoured, enveloping cutout cavity that is formed by an identical cutout in each plate, shaped identically to, but slightly larger than the profile of the extracted bulbous tip 426 . This forms a continuous cavity running vertically along the face of the weightstack such that the bulbous end of the tip cannot be removed from, with the bulbous tip being enveloped by the contoured cavity and the shaft, being thinner, extrudes from the entrance of the cavity. This creates a system where the pin, when put in the extracted position by the user so as to be disengaged from the union with selector stem and removed to a position where the bulbous tip is located in the enveloping cavity, can travel vertically from one plate to another while remaining unremoveable from the weightstack itself. In this system, the knob 424 is too large to be inserted into the contoured cavity 428 and the bulbous tip 426 is too large to be removed from the cavity. However, freedom of selection is still allowed by the system as a whole when the weight plates are in the “stacked” continuous fashion. Therefore, when the user is not using the machine for exercise and the weight plates are stacked one on top of the other, the user can slide the pin up and down uninterrupted without fully removing the pin from the stack in order to select what weight amount he wants to lift by then inserting the pin into the horizontal throughbore in any plate into the engaged position forming a union with the selector stem 30 . This allows the user to select the desired weight level or resistance. The cutout or contoured cavity on the bottom most plate and the plate directly below the topmost plate i.e. the second plate, do not extend to its full cavity size (i.e., such that the bulbous tip 426 cannot pass freely therethrough) vertically from surface to surface of those two plates exclusively in order to trap the pin within the weightstack when extracted from the selector stem and in the disengaged position. Such a cavity can be tapered or simply discontinue at the appropriate point in the bottom most plate or the second plate as desired in order to best trap the bulbous tip 426 , and by extension, the selector pin.
As seen in FIG. 29 a - b , yet another alternative embodiment of the selector pin 522 is shown in FIG. 28 . The selector pin 522 in this embodiment is in the shape of a bulbous pin sized to fit and operate within a contoured cavity (not shown) just like the weight plate shown in FIG. 28 . In this alternative, the selector pin 522 has a knob 524 on the user end that the user grasps to disengage the union between the selector pin 522 and the selector stem (not shown). The selector pin 522 further includes a bulb 526 which slidingly engages the shaft 528 of the selector pin 522 . The shaft 528 further includes detents 530 , 532 near the knob 524 and at the tip 534 of the pin, respectively, which can engage an interior ridge (not shown) inside the bulb 526 . This detent/ridge engagement limit the amount of sliding by the bulb 526 on the shaft 528 so as to ensure that the bulb 526 stays attached to the selector pin 522 at all time during normal operation. The bulb 526 is slightly larger than the entrance to the contoured, enveloping cutout in each plate, thus preventing complete removal from any plate in the when the pin 522 is moved by the user into the extracted position ( FIG. 29 a ), breaking the union between the selector pin and the selector stem. However, when the user slides the selector pin 522 forward (as shown in FIG. 29 b ), the tip 534 and the nearby portion of the shaft 528 is slightly smaller than the weight plate throughbores 32 running horizontally through each plate, thus allowing for insertion and union with the selector stem 30 . However, the bulb 526 is slightly larger than such throughbores, thus keeping the bulb 526 in the contoured, enveloping cutout in each plate.
The above description is not intended to limit the meaning of the words used in the following claims that define the invention. Rather, it is contemplated that future modifications in structure, function or result will exist that are not substantial changes and that all such insubstantial changes in what is claimed are intended to be covered by the claims. For instance, the particular plate geometry and the presence or absence of guide rods may or may not vary depending upon (for instance) the particular weight lifting exercise. Similarly, while the preferred embodiments of the present invention focus upon the direct translation of the user's energy from the movement arm to the weight stack without the need for pulleys belts and the like, those of skill will understand the applicability of the present invention (e.g., the selector pin/car feature) to other weight lifting devices which require such machines. Also, the cart and track connection could be configured such that the cart surrounds the track, instead of being contained within a channel of the track. Likewise, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, additions, omissions, and modifications can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. All such modifications and changes are intended to be covered by the following claims.
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A permanently affixed and travelling selector pin, car and weight plate selection mechanism for use with physical fitness equipment is disclosed including a segmented track and/or cut out cavern within the plate body for the car to travel within in either vertically or horizontally in order to select a different weight plate or cumulatively, more or less weight for an exercise. The selector pin and car mechanism features a selector pin which is not removable from the car and is inserted through the car which is contained by the track and or plate body shape and into a throughbore in the weight plate in order to engage with the selector stem.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention concerns a skipping rope, especially a skipping wire made of steel, with handles attached at the ends, especially handles made of wood.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is known to provide skipping ropes with handles that are arranged at their ends to facilitate their use during training. Several skipping ropes are known with handles attached to their ends; these handles are usually arranged fixedly at the ends of the ropes with the result that at this specific point of transition from handle to end of the rope high stresses occurred, resulting as a matter of course in a premature destruction of the rope. Futhermore, the handles were attached in many instances in such manner that the skipping rope was difficult to handle. This is due to the fact that the connection between skipping rope and handle is usually rigid so that the rotating motion must overcome frictional forces which will impede the very rapid circulation of the rope.
It is the aim of the invention to provide a skipping rope or wire of the above defined type where these disadvantages are eliminated. It is especially desired to improve the handiness of the skipping rope during the workout so that a most rapid rotation of the rope will be possible. It is further desired to keep the manufacture as simple as possible.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention solves these and other problems of the prior art by providing a peg rotatably supported within each handle. The peg protrudes from the handle and at the free end of the peg there is fastened a rope-accommodating part which has at least two grooves. The rope ends are inserted or looped in a U-shape into two grooves and held therein being relieved of tension. The peg is preferably provided with a crown-like expansion which fits snugly against a shoulder inside the handle; the shoulder is thus the place of transition from a first section with a diameter matching and slightly larger than the diameter of the crown-like expansion to a second section with a diameter matching and slightly larger than the diameter of the peg. The internal bore of the handle accommodating the peg has, at its region adjacent to the rope end, a third expanded section, whose inner diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the first section. This third section is equipped with a removable sleeve which can serve as bushing for the peg. The bushing can be designed in the form of a journal-bearing bushing or a roller bearing bushing or ball bearing bushing. If the sleeve is removed from this third section and is inserted into the first section, the crown-like expansion of the peg will rest against the front rim of the sleeve with the result that the peg will protrude from the handle to a lesser degree only, or respectively the rope-accommodating part will submerge partially inside the handle; this makes it feasible to modify the force which is applied by the rope to the hand during the rope-skipping exercise, Alternatively a bushing may be mounted in both the first and third sections.
The rope-accommodating part can have traverse bores or grooves, allowing the rope end to be pushed through the two traverse bores, or respectively to be inserted into the traverse grooves in U-shape. In the latter case, a sleeve is required in order to hold the rope within the traverse grooves. The sleeve can be provided with a first slot, designed in the form of an oblong hole, and a second slot extending over the entire length of the sleeve. The first slot embraces the bent portion of the rope end which projects over the perimeter of the rope-accommodating part and is dimensioned accordingly. If the rope-accommodating part is provided with a longitudinal groove which overlaps the traverse grooves and which possesses a depth matching approximately the thickness of the rope, the second slot within the sleeve will be needed but not the first slot. In place of the first slot there can then be provided at least one recess which moves away from the center line of the sleeve and which covers and accommodates the portion of the rope protruding from the rope-accommodating part. In this manner the sleeve is sufficiently secured to prevent any sliding. If the longitudinal groove is machined in such manner that it extends to the center axis of the rope-accommodating part, there will be no need to provide the sleeve with a recess; it was found that even the sleeve will not be needed if adhesive tape is wound around the rope end.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
Further advantages and features of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the following drawings in which;
FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal cross-section of a handle to which a rope is attached;
FIG. 2 shows a handle which is similar to the handle of FIG. 1 in longitudinal cross-section;
FIG. 3 depicts a side elevation of the handle, shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 gives a sectional view of another enbodiment of the invention;
FIG. 5 gives a partial view of a rope-accommodating part provided with traverse grooves;
FIG. 6 gives a sectional view of the rope-accommodating part along line VI--VI of FIG. 4;
FIG. 7 shows another design of the sleeve, similar to the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 5; and
FIGS. 8 to 11 show other embodiments of the rope-accommodating part with sleeve, their presentation similar to the presentation used in FIGS. 4 to 6.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The skipping rope illustrated in FIG. 1 has a rope 10 which is made of metal and which is connected to a handle 12, made of wood, preferably beech. This handle 12 has an inner bore 14, subdivided into three sections: a first section 16 with expanded diameter D 1 , a second section 18 with reduced diameter D 2 and a third section 20, whose inner diameter is equal to the inner diameter D 1 of the section 16. The section 16 extends axially approximately to the middle of the handle 12 while the third section 20 is relatively short and serves, in the case illustrated, to hold a journal-bearing bushing 22. Alternatively, bushing 22 may be placed in first section 16. Into the inner bore 14 there is inserted a cylindrical peg 24 which carries a crown-like expansion 26, the outer diameter of which is slightly less than the diameter D 1 of the first section.
This crown-like expansion 26 rests at the shoulder 28 which forms the transition between the section 16 and the section 18. The inner diameter of the section 18 corresponds to but is slightly greater than the outer diameter of the peg 24. The length of peg 24 is such that its end 25 opposite expansion 26 will pass through the journal-bearing bushing 22 and then protrudes from the handle 12 when expansion 26 is resting on shoulder 28. The diameter of peg 24 is slightly less than the diameter D 2 of second section 18 so that peg 24 can freely slide axially or rotate in second section 18. The free, protruding end 25 of peg 24 is inserted, as illustrated in FIG. 1, into a blind-end bore 30 of a cylindrical rope-accommodating part 32 and is secured by a locking element 34 which passes through two aligned bores of the part 32 and of the free end of peg 24. It is also possible to utilize a notched pin, a clamping sleeve or spring-locking element for this purpose. The rope-accommodating part 32 is provided with traverse bores 36, namely a total of seven traverse bores in case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 shows that the end of rope 10 has been looped through two of the tranverse bores 36 in rope-accommodating part 32 with the free end of the rope facing the center of the rope after it has been looped through rope-accommodating part 32. In order to eliminate any danger of injuries at the open rope end, a piece of adhesive tape 38 can be wound around the free end and the adjacent area of the rope. While the handle, as mentioned above, is made of wood, especialy beech, in various shapes and forms, the peg 24 is made of steel, preferably high-strength steel. The rope-accommodating part 32 can likewise be manufactured from steel; however, it is also possible to make this part from an aluminum pressure casting or from a hard, elastic synthetic material such as duroplast. The free end of the rope-accommodating part 32 is provided with a knob 40 in order to prevent any injuries. In order to permit the peg 24 to turn about its axis within the handle 12 when the rope is being manipulated, the inner wall of the second section 18 is coated with a non-liquid lubricant such as graphite or the like, to insure proper lubrication. A non-liquid lubricant is used to avoid swelling of the wood which could lead to a jamming of peg 24.
Obviously, it is also possible to manufacture the handle 12 from a synthetic material; in this case the lubrication will present a lesser problem under certain circumstances.
In the case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the journal-bearing bushing 22 is located in the area of the handle adjacent to the rope. By changing the location of the journal-bearing bushing 22, it is feasible to attain a shift in the applied moment of force similar to a change accomplished by changing the traverse bores 36 through which the rope end is looped. This is accomplished by moving bushing 22 from the location shown in FIG. 1 and inserting it into first section 16 with the result that the rope-accommodating part 32 will project partially into the area 20 (See FIG. 2). One end of bushing 22 will rest upon shoulder 28 and the other end will support crown-like expansion 26.
It is further possible to insert a weight into the first section 16 in order to attain a change in the handle balance during the exercise. For this purpose there is inserted a mushroom-like part 50 with a cylindrical extension 52 into the inner bore within first section 16 of the handle. The components are retained within the inner bore at first section 16 by circular rubber rings 54 which will keep the mushroom-like part 50 in its place within the first section 16 by friction contact.
FIG. 3 shows clearly the position of the bores 36. It is also possible to arrange traverse grooves within the rope-accommodating part in place of traverse bores 36. This arrangement is illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6. The rope-accommodating part is denoted by numeral 60 and possesses a cylindrical profile as shown by FIG. 4. Obviously, it is also possible to select a square profile, a design which facilitates the manufacture of the rope-accommodating part.
Referring now to FIG. 5, rope-accommodating part 60 is provided with traverse grooves 62 with rounded bottoms 63 but the bottom can also be kept angular for reasons of economy. The traverse grooves 62, produced by milling, extend over the center axis of the rope-accommodating part 60 and specifically so far that the center line of the inserted end of rope 10 will be located precisely at the center axis of the rope-accommodating part 60. For the purpose of keeping the rope end inside the traverse grooves 62 there is provided a sleeve 64, whose inner diameter matches the outer diameter of the rope-accommodating part 60 so that the sleeve 64 is seated firmly at the rope-accommodating part 60. The sleeve has a first slot 66 which is designed in the form of an oblong hole and which is dimensioned so that it just embraces the bent portion of the rope 10 which protrudes from rope-accommodating part 60. At the opposed side the sleeve is provided with a second slot 68, likewise designed in the form of an oblong hole. The rope is installed by pushing it through the slots and the traverse grooves as in case of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. The first slot 66, shaped in the form of an oblong hole, serves to center rope 10 and will hold it firmly in its proper position. The rope-accommodating part 60 is then fastened to the handle in the same manner as the rope-accommodating part 32, described in connection with FIGS. 1 to 3 above.
FIG. 7 shows a sleeve design which is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6. This sleeve is denoted by reference numeral 70 and has a first slot 72 which is designed in the form of an oblong hole and which has the same function as the first slot 66 of sleeve 64 shown in FIG. 5. At the opposite side of sleeve 70 is slotted axially over its entire length so that sleeve 70 is generally "C" shaped. The sleeve 70 is provided, within the region of one edge, with a plunger-shaped widening 74 so that it can be pushed more easily over the bent portion of the rope 10 protruding over the rope-accommodating part 60.
The sleeve 64 can be manufactured from standard tubular material but the sleeve 70 should be produced from spring plate, or a material possessing good elastic qualities.
FIGS. 8 to 10 illustrate still another embodiment of the sleeve and of the rope-accommodating part. Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 10, the rope-accommodating part, denoted by reference numeral 80, is again equipped with traverse grooves 82 which correspond to the traverse grooves 62 of FIG. 5. Also rope-accommodating part 80 is provided with a longitudinal groove 84, overlapping all traverse grooves 82, its depth corresponding approximately to the thickness of the inserted rope. A portion of the rope protrudes just over the outer contour of the rope-accommodating part 80. The rope 10 is kept securely inside the traverse grooves 82 by means of a sleeve 86 which is provided on one side with a continuous slot 88. At the other side, opposed to the slot 88, there are provided two depressions or recesses 90 which fit snugly to the bent portion of the rope 10, thereby securing the sleeve against sliding. This is clearly depicted in FIG. 8 as well as in FIG. 10. Spring steel is used preferably for the sleeve 86. Obviously, it is also possible to provide one recess only in place of the two recesses shown.
FIG. 11 shows that it is also possible to increase the depth of the longitudinal groove 84 substantially, in the case illustrated in FIG. 11 approximately down to the center axis of the rope-accommodating part 80. In this case a tube 110, slotted on one side only, can be used as sleeve. It was found that in the case of this specific design, the sleeve or tube 110 may be omitted if the rope is held in place within the traverse grooves and the longitudinal groove by adhesive tape 38 wound around the rope end as shown in FIG. 1.
It should be pointed out that the sleeve 110 with the longitudinal slot does require means to prevent any sliding. This can be attained in a simple manner, namely by designing the slot in the form of an oblong hole so that the end portions of the slot, facing each other, will embrace the rope. However, in this case it will become necessary to use a material with resilient qualities for the manufacture of the sleeve 110 so that the slot can be bent up to allow its insertion.
As shown above, it is possible to attain a change in the force applied by the rope to the handle, and thereby to the hand by removing the journal-bearing bushing 22, serving as spacer bush, from third section 20 and inserting the same into first section 16. An additional adjustment is possible by rearranging the rope within two traverse bores 36, or grooves respectively which are located in the region of the handle, or into traverse grooves or bores which are further removed from the handle.
My invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, many modifications and improvements may occur to those skilled in the art, without departing from my invention. It is therefore not intended to limit the scope of my invention to this preferred embodiment except as claimed in the appended claims.
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A skipping rope employing a wire rope and wooden handles which include an apparatus for permitting the handles to rotate freely with respect to the rope. The wooden handles include an axial bore which has a central section of reduced diameter in which is mounted a metal peg by means of a bushing supported inside the handle bore. The peg protrudes from the handle and engages a rope-accommodating part through which the rope may be looped. Sleeves may be used in conjunction with the rope-accommodating part to hold the rope securely in position.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of and claims priority of co-pending utility application Ser. No. 10/751,244 filed Dec. 31, 2003 entitled “Externally Activated Seal System for Wellhead.”
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention is related to concentric casings and strings in wellheads wherein it is necessary to effect a seal between concentric members of the wellhead and is specifically directed to a seal system wherein the sealing members are activated via an external, non-invasive seal energizing system.
[0004] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art
[0005] In oil and gas wells, it is conventional to pass a number of concentric tubes or casings down the well. An outermost casing is fixed in the ground, and the inner casings are each supported from the next outer casing by casing hangers which take the form of inter-engaging internal shoulders on the outer casing and external shoulders on the inner casing.
[0006] Typically, such casing hangers are fixed in position on each casing. There are however applications where a fixed position casing hanger is unsatisfactory, because the hang-off point of one casing on another may require to be adjusted. Such drilling wellheads have to accommodate a casing with an undetermined hang-off point, it has been known to use casing slip-type support mechanisms.
[0007] Wellheads are used in oil and gas drilling to suspend casing, seal the annulus between casing strings, and provide an interface with the BOP. The design of a wellhead is generally dependant upon the location of the wellhead and the characteristics of the well being drilled or produced. One specific type of wellhead is a unitized wellhead for platform or land applications.
[0008] Unitized wellheads are composed of several individual components, including a wellhead housing that is used to support a number of casing hangers and tubing hangers. The hangers support the weight of the casing and tubing, and pass loads back to the wellhead housing. Annulus seals seal the annular spaces between casing and tubing strings.
[0009] Conventional land or platform wellheads are either slip-type conventional wellheads or through-the-BOP multi-bowl wellheads.
[0010] Slip-type wellheads use casing slips to support casing strings. These slips are friction wedges that “grip” the top of a casing string and use slip teeth to bite into the casing. Wellheads of this type require higher-risk operations, as they require lifting the BOP to install casing slips and annulus seals. The seals that are used with slip-type casing hangers must be actively maintained throughout the field life of the well.
[0011] Multi-bowl type wellheads feature reduced-risk operations, as the BOP does not need to be lifted to set casing slips. Instead of using slips, a multi-bowl wellhead uses a fixed landing shoulder in the wellhead housing to support the first casing hanger. All other casing hangers are stacked on top of this initial casing hanger. The seals installed on multi-bowl wellheads can be more dependable than those installed in slip-type wellheads, but are still often unreliable, due to eccentricities in the casing hanger/wellhead alignment and unreliability in the seal setting mechanisms. As the initial load shoulder must support the weight of all casing strings and any loads due to test pressures, this load shoulder must intrude into the bore of the wellhead quite a bit. This can create an operational restriction that limits operations through this well.
[0012] Various sealing devices are known and employed in such wellheads. One example of a sealing assembly is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,913,469, wherein a wellhead slip and seal assembly includes a slip assembly with slips supported within a slip bowl and a seal assembly positioned above the slip assembly and interconnected thereto for supporting the slip assembly, the seal assembly includes two segments connected to form the seal ring and each of the segments includes arcuate elements embedded in a resilient material which forms an inner seal in an inner groove. The segments of the slip bowl include segments interconnected by toe nails and the seal ring includes pin and recess connection for connecting the two segments together.
[0000] It is also known from European Patent No. 0 251 595 to use an adjustable landing ring on a surface casing hanger to accommodate a space-out requirement when the casing is also landed in a surface wellhead.
[0013] More recently, and as shown and described in my U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,092,596 and 6,662,868, an external clamp for clamping two concentric tubes, typically two concentric tubes in an oil or gas well, has two axially movable tapered components which can be pulled over one another in an axial direction to provide a contraction of internal diameter which grips the smaller diameter tube.
[0014] Another example of a sealing system is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,031,695, wherein a well casing hanger with a wide temperature range seal element is energized by axial compression with a pre-determined initial portion of the casing hang load, the remaining portion of that hang load then being transferred to the wellhead or other surrounding well element without imposition on the seal element.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 6,488,084 shows and describes a casing hanger adapted for landing on a load shoulder in a wellhead to seal and support a string of casing. The casing hanger has a lower ring for landing on the load shoulder, the lower ring having an upward facing surface. A plurality of circumferentially spaced recesses are in the upward facing surface of the lower ring, each of the recesses having a base. A seal is located on the lower ring and has a plurality of holes that register with the recesses in the upward facing surface of the lower ring. A slip assembly bowl has a wedging surface that carries a plurality of slip members. The slip members grip the casing and cause the bowl to transmit downward forces from the casing to the seal to axially compress and energize the seal. Fasteners extend from the lower ring through apertures provided in the seal into threaded apertures provided in a downward facing surface of the bowl to secure the lower ring to the slip assembly but allow relative axial movement between the bowl and the lower ring. A plurality of substantially cylindrical stop members are located in the holes in the seal and in the recesses of the lower ring. The stop members are secured into threaded holes formed in the shoulder ring and contact the bases of the recesses to limit the compression of the seal to a predetermined amount.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The subject invention is directed to a method and apparatus for a seal assembly for a unitized wellhead system for land or platform applications utilizing a friction grip technology to create maintainable metal-to-metal seals with finely-controlled contact stresses, lock-down casing and tubing hangers, support test loads to minimize the size of landing shoulders required, and to rotationally lock casing hangers to provide simplified running procedures.
[0017] The subject invention that combines the benefits of a slip-type wellhead and a multi-bowl type wellhead and is able to provide numerous advantages by using radial compression of the wellhead to create seals and support load.
[0018] In its simplest form, the invention provides the apparatus and method for accomplishing a circumferential seal between two substantially concentric members by externally activating the seal once the two members are in position. In a typical configuration, a wellhead housing accommodates and supports a concentric tubing hanger. The tubing hanger may be supported within the wellhead in any of the conventional ways.
[0019] One suitable method for supporting the tubing hanger in the well is the clamping mechanism shown and described in my previously mentioned U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,092,596 and 6,662,868, incorporated herein by reference. Using the system there described, a friction fit is provided between the inner diameter of the wellhead housing and the outer diameter of the tubing hanger. Once properly positioned, a compressor system mounted on the exterior of the wellhead housing is activated, whereby the a cam or ramp surface on the compressor system is moved axially relative to a mated cam surface on outer circumference of the wellhead housing to compress the wellhead housing radially inward for engaging and clamping the tubing hanger along coextensive surfaces.
[0020] The present invention is directed to a sealing mechanism comprising a compression system such as that shown in my aforementioned patents, metal-to-metal sealing members, and where desired, redundant resilient seals. In the preferred embodiment the sealing members are integral, machined surface on the outer circumferential wall of the tubing hanger and inner circumferential wall of the wellhead housing. The sealing surface extends circumferentially about the walls. The sealing surface of the tubing hanger is best designed to clear the inner diameter of the wellhead housing, i.e., there is not any radial interference between the sealing surface of the tubing hanger and the interior wall of the wellhead housing. This preserves the integrity of the seal during assembly. Once the tubing hanger is positioned in the wellhead housing, the seal is activated by the compressor system, compressing the wellhead housing radially inward to engage the seal.
[0021] The sealing assembly of the subject invention provides for a flexible design that can be used for a variety of specific applications, as will be described herein. The simple design promotes dependability and reduces size of the overall architecture of the well. The resulting wellhead assembly has near-zero eccentricity between hangers and housing with near-zero torque and minimal axial setting load required to energize metal-to-metal annular seals
[0022] The sealing assembly may include external test capability for metal-to-metal annular seals.
[0023] It is an important aspect of the invention that the sealing mechanism is activated by external lockdown and sealing activation. The rigid lockdown eliminates annular seal fretting, with contact stress evenly distributed around seal perimeter.
[0024] The sealing assembly permits controlled and monitored application of seal loading.
[0025] The annular seals are maintainable throughout field life.
[0026] A minimal number of running tools are required since hangers are locked in place torsionally. A high-torque connection, e.g., a standard casing coupling on the end of a standard casing string, can be used to run the hangers.
[0027] It is an important feature of the design that the primary load shoulder can be smaller than conventional multi-bowl load shoulders, as much of the load is supported through the various friction-grip interfaces. This smaller load shoulder means that the bore through the wellhead is increased, allowing the first casing string run through the wellhead to be larger in size. Alternately, a smaller load shoulder can allow the outer diameter of the wellhead to be decreased while maintaining the diameter of the casing, resulting in a smaller overall size.
[0028] The friction and gripping areas function over a length. Therefore, if the first casing hanger is landed high, subsequent casing/tubing hangers can tolerate this stack-up error by landing and sealing at slightly different places along the functional bore length.
[0029] The tubing hanger can be nested to reduce the work-over stack dimension.
[0030] The friction grip area supports test loads on the tubing hanger permitting the tubing hanger load shoulder to be smaller than it prior art configurations. More space is then available in the tubing hanger to maximize the number of control line penetrations through the tubing hanger.
[0031] The design of the subject inventions minimizes the number of wellhead penetrations. All contingency procedures can be performed through the blow out preventers (BOP's).
[0032] Due to minimizing stress and torque, the system is a fatigue resistant design for dynamic applications. The flexible design allows incorporation of tensioned casing and tubing hangers.
[0033] In the preferred compression system, the use of hydraulic pistons and lock nuts to activate and lock the flanges allows for a simplified flange design.
[0034] The push-through wear bushing does not need to be retrieved, saving an operation.
[0035] Internal tubing hanger lockdown can be accomplished without a dedicated handling tool and without potential control line damage
[0036] Improved safety, with tubing back-side test, is achieved without the use of a temporary seal or temporary lockdown mechanism on tubing hanger.
[0037] Other features of the invention will be readily apparent from the accompanying drawings and detailed description of the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG. 1 is a simplified cross-section of a wellhead showing the seal system in detail.
[0039] FIG. 2 is a cross-section of a typical wellhead configuration incorporating the seal system of the subject invention.
[0040] FIG. 3 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the seal system of FIG. 1 , and corresponds generally to FIG. 1 .
[0041] FIG. 4 is a cross-section of a typical wellhead configuration incorporating the seal system of the subject invention with the tubing hanger nested to reduce the work-over stack dimension.
[0042] FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the wellhead of FIG. 4 taken at a 90 degree rotation from that of FIG. 4 .
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] A simplified, diagrammatic view of the seal system to the subject invention is shown in FIG. 1 . In its simplest form, the invention provides the apparatus and method for accomplishing a circumferential seal between two substantially concentric members by externally activating the seal once the two members are in position.
[0044] With specific reference to FIG. 1 , a wellhead 1 includes having an external sealing apparatus 10 for clamping a tubular casing 4 of a first diameter within a tubular casing (here the wellhead 1 ) of larger internal diameter. The outer tubular member has an inner circumferential wall with a sealing zone 83 . The inner tubular member is adapted to be positioned substantially concentrically within the outer tubular member having an outer circumferential wall with a sealing zone 28 . The circumferential compression system 10 is mounted outwardly of the outer tubing member and operable to be activated for compressing the outer tubular member into contact with the inner tubular member for engaging the sealing zones therein and activating a seal between the outer tubular member and the inner tubular member. The sealing zone on each tubular member may be a metal sealing surface on each of said tubular members for defining a metal-to-metal seal when the compressions system is activated. Where desired, the wellhead sealing system may include one or more resilient seal members 84 , 85 in the sealing zone of one of the tubular members and extending outwardly therefrom toward the other tubular member, wherein the resilient seal member is adapted to be compressed between the two tubular members when the compression system is activated. Where multiple resilient sealing members are used, a gap 91 is created between the resilient seal members when the compression system is activated. A test port 114 may be provided for communicating the gap with the exterior of the assembly for testing the integrity of the seal when activated. In the preferred embodiment the compression system comprises a wedge surface 15 and a flange 14 adapted for engaging the wedge, one of said wedge and flange being each located on one of the outer tubular member and the compression system, whereby the tubular member is compressed radially inwardly upon relative axial movement between the wedge and the flange. The preferred method for activating the compression system is a hydraulic ram adapted for causing axial movement between the wedge and the flange. The system includes a positive lock 21 for locking the wedge and flange in position once the seal has been engaged.
[0045] In its broadest sense the invention is a method for providing an external sealing device for concentric tubular members in a wellhead. The method comprises placing sealing zones on the mated surfaces of a plurality of concentric tubular members in radial alignment with one another and compressing the outermost tubular member toward the central axis of the concentric tubular members for engaging the sealing zones with one another. As described above, in the preferred embodiment the method includes the step of locking the compressed assembly in sealing position. Where desirable, a redundant resilient seal is positioned in the sealing zone. When a plurality of axially spaced resilient seals are located in the sealing zone, the gap between the resilient seals may be ported to the exterior of the system.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 1 , and by way of example, a wellhead housing 1 accommodates and supports a concentric tubing hanger 4 . As will be further described, additional concentric tubular members may also be sealed using the system of the subject invention. The tubing hanger may be supported within the wellhead in any of the conventional ways. One suitable method for supporting the tubing hanger in the well is the clamping mechanism shown and described in my earlier U.S. Pat. No. 6,092,596, incorporated herein by reference. Using the system therein described, a friction fit is provided between the inner circumferential wall 83 of the wellhead housing and the outer circumferential wall 28 of the tubing hanger 4 . Once properly positioned, the compressor system 10 mounted on the exterior of the wellhead housing 1 is activated by the threaded driver 20 , 21 , whereby the compression flange 14 on the compressor system is moved axially relative to the compression wedge 15 on outer circumference of the wellhead housing to compress the wellhead housing radially inward for engaging and clamping the tubing hanger along the coextensive surfaces 28 and 83 . As shown in my aforementioned patents, the compression system may comprise an annular, axially tapering surface, an axially movable sleeve surrounding the outer wall of the wellhead and has a corresponding tapering surface facing the outer wall, and a driver for producing relative axial movement between the tapering surfaces to exert a radial compressive force to the outer wall of the wellhead. The means for producing relative axial movement comprises a pressure chamber between the sleeve and the wellhead, and means for pressurising the chamber with hydraulic pressure. Alternatively, the means for producing relative axial movement may comprise a flange on the sleeve, a flange on the wellhead, and means for applying a mechanical force between the flanges to move the sleeve axially along the wellhead.
[0047] The present invention is directed to the sealing mechanism comprising the compression system 10 , the metal-to-metal sealing member 29 , and where desired, redundant resilient seals 84 and 85 . In the preferred embodiment the sealing member 29 may is an integral, machined surface on the outer wall 28 of the tubing hanger. The sealing surface extends circumferentially about the outer wall of the tubing hanger. The sealing surface is best designed to clear the inner wall of 83 of the wellhead housing, i.e., there is not any radial interference between the sealing surface of the tubing hanger and the interior wall of the wellhead housing. This preserves the integrity of the seal during assembly. Once the tubing hanger 4 is positioned in the wellhead housing 1 , the seal is activated by driving the compression flange 14 of the compressor system 10 relative to the compression wedge 15 mounted on the wellhead housing 1 , forcing the wellhead housing to compress radially inward about the entire circumference and engage the seal.
[0048] In the preferred embodiment, the metal-to-metal seal includes mated and complementary sealing surfaces 29 and 90 on both the exterior wall of the tubing hanger and the interior wall of the wellhead housing.
[0049] Resilient back up seals 84 , 85 may also be provided. As shown in FIG. 1 , the exterior wall of the tubing hanger includes channels 86 , 87 , for receiving an the resilient o-ring type resilient seal 84 , 85 . The channels and O-rings could also alternatively be housed in the interior wall of the wellhead housing. The resilient seal system is also activated by the compressor system 10 .
[0050] It is also desirable to provide a seal test port 114 in communication with the seal for testing its integrity once activated.
[0051] The seals are released by decompressing the compressor system 10 to withdraw the ramp surface 14 axially downward from the ramp surface 16 via the screw drive system 21 . The drive means may be any of a number of systems which support the exertion of circumferential pressure on the outer wall of the wellhead. Examples of such systems are shown and described in my U.S. Pat. No. 6,662,868 and copending application U.S. Ser. No. 10/721,443. All of these are incorporated by reference herein.
[0052] It is, therefore, the essence of the invention to provide a sealing mechanism for sealing the annulus between two relatively concentric tubular members by activating and engaging a sealing member via an external force applied to the assembly for compressing the outer member into the inner member.
[0053] It should be noted that the seal mechanism must be distinguished from the clamping mechanism described in the aforementioned patents. As will be readily understood, sufficient clamping can be accomplished by compressing the outer member into the inner member whether or not full circumferential contact is achieved. It is the important enhancement of the subject invention that means are provided to assure complete contact along the circumferential walls of the two member to effect a seal once the compression is completed.
[0054] FIG. 2 depicts a simple configuration of a three-string wellhead system utilizing the clamping system of my aforementioned patents and the sealing system of the present invention. The main components of this system are a wellhead housing 1 , a production casing hanger 2 with annulus seal assembly 3 , and a tubing hanger 4 . The entire assembly is supported on a base plate 5 that sits on the conductor string 6 .
[0055] A load shoulder 37 on the support plate supports the wellhead housing. The wellhead housing 1 supports the weight of the intermediate casing string 7 in a traditional manner (in this case, via a threaded casing coupling connection in the bottom of the wellhead housing). The exterior of the wellhead housing features two sets of annulus access ports 8 and 9 , two clamping compression systems 10 and 11 , a control-line access port 12 , two sets of external seal test ports 113 and 114 , and a thread-on flange profile up. A thread on flange 35 attaches to this profile to interface with the tree adapter 33 .
[0056] The bore of the wellhead housing is featured with a number of sealing profiles and lockdown profiles for the casing hanger, seal assembly, and tubing hanger. These bores may be on a series of steps so that each higher bore is on a slightly larger diameter, therefore protected from operations on the smaller diameter bores. At the top of the wellhead housing bore is an index shoulder 22 for the tubing hanger neck seal and a gasket sealing profile. At the bottom of the wellhead housing bore is a load shoulder 23 that is sized to support the casing weight of the production casing string only. Any additional axial load (for instance load from other casing strings or from test pressures) passes through the friction-grip lockdown areas.
[0057] The production casing hanger 2 features a casing thread profile down for support of the production casing string 24 and a casing thread profile up to interface with the casing hanger's casing running string (not shown). The exterior of the casing hanger features a load shoulder that is slotted to allow flow-by and cement returns to pass the exterior of the casing hanger as it is being run. The external surface of the load shoulder area 25 is a controlled surface featuring a friction profile. When the casing hanger is landed, this friction surface is parallel to a mating surface in the bore of the wellhead housing. External compression of the wellhead housing provided by the lower compression cartridge 111 forces the two surfaces to be perfectly concentric and brings them into contact. Friction at this interface provides rotational and axial lock-down support for the casing hanger, as well as additional load support for production casing weight and test loads on the production casing hanger. Above the casing hanger load shoulder is a profile for the annulus seal system 3 .
[0058] The annulus seal 3 fits between the production casing hanger 2 and the inner bore of the wellhead housing 1 . The seal features two sets of seal profiles 115 , 116 on both the inner and outer diameters, respectively. The outer diameter and inner diameter seal profiles feature two pairs each of metal-to-metal seals as well as resilient seal back-ups 118 , 119 . A port 113 between the two sets of seals allows external testing of all seals created by the seal assembly. These seal profiles do not have initial radial interference with either the casing hanger or the wellhead housing. Rather, interference (and radial contact pressure) is provided by external compression of the wellhead housing through the use of the lower compression cartridge 11 . An extended neck 120 on the seal assembly protrudes above the top of the casing hanger. This extended neck features ports 122 to allow communication between the production/tubing annulus and the upper annulus access port 8 in the wellhead housing. The top of the seal assembly serves as a landing shoulder 124 for the tubing hanger 4 at load shoulder 26 .
[0059] The tubing hanger 4 supports the tubing string 27 with a threaded connection down. The thicker main body 125 of the tubing hanger provides a load shoulder 26 that lands on top of the production casing hanger annulus seal assembly on landing shoulder 124 . This load shoulder supports full tubing string weight only. Any additional axial loads (for instance, loads due to test pressure) are supported by the friction-grip lockdown area. The outer diameter of the thick section 125 of the tubing hanger features a friction-lock profile 28 below a sealing profile 29 . The friction profile is a machined surface suitable for support of friction loads. The sealing profile consists of a pair of metal-to-metal seal bumps with resilient back-ups, as described with above and shown more clearly in FIGS. 1 and 3 . Both of these profiles are parallel to mating surfaces on the wellhead housing bore, and have no initial interference. When the upper compression cartridge 10 is activated, that section of the wellhead housing is compressed inwards to contact the tubing hanger. Contact pressure along this interface forces the pieces to be concentric, provides axial and rotational lockdown of the tubing hanger, and activates the metal-to-metal seals with resilient back-ups. The friction interface supports any test pressure loads on the tubing hanger.
[0060] Hydraulic control lines 30 pass through the tubing hanger body in a conventional manner. The tubing hanger features an extended neck 126 upwards. This neck features a tubing connection box up to interface with the tubing running string (not shown). Below this threaded box is a seal profile to accept the tubing hanger neck seal.
[0061] The tubing hanger neck seal 31 sits on a support ring 32 that is carried on the tubing hanger neck and indexes on a load shoulder in the wellhead housing bore. The seal sits on the upper face of this support ring, and features metal-to-metal seal profiles on both the straight inner diameter and the tapered outer diameter. A port 127 between these seal profiles allows external testing of all seals created by the tubing hanger neck seal via an external test port 36 in the Christmas tree adapter 33 . This seal is activated as the Christmas tree adapter 33 is drawn by studs and nuts 34 down onto the wellhead housing. Movement over the tapered external surface of the tubing hanger neck seal compresses the seal inwards and creates high radial contact pressures on both the seal inner diameter and the seal outer diameter.
[0062] FIG. 3 is an enlarged a detail of the system shown in FIG. 2 , generally in the area of the upper compressor system 10 . FIG. 3 is generally of the same cross-section of FIG. 1 , but with all of the detail of the wellhead housing of FIG. 2 .
[0063] Each POS-GRIP compression system is composed of a compression flange 14 and a compression wedge 15 . The compression flanges are rings with tapered inner surfaces that mate with the tapered outer surfaces of the compression wedges. Axial movement of the compression flanges over the compression wedges compresses the compression wedges inwards, in turn compressing a portion of the wellhead housing 1 inwards (within the wellhead housing's elastic range). The compression systems may be configured with a split spacer ring 16 between the compression wedge and the wellhead housing, as shown in the top compression system 10 of FIG. 2 . The split spacer rings have minimal hoop stiffness, and simply pass the radial contact loads from the compression wedge into the wellhead housing.
[0064] The compression flanges have handling profiles 17 on the flange outer diameters. These handling profiles interface with a release tool (not shown) that can be used to push the flanges apart, releasing the compression. The compression flanges also have activation and locking profiles 18 cut into the wide end of the flanges. These profiles accept a set of small hydraulic pistons (not shown) during activation. These hydraulic pistons react against the thick section of the wellhead housing in the region of the upper annulus access port 8 , see FIG. 2 . When pressure is applied to a set of hydraulic pistons, the associated compression flange is pushed away from the thick section of the wellhead housing into the “activated” position. Once the compression flange has been moved into its activated position, mechanical lock nuts 19 replace the hydraulic pistons in the locking profiles, and are used to lock the flange in the activated position.
[0065] The lock nuts consist of a male thread member 20 and a female thread member 21 . The male thread member has a threaded length and a flat face at one end to sit on the wellhead housing. The female thread member has threads to mate with the male thread member and a flat face to react on the compression flange. Rotation of the female thread member on the male thread member allows the lock nut to adjust in length, to fill whatever gap is developed between the wellhead housing and the compression flanges during activation of the compression system. Once the lock nut has been adjusted to the necessary length, it effectively locks the compression flange in its current position, so that the hydraulic pistons may be removed.
[0066] FIGS. 4 and 5 depict two separate sections of a more involved configuration of a four-string wellhead. The main components of this system are a wellhead housing 38 , a push-through wear bushing 39 , an intermediate casing hanger 40 with annulus seal assembly 41 . The annulus seal assembly is of the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 2 and is activated in a similar manner by the lower compression system 11 . There is also a production casing hanger 42 , a seal and support sub 43 , and a tubing hanger 44 .
[0067] The assembly shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 uses an alternate means of wellhead support. In this case, the entire assembly is supported on a friction support mechanism 45 that connects the bottom of the wellhead housing to the top of a large-diameter casing string 46 . The friction support mechanism consists of a gripping sub 47 , a compression sub 49 , and a set of studs and nuts 50 . This gripping system comprising gripping sub 47 , compression sub 49 and the driver 50 , operates in accordance with the gripping system shown and described in my aforementioned patents. The gripping sub is connected to the inner diameter of the wellhead housing 38 via a threaded profile at 130 with a metal-to-metal seal. The lower portion 131 of the gripping sub consists of a friction and sealing profile on the inner diameter and a tapered surface on the outer diameter. The friction profile diameter fits as a socket around the casing string 46 . The tapered diameter mates with a tapered surface on the compression sub 49 . As the compression sub moves upwards over the taper, the gripping sub is compressed inwards. This closes the gap between the gripping sub and the outer diameter of the casing, and creates a high radial contact pressure between the two pieces. This high radial contact pressure provides a metal-to-metal seal between the gripping sub and the casing. Friction at this interface locks the pieces together axially and rotationally.
[0068] A set of studs and nuts 50 connect the compression sub 49 to the wellhead housing 38 . It is movement of the nuts along the studs that causes the compression sub to move upwards along the tapered compression sub/gripping sub interface.
[0069] The wellhead housing 38 is largely the same as that shown in FIG. 2 . The wellhead housing in FIGS. 4 and 5 features a third annulus access port 52 ( FIG. 4 ) to allow access to the additional annulus created in the four-string configuration. This annulus access port is located at 90 degrees from the production casing/intermediate casing annulus access port 51 ( FIG. 5 ). Both ports may be located at the same height as shown in these drawings. There is also one additional test port 52 ( FIG. 4 ) through the wellhead housing to test an additional set of seals 135 on the tubing hanger.
[0070] This wellhead housing also demonstrates a different means of providing a reaction point for the hydraulic activation pistons and mechanical lock nuts. Instead of having a very thick section integral to the wellhead housing (as was shown in FIG. 2 ), this wellhead housing features a series of split flange sections 54 that fit in a dovetail groove 55 in a slightly thicker portion 136 of the wellhead housing. These flanges may then be bolted into place. At locations where annulus access port passes through the wellhead housing, a flat is machined to allow an annulus access valve to be bolted in place.
[0071] This system is used with a push-through wear bushing. This wear bushing protects the wellhead bore when drilling for the intermediate casing string. The wear bushing 39 is simply a thin sleeve with a thick top section. The bottom of the thin sleeve passes through the wellhead housing minimum inner diameter. A set of resilient seals 57 at the top of the wear bushing 39 prevents fluids from entering the protected area. The wear bushing may be supported in one of two ways. First, a pin through one of the annulus access ports can latch into a profile on the outer diameter of the wear bushing. This pin can then be removed when the wear bushing is ready to be moved out of the way. Alternately, the thick upper portion of the wear bushing may be gripped by the compression system 11 . This system is released when the wear bushing is ready to be moved out of the way.
[0072] The thicker portion at the top of the wear bushing serves as a load shoulder 138 for the intermediate casing hanger. The wear bushing is released when the intermediate casing hanger is run. The load shoulder 140 on the intermediate casing hanger lands on the top of the mating load shoulder on the wear bushing and pushes the wear bushing downwards until the thick portion of the wear bushing is sandwiched between the lower load shoulder 142 on the wellhead housing and the load shoulder 140 on the intermediate casing hanger. These shoulder thicknesses are all sized to support full intermediate casing weight only. Any additional load on the intermediate casing hanger (due to loads from additional casing strings and seal test loads) is supported by the friction interface which is activated by the compression system 11 .
[0073] The intermediate casing hanger 150 and intermediate casing hanger seal assembly 41 are largely identical to the production casing hanger 2 and production casing hanger annulus seal assembly 3 as discussed in FIG. 2 . The intermediate casing hanger features a profile 58 on the inner diameter to land the production casing hanger 42 . As a hanger does not land on top of the annulus seal as one did in the configuration of FIG. 2 , the annulus seal is shorter, and does not have the requirement of ports for annulus access.
[0074] The production casing hanger 42 features a casing thread profile down for support of the production casing string 59 . At the top end of the production casing hanger, there is a casing coupling box 152 to interface with the seal and support sub 43 and an external running thread profile to interface with the casing hanger's running tool (not shown). The exterior of the production casing hanger features slots to allow flow-by and cement returns to pass as the hanger is being run.
[0075] Held in a profile on the exterior of the production casing hanger is a split-ring landing mechanism 60 ( FIG. 5 ). This outwardly biased split ring is held inwards by the casing hanger running tool while the hanger is being run. This allows the production casing hanger to pass completely through the bore of the intermediate casing hanger, and then be pulled back to the mating landing profile, thus applying tension to the production casing string. When the production casing hanger is properly located in the bore of the intermediate casing hanger, the outwardly-biased split ring is disengaged from the running tool. The split ring springs outwards and engages the mating profile in the bore of the intermediate casing hanger. This split ring supports intermediate casing string weight only. Any additional loads on the intermediate casing hanger (for instance, loads due to the tubing string or any seal test loads) are carried by the seal and support sub.
[0076] The seal and support sub 43 has a casing coupling pin down. This threaded and sealing connection is made up to the mating box 152 in the top of the production casing hanger 150 . On the inner diameter above this coupling is a running profile 61 to mate with a running tool (not shown). Above this running profile, ports 62 ( FIG. 4 ) pass from the seal and support sub inner diameter to the outer diameter to allow communication between the production casing/tubing annulus and the annulus access port 156 .
[0077] At the outer diameter of the seal and support sub, these ports pass between a pair of metal-to-metal seals at seal assembly 160 . The outer diameter of the seal and support sub features four sets of metal-to-metal seals 162 with resilient backup 63 . The annulus access ports pass between the middle set of seals. The set of seals on either side of the annulus access port straddle external test ports in the wellhead housing wall, enabling testing of all sets of seals. Below all of these sealing profiles is a friction profile 64 , consisting of a machined surface suitable for support of friction loads.
[0078] Both of these profiles are parallel to mating surfaces on the wellhead housing bore, and have no initial interference. When the upper compression cartridge 165 is activated, that section of the wellhead housing is compressed inwards to contact the seal and support sub. Contact pressure along this interface forces the pieces to be concentric, provides axial and rotational lockdown of the seal and support sub, and activates the metal-to-metal seals with resilient back-ups. The friction interface supports any test pressure loads on the seal and support sub and any weight from the tubing hanger.
[0079] The inner diameter of the support sub is a bowl that serves as a landing shoulder 170 for the tubing hanger 65 . Above this landing shoulder is a bore with both a friction grip profile 66 and a sealing profile 67 for the tubing hanger.
[0080] The tubing hanger 65 is very similar to the tubing hanger 4 shown in FIG. 2 . The tubing hanger 65 has a reduced outer diameter, allowing it to be run through a smaller blow out preventer (BOP). This smaller tubing hanger is landed, locked down, and sealed inside the seal and support sub rather than inside the wellhead housing bore. In order to have capability to test the metal-to-metal seals on the tubing hanger outer diameter, a port 68 in the tubing hanger passes from the top face to intersect a test port that passes between the two sets of seals on the tubing hanger outer diameter.
[0081] To activate the seals and friction grip inside the seal and support sub requires a two-stage operation of the upper compression system 165 . The first stage of activation compresses the wellhead housing inwards to grip, support, and seal the seal and support sub. During the second stage of activation, the compression system is activated further. This additional activation compresses through the seal and support sub, compressing the inner diameter of the seal and support sub inwards to grip the tubing hanger. This second-stage compression provides the force necessary to activate the metal-to-metal seals and the friction-grip support. The tubing hanger neck seal is identical to that shown FIG. 2 .
[0082] From the foregoing description it will be readily understood that the platform wellhead design of the subject invention has numerous enhancements and features providing substantial advantages over the wellhead designs of the prior art. The wellhead as described herein achieves these advantages by moving load support and seal energization functions to the exterior to the wellhead housing. This results in maximization of useable bore space and excellent control of annular seal loading. These improvements result in the following advantages and features, among others:
flexible design can be used for a variety of specific applications. Simple design promotes dependability and reduces size. Zero eccentricity between hangers and housing. Zero torque and minimal axial setting load required to energize metal-to-metal annular seals. External test capability for metal-to-metal annular seals. External lockdown and sealing activation Rigid lockdown eliminates annular seal fretting. Contact stress evenly distributed around seal perimeter. Controlled and monitored application of seal loading. Annular seals maintainable throughout field life. Minimal number of running tools required-since hangers are locked in place torsionally, a high-torque connection (in this case a standard casing coupling on the end of a standard casing string) can be used to run the hangers. The primary load shoulder can be quite a bit smaller than conventional multi-bowl load shoulders, as much of the load is supported through the various friction-grip interfaces. This smaller load shoulder means that the bore through the wellhead is increased, allowing the first casing string run through the wellhead to be larger in size. Alternately, a smaller load shoulder can allow the outer diameter of the wellhead to be decreased, resulting in a smaller overall size. The friction and gripping areas function over a length. Therefore, if the first casing hanger is landed high, subsequent casing hangers/tubing hangers can tolerate this stack-up error by landing and sealing at slightly different places along the bore length. As shown in FIG. 4 , the tubing hanger can be nested to reduce the work-over stack dimension. Due to the fact that the friction grip area supports test loads on the tubing hanger, the tubing hanger load shoulder can be smaller than it would normally be. This means that more space is available in the tubing hanger to maximize the number of control line penetrations through the tubing hanger. Minimum number of wellhead penetrations. Contingency procedures can all be performed through the BOP's. Fatigue resistant design for dynamic applications. Flexible design allows incorporation of tensioned casing and tubing hangers (for instance as shown in FIG. 4 ). Use of hydraulic pistons and lock nuts to activate and lock flanges allows simple flange design. Push-through wear bushing does not need to be retrieved, saving an operation. Internal tubing hanger lockdown without dedicated handling tool and potential control line damage Improved safety, with tubing back-side test achieved without use of temporary seal or temporary lockdown mechanism on tubing hanger.
[0105] While certain features and embodiments of the invention have bee described in detail herein, it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications and enhancements within the scope of the following claims.
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A method and apparatus for a seal assembly for a unitized wellhead system for land or platform applications utilizes a friction grip technology to create maintainable metal-to-metal seals with finely-controlled contact stresses, lock-down casing and tubing hangers, support test loads to minimize the size of landing shoulders required, and to rotationally lock casing hangers to provide simplified running procedures. The system can be used in combination with a friction grip clamping assembly to greatly streamline the wellhead design.
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BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to displays for photographs or the like and, more particularly, to an arrangement for storing a substantial number of photographs in a compact configuration and in readiness for serial display.
The invention employs a plurality of picture carrying frames which are serially hinged together, edge-to-edge, in an endless array. The hinges are arranged to enable the frames to be folded against each other in an accordian-like pack with an adjacent pair of the frames extending upwardly from the pack in an inverted-V, display configuration. Each of the frames is constructed to carry and display a picture or other flat, sheet-like article. The arrangement enables the pair of upwardly extending frames to be pivoted downwardly toward the trailing end of the pack which also simultaneously and automatically draws the next pair of frames upwardly from the leading end of the pack to the inverted-V display position. The frames are supported and mounted for such movement by hooks extending transversely from the frames and which engage a ledge formed on a support stand. Each of the frames has one such hook extending transversely from one of its unhinged sides, in proximity to one of its hinged sides. The hooks are arranged so that all of the hooks in the frames in the pack will be in alignment and will overhang and engage the ledge on the support stand. As the frames are advanced from the pack to the display position, their hooks automatically disengage from the ledge and re-engage the ledge when they are returned to the rear end of the pack. The hooks and support stand are arranged so that the entire array of frames can be removed easily from the stand and replaced with a different array of frames, perhaps being different pictures or other sheet-like materials to be displayed.
It is among the objects of the invention to provide an improved picture display device which is capable of storing a substantial number of photographs or other sheet-like materials to be displayed.
Another object of the invention is to provide a display device of the type described which enables two frames to be displayed at the same time.
A further object of the invention is to provide a display device of the type described in which the plurality of frames are serially connected, end-to-end in an endless array.
Another object of the invention is to provide a display device of the type described which enables a plurality of pictures or the like to be displayed at the same time.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a display device of the type described in which movement of a pair of frames from the display position automatically causes the succeeding pair of frames to be advanced to the display position.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention will be understood more fully from the following further description thereof, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is an illustration of the device in use;
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a number of frames in series illustrating the manner in which the frames are hinged;
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic side elevation of the device showing the manner in which the frames are presented automatically and in sequence; and
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a frame.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
FIG. 1 shows the device which includes a support stand indicated generally by the reference character 10 and a frame array, indicated generally by the reference character 12, which is detachably supported on the stand 10. The frame array 12 is formed from a plurality of frame sections 14, an individual frame section 14 being shown more fully in FIG. 4. The frame sections 14 are arranged serially and are connected at their adjacent edges, end-to-end in an endless configuration. Each of the frames may be considered as having an inner edge 16, an outer edge 18 and a pair of side edges 20, 22. The frames 14 are flat and of relatively thin construction to enable a substantial number of them to be stacked one against the other as will be described. Each of the frames 14 preferably is made from a transparent plastic material and is constructed to receive a photograph or other thin sheet-like item 24 which can be displayed through the transparent face 26 of the frame 14. In the embodiment suggested in FIG. 4, the frame section may be formed to define a slot 28 open at the side edge 22 of the frame 14 to removably receive a photograph 14 or the like. The frame sections may be built up from a pair of molded plastic sheet-like sections or by other construction techniques which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Each of the frames 14 includes an integral L-shaped hook 30 which extends transversely from the corner defined by the inner edge 16 and the side edge 20. The inner edges 16 of adjacent frames are hingedly connected to each other as are the adjacent outer edges 18 of adjacent frames as suggested in FIG. 2. The hinged joints 32 may be defined by transparent tape strips which may be attached to the frames on alternate sides of the endless series of joints so that each adjacent pair of frame sections will tend to hinge in opposite directions. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the tape strip 34 will define an inside hinge while the tape strips 36 will define outside hinges arranged to facilitate hinging of the frame sections in an opposite direction.
The foregoing hinge configuration for successive frame sections enables the sections to be arranged in an endless configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 in which all but one pair of the connected sections 14 may be arranged in an accordion-like pack as suggested at 38 in FIG. 1. The pack 38 may be considered as having a leading end (which is in full view in FIG. 1) and a trailing end (which is obscured in FIG. 1). With all but two of the frame sections collapsed to the accordion-like configuration, the remaining pair of frame sections, which connect the leading and trailing ends of the pack, extend upwardly from the pack in an inverted-V shaped attitude as shown. It may be noted that with the frames so arranged, all of the outer edges 18 will extend outwardly whereas all of the inner edges 16 are disposed more inwardly, near the center of the array 12. As will be described, the hooks 30, cooperate with the stand 10 to enable the frames to be presented serially and in a manner in which shifting of one pair of frames from the display position automatically brings the next pair of frames to the inverted-V, display position.
The operation of the device is illustrated somewhat diagrammatically in FIG. 3 in which the rearwardmost frame in the pack may be considered as being in the position identified as p 1 , the next frame in the pack as P 2 , etc. and with the last frame at the trailing, forward end of the pack being identified at P t . The frames in the display position indicated in solid at FIG. 3 may be identified as D 1 and D 2 . When the frames 14 which are in the display position D 1 , D 2 are urged forwardly and downwardly, as suggested by the arrow 40, to the position shown in phantom and identified by reference character 42, this motion will draw the leading pair of frames from the positions P 1 , P 2 in the pack upwardly toward the display position as suggested at 44 and indicated by the arrow 46. The frames are advanced to rotate the previously displayed frames to the forward, trailing end of the pack which brings the next successive pair of frames from the intermediate position suggested at 44 to the display position D 1 , D 2 . All of the pairs of frames in the pack thus advance toward the leading end of the pack to the position p 1 , p 2 and in readiness to be rotated upwardly to the display position D 1 , D 2 .
The array of frames is mounted to the support stand 10 for the foregoing movement by the hooks 30. The stand 10 includes a base 48 and a support wall 50 extending upwardly from a side edge of the base. The support wall 50 has an opening 52 which is formed to define a substantially continuous edge including a lower ledge portion 54 which is inclined slightly downwardly and rearwardly. The rear region of the lower ledge portion 54 merges smoothly into an upwardly curving arcuate rear portion 56. The upper end of the arcuate rear portion 56 of the edge of the opening 52 merges smoothly into an upper portion 58 which extends forwardly and generally parallels the lower ledge portion 54 of the opening. The front edge 60 of the opening merges smoothly at an arcuate region 62 into the upper portion 58.
The frames are arranged so that the hooks 30 of the frames in the pack will be in alignment with each other and will define a substantially continuous channel suggested at 64 in FIG. 1, which can be hooked over the lower ledge portion 54 of the opening 52. The width of the channel 64 defined by the hooks is just slightly greater than the thickness of the inwardly facing wall 50 so that the side edges 20 of the frames can rest against the wall 50. As shown in FIG. 1, the hooks 30 on the pair of frames D 1 , D 2 in the display position extend upwardly and do not engage the edge of the opening 52. As the frames in the display position D 1 , D 2 are rotated forwardly toward the trailing end of the pack, the hooks of those frames will engage the lower ledge portion 54 to aid in supporting the pack. As the pair of frames which were in the leading position P 1 , P 2 in the pack are advanced upwardly to the display position, their hooks 30 advance from the rearward end of the ledge portion 54 to the arcuate portion 56 and then disengage and assume the attitude shown in FIG. 1. The downwardly and rearwardly inclined attitude of the lower ledge portion 54 enables the pack to gravitate toward the rearwardly disposed arcuate edge 56.
The height of the opening 52, as measured from the lower ledge portion 54 to the upper portion 58 of the opening is greater than the total height of a pair of separated, spread-apart hooks 30 so that the entire frame array 12 can be simply lifted off of the lower ledge portion 54 of the opening 52 and removed from the support stand 10. The array of frames may be replaced by a different array of like construction by simply inserting the hooks through the opening 52 and permitting the channel 64 defined by the aligned hooks of the frame pack to engage the ledge portion 54 of the opening 52.
It should also be noted that the advancement of the frames can be in a reversed direction if desired. In this mode of operation, as the frames in the display position D 1 , D 2 are rotated toward the rearward, then trailing end of the pack, the hooks 30 of those frames will engage the arcuate rear portion 56 of the edge of the opening 52 and, when those frames have been rotated fully to the trailing end of the pack, their hooks will rest on the portion 54 of the ledge to aid in supporting the pack. As the pair of frames which were in the then leading position in the pack are advanced upwardly to the display position, their hooks 30 disengage from the lower ledge portions 54 and will assume the attitude shown in FIG. 1.
If desired, alternate of the frame sections may be formed to include a tab 66 to facilitate manual advancement. The tab 66 preferably extends from the outer edge 18 and is located at the corner defined by the outer edge 18 and the side edge 20. When the tabs 66 are employed, they should be located so that they do not interfere with the action of the hinges connecting the outside edges 18 of adjacent frames.
The frame sections 14 as well as the support stand 10 may be made from a variety of materials, with plastic being preferred. Also, while the illustrative embodiment is described in which the frames have a slot formed therein to receive a photograph or other thin sheet-like item, other flat types of display frame sections may be employed. For example, frame sections 14 may be simple flat sheets to which photos or the like may be adhesively attached directly to a face of the section 14. If the section is transparent, the photograph or sheet may be attached to the inwardly facing surface of the section.
It should be understood from the foregoing description of the invention is intended merely to be illustrative thereof and that other embodiments and modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its spirit.
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A picture display device includes a plurality of generally rectangular frames hinged together, edge-to-edge in an endless series. The frames can be folded into an arrangement defining a compact pack from which a pair of frames project in an inverted-V display position. The assembly of frames is detachably mountable to a support device and in a manner in which manual rotational movement of the upwardly projecting pair of frames from the display position back toward the pack automatically raises another pair of frames to the display position.
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RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/170,037 entitled “Method and Apparatus for Controlling Flow in a Drum, filed on Dec. 10, 1999, as well as is related to International Patent Application No. PCT/US99/27294 entitled “Method and Apparatus for Manufacturing Non-Woven Articles” filed on Nov. 17, 1999, which in turn claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/193,582, filed Nov. 17, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,580 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/149,270, filed Aug. 17, 1999, all the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a method of using a honeycomb drum with an outer microporous surface to produce non-woven articles and more particularly, to an internal manifold for controlling flow in the drum.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Non-woven materials are used in applications that require articles to be air permeable. Some applications of non-woven articles are surgical masks and filter membranes. Since many applications that use non-woven material entail disposable articles, the non-woven articles should be easily manufacturable and low cost. Some methods of manufacturing non-woven materials are spunbonded and melt blown processes, and electro-spinning of nano-fibers.
[0004] [0004]FIG. 1 illustrates the spunbonded process 10 for manufacturing non-woven materials. Thermoplastic fiber forming polymer 12 is placed in an extruder 14 and passed through a linear or circular spinneret 16 . The extruded liquid polymer streams 18 are rapidly cooled and attenuated by air and/or mechanical drafting rollers 20 to form desired diameter solidifying filaments 22 . The solidifying filaments 22 are then laid down on a first conveyor belt 24 to form a web 26 . The web 26 is then bonded by rollers 28 to form a spunbonded web 30 . The spunbonded web 30 is then transferred by a second conveyer belt 32 and then to a windup 34 . The spunbonded process is an integrated one step process which begins with a polymer resin and ends with a finished fabric.
[0005] [0005]FIG. 2 illustrates the melt blown process 40 for manufacturing non-woven materials. Thermoplastic forming polymer 42 is placed in an extruder 44 and is then passed through a linear die 46 containing about twenty to forty small orifices 48 per inch of die 46 width. Convergent streams of hot air 50 rapidly attenuate the extruded liquid polymer streams 52 to form solidifying filaments 54 . The solidifying filaments 54 subsequently get blown by high velocity air 56 onto a take-up screen 58 , thus forming a melt blown web 60 . The web is then transferred to a windup 62 . U.S. Pat. No. 4,380,570 entitled “Apparatus and Process for Melt-Blowing a Fiberforming Thermoplastic Polymer and Product Produced Thereby” describes the melt blown process and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0006] While non-woven materials can be manufactured by either the spunbonded or melt blown process there are difficulties associated with each process. For example, the newly manufactured non-woven material (e.g. melt blown web 60 ) tends to stick to the take-up screen 58 . Further, the processes produce sheet material. Accordingly, to manufacture non-woven materials into three-dimensional shapes, e.g. surgical masks and pleated filters, some form of post-processing is required.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] present invention relates to a manifold spanning a sector of a drum across at least a portion of a width thereof, the manifold having at least two chambers independently regulatable with respect to at least one of pressure and flow.
[0008] In another embodiment of the present invention, the manifold is an inner tube located inside of a shell, the shell further having at least one plate to prevent airflow from leaking around the inner tube. The inner tube may also include a plurality of ports to provide fluidic communication between the inner tube and the shell. A plurality of gate valves may be provided in communication with the plurality of ports to regulate at least one of pressure in and flow through the manifold.
[0009] The shell may include a frame forming an aperture and optionally include a honeycomb panel mounted within the frame aperture. At least one flow turning vane may be disposed between the inner tube and the frame aperture. The shell may include at least one partition, thereby defining the at least two independently regulatable chambers.
[0010] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a drum with a generally tubular honeycomb member that has an outer surface forming a contour. The drum also includes the manifold discussed above, which spans a sector of the drum across a portion of a width thereof. The manifold includes at least two chambers independently regulatable with respect to at least one of pressure and flow. A microporous layer may be provided covering at least a portion of the contour on the outer surface of the drum.
[0011] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of independently regulating at least one of pressure and flow spanning a sector of a drum across at least a portion of a width thereof. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a drum with a manifold spanning a sector of the drum across at least a portion of a width thereof. The manifold is subdivided into at least two chambers independently regulatable with respect to at least one of pressure and flow. The method further includes applying a pressure to the manifold to achieve at least one of a desired pressure or flow profile across the sector of the drum. The applied pressure may be negative (i.e., a vacuum) or positive.
[0012] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing non-woven articles. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a drum made of a tubular honeycomb member that forms an outer contour. The drum also includes the manifold discussed above, which spans a sector of the drum along at least a portion of a width thereof. The manifold is subdivided into at least two chambers independently regulatable with respect to at least one of pressure and flow. The drum may include a microporous layer covering at least a portion of the outer contour.
[0013] In accordance with the inventions embodied in a manufacturing system, flows can be tailored to suit the particular contoured articles being formed or to normalize flows across the drum to compensate for inherent variability in conventional vacuum systems.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The above and further advantages of this invention may be better understood by referring to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0015] [0015]FIG. 1 is a schematic of a spunbonded process for manufacturing non-woven materials;
[0016] [0016]FIG. 2 is a schematic of a melt blown process for manufacturing non-woven materials;
[0017] [0017]FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the drum of the current invention, illustrating a contoured honeycomb tube with an outer microporous surface;
[0018] [0018]FIG. 3B is a partially exploded side view of the drum illustrating the mounting structure, vacuum apparatus, and V-belt drive groove;
[0019] [0019]FIG. 3C is a partially exploded perspective view of the drum structure;
[0020] [0020]FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the drum taken along line 4 - 4 in FIG. 3A illustrating a pleated surface;
[0021] [0021]FIG. 5 is a partial radial view of the drum illustrating the honeycomb mesh;
[0022] [0022]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the drum taken along line 6 - 6 in FIG. 3A illustrating a contoured outer surface having a three dimensional surface;
[0023] [0023]FIG. 7 is a schematic of a process of the current invention for the manufacture of non-woven materials that substantially match the contoured outer surface of the drum;
[0024] [0024]FIG. 8 is a schematic of a process of the current invention for the post processing of non-woven materials after a three dimensional contour has been formed;
[0025] [0025]FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first material and a second material bridging a three dimensional contour;
[0026] FIGS. 10 A- 10 C are schematic perspective views illustrating three embodiments of three dimensional shapes that can be formed in a non-woven material by a process of the current invention;
[0027] [0027]FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a drum apparatus for the manufacture of non-woven materials;
[0028] [0028]FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of an outer drum sector and an inner vacuum tube assembly or manifold of the current invention;
[0029] [0029]FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of an inner tube and a vacuum shell of the manifold of the current invention;
[0030] [0030]FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of a vacuum frame of the inner tube and vacuum shell depicted in FIG. 13;
[0031] [0031]FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of the vacuum tube assembly taken along line 15 - 15 in FIG. 14;
[0032] [0032]FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the inner tube and vacuum shell taken along line 16 - 16 in FIG. 15;
[0033] [0033]FIG. 17 is an exploded view of Detail C in FIG. 15;
[0034] [0034]FIG. 18 is a schematic bottom view of an inner tube of the manifold;
[0035] [0035]FIG. 19 is a schematic side view of the inner tube of the manifold;
[0036] [0036]FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of the inner tube taken along line 20 - 20 in FIG. 19.
[0037] [0037]FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view of vanes for controlling air flow direction in the manifold;
[0038] [0038]FIG. 22 is a schematic side view of the shell and inner tube showing the orientation of the vanes for controlling air flow direction in the manifold;
[0039] [0039]FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view of one set of vanes installed in the manifold; and
[0040] [0040]FIG. 24 is a schematic exploded view of the inner tube, the vacuum shell, the vanes, the frame, the brackets, and the honeycomb of the manifold.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] Referring to FIG. 3A, shown is a drum 100 having a contoured outer surface 102 which may take many different shapes and forms. As shown, the drum 100 is made of a tubular honeycomb member 104 that is surrounded by a microporous layer 106 . The microporous layer 106 is tack welded to the tubular honeycomb member 104 and may be finely electroetched stainless steel having numerous holes on the order of about 0.010 inches (0.25 mm) in diameter, at a spacing such that the microporous layer 106 is uniformly about fifty percent open. A frame 108 rotatably supports the drum 100 . The material for the tubular honeycomb member 104 can be, but is not limited to, stainless steel.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 3B, the drum 100 is supported by the frame 108 or frames, so that the drum 100 can be rotated as the solidifying filaments are continuously applied by spunbonded or melt blown processes or by electro-spinning of nano-fibers. FIG. 3B also shows an internal pipe 70 with a vacuum port 72 and a bearing surface 74 . The pipe 70 is located in the center of the drum 100 . The pipe 70 also has a slot 73 that is in communication with the vacuum port 72 to draw a negative pressure 75 through a sector of the drum 100 to conform the solidifying filaments to the contour. See FIG. 7. Also shown is V-belt drive 76 which can be used to rotate the drum 100 by any conventional source known to those skilled in the art, such as a variable speed motor.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 3C, the drum 100 includes inner support bars 78 which are located throughout the drum 100 . The inner support bars 78 provide stiffness to the drum 100 and allow a negative pressure 75 or positive pressure 79 to be provided to a portion of the drum 100 , as shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 3C also shows that the drum 100 includes a plurality of panels 80 that can attached to the drum 100 by a variety of means (e.g., fasteners or clips). The panels 80 can be made of honeycomb with a microporous outerlayer to form any desired contoured outer surface 102 .
[0044] Referring to FIG. 4, shown is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the drum 100 of the present invention. The drum 100 has a contoured outer surface 102 that has the shape of alternating peaks 110 and valleys 112 . The contoured outer surface 102 is covered by the microporous layer 106 . As will be further shown, the contoured outer surface 102 with alternating peaks 110 and valleys 112 can be used to form pleated-shaped non-woven articles useful as particulate air filters.
[0045] Referring to FIG. 5, shown is a partial radial view of a portion of the drum 100 illustrating a rectangular mesh 114 of tubular honeycomb member 104 . The mesh 114 consists of alternating multiple rows of mesh holes 116 , where each row is offset from the previous row. Each mesh hole has a length 118 and width 120 . In one embodiment the mesh hole length 118 is about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) and the width 120 is about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm). By using a rectangular mesh 114 , the honeycomb member 104 can be readily formed into a circular contour.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 6, shown is another partial cross-sectional view of the drum 100 illustrating a three dimensional form 122 that is attached (e.g., tack-welded) to the drum 100 . The three-dimensional form 122 also has honeycomb construction and can be formed by, but not limited to, electrical discharge machining. The three-dimensional form 122 is also covered by the microporous layer 106 . As will be further shown, the three-dimensional form 122 can be used to make, for example, a surgical mask shaped article.
[0047] [0047]FIG. 7 shows one process for manufacturing contoured non-woven articles. Thermoplastic forming polymer 150 is placed in an extruder 152 and passed through a linear die 154 containing about twenty to forty or more small orifices 156 per inch of die 154 width. Convergent streams of hot air 158 rapidly attenuate the extruded liquid polymer 160 to form solidifying filaments 162 . The solidifying filaments 162 subsequently get blown by high velocity air 163 onto the contoured outer surface 102 of drum 100 . Note that the method illustrated in FIG. 7 for generating the solidifying filaments 162 is a melt blown process, but a spunbonded process, or any other method for generating the solidifying filaments 162 can be used, such as electro-spinning of nano-fibers using an electrostatic spun technique. Melt blown process equipment is available from Biax Fiberfilm Corporation located in Wisconsin.
[0048] The drum 100 , which is rotating, has a contoured outer surface 102 , which can have a combination of shapes, for example, alternating peaks 110 and valleys 112 or a series of three dimensional forms 122 . Once the solidifying filaments 162 are deposited on the drum 100 , a vacuum or negative pressure 75 can be applied to a portion of the drum 100 to conform the solidifying filaments 162 to the contoured outer surface 102 , to prepare closely matching contoured non-woven materials 164 .
[0049] After the contoured non-woven materials 164 are formed, the rotating drum 100 rotates to a point where the contoured non-woven materials 164 are removed from the drum 100 . Positive pressure 79 can optionally be applied through a portion of the drum 100 to facilitate removing the contoured non-woven materials 164 from the drum 100 . Once off the drum 100 , the contoured non-woven material 164 can be post processed in a variety of post processing operations, for example by application of a spray 165 . The treatment can consist of adding various supplements such as flame retardants, stain repellents, colored dyes, and the like, or to change the shape, feel, texture, or appearance of the contoured non-woven material 164 .
[0050] [0050]FIG. 8 is an expanded view of additional optional post processing performed on the contoured non-woven material 164 . In addition to the treatment operations discussed above, a first material 171 may be added to the contoured non-woven material 164 in order to achieve desired properties in a final product 168 . The first material 171 may be a non-woven material or any other material, based on properties required in the final product 168 . For example, some materials that can be used for the first material 171 are absorbent substances or charcoal or other filter materials known to those skilled in the art. The first material 171 may be selected based on desired material properties such as pore size, fiber diameter and length, basis weight, and density.
[0051] [0051]FIG. 8 shows a process step 180 for adding the first material 171 to the contoured non-woven material 164 . The process 180 for adding the first material 171 to the contoured non-woven material 164 may be a spunbonded process or a melt blown process for non-woven materials. Alternatively, loose fill or pre-formed sheet goods, with or without an adhesive treatment, can be deposited on the non-woven material 164 . If the first material 171 is a material other than a non-woven material, a person skilled in the art can choose the appropriate method for manufacturing the desired material. An additional process 172 can add a second different material 173 on top of the first material 171 . The same considerations used to select the first material 171 can be used to select the second material 173 .
[0052] A covering material 182 from a source 181 may be placed over the contoured non-woven material 164 . The covering material 182 captures or retains the first material 171 and the optional second material 173 within the contoured non-woven material 164 . Some materials that may be used for the covering material 182 are organic fibers, inorganic fibers, and polymers, which can be in the form of woven or non-woven sheet goods, films, and the like, and which may or may not be porous. The covering material 182 may be adhered or bonded to the contoured non-woven material 164 by a variety of processes 184 known to those skilled in the art, such as a pair of rollers, a heated die, etc. to seal and/or laminate the layers. Additional layers of materials and coverings may be applied, as desired.
[0053] [0053]FIG. 9 illustrates the presence of the first material 171 and the second material 173 in the valleys of a pleated contoured non-woven material 164 . The first material 171 and the second material 173 effectively bridge 174 the peaks 110 in the pleated material 164 . The bridge 174 may be made up of just the first material 171 , a combination of the first material 171 and the second material 173 , or a plurality of different desired materials. The bridge 174 may bridge or partially or fully fill any three dimensional contour.
[0054] The process of FIG. 8 results in a wide variety of articles which can be used in a variety of applications. One embodiment resulting from the process of FIG. 8 consists of a non-woven material 164 , where the first material 171 added is a carbon filtration material and a covering material is applied overall. Another embodiment consists of a non-woven material 164 , where the material added results in a varying gradient filter article. The varying gradient filter article has multiple filter layers, each layer can have its own filter pore size. Each layer in the varying gradient filter article can trap different particle sizes. In addition, another embodiment of the process of FIG. 8 consists of a non-woven material 164 , where the first material 171 added can be a high loft material, so that the resultant article can be used for absorption of oil or other liquid. Other materials can be selected by a person skilled in the art, based on the particular application and performance sought.
[0055] FIGS. 10 A- 10 C show additional three dimensional contours which can be manufactured by the process, such as half tube 175 , multinodal 176 , and pyramidal or frustoconical 177 contours. Other contours, both regular and irregular, will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein.
[0056] Referring back to FIG. 7, after any post processing has been completed, the contoured non-woven material 164 may pass through a cutter 166 , to cut the contoured non-woven material 164 into the desired article or final product 168 . The cutter 166 may be a die, water jet, laser, or any other apparatus capable of trimming to the desired contour. Any waste 170 after the cutting operation can either be disposed of or recycled. Accordingly, non-woven contoured articles such as wipes, filters, face masks, sorbent products, insulation, clothing, and the like can be rapidly produced from polypropylene, polyester, or other materials in a continuous process at low cost.
[0057] While an open, apertured inner tube 70 , such as that depicted in FIG. 3B, may be used in a variety of applications with good results, it may be desirable to better control the pressure and/or flow across the drum 100 by using an internal manifold with adjustable features and low losses. Accordingly, the amount of suction or pressure applied to the material deposited on the drum can be tailored for the particular material, density, contour, etc.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 11, shown is an embodiment of an apparatus 130 for the manufacture of non-woven articles. The apparatus 130 includes a rotatable honeycomb drum 100 . The drum 100 can have a contoured surface, as discussed hereinabove, and have an adjustable manifold disposed therein.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 12, shown is an embodiment of a manifold tube assembly 200 for controlling flow in the drum 100 , solely a portion of which is depicted. The tube assembly 200 includes an inner tube 202 and a vacuum shell 206 . Either vacuum or pressure may be applied to the drum 100 . The tube assembly 200 defines an air flow path inside the drum 100 . The air flow path passes through a honeycomb panel 216 , past a partition top 208 , along a channel formed between the inner tube 202 and the vacuum shell 206 , through port 215 , and inner tube 202 . See FIG. 16. Air may flow into or out of the manifold 200 and the drum 100 along the flow path defined above, depending on whether vacuum or pressure is applied to the inner tube 202 .
[0060] Referring to FIG. 13, shown is a perspective view of an embodiment of the inner tube 202 and vacuum shell 206 of the manifold 200 . The inner tube 202 passes through the vacuum shell 206 . The vacuum shell 206 has a partitioned bottom 203 to direct air through a plurality of ports 215 of inner tube 202 to allow air to pass into or out of the inner tube 202 . See FIG. 18. The vacuum shell 216 includes a vacuum plate 205 at each end sealed to the inner tube 202 to prevent air from leaking around the inner tube 202 . A honeycomb panel 216 can be mounted within vacuum frame 211 , as shown in FIG. 24, to provide a uniform distribution of air flow through the vacuum shell 206 .
[0061] [0061]FIG. 13 shows the vacuum shell 206 is split into left and right halves by a center ring partition 201 and along its longitudinal axis by top partition 208 and bottom partition 203 . FIG. 15 shows each side or half can be balanced for airflow via a plurality of gate valves 210 , which can be adjusted independently to uncover, partially cover, or fully cover the ports 215 . The double tube arrangement (inner tube 202 within vacuum shell 206 ) is used to provide tailored airflow without the use of a plurality of separate pipes. The double tube configuration of the manifold 200 also provides an efficient method for redirecting airflow from a radial to an axial direction.
[0062] [0062]FIG. 14 shows a view of the inner tube 202 and vacuum shell 206 viewed through the vacuum frame 211 . This view illustrates the center ring 201 for dividing the air flow at a midpoint of the inner tube 202 and the drum 100 . Two additional rings 201 ′, 201 ″ are depicted which further subdivide the vacuum frame opening into eighths.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 15, shown is a partial cross-sectional view of the inner tube taken along line 15 - 15 in FIG. 14. FIG. 15 illustrates one embodiment for controlling the flow of air in the drum. Gates 210 can be moved over ports 215 to modify the flow of air into or out of inner tube 202 . In one embodiment, the gates 210 are slotted and can be attached to the inner tube 202 by screws 213 .
[0064] Referring to FIG. 16, shown is a partial cross-sectional view of the inner tube 202 and vacuum shell 206 along line 16 - 16 in FIG. 15. FIG. 16 illustrates the flow path of air drawn through the drum 100 and into the manifold 200 . For descriptive purposes only, a vacuum flow through the drum is described, but the path can be reversed to apply a pressure to the drum to facilitate removing a non-woven article formed thereon. Air is drawn through the outer drum honeycomb assembly (not shown), through the honeycomb panel 216 , into an annular channel formed between the vacuum shell 206 and the inner tube 202 , and then into the inner tube 202 through ports 215 . FIG. 16 also shows once the air is in the inner tube 202 , air is drawn out of the inner tube through one or more openings at the ends of the inner tube 202 .
[0065] [0065]FIG. 17 is an exploded view of Detail C in FIG. 15 to illustrate the relationship between the ports 215 , gates 210 , and screws 213 . As may be readily understood, by subdividing the vacuum tube assembly into a plurality of zones, with airflow paths independently controllable using the gates 210 , vacuum or pressure applied to various zones of the drum passing thereover can be tailored to achieve a desired result.
[0066] [0066]FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the inner tube 202 showing the ports 215 in the inner tube 202 which allow air to pass into or out of the inner tube 202 . This embodiment employs sixteen ports 215 . FIG. 19 is a side view of inner tube 202 .
[0067] Referring to FIG. 20, shown is a view along cross-section 20 - 20 of the inner tube 202 of FIG. 19. Topped holes for the gate screws 213 may be located for convenient access to facilitate adjustment of the gates 210 . In this embodiment, they may be located at an angle of about 100° to about 110°, although any location can be selected.
[0068] Referring back to FIG. 13, the vacuum shell 206 is split into left and right halves by a center ring portion 201 and along its longitudinal axis by top partition 208 and bottom partition 203 . FIG. 13 shows an embodiment where the vacuum shell 206 is divided by similar rings 201 ′, 201 ″ which are parallel to the outer ring further subdividing the shell 206 into multiple compartments. In this embodiment, there are eight compartments so formed. Each compartment can be balanced for airflow volume via a separate gate valve 210 which can be adjusted to uncover, partially cover, or fully cover two ports 215 . In addition, the efficiency of airflow in each compartment can be enhanced and losses reduced by using optional flow turning vanes 217 .
[0069] [0069]FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of the flow turning vanes 217 used in each compartment. Rails 227 are connected to leading edges of the flow turning vanes 217 to hold the flow turning vanes 217 together. The flow turning vanes 217 are then placed on the top partition 208 as best seen in FIG. 23. Once the flow turning vanes are placed on the top partition 208 , the downstream edges of the flow turning vanes 227 are suspended in the annular channel between the inner tube 202 and the vacuum shell 206 . By altering the distance between the downstream edges the airflow speed may be altered over the entire surface covered by the vanes 217 .
[0070] [0070]FIG. 22 is a side view of the inner tube 202 and the vacuum shell 206 which shows the position of the flow turning vanes 217 in the annular channel between the inner tube 202 and the vacuum shell 206 . FIG. 22 also shows the relationship between the manifold 200 and the drum 100 . Note, only a section of the drum 100 is shown in FIG. 22.
[0071] [0071]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of two sets of the vanes 217 installed in two of the compartments of the manifold 200 and FIG. 24 is an exploded view. Vanes 217 can be used in all, some, or none, of the compartments and can be of similar or different number and configuration, depending on the particular application and desired results. In the assembly, the flow turning vanes 217 and rails 227 are placed on the top partition 208 . Then the frame 211 is mounted to the vacuum shell 206 . Brackets 218 are then screwed on to the vacuum shell 206 to constrain the frame 211 . Screws 222 to attach the frame 211 to the vacuum shell 206 run through holes 220 in the brackets 218 . Finally, an optional honeycomb panel 216 is placed inside the frame 211 . The height of the honeycomb 216 relative to the turning vanes 217 can be adjusted.
[0072] The double arrangement of the inner tube 202 within the vacuum shell 206 , coupled with the flow turning vanes 217 and gate valves 210 , are used to provide tailored air flow on the honeycomb panel 216 , and accordingly through the drum 100 , in both machine direction and cross direction. The double arrangement of the inner tube 202 within the vacuum shell 206 , coupled with the turning vanes 217 also provides a method for redirecting airflow from a radial to an axial direction efficiently.
[0073] Variations, modifications, and other implementations of what is described herein will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention as claimed. For example, the manifold may be subdivided into greater or fewer than eight compartments and the compartments need not be the same size. Similarly, the number of valves and ports, as well as the configuration and orientation of the valves and ports need not be the same as disclosed herein.
[0074] Accordingly, the invention is to be defined not by the preceding illustrative description, but instead by the following claims.
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A method of manufacturing a non-woven material uses a contoured honeycomb drum with an outer microporous surface, more particularly with a contoured outer surface, for the manufacture of contoured non-woven fibrous materials. The method can use spunbonded, melt blown, or electro-static spun techniques for depositing solidifying filaments on the microporous surface such that the non-woven material conforms to the contour of the drum. The drum facilitates continuous production of non-woven articles with three-dimensional shapes such as surgical masks or pleated air filters. Airflow through the drum can be controlled with an internal adjustable manifold with independent valves to obtain non-woven material articles of various configurations and properties. In addition, efficiency can be improved by including turning vanes. Vacuum or pressure can be applied.
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CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is related to application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Autonomic Link Optimization Through Elimination of Unnecessary Transfers”, Docket #TUC9-2002-0124 and to application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Autonomic Predictive Load Balancing of Output Transfers for Two Peer Computers for Data Storage Applications”, Docket #TUC9-2002-0123 both filed on an even date herewith, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention concerns a system to maintain an optimized balance of outbound transfers between two peer nodes that are transferring data to one or more storage devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Data storage systems may maintain more than one copy of data to protect against losing the data in the event of a failure of any of the data storage components. A secondary copy of data at a remote site is typically used in the event of a failure at the primary site. Secondary copies of the current data contained in the primary site are typically made as the application system is writing new data to a primary site. In some data storage systems the secondary site may contain two or more peer computers operating together as a backup appliance to store the data in one or more storage devices. Each peer computer receives inbound data from the primary site and transfers the data to a storage controller, storage device(s), or other computers for backup storage of the data. This type of system could be used for a disaster recovery solution where a primary storage controller sends data to a backup appliance that, in turn, offloads the transfers to a secondary storage controller at a remote site. In such backup systems, data is typically maintained in volume pairs. A volume pair is comprised of a volume in a primary storage device and a corresponding volume in a secondary storage device that includes an identical copy of the data maintained in the primary volume. Typically, the primary volume of the pair will be maintained in a primary direct access storage device (DASD) and the secondary volume of the pair is maintained in a secondary DASD shadowing the data on the primary DASD. A primary storage controller may be provided to control access to the primary storage and a secondary storage controller may be provided to control access to the secondary storage.
[0004] The backup appliance maintains consistent transaction sets, wherein application of all the transactions to the secondary device creates a point-in-time consistency between the primary and secondary devices. For each consistent transaction set, there will be one data structure created that will contain information on all outbound transfers in the set. This structure will be maintained on both of the peer nodes of the backup appliance. The backup appliance will maintain consistent transactions sets while offloading the transactions sets to the secondary device asynchronously. Both peer nodes in the backup appliance may transfer the data to any of the storage devices. To obtain the shortest transfer time it is necessary to divide the data transfers between the peers. An equal division of the data transfers between the two peers may not be optimal because the latency time to transfer data to a particular storage device may be different for each peer. This may result in the first peer finishing before the second peer, resulting in idle time for the first peer. In the case where the first peer finishes offloading transactions earlier than the second peer, it may be beneficial for the first peer node to assist the second peer node to complete the remaining transactions. In addition, the peer nodes should adjust the division of data transfers between the peers to minimize idle time at either peer for the present and future consistent transaction sets.
[0005] Prior art systems distribute data movement tasks among multiple queue processors that each have access to a common queue of tasks to execute. Each of the queue processors has a queue of its own work and is able to access each of the other queue processor's queue to submit tasks. This forms a tightly coupled system where every queue processor in the system can access the other queue processor's tasks. Tasks are submitted without any knowledge of the impact on the overall system operation. In certain situations it may not be beneficial to transfer tasks because of overhead costs that may affect the overall system operation. The overhead costs may result in a longer time to complete the task than if the task had not been transferred. In addition the prior art systems do not optimize the operation of the system by adjusting the size of the tasks to transfer. Adjustment of the size of the tasks to transfer is important to react to changing operating conditions that affect the time to transfer data to the storage devices.
[0006] There is a need to divide the data transfers between two peer computers to achieve an optimal minimum transfer time to transfer all of the data in a data set and to adjust the division of data transfers to react to varying conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a method to share the transfer load between two peer computers transferring data to storage devices. Disclosed are a system, a method, and a computer program product to provide for the optimization of the output transfer load balance between two peer computers transferring data to one or more storage devices. The peer computers receive, organize and transfer the data to storage devices. The data set received may be a consistent transactions set or other type of data set for storage on one or more storage devices. The data set is composed of a plurality of data transfers. Each data transfer is an equal size block of data. The number of data transfers may vary for each data set received. The data transfers are initially divided between the two peer computers resulting in each peer having responsibility for a number of data transfers. Each of the peer computers receives all of the data transfers in the set, so that each peer has access to the entire set of data. The present invention operates by managing the assignments of data transfers for each peer computer and no data is transferred between the peers as the assignments change.
[0008] After the initial division of the data transfers between the two peers, each peer will have assigned responsibility for a number of data transfers. If the one of the peer computers completes offloading transactions earlier than the other peer, then the peer that is still transferring data will employ the other peer to execute a portion of the remaining data transfers. The peer computers communicate with each other to determine if it is necessary for either peer to assist the other with data transfers. If the first peer is idle after completing data transfers it sends a messages to the other peer to offer assistance. The second peer receives the message and compares the number of transfers that remain to a threshold to determine if it is efficient to request assistance from the first peer. If it is not efficient for the first peer to assist because of the overhead associated with reassigning the data transfers, then the second peer responds with a “no assistance needed message”. If it is efficient for the first peer to assist, then a portion of the remaining data transfers are reassigned to the first peer. The operation of the system is symmetrical in that either peer may assist the other peer depending upon which peer has idle time. In addition the operation is autonomous and self-adjusting resulting in the peer nodes optimizing the size of the portion of data transfers that are reassigned during the operation of the invention resulting in the minimization of idle time for either peer. The self-adjusting feature allows the system to react to changing conditions that affect data transfer rates to the storage devices.
[0009] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagrammatic representation of a data storage network with primary and secondary sites.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a block diagrammatic representation of a portion of the components located at the primary and secondary sites.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the method used to balance the data transfer load of two peer computers.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the method used to determine if a second peer needs assistance to transfer data to storage devices.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the method used to determine if a first peer needs assistance to transfer data to storage devices.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the method used to determine the first and second peer ratios when the second peer computer needs assistance.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the method used to determine the first and second peer ratios when the first peer computer needs assistance.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0017] This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the following description. The preferred embodiments are described with reference to the Figures. While this invention is described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
[0018] Data storage systems may maintain more than one copy of data at secondary data storage sites to protect against losing the data in the event of a failure of any of the data storage components at the primary site. FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a data storage system with a primary site 110 and secondary site 150 . Primary site 110 and secondary site 150 are data storage sites that may be separated by a physical distance, or the sites may be located in close proximity to each other. Both the primary site 110 and secondary site 150 have one or more host computers 111 , 151 , a communication network within each site 112 , 152 , storage controllers 113 , 153 , and a communication network 115 , between the sites. The host computers 111 , 151 , store and retrieve data with respect to the storage controllers 113 , 153 , using the site communication network 112 , 152 . The site communication network(s) 112 , 152 may be implemented using a fiber channel storage area network (FC SAN). Data is transferred between the primary site 110 and secondary site 150 using communication network 115 through primary backup appliance 114 and secondary backup appliance 160 . A secondary copy of the data from the primary site 110 is transferred to and maintained at the secondary site 150 . In the event of a failure at the primary site 110 processing may be continued at secondary site 150 . Because the physical distance may be relatively large between the primary site 110 and secondary site 150 , the communication network 115 is typically slower than the communication network within each site 112 , 152 . Because of the relatively slow communication network 115 between the sites, consistent transaction sets are sent from primary site 110 to the secondary site 150 to ensure a point in time consistency between the sites. Consistent transaction sets are described in application entitled “Method, System and Article of Manufacture for Creating a Consistent Copy”, application No. 10,339,957, filed on Jan. 9, 2003 of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. At the secondary site 150 the consistent transaction set is received and then transferred to various data storage devices for permanent storage.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a block diagrammatic representation of a portion of the components of FIG. 1 . At the primary site 110 , host computer(s) 201 communicates with storage management device 208 using communication line(s) 202 . The storage management device(s) 208 may comprise any storage management system known in the art, such as a storage controller, server, enterprise storage server, etc. Primary backup appliance 114 is comprised of peer node A 204 , peer node B 205 and communication line(s) 206 . Primary backup appliance 114 may have more or less components than shown in FIG. 2 . Storage management device(s) 208 communicates with peer node A 204 and peer node B 205 using communication line(s) 203 . Host computer(s) 201 may alternatively communicate directly with peer node A 204 and peer node B 205 using communication lines(s) 219 . Herein references to peer node(s), peer computer(s), and peer(s) all refer to the same device(s). Peer node A 204 and peer node B 205 communicate with each other using communication line(s) 206 . Communication lines 202 , 203 and 206 may be implemented using any network or connection technology known in the art, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Storage Area Network (SAN), the Internet, an Intranet, etc. Communication between any of the components may be in the form of executable instructions, requests for action, data transfers, status, etc.
[0020] At the secondary site 150 host computer(s) 211 communicates with storage management device 218 using communication line(s) 212 . The storage management device(s) 218 may comprise any storage management system known in the art, such as a storage controller, server, enterprise storage server, etc. Secondary backup appliance 160 is comprised of peer node 1 214 , peer node 2 215 and communication line(s) 216 . Secondary backup appliance 160 may have more or less components than shown in FIG. 2 . Storage management device(s) 218 communicates with peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 using communication lines 213 . Host computer(s) 211 may alternatively communicate directly with peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 using communication line(s) 220 . Peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 communicate with each other using communication lines 216 . Communication lines 212 , 213 and 216 may be implemented using any network or connection technology known in the art, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Storage Area Network (SAN), the Internet, an Intranet, etc. The communication may be one or more paths between the components and not limited to the number of paths shown in FIG. 2 . Communication between any of the components may be in the form of executable instructions, requests for action, data transfers, status, etc.
[0021] Primary site 110 and secondary 150 site communicate with each other using communication lines 207 . Communication lines 207 may exist over a relatively large physical distance compared to communication lines 202 , 203 , 206 , 212 , 213 and 216 . Because of the physical separation of the primary 210 and secondary 220 locations, the transfer rate or bandwidth of communication lines 207 may be relatively slow compared to communication lines 202 , 203 , 206 , 212 , 213 and 216 . Communication lines 207 may be implemented using any connection technology known in the art such as the Internet, an Intranet, etc.
[0022] For the present invention, primary site host computer(s) 201 sends data for storage to storage management device 208 using communication line(s) 202 . The storage management device 208 transfers this data to primary backup appliance 114 to create one or more backup copies of the data at a remote site. Alternatively, primary site host computer(s) 201 sends data directly to primary backup appliance 114 using communication line(s) 219 and then sends the same data to storage management device 208 using communication line(s) 202 . Alternatively, primary site host computer(s) 201 sends data to storage management device 208 that passes through an intelligent switch that forwards a copy of the data to both primary backup appliance 114 and storage management device 208 . The data is grouped into a consistent transaction set by peer node 1 204 and peer node 2 205 as it arrives from either storage management device 208 over communication lines 203 , primary site host computer(s) 201 , or an intelligent switch. Upon accumulating an entire consistent transaction data set, peer node A 204 and peer node B 205 transfer the consistent transaction set to peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 at the secondary site 150 using communication lines 207 . Peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 transfer the entire consistent transaction set to storage management device 218 for storage using communication lines 213 . Host computer(s) 211 may retrieve data from storage management device 218 using communication line(s) 212 .
[0023] FIG. 3 shows flowchart 300 detailing the operation of the system to balance the output transfer load for peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 as they transfer data to one or more storage devices associated with storage management device(s) 218 . Referring to FIG. 3 , at step 302 peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 receive a data set. The data set received may be a consistent transactions set or other type of data set for storage on one or more storage devices. The data set is composed of a plurality of data transfers. Each data transfer is an equal size block of data. The number of data transfers may vary for each data set received. The data transfers are initially divided between peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 resulting in each peer having responsibility for data transfers. Both peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 receive all of the data transfers in the set, either from the primary site or they mirror the data to each other so that they both have the entire set of data. The present invention operates by managing the assignments of data transfers for each peer node. No data is transferred between the peers as the assignments change. There are many methods that could be used to do the initial assignments of the data to each peer node. For example, the data transfers could be divided equally between peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 based upon the size of each data transfer.
[0024] After the initial division of the data transfers between the two peers, each peer will have assigned responsibility for a number of data transfers. Peer node 1 214 is assigned responsibility for transferring a first number of data transfers of the data set to one or more storage devices. Peer node 2 215 is assigned responsibility for transferring a second number of data transfers of the data set to one or more storage devices. The assigned responsibility for the data transfers will herein be referred to as assigning the data transfers to the particular peer. Assignment of the data transfers to a peer for the present invention means that the peer will take all steps necessary to execute the assigned data transfers. At step 304 peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 begin to execute the data transfers by simultaneously transferring data to the storage devices. At step 306 the progress of peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 is examined to determine if one of the peers has completed transferring data to the storage devices. If peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 finish transferring data for the data set at approximately the same time then control flows to the end at step 345 . If peer node 1 214 finishes transferring data before peer node 2 215 then at step 306 control flows to step 311 . If peer node 2 215 finishes transferring data before peer node 1 214 then at step 306 control flows to step 310 . An explanation of the execution of step 311 and the steps that follow step 311 will be given first followed by an explanation of the execution of step 310 and the steps that follow step 310 .
[0025] At step 311 peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 communicate with each other to determine if peer node 2 215 needs assistance to transfer a portion of the second number of data transfers of the data set. One implementation of step 311 is detailed by flowchart 400 shown in FIG. 4 . At step 402 the first and second peer ratios are determined. The first and second peer ratios determine the number of data transfers that will be offloaded to the assisting peer by the peer requesting assistance and are explained in greater detail below. A determination of the second peer ratio is necessary to determine at step 311 , if peer node 2 215 needs assistance. The first and second peer ratios are determined at step 402 assuming that peer node 2 215 needs assistance, however, the first and second peer ratios are not actually adjusted until step 317 (explained below) under the condition that the result of step 311 is that peer node 2 215 needs assistance. If the result of step 311 is that peer node 2 215 does not need assistance then the first and second peer ratios determined at step 402 are discarded and the values of the first and second peer ratios previous to the execution of step 402 are retained for further use. If the result of step 311 is that peer node 2 215 needs assistance then the first and second peer ratios determined at step 402 are used at step 317 to adjust the previous values of the first and second peer ratios.
[0026] One implementation of step 402 to determine the first and second peer ratios is detailed by flowchart 600 shown in FIG. 6 . If this is the first execution of step 306 for this data set then step 602 transfers control to step 614 , resulting in no change to the first or second peer ratios. The first and second peer ratios are not changed if this is the first execution of step 306 for this data set because the ratios are either at an initial value or at a value as the result of previous adjustments from the operation of the present invention. The second peer ratio and the first peer ratio are only changed as a result of either peer node 1 214 or peer node 2 215 accepting assistance with data transfers on a previous execution of steps 310 or 311 for the present data set that is being transferred to the storage devices. The present invention uses the previous values for second peer ratio and the first peer ratio for the first instance of either peer needing assistance with data transfers for the present data set. Each time a new data set is received the present invention begins operation at step 301 .
[0027] After execution of step 614 , step 640 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 403 of flowchart 400 shown in FIG. 4 . If this is not the first execution of step 306 for this data set, then step 602 transfers control to step 605 , where a determination of which peer needed assistance after execution of the steps that follow step 306 ( FIG. 3 ) for the present data set is made. If at the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 2 215 needed assistance, then step 610 transfers control to step 621 . At step 621 the second peer ratio is increased resulting in a larger portion of the second number of transfers being assigned to peer node 1 214 when step 313 is executed (explained below). The second peer ratio is increased or decreased by a second increment value. The second increment is optimized to have a quick response to changing conditions and also to provide a stable system. After execution of step 621 , step 640 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 403 of flowchart 400 shown in FIG. 4 .
[0028] If at the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 2 215 did not need assistance, then step 610 transfers control to step 612 . If at step 612 it is determined that the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 1 214 needed assistance, then step 612 transfers control to step 615 . At step 615 the first peer ratio is decreased resulting in a smaller portion of the first number of transfers being assigned to peer node 2 215 the next time step 312 (explained below) is executed. After execution of step 615 , step 640 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 403 of flowchart 400 shown in FIG. 4 .
[0029] If at step 612 it is determined that the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 1 214 did not need assistance, then step 612 transfers control to step 614 , resulting in no change to the second peer ratio. After execution of step 614 , step 640 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 403 of flowchart 400 shown in FIG. 4 .
[0030] At step 403 a calculation of a portion of the second number of transfers is executed using the results of step 402 . The portion of the second number of transfers is equal to a second peer ratio multiplied by the remaining second number of transfers. The remaining second number of transfers is the difference between the second number of transfers that peer node 2 215 originally had responsibility for offloading and the second number of transfers that peer node 2 215 has already transferred to the storage devices. The remaining second number of transfers is a positive number. The second peer ratio is the ratio of the portion of remaining second number of transfers to the remaining second number of transfers. The second peer ratio is dynamically adjusted during the operation of the present invention and is described in more detail below. A first peer ratio that functions with peer node 1 214 , in a similar manner as the second peer ratio functions with peer node 2 215 is described below when the execution of step 310 and the steps that follow step 310 are explained.
[0031] At step 410 the portion of the second number of transfers is compared to a second peer minimum. The second peer minimum is the minimum number of transfers necessary for peer node 1 214 to assist peer node 2 215 with data transfers. The second peer minimum is necessary to prevent peer node 2 215 from sending data transfers to peer node 1 214 if the second number of transfers is small enough that by the time peer node 1 214 would be able to complete the transfers, peer node 2 215 could have completed the transfers. The second peer minimum is determined by an examination of the network configuration and the latency of the communications between the peer computers. The second peer minimum must be large enough for it to be advantageous for peer node 1 214 to assist peer node 2 215 with data transfers after accounting for the overhead of the communications between the peers and other delays necessary to complete the entire operation. A utility program that examines the current network conditions and estimates the delays that exist to complete the transfers could determine the second peer minimum. Alternatively, the second peer minimum may be set to a value that depends upon the portion of the second number of transfers by either a fixed relationship such as a specified percentage or another relationship that considers network conditions. In any implementation it is expected that the second peer minimum may vary dynamically.
[0032] If at step 410 the portion of the second number of transfers is less than or equal to the second peer minimum then step 427 is executed. At step 427 peer node 2 215 sends a “peer node 2 215 does not need assistance” message to peer node 1 214 and then executes step 430 . When peer node 1 214 receives the “peer node 2 215 does not need assistance” message from peer node 2 215 , peer node 1 214 takes no further action to assist peer node 2 215 until step 340 is executed. At step 430 the control returns to flowchart 300 ( FIG. 3 ) at step 340 . Execution of step 340 and the steps that follow step 340 are explained below.
[0033] If at step 410 the portion of the second number of transfers is greater than the second peer minimum then step 426 is executed. At step 426 peer node 2 215 sends a “peer node 2 215 needs assistance” message to peer node 1 214 . This starts a process that will result in peer node 1 214 being assigned the responsibility for transferring the portion of the second number of transfers (explained below). Step 432 is executed after execution of step 426 . At step 432 the control returns to flowchart 300 ( FIG. 3 ) at step 313 . The messages between the peers regarding the need for assistance may consist of the text shown in the flowcharts, text described in this description, other messages, coded information, numbers representing bit positions or other forms of communication between electronic devices know in the art.
[0034] Execution of step 313 and the steps that follow step 313 are now explained. Step 313 is executed as a result of a determination at step 311 that peer node 2 215 needs assistance with data transfers. At step 313 , peer node 1 214 is assigned responsibility for transferring the portion of the second number of transfers to the storage devices. At step 317 peer node 1 214 receives transfer information from peer node 2 215 . The transfer information includes exact information on the portion of the second number of transfers that are reassigned to peer node 1 214 . Peer node 1 214 receives the information specifying the portion of the second number of transfers and assigns the portion of the second number of data transfers as the first number of data transfers so that peer node 1 214 operates on the data transfers in the same manner as the first number of data transfers that peer node 1 214 was assigned at step 302 . At step 317 the first and second peer ratios are adjusted according to the determination made at step 402 . The first and second peer ratios are adjusted as a result of the decision at step 311 that peer node 2 215 needs assistance with data transfers.
[0035] At step 319 peer node 1 214 begins to transfer the data to one or more storage devices. Peer node 2 215 continues to transfer the remaining second number of transfers calculated at step 403 and explained above. After execution of step 319 , step 340 is executed. Execution of step 340 and the steps that follow step 340 are explained below.
[0036] If peer node 2 215 finishes transferring data before peer node 1 214 , the decision at step 306 results in the execution of step 310 . The description of the execution of step 310 and the steps that follow step 310 is similar to the description of the execution of step 311 and the steps that follow step 311 . The execution of step 310 and the steps that follow step 310 are now explained.
[0037] At step 310 peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 communicate with each other to determine if peer node 1 214 needs assistance to transfer a portion of the first number of data transfers of the data set. One implementation of step 310 is detailed by flowchart 500 shown in FIG. 5 . At step 502 the first and second peer ratios are determined. A determination of the first peer ratio is necessary to determine at step 310 , if peer node 1 214 needs assistance. The first and second peer ratios are determined at step 502 assuming that peer node 1 214 needs assistance, however, the first and second peer ratios are not actually adjusted until step 316 (explained below) under the condition that the result of step 310 is that peer node 1 214 needs assistance. If the result of step 310 is that peer node 1 214 does not need assistance then the first and second peer ratios determined at step 502 are discarded and the values of the first and second peer ratios previous to the execution of step 502 are retained for further use. If the result of step 310 is that peer node 1 214 needs assistance then the first and second peer ratios determined at step 502 are used at step 316 to adjust the previous values of the first and second peer ratios.
[0038] One implementation of step 502 to determine the first and second peer ratios is detailed by flowchart 700 shown in FIG. 7 . If this is the first execution of step 306 for this data set then step 702 transfers control to step 714 , resulting in no change to the first or second peer ratios. The first and second peer ratios are not changed if this is the first execution of step 306 for this data set because the ratios are either at an initial value or at a value as the result of previous adjustments from the operation of the present invention. The second peer ratio and the first peer ratio are only changed as a result of either peer node 1 214 or peer node 2 215 accepting assistance with data transfers on a previous execution of steps 310 or 311 for the present data set that is being transferred to one or more storage devices. The present invention uses the previous values for second peer ratio and the first peer ratio for the first instance of either peer needing assistance with data transfers for the present data set. Each time a new data set is received the present invention begins operation at step 301 .
[0039] After execution of step 714 , step 740 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 503 of flowchart 500 shown in FIG. 5 . If this is not the first execution of step 306 for this data set, then step 702 transfers control to step 705 , where a determination of which peer needed assistance after execution of the steps that follow step 306 ( FIG. 3 ) for the present data set is made. If at the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 1 245 needed assistance, then step 710 transfers control to step 721 . At step 721 the first peer ratio is increased resulting in a larger portion of the second number of transfers being assigned to peer node 2 215 when step 312 is executed (explained below). The first peer ratio is increased or decreased by a first increment value. The first increment is optimized to have a fast response to changing conditions and also to provide a stable system. After execution of step 721 , step 740 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 503 of flowchart 500 shown in FIG. 5 .
[0040] If at the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 1 214 did not need assistance, then step 710 transfers control to step 712 . If at step 712 it is determined that the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 2 215 needed assistance, then step 712 transfers control to step 715 . At step 715 the second peer ratio is decreased resulting in a smaller portion of the second number of transfers being assigned to peer node 1 214 the next time step 313 (explained above) is executed. After execution of step 715 , step 740 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 503 of flowchart 500 shown in FIG. 5 .
[0041] If at step 712 it is determined that the previous execution of the steps that follow step 306 for the present data set, peer node 2 215 did not need assistance, then step 712 transfers control to step 714 , resulting in no change to the second peer ratio. After execution of step 714 , step 740 is executed resulting in returning back to execution of step 503 of flowchart 500 shown in FIG. 5 .
[0042] At step 503 a calculation of a portion of the first number of transfers is executed using the results of step 502 . The portion of the first number of transfers is equal to the first peer ratio multiplied by the remaining first number of transfers. The remaining first number of transfers is the difference between the first number of transfers that peer node 1 214 originally had responsibility for offloading and the first number of transfers that peer node 1 214 has already transferred to the storage devices. The remaining first number of transfers is a positive number. The first peer ratio is the ratio of the portion of remaining first number of transfers to the remaining first number of transfers. The first peer ratio is dynamically adjusted during the operation of the present invention and is described in detail above.
[0043] At step 510 the portion of the first number of transfers is compared to a first peer minimum. The first peer minimum is the minimum number of transfers necessary for peer node 2 215 to assist peer node 1 214 with data transfers. The first peer minimum is necessary to prevent peer node 1 214 from sending data transfers to peer node 2 215 if the first number of transfers is small enough that by the time peer node 2 215 would be able to complete the transfers, peer node 1 214 could have completed the transfers. The first peer minimum is determined in a similar manner as the second peer minimum is determined and described above. The first peer minimum must be large enough for it to be advantageous for peer node 2 215 to assist peer node 1 214 with data transfers after accounting for the overhead of the communications between the peers and other delays necessary to complete the entire operation. It is expected that the second peer minimum may vary dynamically.
[0044] If at step 510 the portion of the first number of transfers is less than or equal to the first peer minimum then step 527 is executed. At step 527 peer node 1 214 sends a “peer node 1 214 does not need assistance” message to peer node 2 215 and then executes step 530 . When peer node 2 215 receives the “peer node 1 214 does not need assistance” message from peer node 1 214 , peer node 2 215 takes no further action to assist peer node 1 214 until step 340 is executed. At step 530 the control returns to flowchart 300 ( FIG. 3 ) at step 340 . Execution of step 340 and the steps that follow step 340 are explained below.
[0045] If at step 510 the portion of the first number of transfers is greater than the first peer minimum then step 526 is executed. At step 526 peer node 1 214 sends a “peer node 1 214 needs assistance” message to peer node 2 215 . This starts a process that will result in peer node 2 215 being assigned the responsibility for transferring the portion of the first number of transfers (explained below). Step 532 is executed after execution of step 526 . At step 532 the control returns to flowchart 300 ( FIG. 3 ) at step 312 .
[0046] Execution of step 312 and the steps that follow step 312 are now explained. Step 312 is executed as a result of a determination at step 310 that peer node 1 214 needs assistance with data transfers. At step 312 , peer node 2 215 is assigned responsibility for transferring the portion of the first number of transfers to the storage devices. At step 316 peer node 2 215 receives transfer information from peer node 1 214 . The transfer information includes exact information on the portion of the first number of transfers that are reassigned to peer node 2 215 . Peer node 2 215 receives the information specifying the portion of the first number of transfers and assigns the portion of the first number of data transfers as the second number of data transfers so that peer node 2 215 operates on the data transfers in the same manner as the second number of data transfers that peer node 2 215 was assigned at step 302 . At step 316 the first and second peer ratios are adjusted according to the determination made at step 502 . The first and second peer ratios are adjusted as a result of the decision at step 310 that peer node 1 214 needs assistance with data transfers.
[0047] At step 318 peer node 2 215 begins to transfer the data to one or more storage devices. Peer node 1 214 continues to transfer the remaining second number of transfers calculated at step 503 (explained above). After execution of step 318 , step 340 is executed. Execution of step 340 and the steps that follow step 340 are explained below.
[0048] Execution of step 340 results from the execution of any of steps 306 , 310 , 311 , 318 , or 319 . At step 340 the progress of peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 is examined to determine if one both of the peers have completed transferring data to the storage devices. If peer node 1 214 or peer node 2 215 did not finish transferring data for the data set the control flows back to step 306 where the process repeats. If at step 340 peer node 1 214 and peer node 2 215 have both finished transferring data for the data set then control flows to step 345 where the process ends until the next data set is received
[0049] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated in detail, the skilled artisan will appreciate that modifications and adaptations to those embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims.
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Disclosed are a system, a method, and a computer program product to provide for the optimization of the output transfer load balance between the peer computers transferring data to one or more storage devices. The peer computers receive, organize and transfer the data to storage devices. The data set is composed of a plurality of data transfers. After an initial division of the data transfers between the two peers, each peer will have assigned responsibility for a number of data transfers. If the one of the peer computers completes offloading transactions earlier than the other peer, then the peer that is still transferring data will employ the other peer to execute a portion of the remaining data transfers. The operation of the system is symmetrical in that either peer may assist the other peer depending upon which peer has idle time. In addition the operation is autonomous and self-adjusting resulting in the peer nodes optimizing the size of the portion of data transfers that are reassigned during the operation of the invention resulting in the minimization of idle time for either peer. The self-adjusting feature allows the system to react to changing conditions that affect data transfer rates to the storage devices.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The field of the invention is directed to pet shelters and in particular to an all plastic pet shelter for use in an outdoor setting for protection of a pet from the elements.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The companionship provided by pets is well documented. Dogs in particular, commonly referred too as “mans best friend” have become so integrated into the lives of the lives of their owner that their well being and safety is of paramount concern. However, not all pets can remain near their owner at all time and in many instances enjoy being placed outdoors. For some pets, particularly large dogs, placement outside is necessary for their health. The outdoors provide an area for exercise and provides stimulation that that improves the disposition of the dog. However, dogs cannot take care of themselves and being placed outdoors requires that some sort of protection is provided from the elements. This is especially important where a pet is keep on a lease thereby limiting the ability for the dog to escape the elements. For this reason pet owners typically provide a pet shelter to protect the pet from the weather.
Pet shelters have been constructed from most every type of material with the main purpose of protecting the pet from direct sunlight, rain, wind, cold and if the pet is left outside the shelter may operate as an enclosure to shelter the pet from other animals that may roam the night. The construction of most known pet shelters include items that are problematic in assembly or require tools for assembly. Further, prior art designs may include materials that are subject to rot such as wood, or require the use of metal fasteners that are subject to rusting. In addition, known prior art include assembly kits that were not designed to store compactly for purposes of shipping necessitating larger packaging containers that take more space to store and are more expensive to ship.
What is needed in the art is pre-constructed pet shelter that can be compactly stored/shipped, can be assembled without tools, is made entirely of plastic to prevent premature degradation, and is structurally sound so as to provide the pet with comfort in most any weather condition.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
U.S. Pat. No. 5,220,883 discloses a prefabricated doghouse structure having a separate sections secured in place by interlocking components.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,243,614 discloses a modular animal enclosure including a housing comprising a top portion affixed to a base portion to form a sheltered interior. The housing includes a door aperture and a climate conditioning aperture with an attachable climate conditioning unit installed over it to facilitate a flow of atmospheric air from the exterior environment into the interior of the housing.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,758,167 discloses a modular pet house having peripheral walls with a plurality of mountings selectively mountable in the housing.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,937,792 discloses a pet shelter construction including a floor unit having a solar heat reservoir raised above the ground.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,727,501 discloses a doghouse having walls supported by a base unit and a roof supported by the walls. The walls include an aperture portion, a far lateral aperture portion, a topmost aperture portion, and a near lateral aperture portion. The entrance opening wall includes a near wall half and a far wall half. The entrance opening is entirely included in the near wall half. The bottommost aperture portion of the entrance opening is spaced above the base unit by a vertical offset distance.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,239 discloses a doghouse having a press-fit attachment described with a first member of each pair being integral with the base portion and a second member of each pair being integral with the top portion. Another aspect of the present invention employs a stake through an opening in an interior floor surface to secure the animal shelter to the ground.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,081,956 discloses a doghouse with multi-channel flow-through fresh air ventilation comprising a generally arcuate-shaped hollow top part which has a rectangular circumferential bottom rim configured with four sharp corners, and a generally box-shaped hollow bottom part which has an octagonal circumferential top rim configured with four cut corners.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,802,443 discloses a dome-shaped animal shelter having a separable housing and base made from reinforced plastic.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,293 discloses an animal shelter including a top, where the entrance is, formed as a unitary shell and shaped to resemble a natural object having an irregular surface, such as a tree stump to resemble a natural object so the animal shelter blends into a natural setting.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,021,243 discloses a pet shelter including a bottom and a top member both having an edge, and a medial member with a top and bottom edge disposed between the top and bottom members. The pet shelter includes a lock for selectively interconnecting the bottom member to the bottom edge of the medial member and a lock for selectively interconnecting the top member to the top edge of the medial member. The lock includes a tab disposed in the bottom edge of the medial member and a tab disposed in the edge of the top member. The bottom member includes an aperture for receiving the medial member tab to thereby selectively lock the bottom member to the medial member.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A pet shelter constructed for plastic panels having interlocking connectors for ease of assembly and elimination of early degradation components typically found in pet shelters containing metal or wood components. The pet shelter of the instant construction having a two piece floor with interlocking connectors for use in support of one piece side wall panels and a front and rear wall panel. Each of said wall panels having bottom edge constructed and arranged to cooperate with the floor panel for securement by use of interlocking tabs, each said wall further coupling to an adjoining wall further by use of interlocking tabs. The front wall panel includes a door for providing ingress and egress. A roof is provided for enclosing the top of the pet shelter, the roof includes a first and second interconnecting panel. The roof panels secure to the top of the each wall panel by use of interlocking tabs.
Accordingly, it is an objective of the instant invention to disclose a pet shelter that can be assembled without tools.
It is a further objective of the instant invention to disclose a pet shelter having modular components to allow storage and shipping with minimal packaging.
It is yet another objective of the instant invention to disclose a pet shelter constructed of plastic thereby eliminating early degradation typical of wood and/or metal construction.
It is a still further objective of the invention to disclose the use of overlapping roof panels that overlie the roof crown to inhibit weather entry.
Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein 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 FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the pet shelter of the instant invention;
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the pet shelter;
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the bottom of the floor panels;
FIG. 4B is a partially enlarged perspective view of the floor panel connector;
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the top of the floor panels;
FIG. 5B is a partially enlarged perspective view of the floor panel connector;
FIG. 6 is a top view of an assembled floor panels with arrows illustrating interlocking;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a side wall panel connected to the floor panels;
FIG. 8A is a perspective bottom view of the front wall panel about to be coupled to the floor panel and side wall panel;
FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of a bottom connector depicted in FIG. 8A ;
FIG. 8C is a perspective bottom view of the front panel coupled to the floor panel and side wall panel;
FIG. 8D is an enlarged view of the front panel in a coupled position to the floor panel;
FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a rear wall panel being connected to a side wall panel;
FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of a side wall connector depicted in FIG. 9A ;
FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the side panel being coupled to the front panel;
FIG. 10B is an enlarged view of the side wall connector depicted in FIG. 10A ;
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a front panel coupled to a side panel;
FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of the side wall connector depicted in FIG. 11 a;
FIG. 12A is an exploded view of the first and second roof panel;
FIG. 12B is an enlarged view of a connector of the roof panel depicted in FIG. 12A ;
FIG. 12C depicts the roof panels at an angle to allow a view of the receptacle or the roof locking mechanism;
FIG. 12D is an enlarged view of the roof receptacle;
FIG. 12E is the locking element for securement of the roof panel to a side wall panel;
FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a front panel with flex doors;
FIG. 13B is an enlarged view of the connectors for the flex door depicted in FIG. 12 a;
FIG. 14 is a top plain view of all panels of the pet shelter in a storage/shipping position; and
FIG. 15 is an end view of panels in a storage/shipping condition.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2 , depicted is a prefabricated plastic pet shelter ( 10 ) of the instant invention. The pet shelter is defined by a first roof panel ( 12 ) and a second roof panel ( 12 ′). The roof panels are interchangeable and overlap as will be further explained. The roof panels may include ornamental shapes such as tiles or simulated shingles ( 24 ) to provide the appearance of a conventional roof. Each said roof panel is supported by a side wall panel ( 16 & 16 ′), a front wall panel ( 20 ) and a rear wall panel ( 22 ).
The side wall panels ( 16 & 16 ′) are interchangeable and may include ornamental shapes such as siding ( 18 & 18 ′), a window ( 26 & 26 ′), and shutters ( 28 & 28 ′). The front wall panel ( 20 ) includes simulated siding ( 30 ), and ornamental crown ( 32 ). The front wall panel further includes an opening ( 34 ) with flexible swinging doors ( 36 and 36 ′). The rear wall panel ( 22 ) may also include siding ( 17 ), a fanciful crown ( 19 ) and a false doorway ( 21 ). In this embodiment, the false doorway may include windows ( 23 ) and have an outer texture ( 25 ) that provides the appearance of a wood slat doorway.
The exploded view depicted in FIG. 3 illustrates the pet shelter in its component parts. Depicted is the pet shelter right side wall ( 16 ), left side wall ( 16 ′), front wall ( 20 ) and rear wall ( 22 ). Further shown is a roof comprising panels ( 12 and 12 ′). The foundation for the doghouse is a floor which consists of a first floor panel ( 44 ) having a first edge ( 47 ) operatively associated with a second floor panel ( 48 ) having a first edge ( 49 ). The floor panel ( 44 ) is further defined by a second edge ( 52 ), third edge ( 54 ) and fourth edge ( 56 ). The second edge ( 52 ) of floor panel ( 44 ) allows for securement to the bottom edge ( 21 ) of front panel ( 20 ) by use of interlocks described later in this application. Third edge ( 54 ) and forth edge ( 56 ) also permit coupling to their respective side wall panel ( 16 and 16 ′)) using interlocks. Similarly, second panel ( 48 ) includes a first edge ( 49 ) for securement to the adjoining edge ( 47 ) of the first panel ( 44 ). The second floor panel ( 48 ) includes a second edge ( 57 ) operatively associated for coupling to the bottom edge ( 23 ) of rear panel ( 22 ). A third edge ( 51 ) is secure to the panel ( 16 ′) and a forth edge ( 55 ) secures to the wall panel ( 16 ). Front door panels ( 36 & 36 ′) are securable to the front panel ( 20 ) by fasteners ( 39 ).
Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B there shown is a bottom view of floor panels ( 44 and 48 ). The means for connecting the panels ( 44 and 48 ) includes a longitudinally extending wall ( 60 and 61 ) with a tab member ( 64 ) operatively associated with the aperture ( 66 ) located in the longitudinally edge wall ( 61 ) which allows for insertion of the tab member through the aperture as depicted by the directional arrow ( 65 ) with a locking condition provided by movement of panels ( 44 and 48 ), shown in FIG. 6 , by sliding of the panels in accordance with the directional arrows ( 69 and 71 ). The assembly creates a seamed floor that minimizes the entry of the elements. Raised ridges ( 33 ) space the floor above the ground providing an air gap; the air gap providing an insulating barrier between the pet and the ground.
Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B a top view of the floor is shown in FIG. 5A . Another means for connecting the floor panels ( 44 and 48 ) includes an upstanding projection member ( 62 ) and an associated aperture ( 63 ). The upstanding projection member ( 62 ) of one floor panel passes through the aperture ( 63 ) of the other floor panel, as depicted by directional arrows ( 67 ). A locking condition of the floor panels is then provided by movement of the panels ( 44 and 48 ), shown in FIG. 6 , by sliding of the panels in accordance with the directional arrows ( 69 and 71 ). This assembly creates a seamed floor that minimizes the entry of the elements.
Referring now to FIG. 6 , depicted are the floor panels ( 44 and 48 ) coupled to the left panel side wall ( 16 ′) wherein alignment tabs ( 76 ) are formed integral thereto and are positionable above the edge of the floor panels ( 44 and 48 ). Similarly, a right side panel, not shown, includes alignment tabs for positioning over the edge ( 54 and 51 ) of each floor panel. The side wall panel ( 16 ′) locks the floor panels in position by preventing the transverse movement needed for assembly of the floor panels.
FIGS. 8A-8D depict a series of alignment bosses ( 80 ) positioned along the bottom and top edge of the wall panels operatively associated with an aperture ( 82 ) on an adjoining front or rear panel and being constructed and arranged so that the alignment boss enters into and engages the aperture and secures the wall panels to the end panels together. The bosses and apertures are located on each side wall for engagement with the front wall and rear wall. The alignment boss maintains the panels in a fixed position without use of an independent fastener. FIGS. 8A and 8B depict an unassembled connection while FIGS. 8C and 8D depict the alignment boss ( 80 ) placed through the aperture ( 82 ) and locked in position with the front and rear panel. Referring now to FIGS. 9A and 9B shown is the front panel ( 22 ) provided with a spaced apart finger ( 90 ) and alignment boss ( 92 ) shown in an adjacent side wall panel ( 16 ′)). These fingers and bosses are constructed and arranged so that the fingers overlap and engage the bosses to secure the vertical portion of each front panel and rear panel to the side panels. FIGS. 10A and 10B depict the placement of the alignment boss ( 80 ) and recess ( 82 ) allowing a position at the top of the side panel ( 16 ) and front panel ( 20 ). FIGS. 10 a and 10 b depict the alignment boss ( 80 ) placed into the aperture ( 82 ) thereby locking the upper edge in this figure ( 91 ) of side panel ( 16 ) to the upper edge ( 93 ) of front panel ( 20 ).
In a manner similar to the floor panels, the roof panels ( 12 & 12 ′) include a slideable interlock wherein each roof panel has a first edge ( 102 ) which is secureable to the first edge of an adjacent panel ( 102 ′) having a series of spaced apart connecting members ( 106 and 106 ′). Connecting members ( 106 and 106 ′) on one of the roof panels are provided with projections ( 107 ) which are insertable into apertures or recesses ( 108 ) on corresponding connecting members ( 106 ). For similar purposes, each of the roof panels ( 12 and 12 ′) are assembled together at an acute angle wherein the spaced apart projections ( 107 ) of connecting members ( 106 ) are inserted into the recesses ( 108 ) of corresponding connecting members ( 106 ) The panels are slid together to engage the projections and recesses and then each panel ( 12 and 12 ′) rotated so that the overlapping panel flaps ( 110 and 110 ′) provide a seal over the adjacent panel and attachment fingers and recesses. A seal ( 109 ) is placed at the junction of the two overlapping roof flaps and shown in FIG. 12A .
At an end of each of the roof flaps ( 110 and 110 ′) there is an alignment boss ( 111 ) and a corresponding alignment socket ( 113 ). The alignment boss ( 111 ) engages the alignment socket ( 113 ) locking the roof panels together after the roof panels have been rotated into their final position.
FIG. 12E depicts use of an alignment boss ( 120 ) for use in engaging an alignment socket ( 122 ) as shown in FIG. 9A which upon placement forces the raised portion ( 121 ) of the alignment boss ( 120 ) into each alignment socket ( 122 ). In this manner, the floor panels, side walls, front and rear wall, and roof panels can be assembled without fasteners with the use of alignment tabs and fingers with associated sockets and receptacles.
A vent can be optionally provided the side wall panels ( 16 and 16 ′) as shown in FIG. 10A . A sliding member ( 115 ) is positionable over aperture ( 117 ) located in the top portion of the side wall panel. This vent allows warm air to be vented from the pet shelter.
Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B , the front wall forms an opening into the assembly pet shelter by allowing the dog to enter the housing by pushing of the flexible doors ( 36 or 36 ′) which are attached to the front panel ( 20 ) by bosses ( 41 ) that receive the fastener ( 39 ) thereby engaging each of the flexible front doors therebetween. It should be noted that the many of these reference components can be interchanged, for instance, each side wall can be made to form a mirror image of the opposite side wall. The first roof panel can be made a mirror image of the second roof panel. The first floor panel can be made a mirror image of the second floor panel. The flexible doors may also be interchanged. The interchangeability allows reduces the need for extra manufacturing equipment. However, for purposes of assembly each panel may be marked individual to assist the individual during the assembly process.
Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15 , the compactness of the doghouse is shown for purposes of shipment and storage with the width (w) of the package together with the height (h) and depth (d) providing for low cost storage and shipping.
All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement 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 and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.
One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.
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The instant invention is directed to a pet shelter for domestic pets. More specifically, the instant invention is a pet shelter constructed from a plurality of plastic panels each having integral connectors. The panels are constructed and arranged to be shipped and/or stored in a nested or stacked arrangement to reduce space requirements and shipping costs. The integral fasteners formed onto the panels intermesh to allow the panels to be snapped together without the need for additional fasteners or tools.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The field of invention relates to adjustable door structure, and more particularly pertains to a new and improved adjustable door assembly wherein the same is directed to the accommodating of various configurations within a door frame.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Such structure relative to adjustment of door members within a door frame are typically directed by the adjustment of the frame relative to the door, wherein such adjustable frame structure is directed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,571,995; 4,912,879; 4,986,034; and 4,986,044.
The instant invention attempts to overcome deficiencies of the prior art by providing for a door member that is adjustable relative to a fixed rigid door frame structure and in this respect, the present invention substantially fulfills this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of door structure now present in the prior art, the present invention provides an adjustable door assembly wherein the same employs cap members adjustably mounted to the first and second ends of an associated door for adjustment of the door in combination of frame variations relative to the door. As such, the general purpose of the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new and improved adjustable door assembly which has all the advantages of the prior art door structure and none of the disadvantages.
To attain this, the present invention provides a door assembly arranged for accommodating adjustment relative to a door frame, with the organization including a door including first and second end wall caps mounted to the first and second ends of the door, wherein the caps are arranged for pivoted adjustment relative to the first and second door ends. Further, a latch member is arranged for longitudinal adjustment about a side of the door.
My invention resides not in any one of these features per se, but rather in the particular combination of all o f them herein disclosed and claimed and it is distinguished from the prior art in this particular combination of all of its structures for the functions specified.
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, of course, additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. 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 and improved adjustable door assembly which has all the advantages of the prior art door structure and none of the disadvantages.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a new and improved adjustable door assembly which may be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a new and improved adjustable door assembly which is of a durable and reliable construction.
An even further object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved adjustable door assembly 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 adjustable door assemblies economically available to the buying public.
Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved adjustable door assembly 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.
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 of the invention.
FIG. 2 is an orthographic view, taken along the lines 2--2 of FIG. 1 in the direction indicated by the arrows.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged orthographic view of section 3 as set forth in FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged orthographic view of section 4 as set forth in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the adjustable lock plate structure of the invention.
FIG. 6 is an orthographic view, taken along the lines 6--6 of FIG. 5 in the direction indicated by the arrows.
FIG. 7 is an orthographic cross-sectional illustration of the door cap structure employing a resilient insulative filler material.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged orthographic view of section 8 as set forth in FIG. 7.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 to 8 thereof, a new and improved adjustable door assembly embodying the principles and concepts of the present invention and generally designated by the reference numeral 10 will be described.
More specifically, the adjustable door assembly 10 includes a rigid door 11, having a first side wall 12 spaced from a second side wall 13, with a first end wall 14 spaced from a second end wall 15, wherein typically the first and second end walls 14 and 15 respectively are orthogonally oriented relative to the first and second side walls 12 and 13. The first and second end walls 14 and 15 include respective first and second end wall cap members 16 and 17 slidably received over the rigid door about the first and second end walls 12 and 13. The caps are of identical construction, wherein description of the first end wall cap 16 is to be understood as applicable to the second end wall cap 17.
The first end wall cap 16 includes cap first and second end walls 18 and 19 arranged for reception of the respective first and second side walls 12 and 13 of the door 11. A cap floor plate 20 is arranged to include a floor plate canted interior surface 21 arranged to extend from the cap first end wall 18 to the cap second end wall 19 of a first thickness adjacent the first end wall 18 to a second thickness adjacent the second end wall 19, wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness. The canted door structure permits pivoting of the cap first end wall 18 relative to the door first side wall 12 projecting the cap second end wall 19 over the door second side wall 13. It is to be understood that the clearances of the cap relative to the door 11 permit the pivoting relationship as indicated. The apparatus includes a hinge web 22 having hinged plate members, including a first plate member mounted to the canted interior surface 21 adjacent the cap first end wall 18, with a second plate member mounted to a hinge rod 23, that in turn is orthogonally and slidably received through the door first end wall 14 in adjacency to the door first side wall 12. A rod cavity 24 slidably receives a rod 23 therethrough, with the rod 23 having an abutment plate 25 fixedly mounted to the rod within the cavity 24. The cavity 24 includes a cavity roof 26 spaced from a cavity floor 27, with a spring member 28 interposed between the abutment plate 25 and the cavity floor 27. In this manner, hinged orientation of the cap 16 is availed relative to the door first end wall 14. Further, a cavity bearing strip 29 positioned within the cylindrical side wall of the cavity 24 is arranged for cooperation with an abutment plate bearing strip 30. The strips 29 and 30 are typically formed of TEFLON or any suitable sliding bearing substance.
An internally threaded bore 31 is directed into the first end wall 14, as well as into the second end wall 15, each to receive an externally threaded adjustment rod 32, having an adjustment rod head 33 rotatably mounted within the floor plate 20 and the interior surface 21. In this manner, threaded projection of the adjustment rod 32 into the internally threaded bore 31 directs either the first or second end wall cap 16 or 17 into the respective first and second end wall 14 and 15 about an associated bifurcated hinge web 22.
FIGS. 5 and 6 indicate the lock plate structure 34 optionally employed by the invention arranged for slidable adjustment longitudinally of the door second side wall 13. The lock plate 34 includes an end wall 35 in contiguous sliding communication with the door second side wall 13, with the lock plate end wall 35 having a plurality of longitudinally aligned slots 36, each including an end wall fastener 37 orthogonally directed through the end wall through an associated slot 36, with each end wall fastener 37 received within an end wall fastener cavity 38 within the door structure in adjacency to the second side wall 13 of the door 11. The fastener cavities 38 are substanstially coextensive relative to the slots 36, with a fastener cavity lock plate 39 slidably mounted within each fastener cavity 38 threadedly receiving an associated fastener 37 therewithin. In this manner, loosening of the fasteners 37 permits sliding of the lock plate structure 34 relative to the door 11.
The FIGS. 7 and 8 indicates the use of a compressible polymeric foam core 41 functioning as an insulative and spring material directed coextensively between the door end walls 14 and 15 relative to the associated interior surfaces 21. A plurality of resilient polymeric columns 42 are orthogonally mounted between the door end walls 14 and 15 and the associated interior surfaces and are arranged to include a rigid stress plate 45 mounted coextensively to the canted interior surface 21 to distribute force from the resilient polymeric columns 42 evenly relative to each respective cap. Each of the columns 42 is indicated to include a column first end 43 rotatably and pivotally mounted within a first end cavity 44 within the stress plate 45. The columns second ends are arranged for contiguous communication and mounting to the associated door end walls. In this manner, biasing of the caps are provided, as well as functioning as an insulative barrier relative to each of the cap structures 16 and 17.
As to the manner of usage and operation of the instant invention, the same should be apparent from the above disclosure, and accordingly no further discussion relative to the manner of usage and operation of the instant invention shall be provided.
With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.
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A door assembly is arranged for accomodating adjustment relative to a door frame, with the organization including a door including first and second end wall caps mounted to the first and second ends of the door, wherein the caps are arranged for pivoted adjustment relative to the first and second door ends. Further, a latch member is arranged for longitudinal adjustment about a side of the door.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED DOCUMENTS
The present application is a divisional application of application Ser. No. 08/182,282, filed Jan. 14, 1994 now issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,515,510, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention is in the area of computerized network communication systems, and pertains more specifically to massively parallel network architecture.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Typically, large client-server computer network systems exhibit topology having a single file server that acts as the center of the system's operations. The file-server is usually based on a microprocessor, and is dedicated to handling large data manipulation and flow as requested by a number of clients. Clients, or client nodes, may be a number of different electronic devices including but not limited to: desktop workstations, personal computers, mainframe or minicomputers, telecommunication equipment and dumb terminals. System resources are typically provided by large electronic storage devices associated with the file server. These resources include data, application programs for clients, and the network operating system. The file server, operating according to the network operating system, performs traffic management functions and provides security for the data. The file server also performs information retrieval and may do computations or specific record searches within a database.
Client nodes and file servers in computerized networks such as Ethernet, ARCnet and AppleTalk must be connected via a transmission medium, commonly some form of cabling. The physical layout (topology) of a large client-server network routes all client requests to the file server. Conventional bus systems limit the number of direct connections. To maintain an acceptable degree of connectivity such networks typically employ a hub or concentrator connection as a subsystem. The hub serves as a junction box for connected nodes and passes the data between client and file server by a separate dedicated network trunk. Large network systems may have layered hubs to provide connectivity to more nodes while still using a single file server.
The file server is limited by the bus connection to a conventional network during periods of heavy client use. As demand increases, data throughput to and from clients saturates, and system performance is limited. To maintain acceptable performance, conventional networks have incorporated second level servers that perform limited functions of the primary server and eliminate waiting by clients in some cases. Typically, data is stored separate from the primary server and later, at a convenient time, such as once a day or perhaps as often as once an hour, the secondary server downloads to the primary file server. In these systems, real time operation is not possible. Also, at higher demand the bus systems for both the second-level servers as well as the primary server saturate, and system-wide performance is again limited.
What is needed is a computer network architecture that maintains substantially real time performance for large numbers of clients and resources.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A communication internetwork for connecting client stations with resources is provided, comprising a client array of communication nodes each connectable by data transfer link to one or more client stations, and a resource array of communication nodes having the same number of nodes as the client array, each resource node connectable by data transfer link to one or more resources. In the topography of the invention each node in each array is connected by data transfer link to just one node in the opposite array, and to just four nodes in the same array.
The unique topography, which may be arranged as nested toroids, provides a minimum of interconnection for the maximization of alternative communication pathways resulting.
Data transfer linking may be accomplished in a variety of ways, depending on the use of the network. In closely coupled networks, parallel buses are used between nodes, and in more remote connections serial links may be preferred. Optical fiber data transfer links are also provided where advantageous and economic.
In one aspect of the invention an apparatus is provided with an enclosure having external connectors interfaced to internal nodes, with the internal nodes implemented as single-chip devices, packaged and mounted to printed circuit boards.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical illustration of a massively parallel network architecture according to an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2A is an isometric drawing of a massively parallel network device according to an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2B is an isometric drawing of a portion of the network device of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 3 is a plan view block diagram of a microprocessor node according to an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 is a two-dimensional view section through a massively-parallel network according to an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a diagram of a data stream representing video data comprising a movie.
FIG. 6 is an isometric illustration of a massively parallel network according to an embodiment of the invention, configured as nested tori.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical illustration of a massively parallel network architecture according to an embodiment of the present invention. One matrix 21A comprises sixteen interconnected client nodes (CN). Another matrix 21B comprises sixteen resource nodes (RN). The illustrated four-by-four matrices are exemplary, and those with skill in the art will recognize that the matrix dimensions may vary. In many applications of massively parallel networks according to the present invention, the matrices will be much larger.
In the description of the network of FIG. 1, it is helpful to refer to the location of each client node and resource node by a matrix location CN(x,y) and RN(x,y) where x is a row number and y is a column number. In each array 21A and 21B in FIG. 1, the row and column numbers are labeled by numbers in parentheses. For example, node 15 has a matrix position 21A(1,1) and node 16 has a matrix position 21A(1,2). In matrix 21B node 17 occupies position 21B(1,1).
In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 1, matrix 21A functions as a client array and matrix 21B functions as a resource array. The distinction is by the nature of connections to the nodes in each array.
The nodes in the client array connect by communication links to client networks. Two such networks 23A and 23B having client stations such as stations 27 are shown connected to node 15 and to node 18. These client networks may be configured as any one of many local area network configurations known in the art, or remote network configurations implemented by such as telephone links. There are many known arrangements for connecting such client groups. In a full implementation, each client station in the client array connects to a client network. Also, there is no requirement that each client network be of the same form and nature.
In this embodiment, matrix 21B functions as a resource array. Resource nodes are connected by communication link to resource devices. One such connection 25A links resource node 17 at position 21B(1,1) to a hub 26A leading to resources shown as generic disk drives 28. A similar connection 25B is shown linking resource node 14 at position 21B(1,4) to a hub 26B connected to other generic resources 28. In a relatively simple implementation, each resource node is linked to a single resource, and in a full implementation, each resource node may be connected to a hub connecting several resources.
The system in this embodiment is massively parallel by virtue of the communication links between nodes. The nodes in each row in each array in this example are connected serially in a ring. For example, in matrix 21B, in row (1), node (1,1) is linked to node (1,2), which is linked to node (1,3), which is linked in turn to node (1,4). Node (1,4) is linked back to node (1,1), so the four nodes are linked in a ring 22. Similarly nodes (2,1), (2,2), (2,3) and (2,4) are connected in ring 24, and so on.
The nodes in each column are also serially ring connected in the same manner as described above for rows. For example, in matrix 21B, nodes (1,1), (2,1), (3,1), and (4,1) are connected in ring 30. Similarly the nodes of column 2 are ring connected in ring 32, and the nodes of column 3 and column 4 are similarly ring connected.
The unique connection scheme results in each node in the resource array being linked to each adjacent node in its row position and in its column position. By virtue of the ring nature of the connection, each node is connected by communication link to four other nodes in the array.
The row by row and column by column ring connection is duplicated in the client array 21A. To complete the massively parallel connectivity in this embodiment, each client node is connected to a resource node. In this embodiment the connection is by matrix position. For example, client node 15 at position 21A(1,1) is linked to resource node 17 at position 21B(1,1) by link 19. A similar link (not shown) is established between 21A(1,2) and 21B(1,2), between 21A(1,3) and 21B(1,3), and so on.
The communication flexibility of the system shown may be illustrated by following a request for data from any client station 27 on network 23A linked to client node 15 at position 21A(1,1). In this example the data request is for data stored at a resource device 28 on link 25B connected to resource node 14 at position 21B(4,1). From client node 15 the data request may be routed via any one of five branches, each of four to an adjacent client node, or to resource node 17 at position 21B(1,1) via link 19. In this example, assume the request is routed directly to the resource array via link 19, as might be preferable in a low-demand state.
At resource node 17 there are four choices for routing, one link to each of the four adjacent resource nodes. The fifth link, to resources on link 25A, is not an option, because the request is for data available only on link 25B. The most direct route, assuming the next node is not busy, is directly from resource node 17 to resource node 14, which is an adjacent node in ring 30. In considering alternative routing, the very large number of choices is immediately apparent.
FIG. 2A is an isometric view of a massively parallel network system substantially according to the arrangement described above with reference to FIG. 1. System 31 comprises two printed circuit boards (PCBs) 45 and 47, and each PCB comprises a matrix of integrated circuits (ICs) as nodes linked by communication links substantially as shown for the nodes of the arrays of FIG. 1. PCB 45 is a client array and PCB 47 is a resource array. Each IC node on each PCB comprises a microprocessor.
PCB 45 in this embodiment comprises 16 ICs in a 4×4 matrix, and PCB 47 comprises 16 ICs in a 4×4 matrix, just as in FIG. 1. IC 41 is located, for example, on client array PCB 45 at matrix position 45(4,2), and IC 43 is located on resource array 47 at matrix position 47(3,1). In this embodiment, the PCBs are supported in a case 36, and each IC node on each PCB has a dedicated bus port with a connector positioned in a wall of case 36. For example, IC 41, a client node on PCB 45, links to communication port 33 via bus 37, and IC 43, a resource node on PCB 47, links to resource port 35 via resource bus 39. There are 32 connectors, of which 16 are client network ports for connection to client networks, and 16 are resource ports for connecting to resources.
Those with skill in the art will recognize that the characteristics of the connectors will depend on the characteristics of the buses connected, and there are many choices in the art. There may be circuitry associated with each port for modulating between the data characteristics of each network or resource link and the associated bus to each IC in the system. System 31 may also comprises support circuitry for a conventional computerized system such as, but not limited to, a BIOS system and power supply. These elements are not shown in FIG. 2A.
In an alternative embodiment, system 31 also comprises circuitry to monitor each port for information management purposes such as determining the nature of the connection. For example, installed SCSI and/or Ethernet equipment. Also, it is not strictly required that there be a dedicated port for each IC node on both matrices. A lesser number of ports may be provided, with some ports serving more than a single node in the massively parallel architecture.
FIG. 2B is a largely diagrammatical isometric illustration of a portion of each of PCBs 45 and 47 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A. Client node 51 on PCB 45 communicates via links 44 to the four adjacent nodes 48A, 48B, 48C and 48D. The links in one direction are a part of the row ring connection previously described, and the links in the other direction are a part of the column ring connection previously described.
Resource node 53 on PCB 47 communicates via links 46 to the four adjacent nodes 50A, 50B, 50C and 50D. Again the links in one direction are a part of the row ring connection previously described, and the links in the other direction are a part of the column ring connection previously described. Links 44 and 46, and other links between nodes not shown, may be any one of a wide variety of known communication connection types, including, but not limited to parallel, serial and optical digital and/or analog transmission links. The necessary hardware and firmware for managing the communication at each node is a part of the circuitry at each node, and depends on the nature of the links. For example, if a communication link is a serial connection, the modulation and demodulation circuitry for converting digital data to and from the serial protocol is a part of the circuitry at each node. Also, although the nodes are described as single ICs, this structure is preferable and not required. each node could as well be implemented in two or more ICs with connective traces and structure.
Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 2B, nodes 51 and 53 are an associated pair in the matrix geometry (see description of matrices above). That is, nodes 51 and 53 have the same (x,y) address on different arrays. Accordingly, these two nodes are connected by another communication link 42. Moreover, a client LAN 55 is connected to client node 51, and a resource link 57 is connected to resource node 53. Similar links, not shown, are made to the other resource nodes and client nodes in FIG. 2B. Although it is not required, in the preferred embodiment described, arrangement of the nodes in square matrix arrays on PCBs, and alignment of the PCBs, brings associated nodes in proximity for connection.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram plan view of client node 51 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The same drawing may represent resource node 53 and other nodes in either matrix. A node is a client node or a resource node by nature of connection to resources or clients, rather than by particular physical structure.
Node 51 comprises a CPU 81, a memory unit 83 and routing bridge circuitry 85. In this embodiment the memory unit is random access memory (RAM). It will be apparent to those with skill in the art that other types of electronic memory may be used as well.
Control routines stored in memory 83 are accessed and operated by CPU 81 to manage data flow and logical functions for the local node. Outputs from CPU 81 configure bridge circuitry 85 for routing requests and data in the network. In node 41, CPU 81 is linked to RAM 83 by bus 87 and to bridge 85 by bus 89. A third bus 88 in this embodiment links bridge circuitry 85 with memory 83. In one embodiment, bus 88 has an extra wide bandwidth.
Links 44 are links to adjacent nodes on the same PCB as described above. Link 55 is the link to a client LAN in this example via an outside connector, and link 57 is the link to an associated node in the resource array. In the case of a resource node, link 57 would be the link to a resource or a resource hub. An advantage of RAM at each node is that control routines may be accessed and updated, and orchestrated from outside computer equipment to provide for optimum operation.
An important purpose of the massively parallel architecture according to embodiments of the present invention is to provide resources from numerous points to client at numerous other points while minimizing delay and maximizing data flow rate. This is accomplished by providing a very large number of alternative paths (massive interconnection) for requests and data, and by providing intelligent nodes for routing the data and requests through the massively parallel architecture in an efficient manner. To accomplish this end, as stated and described above, each node has a microprocessor, thus machine intelligence, together with stored instructions and information for accomplishing efficient routing. It will be apparent to one with skill in the art that there are many alternative schemes for routing that may be used, and that the control routines might take any of a large number of forms.
In one embodiment, each node is provided with a map of clients and resources, detailing to which nodes the clients and resources directly connect. Moreover, in this embodiment, each node is "aware" of its own position in the network architecture.
The essential nature of much information to be routed through such a network is analog. For example, such networks are useful for routing television (video) programs from storage (resources) to clients on a network. The essential nature of the network and the nodes is digital. Although there are a number of ways data may be transmitted between nodes, such as parallel bus and serial link, the data is managed digitally at each node.
Following the example of television networking for such as TV movies and other selective programming, FIG. 4 is a two-dimensional slice through a massively parallel network in an embodiment of the present invention, dedicated to providing TV movies to clients. The same diagram may represent a massively parallel network for many other applications. Ring 119 represents a portion of a client array, and ring 121 represents a portion of a resource array. The portion represented, in the terms of the above descriptions, could be either a single row or a single column in each array. Connections in each array in the third dimension are not shown for simplicity.
In FIG. 4, client nodes are labeled C1, C2, . . . C7, and resource nodes are labeled R1, R2, . . . R7. A client network 123 is connected to client node C5 and has a client 125 as a station on the network. A resource is represented as a hard-disk drive 127 connected to resource node R6. Although not shown to keep the diagram simple, there may be other resources connected to any of the resource nodes R1-R7, and to other resource nodes not shown. Also, other client networks may be connected to the client nodes C1-C7, and other client nodes not shown. Separate resources and clients can be connected in network fashion to nodes preferably only up to the ability of the transmission protocol on the client networks and resource branches to handle full load transfer without delay.
In the instant example, client 125 requests a movie stored at resource disk 127. Each client station has digital intelligence substantially configured like the node illustrated in FIG. 3, and described above. That is, each station has a microprocessor, a memory, sending and receiving circuitry for the client network, and control routines executable by the microprocessor to compose and transmit requests and to receive and process requested data.
Client 125 has a schedule of movies available, and an input apparatus for making a selection. When the client makes a selection, the digital system at the client station may consult a lookup table and assign a resource code to the transmission, or all selection transmissions may be sent to an account manager. One or more of the resource nodes, or even client nodes, may be assigned the task of account managing for the system. In this example resource node R4 is account manager 129.
The account manager has control routines for accounting and scheduling in addition to routing routines, and has location information for clients and resources on the massively parallel network. In the case of a single account manager, all the resources and clients are mapped at the single manager, and regular maintenance updates for changes in resources and clients (new clients subscribe, some discontinue the service, new movies become available, older movies may be discontinued). There may be more than one account manager to shoe the duty and reduce the load effect at a single manager.
In the case of a single account manager, the instant example, the client makes a selection, and the client station codes the data and transmits it on the client LAN to client node C5. The coded data includes one or more bits addressing the account manager, one or more bits identifying the client, and bits identifying the movie title requested. There may be other information, such as a particular time for transmission, or special information pertaining to charges, etc.
The general process at client node C5, and at other nodes as well, is that incoming transmissions are immediately stored in the node memory, along with priority association for re-transmission. Beyond C5 there is a wide choice of available paths to account manager 129. The necessary intelligence for routing is stored at each client and resource node. For example, from C5, there are two apparently equal "best choices" to R4 (account manager 129). One is to R5, then to R4. The other is to C4, then to R4. There may be some reason in particular implementations why one of these two choices is "best", in which case that path will carry the first priority. If there is no such, one or the other may be first priority arbitrarily.
In one embodiment, the means of routing is "run and shoot"; that is, the node having data for retransmission has test routines for testing the available alternatives by priority, and, on finding a path open, passes the transmission on to a next node. The destination code determines which of five connections (three are shown) is on the shortest, or best, path, and the CPU tests that connection. If the node at the other end is not busy, the request is immediately retransmitted and deleted from memory.
If R5-R4 is the highest priority path from C5 to R4, the CPU at C5 will first poll R5. If R5 is available, retransmission takes place; if it is not, the next node in priority is tested, and so forth, until the stored data for retransmission, in this case, client 125's request for a movie, is sent on.
In the case of requests from clients, routed to an account manager, each request is a short burst, typically a single data word of 16 or 32 bits, requiring only a very short transmission duration. In this case of transmission of information like a movie, the situation is somewhat different, as is described in more detail below.
It will be apparent to those with skill in the art that there is a broad variety of ways routing may be prioritized and determined. Substantially all are based on priority and testing of some sort.
When client 125's request for a movie arrives at account manager 129, the request is processed. Client 125's account is charged for the particular movie time requested, and the updated account is then available for whatever billing cycle is in use. The account manager also associates the material (movie) requested with the resource location, and initiates the process of sending the movie data to client 125's station.
The transmission of a command packet issued by the account manager to resource 127 via resource node R6 to cause the requested movie data to be transmitted to client 125 is similar to the transmission of the original request from client 125 to the account manager. The necessary information packet is rather small, requiring such as destination (node R6), movie ID on resource 127, time of transmission, and so forth. The routing of this command packet is accomplished by priority and testing, as described above. At R6 the command packet is stored and processed.
The transmission of a complete movie, which may have a playing time measurable in hours instead of milliseconds, is a different proposition than transmission of a request or a command packet. FIG. 5 represents the total data length of a movie in transfer time of length DS. In disk 127 the total data string is stored in sectors, each providing, when processed, for example, 1 minute of viewing time of the movie. A movie of three hours length, then, would be stored and processed in 180 sectors S1, S2 . . . , S180. Initial sectors S1, S2, S3, S4, are indicated in FIG. 5. Each sector, although it represents a full minute of viewing time, can be transmitted in perhaps milliseconds as digital data from node to node in the massively parallel network, depending on the characteristics of the data paths and modes of transmission.
In the instant example, Node R6, having received the command packet from the account manager, executes the commands according to stored control routines. Node R6 retrieves a first sector (S1), stores that sector in its local memory, and transmits it on toward client 125 in the same manner as described above for routing requests and command packets. R6 continues to retrieve, store, and delete until it has sent along all of the sectors for the movie, after which it may (or may not) issue an acknowledgement to the account manager, depending on the vagaries of the particular protocol and application.
Given the massively parallel nature of the network, wherein each node has as many as four connections in the same array (resource or client), and one each to the opposite array, and either a resource trunk or a client LAN connection, there is no guarantee that consecutive sectors will follow a common path from resource 127 to client 125. Unless the loading is low, it is not likely. There is no need, however, for all of the sectors of the movie to follow one another in sequential fashion or even to arrive in order.
Each sector transmitted through the maze of the massively parallel network is coded (sector #, destination, etc.), and as each sector arrives at client LAN station 125, it is recorded in memory according to prearranged addresses. After at least one sector is available, the movie may begin, by converting the available data to video signals and transmitting the signals to the TV display. In most cases this is a CRT video tube, but that is not a requirement. As other types of displays (LCD, ELD, etc.) become more common for TV and high definition TV, the equipment at the client station can be updated to operate with the later apparatus.
FIG. 6 is a massively parallel network according to an embodiment of the invention wherein the resource array and the client array are configured as nested tori. In this example the outer torus is a client array 11 and the inner torus is a resource array 13. Each intersection on client array 11 and resource array 13 is a node in the massively parallel network. In another embodiment the position of the client array and resource array may be reversed. The torus representation geometrically is equivalent to matrix array like that presented in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is meant to illustrate the toroidal nature of the interconnecting geometry, ad no attempt has been made to match nodes by position or number.
In FIG. 6 a portion of the outer torus (client array) is shown cut away to illustrate the inner torus (resource array). A single client node 101 is shown connected to a single resource node 103 and to a client LAN 107 having at least one client station 108. Each client node is connected in two rings, one around the major diameter of the torus, and the other around the minor diameter, as is each resource node on the opposite torus array. Resource node 103 is connected to a resource hub 109 having at least one resource 110. These elements are exemplary and representative. Although not shown in FIG. 6, each resource node is connected to a client node and to a resource hub, and each client node is connected to a resource node and a client LAN.
It will be apparent to those with skill in the art that the nested torus arrangement is illustrative and not limiting. The same connectivity is illustrated in the matrix arrays of FIG. 1, wherein the node at the end of each row is connected back to the first node in the row, and the node at the bottom of each column is connected back to the node at the top of the column.
In one embodiment, the tori are configured as PCBs locally to fit inside a case 111 similar to the case illustrated and described with reference to FIG. 2A. Case 111 would have the required number of I/O ports equal to the total number of client nodes and resource nodes.
In this alternate embodiment of the invention, the massively parallel network architecture may be applied as a large transaction system in real time. For example, a banking system may be implemented by allocating client nodes to different local bank branches with dedicated communication trunks to tellers' workstations and ATM machines. ATM limits could be relaxed because each customer's balance may be updated quickly throughout the system. Massively parallel network architecture allows for flexibility in data resource configuration and allows for a large number of branch banks to maintain current transaction status.
In the transactional banking application described above, the resource array and the client array might both be local, perhaps as shown in FIG. 2A, or in some other local arrangement. In this case ther would be communication trunks from the local client nodes going to the different branch or ATM locations. In an alternative arrangement, the client nodes might be remotely located at the branch or ATM.
In another embodiment of the invention, massively parallel network architecture could manage large data flow in a paperless company. For example, a large business may have as many as 100 fax lines, each capable of generating a page of fax containing approximately 30 kilobits about every fifteen seconds. In this application, some client nodes may service several users' fax requests and some resource nodes may be dedicated to fax modems, attached telephone lines and media storage devices for storing faxes. In this configuration, a business can effectively manage fax flow, reducing the need for a large number of fax machines and telephone lines.
It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that there are many changes that might be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, any number of tori may be nested within one another and effectively interconnected by the addition of communication links. Massively parallel network systems according to embodiments of the invention can be reconfigured from without for different applications or to update data and operating protocol for an existing application.
In a further aspect of the invention, a massively parallel system may be re-configured at times of system expansion. A system-wide hashing control routine could redistribute resource locations according to results of tracked transactions to provide for optimal performance. In these and other applications and embodiments, massively parallel network architecture according to the invention can provide effective, real-time access for a large number of users.
In various embodiments within the spirit and scope of the invention, microprocessors of many sorts and manufacture may be used. The same variability applied to memories and auxiliary circuitry, such as routing circuitry. Nodes may be accomplished as single ASICs, as described in embodiments herein, or in more than one IC. Similarly the variability of programmed control routines is very great, and the means of prioritizing and routing is similarly variable within the spirit and scope of the invention.
There are many ways to geometrically arrange nodes for such a system as well. This variability is illustrated above by the representation of essentially the same system as two levels of matrix arrays, and as nested tori. But the physical arrangement and relationship of nodes to one another is not limited by any one of the suggested arrangements. The connectivity is the principle constraint. There are many other alternatives not herein discussed that still should be considered as within the spirit and scope of the invention.
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An interconnection topography for microprocessor-based communication nodes consists of opposite arrays of client nodes and resource nodes, with each client node connected to one resource node by a data transfer link, each resource node connected to a resource trunk by a data transfer link, and each node connected to just four neighboring nodes by data transfer links. Communication nodes in the topography are microprocessor controlled, and comprise random access memory and data routing circuitry interfaced to the data transfer links. In one aspect resource nodes are provided with a map of the interconnection topography for use in routing data. In another aspect, individual ones of the communication nodes are programmed as servers for receiving client requests and scheduling routing of resource data.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a ceramic seating stone for use in or on a metallurgical vessel for holding molten metal. The invention also relates to a metallurgical vessel having such a ceramic seating stone.
[0002] Arrangements of this nature are particularly used in connection with metals having high melting points, such as molten steel, iron and cast iron. In these cases, such parts are used as vessels linings, as what are called seating stones or as part of the nozzle. A seating stone is arranged at the nozzle aperture of a vessel for molten metal; the upper part of a metallurgical nozzle fits into the seating stone.
[0003] Known devices are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,858,260 or in German Patent DE 101 50 032 C2. Seating stones are also known from European patent application publications EP 653 261 A1 or EP 916 436 A1. Seating stones with a limited, open porosity are also described in German published patent application DE 28 07 123 A1.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The invention is based on the problem of optimization of the material of known parts, for example to achieve a reduction in density but, at the same time, with increased insulation properties.
[0005] A ceramic seating stone formed in whole or in part from ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres or foam ceramic exhibits a lower density compared with solid materials, but also exhibits improved thermal insulation properties at the same time. In such a case, it is advisable that at least one of the seating stone's surfaces intended to come into contact with the molten metal be formed of ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres or foam ceramic.
[0006] The ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres or foam ceramic are preferably formed of at least 95%, and particularly of at least 99.5%, pure material selected from the group of aluminum oxide (preferably stabilized), zirconium dioxide, magnesium oxide, calcium oxide, and spinel. The material preferably exhibits closed porosity with a relative porosity preferably over 25%. It is advisable that the ceramic seating stone exhibit a density of at least 80% of the theoretical density and a thermal conductivity which ideally does not exceed 1 W/mK. Such a low thermal conductivity has proved to be advantageous under the above conditions.
[0007] In the invention, the problem is solved by a ceramic seating stone, which is formed in whole or in part from at least 95% pure material selected from the group of aluminum oxide (preferably stabilized), zirconium dioxide, magnesium oxide, and calcium oxide, formed as spinel. At least one of the seating stone's surfaces intended to come into contact with the molten metal is formed of at least 95% pure material, and a purity of at least 99.5% is advantageous. The material is preferably formed of ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres or foamed ceramic.
[0008] The outer diameter of the seating stone is at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, as large as its inner diameter, measured in the same direction.
[0009] The seating stone described above is part of the inventive metallurgical vessel, having an outlet or outflow opening with a nozzle, wherein the seating stone is arranged at the upper part of the nozzle and wherein an outer diameter of the seating stone is at least 4 times, preferably at least 6 times, as large as an inner diameter of the nozzle, measured in the same direction. The vessel comprises particularly a lining made of ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres or foam ceramic material, wherein the lining is formed of at least 95% and particularly at least 99.5% pure material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
[0011] FIG. 1 is an axial cross-section through a seating stone;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a seating stone; and
[0013] FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-section through the nozzle of a metallurgical vessel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The seating stone 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed essentially of 99.5% pure aluminum oxide in the form of hollow spheres. The material exhibits a porosity of >25% and a density of less than 80% of the theoretical density of the material. The thermal conductivity is less than 1 W/mK. The ratio of outer diameter to inner diameter is about 2.3:1.
[0015] FIG. 3 shows a bottom nozzle of a metallurgical vessel, which is adjacent to a seating stone 1 . The seating stone 1 is arranged in the wall 2 of the metallurgical vessel. The vessel is a distribution device for molten steel. The bottom nozzle has an upper orifice 3 . Electrodes 4 are arranged in this orifice 3 to produce an electro-chemical effect or for heating purposes. The wall 2 itself has several different layers composed of refractory material and has a steel casing 5 on the outside. A sliding valve 6 is arranged under the upper orifice 3 to regulate the flow of the molten metal. A lower orifice 7 is arranged below this and extends into the molten metal container 8 . The latter forms, for example, part of a continuous casting machine for steel. The part 9 of the lower orifice 7 which extends directly into the molten metal container 8 consists principally of zirconium dioxide. The ratio of outer diameter of the seating stone 1 to the inner diameter of the nozzle 3 is about 4.5:1.
[0016] The material used for the ceramic part according to the invention has good insulation properties and a closed porosity which prevents the penetration of molten steel. At the same time, it has a relatively low density and does not react with the molten steel. It therefore has a relatively lengthy working life and, at the same time, also provides advantageous properties when in contact with the molten steel, in so far as the molten steel and its component parts do not adhere to the material or adhere only to a very limited extent. The material can therefore be used in direct contact with the molten steel as shown in FIG. 3 .
[0017] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
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A ceramic seating stone is provided for use in or on a metallurgical vessel for holding molten metal. The stone is formed as a whole or in parts of ceramic fibers, hollow ceramic spheres and/or foam ceramics.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/450,751, filed Jun. 9, 2006, titled “System and Method for Disposal of Digital Media”, and claims priority thereto.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The invention relates generally to computer security devices, and more specifically to devices for destruction of computer-readable media.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Disposal of intact Compact Discs (CDs) and Digital Video Discs (DVDs), including CD-Rs, CD-RWs, DVD-Rs and DVD-RWs, risks disclosure of information contained on the media, similar to the risks faced during disposal of intact paper documents. The paper security problem has been largely addressed, with the widespread availability of relatively inexpensive paper shredders for home, business and industrial environments. However, an equivalently reliable and cost-effective solution for rendering discs unreadable is not in widespread use.
[0004] As CD and DVD writers are becoming more affordable, there is an increase in the use of these types of discs for storage of confidential information. Businesses store trade secrets and personal information that is subject to privacy restrictions. Home users often write financial data and highly personal information on CDs and DVDs. If these are placed in the trash in an intact state, the confidential information may then be read by anyone who removes the discs from the trash.
[0005] Common methods to render a disc unreadable include burning, pulverizing, shattering, snapping, grinding and scratching the label side of the disc into the data layer. Burning and pulverizing may be quite effective in rendering a disc unreadable. Unfortunately, those methods may require expensive equipment. Shattering and snapping can be difficult for people without either the required strength or tools. Additionally, shattering or snapping a disc presents a risk of injury from sharp, flying shards. Multiple models of disc grinders are available, although their size, cost and requirement for electric power may limit their desirability for certain potential users.
[0006] Scratching into the data layer can often be done easily with any sharp instrument. However, it presents risks, including injury and unintentional damage to other surfaces. Further, the damage to the disc may not be complete enough to render a disc unreadable. One reason that scratching a disc may not be adequate is that a typical disc user may not be aware of the physical layout of the data on a CD or DVD surface, and therefore may not sufficiently damage the critical data areas.
[0007] A CD typically contains a volume descriptor in sector 16 , which is within a fraction of an inch of the innermost portion of the optically-readable section of the disc. Disc readers typically first read the volume descriptor, also known as an index, to determine the contents of the disc. If this section is damaged or missing, the majority of disc readers may be unable to read the disc. However, due to its small size and its location near the innermost part of the optically-readable area, it is easy to miss with uncontrolled, random scratching. A disc with an intact volume descriptor may still be readable, and files whose data area has not been adequately damaged may be fully recoverable. Therefore, simply scratching a disc randomly with a sharp instrument does not provide safe, quality-controlled destruction.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Embodiments of the invention allow for a reliably consistent level of damage by guiding a scraping element across at least one predetermined area of a disc, such as the volume descriptor. Embodiments of the invention require no motors and may have no moving parts. That is, some embodiments of the invention may be rigid devices that move as a single unit relative to a disc, while holding at least one scraping element that scrapes the disc during the motion. Some embodiments, however, may comprise flexible scraping element(s) that flex or partially retract into cavities in response to pressure from a disc against the scraping elements. Relative motion may be rotational, straight across, or even curved, resulting in one or more scraping paths that form arced, straight, waved, looped lines or a combination thereof.
[0009] The relative positions allowed between a scraping element and a disc may be constrained such that relative motion between the scraping element and the disc is constrained for at least part of the motion. The relative motion between a scraping element and a disc may be constrained by using a guide to constrain relative motion between the disc and a frame that holds the scraping element. The constraint may serve to align the disc with the scraping element(s). Embodiments of the invention allow for multiple types of guides, including a spindle that engages the center hole of a disc and allows only rotational motion. The spindle holds the frame in a radially-fixed position, such that a scraping element moves in an arced scraping path at a predefined radius. The radius of the scraping path may correspond to the radius at which the volume descriptor may be found, or any other part of a disc targeted for damage.
[0010] Embodiments of the invention may also comprise at least one guide that protrudes from the frame to abut the edge of a disc. Such a guide may constrain the relative position of the frame when the frame spans a disc at its widest point. Since the position of the guide may be fixed relative to the frame, and the position of a scraping element may also be fixed relative to the frame, the position of the scraping element may then be fixed relative to the edge of the disc. A pressure element may be provided, which holds a disc against the scraping elements. In some embodiments, guides that abut opposing edges of a disc may form a rectangular slot along with a pressure element and a frame holding the scraping elements. A disc passing through the slot will then have its motion constrained by the inner dimensions of the slot. Scraping elements on both the frame and the pressure element can ensure that both sides of a disc are damaged.
[0011] Embodiments of the invention may comprise multiple scraping elements to provide multiple scraping paths. A certain number of paths may be desired to achieve a particular level of damage, such that the data area sustains damage at some desired density.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 shows damage done to a disc by the embodiment of FIG. 1 ;
[0015] FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 shows damage done to a disc by the embodiment of FIG. 3 ;
[0017] FIG. 5 shows options for various embodiments of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 6 shows a method for using an embodiment of the invention; and
[0019] FIG. 7 shows a method for using an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] In many situations, it may only be necessary to destroy a disc's volume descriptor, or file index, in order to provide the desired level of destruction. In other situations, destroying both the file index and a portion of the data area, leaving other portions of the data area untouched, may suffice. That is, it may not be necessary to render a disc entirely unreadable by all equipment, in order to achieve a security goal. Some equipment and software is available to enable reading a disc with a damaged volume descriptor and rebuilding much of the disc's content. However, not every disposal situation requires addressing the threat posed by such equipment and software. Rather, based on the data density and locations of data on a disc, a number of scraping elements may be provided to ensure that specific locations or a minimum percentage of the disc surface is damaged.
[0021] FIG. 1 shows disc scraper 10 , comprising frame 100 and spindle 101 that engages the center hole of a disc. Spindle 101 protrudes sufficiently beyond any other protrusions from the frame in order to pass through the disc's hole, and is sized to fit the hole. When a disc is placed over spindle 101 , frame 100 may rotate with respect to the disc, but cannot move radially with respect to the disc. That is, while the frame is in a radially-fixed position with respect to the disc, either the disc or the frame may rotate, or both. Spindle 101 should be sized to limit lateral movement between a disc and the frame, but should not be so tight in the disc that it causes unnecessary drag during rotation.
[0022] Scraping elements 102 a and 102 b are positioned between 21 and 23 millimeters (mm) from the center axis of spindle 101 , in order to scrape the volume descriptor. If scraping elements 102 a and 102 b are opposite the center axis of spindle 101 from each other, then rotating the frame only half a circle will trace an entire circle on the disc, scraping the entire volume descriptor. Operation of scraper 10 requires a user to press a disc by hand, or another suitable method, against scraper 10 and rotate the disc and scraper 10 relative to each other.
[0023] Scraping elements 103 a - d are positioned further than 25 mm from the center axis of spindle 101 , in order to damage the data area of a disc outside the volume descriptor. Any number of scraping elements may be used, based on the desired scratching or scraping density and the width of each scraping element. Scraping elements 102 a and b and 103 a - d are shown as pointed, stylus-type sharp points, however, any shape that would damage the disc could be used. Some shapes could remove more material from the disc than sharp points, but wider shapes could increase the resistance to rotating the frame. For example, a blade that is approximately 2 mm wide could scrape the entire width of the volume descriptor, but without the resistance from a blade that spanned the entire optically-readable portion of the disc.
[0024] Note that scraper 10 has no moving parts. That is, while scraper 10 moves as a unit with respect to a disc, frame 100 , spindle 101 and scraping elements 102 a - 103 d do not move relative to each other. It is possible that any of scraping elements 102 a - 103 d, which are shown as rigidly attached to frame 100 , could be made with flexible material. However, as defined herein, a rigidly-attached, flexing element is not a moving part. Further, spindle 101 of could be adapted such that at least a portion of spindle 101 rotates along with a disc with respect to frame 100 . This could be accomplished by either having a rotating joint at the point where spindle 101 is coupled to frame 101 , or by having a sleeve that fits over spindle 101 such that the sleeve stays fixed in position relative to a disc, but rotates relative to frame 101 .
[0025] FIG. 2 shows the damage done to disc 20 by scraper 10 of FIG. 1 . Disc 20 comprises center hole 201 and optically-readable portion 200 . Center hole 201 fits over spindle 101 , as described above. Optically-readable portion 200 is shown as having sustained damage from scraper 10 . A circle comprising arcs 202 a and 202 b has been scraped by scraping elements 102 a and 102 b, indicating that disc 20 and scraper 10 have rotated at least half of a circle relative to each other. Had disc 20 and scraper 10 not rotated half of a circle, arcs 202 a and 202 b would not touch ends to form a complete circle. Arcs 203 a - d are due to the scraping paths of scraping elements 103 a - d. Disc 20 may retain intact data, but the damage is extensive enough to prevent many disc readers from reading it.
[0026] FIG. 3 shows disc scraper 30 , another embodiment of the invention with no moving parts. Scraper 30 comprises frame 30 with slot 301 and scraping elements 302 , 303 a, 303 b and 304 a - d. Slot 301 is sized to allow a disc to pass through with minimal or no lateral clearance. The lack of lateral clearance will ensure that scraping elements 302 , 303 a, 303 b and 304 a - d cross predefined portions of a disc when the widest portion of the disc enters the slot. Prior to that, and after the widest portion of the disc has passed through frame 30 , the disc may have lateral movement. Further, a disc may have some rotational motion as it passes through scraper 30 , so scraping paths traced by scraping elements 302 , 303 a, 303 b and 304 a - d may not be straight. Rather, scraping paths may be waved lines, arcs, and even looped lines. However, whatever scraping paths may be, they will cross predefined locations when the widest part of the disc is constrained to pass through the slot without any lateral movement.
[0027] As shown in FIG. 3 , scraping element 302 is approximately in the center of the widest dimension of slot 301 . Scraping element 302 will then trace a scraping path across the center point of the disc. As scraping element 302 crosses from the optically-readable portion of a disc toward the center hole of the disc, it will damage the volume descriptor. Scraping elements 303 a and 303 b may be positioned to trace scraping paths that are tangential to the innermost portion of the optically-readable portion of the disc, thereby scraping a larger portion of the volume descriptor than scraping element 302 . Typical discs would require scraping elements to be placed between 21 and 23 mm from the center of the widest dimension of slot 301 .
[0028] In order for scraping elements 302 , 303 a and 303 b to damage the volume descriptor, a disc must be inserted nearly half way into slot 301 . In typical operation, though, a disc may be passed entirely through scraper 30 , ensuring damage to the volume descriptor. At the half way depth of insertion, the sides of frame 300 constrain the position of a disc to be centered in slot 301 . That is, the sides of frame 300 act as guides for the disc, to constrain its lateral motion as it moves relative to frame 300 . If slot 301 is sized for typical CDs and DVDs, it will be approximately 12 centimeters (cm) wide, placing scraping elements 303 a and 303 b between 97 and 143 mm from an edge of slot 301 .
[0029] Other scraping elements, such as 304 a - d may be provided to damage a data area other than the volume descriptor. Further, scraping elements may also be placed on the opposing side of slot 301 from scraping elements 302 , 303 and 304 . The opposing side of frame 300 may provide pressure to force a disc surface up against scraping elements 302 , 303 and 304 . Since a typical disc is approximately 1 mm thick, slot 301 may be between 1.5 and 5 mm on its narrow dimension, to allow for the height of scraping elements 302 , 303 and 304 , and any scraping elements on the opposing side of slot 301 . Scraping elements on both sides of slot 301 allow scraper 30 to operate effectively, no matter which side of the disc faces scraping elements 302 , 303 and 304 .
[0030] FIG. 4 shows the damage done to disc 40 by scraper 30 of FIG. 3 . Optically-readable portion 200 of disc 40 is shown as having sustained damage from scraper 30 . Scraping path 400 is due to scraping element 302 , and crosses the volume descriptor, near the innermost section of portion 200 , twice. Scraping paths 401 a and 401 b are due to scraping elements 303 a and 303 b, and damage the volume descriptor more than path 400 , since they run tangential to the innermost section of portion 200 . Scraping paths 402 a - d are due to scraping elements 304 a - d, and damage portion 200 outside the volume descriptor region. Scraping paths 400 - 400 d are shown as predominantly straight lines, however, since disc 40 may have unconstrained rotational motion relative to fame 300 , the scraping paths may not be straight. Rather, paths 400 - 400 d may be arbitrary lines, constrained only to pass at a certain distance from the outer edge of the disc when the disc is at the half way point through slot 301 .
[0031] FIG. 5 shows various options for disc scraper 50 , another embodiment of the invention that guides a disc using the disc edge, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 . Scraper 50 comprises frame 500 and scraping elements 502 - 504 b coupled to frame 500 . Scraper 50 is shown with guide 505 a, protruding from frame 500 , along with optional guide 505 b and optional pressure elements 506 a and 506 b. Optional pressure elements 506 a and 506 b are shown with optional scraping elements 507 a and 507 b, and are optionally spring-loaded, using springs 508 a and 508 b, in order to provide pressure for a disc against scraping elements 502 - 504 b. In order to damage the volume descriptor of a typical disc, scraping elements 502 - 503 b should be between 97 mm and 143 mm from guide 505 a. This ensures that when guide 505 a is against an edge of the disc, and scraping elements 502 - 503 b cross the central area of the disc, they will also contact the volume descriptor.
[0032] Guide 505 b is optional because is it possible to align scraping elements 502 - 503 b to damage a volume descriptor by pressing only guide 505 a against the outer edge of a disc on one side. Further, it is possible for a user to maintain pressure on a disc against scraping elements 502 - 504 b similar to the operation of scraper 10 of FIG. 1 , without optional pressure elements 506 a and 506 b. Pressure elements 506 a and 506 b are shown as separated, rather than a single piece spanning from guide 505 a to guide 505 b. If pressure elements 506 a and 506 b were connected to form a single piece, scraper 50 would then comprise a closed slot, similar to scraper 30 of FIG. 3 . Scraping element 504 a is shown flexibly coupled to frame 500 via spring-loaded cavity 509 . While the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 are described as showing no moving parts, any of the scraping elements could be adapted to move in spring-loaded cavities, similar to lock tumblers. This could ensure that multiple scraping elements contact a disc even when the disc flexes. Scraping elements that move into and out of cavities in a frame will be fixed in two dimensions relative to the frame, and able to move only in one.
[0033] FIG. 6 shows method 60 for using an embodiment of the invention, such as the one shown in FIG. 1 . In box 601 , spindle 101 on scraper 10 of FIG. 1 is inserted through a center hole of a disc. In box 602 , the user rotates scraper 10 relative to the disc while maintaining pressure to force the disc against scraper 10 . The disc is then rendered unreadable by the majority of disc readers. FIG. 7 shows method 70 for using an embodiment of the invention, such as the one shown in FIG. 3 . For scraper 30 , a disc is inserted into slot 301 in box 701 . The user then slides the disc through the slot in box 702 to render the disc unreadable.
[0034] As used herein, the term scraping element includes narrow, pointed tips that scratch a thin line, as well as broad blades. Also, as used herein, the terms CD and disc include all optically-readable discs, including commercially-prevalent 12 cm wide discs. Some embodiments of the invention, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , may operate reliably on differently-sized optical media, including optically-readable business cards and minidiscs. Embodiments may also be used on non-optical media, if the media includes a portion, such as an index or volume descriptor, that stores information that allows for the use of the media.
[0035] The embodiments disclosed herein are self-aligning with respect to the volume descriptor. That is, when a guide engages a disc, whether the guide comprises spindle 101 , slot 301 , the edge of slot 301 , or edge-engaging protrusions 505 a - b, each scraping element will trace a pre-determined path across a disc. This is in contrast to any device in which a scraping element may trace a path across a disc at an arbitrary position relative to the index.
[0036] Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.
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A system and method are described for rendering Compact Discs (CDs) and Digital Video Discs (DVDs) unreadable. Embodiments comprise a frame, a guide for constraining motion of the frame with respect to a disc, and at least one scraping element. Scraping elements may be positioned to damage the disc volume descriptor while the frame moves in a constrained manner relative to the disc. The guide may comprise a spindle which engages the center hole of a disc to hold the frame in a radially-fixed position. A scraping element on the frame damages the disc as the disc rotates relative to the frame. The guide may be integrated, such that the frame comprises a slot through which the disc passes. A scraping element inside the slot damages a disc as it passes through. Embodiments are hand operated, not motorized, and some have no moving parts. Embodiments also function with non-optical media.
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RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/882,065, filed Dec. 27, 2006, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/883,408, Filed Jan. 4, 2007, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/890,660, filed Feb. 20, 2007, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to biomedical materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Koob et al. have described methods of producing nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) polymerized collagen fibers of tensile strengths similar to that of natural tendon (e.g., about 91 MPa) to make medical constructs and implants. See, Koob and Hernandez, Material properties of polymerized NDGA - collagen composite fibers: development of biologically based tendon constructs, Biomaterials 2002 January; 23 (1): 203-12, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,960, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if recited in full herein.
SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to improved methods of producing biocompatible NDGA polymerized fibers. Some embodiments are directed at producing high-strength NDGA polymerized fibers used to make implantable biocompatible constructs, implants and/or other prostheses.
[0005] Some embodiments are directed to methods of manufacturing nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) polymerized collagen fibers. The methods include: (a) treating collagen with a solution comprising NDGA; (b) drying the NDGA treated collagen while holding the collagen in tension for a period of time; (c) washing the dried NDGA treated collagen in a solution to remove unreacted soluble NDGA cross-linking intermediates; (d) drying the NDGA treated collagen while holding the collagen in tension for a period of time; and (e) repeating steps (a)-(d) at least once to produce high-strength NDGA polymerized collagen fibers.
[0006] In some embodiments, the methods can also include, after steps (a)-(d) are repeated at least once, forming a bioprosthesis using the high strength NDGA polymerized fibers. In some embodiments, the bioprosthesis can be a ligament bioprosthesis that has a tensile strength of between about 180-280 MPa, and a stiffness and dynamic flexibility that meets or exceeds that of a natural ligament. In other embodiments, the bioprosthesis can be a tensile strength between about 180-280 MPa, and a stiffness and dynamic flexibility that meets or exceeds that of a natural tendon.
[0007] Still other embodiments are directed to biomedical implants. The implants include at least one high-strength synthetic NDGA polymerized collagen fiber.
[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one fiber is a plurality of fibers, and the bioprosthesis is a ligament bioprosthesis that has a tensile strength of between about 180-300 MPa, and a stiffness and dynamic flexibility that meets or exceeds that of a natural ligament. In other embodiments, the at least one fiber is a plurality of fibers, and the bioprosthesis has a tensile strength between about 180-300 MPa, and a stiffness and dynamic flexibility that meets or exceeds that of a natural tendon.
[0009] Yet other embodiments are directed to medical kits for a tendon or ligament repair, augmentation or replacement. The kits include a high-strength NDGA collagen fiber construct and a sterile package sealably enclosing the NDGA collagen fiber construct therein.
[0010] Among other things, the NDGA collagen fiber construct can be a ligament bioprosthesis that has a tensile strength of between about 180-300 MPa a tendon bioprosthesis that has a tensile strength of between about 180-300 MPa.
[0011] Still other embodiments are directed to medical kits that include an implantable medical device comprising NDGA collagen fiber derived from echinoderm collagen; and a sterile package sealably enclosing the device therein. The NDGA collagen fibers may have an average tensile strength of about 100 MPa.
[0012] Additional embodiments are directed to medical kits that include a device comprising NDGA collagen fiber derived from porcine collagen and a sterile package sealably enclosing the device therein. The NDGA collagen fibers may be high-strength fibers.
[0013] Other embodiments are directed to medical kits that include a device comprising NDGA collagen fiber derived from caprine collagen and a sterile package sealably enclosing the device therein. The NDGA collagen fibers may be high-strength fibers.
[0014] Other embodiments are directed to methods of organizing collagen before cross-linking. The methods include: (a) purifying donor collagen preparatory material; (b) dialyzing the purified collagen preparatory material a plurality of times; and (c) forming a substantially clear gel using the dialyzed collagen material thereby indicating improved organization of collagen fibrils.
[0015] The dialyzing can be carried out three times against dionized water (DI) in a volume ration of between about 30:1 to about 100:1, for between about 30-90 minutes. Typically, each dialyzing is carried out against dionized water (DI) in a volume ration of about 60 to 1 for about 40 minutes.
[0016] Further features, advantages and details of the present invention will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art from a reading of the figures and the detailed description of the embodiments that follow, such description being merely illustrative of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a flow chart of operations that can be used to carry out embodiments of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of operations that can be used to carry out embodiments of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a flow chart of operations that can be carried out before cross-linking for improved organization of collagen fibrils in collagen preparatory material according to embodiments of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an NDGA-treated fiber held in tension during a drying operation according to embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a medical kit comprising a high-strength NDGA-treated collagen construct according to embodiments of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a graph of tensile strength (MPa) of high strength NDGA fibers relative to other fibers, including prior NDGA fibers, according to embodiments of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a graph of tensile strength (MPa) of fibers using collagen from different sources according to embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The present invention now is described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. 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.
[0025] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the figures, the thickness of certain lines, layers, components, elements or features may be exaggerated for clarity. Broken lines illustrate optional features or operations unless specified otherwise.
[0026] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, phrases such as “between X and Y” and “between about X and Y” should be interpreted to include X and Y. As used herein, phrases such as “between about X and Y” mean “between about X and about Y.” As used herein, phrases such as “from about X to Y” mean “from about X to about Y.”
[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.
[0028] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on”, “attached” to, “connected” to, “coupled” with, “contacting”, etc., another element, it can be directly on, attached to, connected to, coupled with or contacting the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being, for example, “directly on”, “directly attached” to, “directly connected” to, “directly coupled” with or “directly contacting” another element, there are no intervening elements present. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.
[0029] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention. The sequence of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims or figures unless specifically indicated. otherwise.
[0030] The terms “implant” and “prosthesis” are used interchangeably herein to designate a product configured to repair or replace (at least a portion of) a natural tendon, ligament or other tissue of a mammalian subject (for veterinary or medical (human) applications). The term “implantable” means the device can be inserted, embedded, grafted or otherwise chronically attached or placed on or in a patient. The term “agitate” and derivatives thereof refer to mixing the components in a vessel by moving, shaking, vibrating, oscillating, rotating, centrifuging or other movement types, including combinations of the movement types.
[0031] The term “dynamic flexibility” means that the bioprosthesis is able to perform at least as well as the target tissue undergoing repair, such as a natural ligament or tendon, so as to be able to dynamically stretch and compress, and typically allow some torsion, to behave at least as well as the repaired or replaced target tissue.
[0032] The collagen can be of any form and from any origin. The collagen can be any of the identified collagen genotypes, for example, the interstitial fiber forming collagen types I, II and III, as well as any other substantially fiber forming types of collagen, for example collagen VI. The collagen can be acid soluble collagen or pepsin solubilized collagen. The collagen can be from mammalian cells synthesized in vitro. The collagen can be from molecularly engineered constructs and synthesized by bacterial, yeast or any other molecularly manipulated cell type. For example, the collagen can be sea cucumber dermis collagen, bovine, caprine, porcine, ovine or other suitable donor mammal, marine animal collagen such as chinoderms, molecularly engineered collagen, or gelatin (e.g., in any suitable form including solid, gel, hydrogels, liquids, or foams). In addition, the collagen can be digested with a protease before the oxidizing and polymerizing steps. The collagen can be in the form of microfibrils, fibrils, natural fibers, or synthetic fibers. The polymeric material, e.g., collagen, can be solubilized, dissolved or otherwise transferred into an acid solution, for example, acetic acid (e.g., about 0.01M to about 1.0M, typically about 0.5M), hydrochloric acid (between about pH 1 to about pH 3, typically about pH 2.0), or any other suitable acid at appropriate concentration (e.g., about pH 1.0 to about pH 3.0, typically about pH 2.0). The collagen can also be dissolved in a neutral buffered solution either with or without salts, e.g., phosphate buffer at about pH 7.0, phosphate buffered saline at about pH 7.0. The phosphate buffer can be at any concentration of sodium phosphate between about 0.01 and 0.5, but more typically between about 0.02 and about 0.1M. The buffer can also be any buffer, including, but not limited to, sodium acetate, HEPES, or MOPS. The collagen can be present in a quantity that is at least about 0.1% to about 10%, typically between 0.1% to about 5% (e.g, about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0%) by weight per volume before dialyzing, or by weight per volume in the neutral buffer solution before fibrillogenesis and fiber formation. In the dried fiber, collagen can be between about 50-100% (e.g., at least about 75%, 90%, 95% or 100%) before crosslinking.
[0033] Collagen “microfibrils,” “fibrils,” “fibers,” and “natural fibers” refer to naturally-occurring structures found in a tendon. Microfibrils are about 3.5 to 50 nm in diameter. Fibrils are about 50 nm to 50 μm in diameter. Natural fibers are above 50 μm in diameter. A “synthetic fiber” refers to any fiber-like material that has been formed and/or chemically or physically created or altered from its naturally-occurring state. For example, an extruded fiber of fibrils formed from a digested tendon is a synthetic fiber but a tendon fiber newly harvested from a mammal is a natural fiber. Of course, synthetic collagen fibers can include non-collagenous components, such as particulates, hydroxyapatite and other mineral phases, or drugs that facilitate tissue growth or other desired effects. See, U.S. Pat. No. 6,821,530, incorporated herein by reference above. For example, the fibers and/or constructs formed from same, can include compositions that can contain carbon nano-tubes, zinc nano-wires, nano-crystalline diamond, or other nano-scale particulates; and larger crystalline and non-crystalline particulates such as calcium phosphate, calcium sulfate, apatite minerals. For example, the compositions can contain therapeutic agents such as bisphosphonates, anti-inflammatory steroids, growth factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor, tumor growth factor beta, bone morphogenic proteins, platelet-derived growth factor, and insulin-like growth factors; chemotactic factors such fibronectin and hyaluronan; and extracellular matrix molecules such as aggrecan, biglycan, decorin, fibromodulin, COMP, elastin, and fibrillin. In some embodiments, the fibers and/or fiber-derived constructs can contain cells, engineered cells, stem cells, and the like. Combinations of the above or other materials can be embedded, coated and/or otherwise attached to the fibers and/or construct formed from same.
[0034] Properly processed NDGA polymerized fibers are biocompatible as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,960, incorporated by reference hereinabove. FIG. 1 illustrates operations that can be used to form high-strength collagen fibers. The term “high-strength” refers to fibers having an average tensile strength of at least about 150 MPa, such as between about 180 MPa and 350 MPa, and typically, for bovine, porcine or caprine based “donor” collagen, between about 180 MPa and 280 MPa, such as about 279 MPa (measured on average). The fibers may also have suitable stiffness and strain yield. In general, the fibers formed from the compositions and processes of the invention can have a stiffness of at least about 200 MPa (e.g., at least about 300, 400, 500, or 600 MPa), and a strain at failure of less than about 20% (e.g., less than about 15 or 10%). The fibers may be formed with a relatively thin diameter, such as, for example about a 0.08 mm dry diameter (on average) and about a 0.13 mm wet diameter (on average).
[0035] To measure these physical properties, any suitable apparatus having (1) two clamps for attaching to the fiber(s), (2) a force transducer attached to one of the clamps for measuring the force applied to the fiber, (3) a means for applying the force, and (4) a means for measuring the distance between the clamps, is suitable. For example, tensiometers can be purchased from manufacturers MTS, Instron, and Cole Farmer. To calculate the tensile strength, the force at failure is divided by the cross-sectional area of the fiber through which the force is applied, resulting in a value that can be expressed in force (e.g., Newtons) per area. The stiffness is the slope of the linear portion of the stress/strain curve. Strain is the real-time change in length during the test divided by the initial length of the specimen before the test begins. The strain at failure is the final length of the specimen when it fails minus the initial specimen length, divided by the initial length.
[0036] An additional physical property that is associated with the extent of cross-linking in a composition is the shrinkage temperature. In general, the higher the temperature at which a collagenous composition begins to shrink, the higher the level of cross-linking. The shrinkage temperature of a fiber can be determined by immersing the fiber in a water or buffer bath, raising the temperature of the water or buffer bath, and observing the temperature of the water or buffer bath at which the fiber shrinks. Tension on the fiber may be required for observing the shrinkage. The shrinking temperature for the compositions of the invention can be at least about 60 degrees C. (e.g., at least 65 or 70 degrees C.).
[0037] For compositions that are not elongated in shape, such as in a disk, the fracture pressure in compression loading can be an indication of physical strength. The fracture pressure is the minimum force per area at which a material cracks.
[0038] It is believed that high-strength fibers allow for improved or alternative bioprosthesis constructs and/or medical devices. For example, high-strength fibers may be particularly suitable for bioprostheses suitable for tendon and/or ligament repair, augmentation, and/or replacement. A biomaterial with increased strength over that of natural tissue (muscle and the like) can allow for a bioprosthesis that has a smaller cross-sectional area than that of the natural tissue being replaced or repaired. The smaller area can improve the function of the bioprosthesis as a scaffold for neo- tendon or ligament in-growth, which may augment strength and/or long term survival rate of the repair. The use of high-strength fibers on medical devices and constructs may also offset or reduce the effects of stress concentration factors that reside at regions of integration in adjacent tissue such as bone.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1 , some methods include obtaining or harvesting pepsin-solubilized collagen from a donor source. The harvested collagen can be treated using a solution comprising NDGA to polymerize the collagen (block 10 ). The NDGA treated collagen can then be dried while the collagen is held in tension for a desired period of time (block 20 ). The typical tension force during at least part of the drying operation is between about 2-4 grams weight per fiber. The “dried” collagen can then be placed in a liquid bath or solution (typically an ethanol solution) and washed to remove any unreacted soluble NDGA cross-linking intermediates (block 30 ). That is, after the NDGA polymerization process, the NDGA treated collagen fibers can be washed in an ethanol solution (typically including phosphate buffered saline) to remove potential cytotoxins due to leachable reaction products. After washing, the collagen can then be dried again while held in tension (block 40 ). This sequence can be repeated at least once (block 50 ); typically only two repetitions are needed to achieve the desired tensile strength.
[0040] The drying may be at room temperature, typically at between about 50° F. (10° C.) to about 80° F. (27° C.) or may be carried out at suitable, low heating temperatures, below about 105° F. (40.6° C.), with or with out the aid of forced gas flow (e.g., fans to blow air). Different drying times and temperatures may be used during a single drying event or between drying events. The drying can be carried out in a sterile and/or suitable clean-room environment and/or sterilized after the process is completed before or after packaging. The collagen may be partially or substantially totally dried. In some embodiments, the collagen is not required to be completely dry before the next step. The desired period of drying time can be between about 1-5 hours, typically about 2 hours for a typical amount of collagen (block 22 ). The washing can include agitating the NDGA-treated collagen in a solution of between about 50-95% ethanol, typically about 70% ethanol, in an amount of at least about 50 ml of 70% ethanol per gram of dry fiber.
[0041] The tensile force can be provided as shown in FIG. 4 , by clamping, pinching, rolling or otherwise attaching one end portion 200 e 1 of a fiber 200 to a rod or other holding member 205 and attaching at least one weight 210 to an opposing end portion 200 e 2 . A single weight may be used for more than one fiber or each fiber may use more than one weight. Other tensioning mechanisms or configurations may also be used. Substantially horizontal, angled or other non-vertically oriented tensioning systems may be used. In some embodiments, weights can be applied to both opposing end portions of the fiber(s) to generate the desired tension. A typical weight of about 2-10 grams per fiber, depending on the extruded fiber size, can be appropriate.
[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates operations that can be used to form NDGA-treated collagen fibers according to other embodiments of the invention. As shown, donor collagen material is obtained and purified as appropriate (block 100 ). The donor material can be from any suitable source. FIG. 6 illustrates different fiber tensile strengths (average) obtained using different donor collagen sources. The purified collagen preparatory material is dialyzed, incubated, then placed in a fiber-forming buffer that is then extruded (block 105 ).
[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates operations that can be used to form improved organization of collagen fibrils using a dialyzing process. As noted above, preparatory donor collagen material can be purified (block 60 ). The purified collagen preparatory material is dialyzed a plurality of times in a selected liquid for a desired period of time (block 65 ). The dialyzing is typically repeated three times (block 72 ). The dialyzing can be carried out against dionized (DI) water in a volume ratio of between about 30:1 to about 100:1, typically about 60 to 1, for between about 30-90 minutes, typically about 40 minutes (block 66 ). The dialyzing can form a substantially clear gel of collagen fibrils indicating good organization (block 70 ), where opacity indicates less organization. The organization can help improve tensile strength of subsequently cross-linked fibers.
[0044] The dialyzed collagen material can be incubated for a desired time before placing in a fiber-forming buffer (block 75 ). The dialyzed gel can be cross-linked to provide collagen fibers for medical constructs (block 76 ). The polymerization (e.g., cross-linking) can be carried out using NDGA and the resultant NDGA treated collagen fibers can be relatively thin, such as, for example, about 0.08 mm dry diameter (on average) (block 77 ).
[0045] The incubation may be for at least about 24 hours, typically 24-48 hours, and may be at room temperature of between about 15-30° C., typically about 25° C. The dialysis process can be used before cross-linking for subsequent use with any suitable cross-linking materials, to promote collagen organization, such as, for example, and the process is not limited to NDGA, but may be useful with other materials, including, for example, glutaraldehyde. The dried collagen fiber can also be treated with other methods to improve the tensile properties of the fiber. The dried collagen fibers produced by the method(s) described herein can be cross-linked with agents such as glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde, epoxy resins, tannic acid, or any other chemical agent that produces covalent cross-links between collagen molecules within fibrils or between fibrils. Alternatively, the dried fiber can be treated to induce cross-linking between collagen molecules such as, but not limited to, one or more of a carbodiimide treatment, ultraviolet irradiation either with or without carbohydrates to initiate glycation adducts, and dehydrothermal treatment coupled with any of the aforementioned methods.
[0046] The fiber-forming buffer can include about 30 mM NaH 2 PO 4 , 140 mM NaCl, in a volume ratio of about 60 to 1, for between about 12-24 hours, typically about 16 hours at a slightly elevated temperature of about 37° C. The extrusion can be directed to enter directly or indirectly into an aqueous bath, such as a water or saline bath, and hung from one end portion. To remove from the bath, the extruded material can be lifted out of the bath at a slow rate of less than about 5 mm/min, typically about 1 mm/min. The extruded fibers can then be dried (block 110 ). To dry, the fibers may be hung or otherwise held for at least about 5 hours, typically for at least about 6 hours, such as between about 6-10 hours.
[0047] Referring again to FIG. 2 , as shown, the extruded dried fibers can be hydrated in a liquid buffer solution (block 120 ). The hydration can be for between about 30 minutes to about 3 hours, typically about 1 hour, in a solution of at least 50 ml of buffer (such as 0.1 M NaH 2 PO 4 , pH 7.0) per gram of dry fiber. In some embodiments, the pH of the phosphate buffered solution can be increased to above pH 7 to a pH of about 11 or between 7-11, e.g., a pH of about 8.0, 9.0, 10.0 or 11.0.
[0048] The hydrated fibers in the buffer solution can then be combined with a liquid solution comprising (dissolved) NDGA (block 130 ). About 30 mg/ml of the NDGA can be dissolved in about 0.4 NaOH prior to combining with the buffer/fiber solution. The dissolved NDGA solution can be added in an amount of between about 3-4 mg NDGA per ml of buffer, such as about 0.1 M NaH 2 PO 4 . The NDGA and fiber solution can be agitated, shaken, centrifuged, rotated, oscillated or otherwise moved and/or mixed for a length of time (block 140 ), typically between about 12-48 hours, such as at least about or about 16 hours. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 1 , the fibers can then be removed and held in tension (e.g., hung or stretched), during a drying operation (block 150 ), typically lasting at least about 2 hours. The (partially or wholly) dried fibers can then be washed to remove unwanted reaction products (block 160 ). Typically, the fibers are washed (agitated) in about 70% ethanol as also discussed above, then held in tension during a drying operation (block 170 ). The steps 120 - 170 can be repeated (block 175 ).
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates a medical kit 250 that includes a medical device or implant 225 with at least one NDGA-treated collagen fiber 200 . The kit 250 may include other components, such as, for example, a container of surgical adhesive, sutures, suture anchors, and the like. The device or implant 225 may be held hydrated in a flexible sealed package of sterile liquid 230 . The kit 250 may include a temperature warning so that the construct 225 is not exposed to unduly hot temperatures that may degrade the implant. A temperature sensor may optionally be included on the package of the kit (not shown) to alert the clinician as to any excessive or undue temperature exposure prior to implantation. For example, it may be desirable to hold or store the kit 250 (and implant or device 225 ) at a temperature that is less than about 37° C. and/or 100° F. prior to implantation. The kit 250 may be packaged in a housing with a temperature controlled or insulated chamber 250 c to facilitate an appropriate temperature range.
[0050] Embodiments of the invention can form implants and/or medical devices using NDGA collagen fibers with different tensile strengths from a single source type, e.g., NDGA-treated bovine collagen, with both low strength, such as less than about 90 MPa tensile strength, typically between about 10 MPa and 90 MPa, and high strength fibers and/or using NDGA-treated collagen from more than one source type (e.g., bovine and echinoderm).
[0051] The present invention is explained in greater detail in the following non-limiting Examples.
EXAMPLES
[0052] FIG. 6 illustrates average tensile strength of NDGA-treated collagen fibers that can be produced according to embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the fibers can be produced by the below described 12 step process. The reference to the lower strength “NDGA fibers” in FIG. 6 refers to prior art fibers as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,960 and/or Koob and Hernandez, Material properties of polymerized NDGA - collagen composite fibers: development of biologically based tendon constructs, Biomaterials, 2002 January; 23 (1): 203-12.
1. Purify Type I collagen from 8-9 month old fetal bovine tendons as previously described (Koob and Hernandez, Biomaterials 2002, supra). 2. Dilute the purified collagen prep with 3% acetic acid to a final concentration of 0.2% (weight/volume). 3. Place the purified collagen prep in 3.2 mm diameter dialysis tubes and dialyze 3 times against DI (di-ionized) water in a volume ration of 60 to 1 for 40 minutes each time. 4. Incubate in DI water for 36 hours at room temperature (25° C.) 5. Place in fiber-forming buffer of 30 mM NaH 2 PO 4 , 140 mM NaCl in a volume ratio of 60 to 1 for 16 hours at 37° C. This causes the collagen to form a gel within the dialysis tubes. 6. Extrude the collagen fiber gel into a water bath, hang from one end and lift out of the water bath at a rate of 1 mm/min and allow drying for at least 6 hours. 7. Hydrate the dried fibers for 1 hr in at least 50 ml of buffer (0.1 M NaH 2 PO 4 pH 7.0) per gram of dry fiber. 8. Dissolve 30 mg/ml NDGA in 0.4 N NaOH 9. Add the dissolved NDGA solution to the buffer and fibers (use 3.33 mg NDGA per ml of 0.1 M NaH 2 PO 4 ). Agitate for 16 hours 10. Hang for 2 hrs with a 6.7 gram weight clamped to the bottom to provide tension while drying. 11. Place in 50 ml of 70% ethanol per gram of dry fiber and agitate for 2 hrs of washing to remove any unreacted, soluble, NDGA cross-linking intermediates. 12. Dry again as per step 10 and repeat the NDGA treatment as per steps 7 through 9 above.
[0065] FIG. 7 illustrates different donor or starting collagen materials, including bovine, caprine, porcine and echinoderm produced according to the methods described herein and treated with NDGA having associated average tensile strength using manufacturing methods described herein. In the case of the echinoderm collagen fibers, the collagen fibrils were produced by water extraction of the sea cucumber dermis producing intact native fibrils according to published methods. See, Trotter, J. A., Thurmond, F. A. and Koob, T. J. (1994) Molecular structure and functional morphology of echinoderm collagen fibrils. Cell Tiss. Res. 275; 451-458.
[0066] NDGA treated collagen constructs have biocompatibility, suitable biomechanical properties and the potential for biologic in-growth of native tissue for long-term stability.
[0067] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.
|
The disclosure describes methods of making high-strength NDGA collagen and associated methods of preparing collagen preparatory material and medical bioprostheses.
| 3
|
[0001] This application is a Division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/111,594, filed May 19, 2011, which in turn is a Division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/026,120, filed Feb. 5, 2008, which in turn claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/888,193, filed Feb. 5, 2007, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/554,278, filed Oct. 30, 2006, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/674,330, filed Feb. 13, 2007, the entire contents and file wrappers of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes into this application.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of wireless communications, particularly wireless, high-rate communications using multiple-antenna systems.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0003] The hostility of the wireless fading environment and channel variation makes the design of high rate communication systems very challenging. To this end, multiple-antenna systems have been shown to be effective in fading environments by providing significant performance improvements and achievable data rates in comparison to single antenna systems. Wireless communication systems employing multiple antennas both at the transmitter and the receiver demonstrate tremendous potential to meet the spectral efficiency requirements for next generation wireless applications.
[0004] Moreover, multiple transmit and receive antennas have become an integral part of the standards of many wireless systems such as cellular systems and wireless LANs. In particular, the recent development of UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) and Evolved-UTRA has raised the need for multiple antenna systems to reach higher user data rates and better quality of service, thereby resulting in an improved overall throughput and better coverage. A number of proposals have discussed and concluded the need for multiple antenna systems to achieve the target spectral efficiency, throughput, and reliability of EUTRA. While these proposals have considered different modes of operation applicable to different scenarios, a basic common factor among them, however, is a feedback strategy to control the transmission rate and possibly a variation in transmission strategy.
[0005] The performance gain achieved by multiple antenna system increases when the knowledge of the channel state information (C SI) at each end, either the receiver or transmitter, is increased. Although perfect CSI is desirable, practical systems are usually built only on estimating the CSI at the receiver, and possibly feeding back some representation of the CSI to the transmitter through a feedback link, usually of limited capacity. The transmitter uses the information fed back to adapt the transmission to the estimated channel conditions.
[0006] Various beamforming schemes have been proposed for the case of multiple transmit antennas and a single receive antenna, as well as for higher rank MIMO systems, referred to as multi-rank beamforming (MRBF) systems. In MRBF systems, independent streams are transmitted along different eigenmodes of the channel resulting in high transmission rates without the need for space-time coding.
[0007] In addition to performance considerations, it is also desirable to achieve the highest possible spectral efficiencies in MIMO systems with reasonable receiver and transmitter complexity. Though space-time coding is theoretically capable of delivering very high spectral efficiencies, e.g. hundreds of megabits per second, its implementation becomes increasingly prohibitive as the bandwidth of the system increases.
[0008] A need therefore exists for an MRBF scheme that is capable of high throughput yet which can be implemented with reasonable complexity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention is directed to quantized, multi-rank beamforming (MRBF) methods and apparatus, and in particular, methods and apparatus for precoding a signal transmitted in an MRBF system using an optimal precoder selected in accordance with a channel quality metric. In an exemplary embodiment, the precoded signal is transmitted in a high-speed downlink from a base station to user equipment (UE) and the channel quality metric includes a channel quality indicator (CQI) that is transmitted to the base station from the UE.
[0010] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, optimal precoder selection can be carried out with low computational cost and complexity using a precoding codebook having a nested structure which facilitates precoder selection. Moreover, the exemplary codebook requires less memory to store and yields better system throughput than those of other schemes.
[0011] In a further exemplary embodiment, Signal to Interference and Noise Ratio (SINR) information for one or more active downlink streams is used as a channel quality metric in selecting the optimal precoder.
[0012] The aforementioned and other features and aspects of the present invention are described in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a wireless multiple-antenna MIMO communications system with quantized feedback of channel state information.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a transmitter in accordance with the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a receiver in accordance with the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method of selecting a precoder matrix in accordance with the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-codeword transmitter in accordance with the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-codeword linear receiver in accordance with the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-codeword successive interference canceling receiver in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] An exemplary multiple-antenna communication system 100 with quantized feedback is schematically shown in FIG. 1 . A transmitter 110 , such as at a base station (“NodeB”), transmits from m transmitting antennas 111 . 1 - 111 . m over a fading channel 130 to n receiving antennas 121 . 1 - 121 . n coupled to a receiver 120 , such as at user equipment (UE). The system 100 may be, for example, an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) system, in which each of a plurality of orthogonal sub-carriers is modulated with a conventional modulation scheme, such as quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), or the like.
[0021] The system 100 also incorporates an exemplary multi-rank beamforming (MRBF) scheme with precoding in accordance with the present invention. The transmitter 110 controls the transmitting antenna outputs in accordance with a set of precoding parameters, or a precoding matrix, which is selected based on an estimate of the channel 130 made at the receiver 120 .
[0022] At receiver 120 , a channel estimator 125 provides an estimate of the channel 130 to the receiver 120 . One or more parameters determined as a function of the channel estimate are also provided from the receiver 120 to the transmitter 110 via a feedback channel. In an exemplary embodiment, such fed-back parameters may include a channel quality indicator (CQI) and the index of a recommended precoding matrix that the transmitter 110 should use based on the channel conditions. The determination of this information and its use by the transmitter are described in greater detail below.
[0023] For purposes of analysis, a flat fading channel model is assumed in which the channel remains constant for each block of transmission. For a multiple-antenna system with m transmit and n receive antennas the complex baseband channel model can be expressed as follows:
[0000] y=Hx+z, (1)
[0000] where x is the m×1 vector of the transmitted signals, y is the n×1 vector of the received signals, H is an n×m matrix representing the channel, and z˜N(0, N 0 I) is the noise vector at the receiver.
[0024] FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a transmitter 200 which incorporates an exemplary precoding scheme in accordance with the present invention. A data stream d is first encoded by a forward error correction (FEC) block 210 and then modulated by a modulator 220 to generate modulated symbols u. The symbols u are provided to a serial-to-parallel converter (S/P) 240 which generates k streams of symbols that are to be simultaneously transmitted during the current symbol transmission interval. k is also referred to herein as the beam-forming rank. At output stage 240 , the symbol streams to, u 2 , . . . u k , are subjected to pre-coding in accordance with an m×k precoder matrix Q, as follows:
[0000]
x
=
Qu
=
[
u
1
u
2
⋮
u
k
]
(
2
)
[0025] The precoder matrix Q is chosen from a finite set of possible precoder matrices, Q, referred to as the precoding codebook. An exemplary precoding codebook with a successive, or nested, structure is described in greater detail below.
[0026] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the optimal precoder matrix is determined at the UE and an index representative thereof is fed-back to the nodeB transmitter 200 . A look-up block 250 uses the index to look-up the corresponding precoder matrix Q and provides Q to the output stage 240 which carries out the operation expressed by Eq. 2 to drive the corresponding m antennas accordingly.
[0027] In addition to the precoder matrix index, the UE also feeds back the CQI metric to the nobeB transmitter 200 . The CQI is used by a modulation and coding scheme (MCS) block 260 to determine an appropriate MCS corresponding to the value of the CQI that is fed back. The MCS information includes a coding rate for the FEC encoder 210 and a modulation scheme selection for the modulator. Exemplary coding rates may include, for example, 1:3, 1:2, 3:4, 1:1, etc., and exemplary modulation schemes may include QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM, etc.
[0028] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a receiver 300 for operation with the transmitter 200 of FIG. 2 . The signals y received at the antennas of the receiver are provided to a detector 310 and a channel estimator 320 . In a preferred embodiment, the detector 310 comprises a Linear Minimum Mean Squared Error (LMMSE) detector, although other detectors may be used. The detector 310 generates a stream of soft outputs or log likelihood ratios which are provided to a FEC decoder 330 which recovers the data stream d′. The channel estimator 320 provides an estimate of the channel to the detector 310 and to a precoder matrix and CQI block 340 . As described in greater detail below, the block 340 uses the channel estimate to determine the optimal precoder matrix to be used given the current channel conditions as well as a corresponding value for the CQI metric. The index of the precoder matrix thus determined and the CQI are fed-back to the transmitter, which uses that information as described above. The block 340 also provides the precoder matrix and the modulation scheme selection to the detector 310 and determines a coding rate to be used by the FEC decoder 330 . The modulation and the coding rate correspond to the CQI, which is fed-back to the transmitter. The transmitter uses the CQI to determine the same coding rate for the FEC encoder 210 and modulation scheme for the modulator 220 (see FIG. 2 ).
[0029] As mentioned above, an exemplary embodiment of an MRBF communications system in accordance with the present invention uses a precoding codebook with a successive, or nested, structure, which will now be described. Exemplary methods and apparatus for optimal CQI-metric-based precoder selection are also described below, as well as the corresponding Signal to Interference and Noise Ratio (SINR) computations and LMMSE filters that take advantage of the proposed precoding structure to reduce computational complexity.
Codebook
[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, a precoding codebook for use with a transmitter having M antennas comprises the following sets of unit norm vectors:
[0000] { v i 1 εC M },{v i 2 εC M−1 }, . . . , {v i M−1 εC 2 }, (3)
[0000] where C N is the N-dimensional complex space and the first element of each vector is real. The corresponding M×M precoding matrices are formed using these vectors along with the unitary Householder matrix,
[0000]
HH
(
w
)
=
I
-
2
ww
*
w
2
,
[0000] which is completely determined by the non-zero complex vector w. Further, let HH(0)=I. More specifically, the corresponding precoding matrices can be generated in accordance with the following expression:
[0000]
A
(
v
i
1
1
,
v
i
2
2
,
v
i
3
3
,
…
)
=
[
v
i
1
1
,
HH
(
v
i
1
1
-
e
1
M
)
[
0
v
i
2
2
]
,
HH
(
v
i
1
1
-
e
1
M
)
[
0
HH
(
v
i
1
2
-
e
1
M
-
1
)
[
0
v
i
3
3
]
]
,
…
]
,
(
4
)
[0000] where e 1 N =[1,0, . . . , 0] T εC N . Letting N 1 denote the size of the vector codebook {v i 1 εC M }, N 2 denote the size of the vector codebook {v i 2 εC M−1 } and so on, the total number of M×M precoding matrices that can be generated is N 1 ×N 2 . . . ×N M-1 . The rank-M precoding codebook can be any subset, i.e., can include some or all of the M×M matrices out of these N 1 ×N 2 . . . ×N M-1 possible M×M matrices.
[0031] A precoding matrix for rank-k can be formed by selecting any k columns of the possible M columns of the precoding matrix generated in accordance with Eq. 4. An exemplary rank-3 precoder matrix corresponding to the first three columns can be constructed from three vectors v i 1 εC M , v j 2 εC M−1 , v k 3 εC M−2 as follows:
[0000]
A
(
v
i
1
,
v
j
2
,
v
k
3
)
=
[
v
i
1
,
HH
(
v
i
1
-
e
1
M
)
[
0
v
j
2
]
,
HH
(
v
i
1
-
e
1
M
)
[
0
HH
(
v
j
2
-
e
1
M
-
1
)
[
0
v
k
3
]
]
]
.
(
5
)
[0000] The rank-k precoding codebook is a set of such M×k precoding matrices and the maximum possible size of the codebook is N 1 ×N 2 . . . ×N M-1 . Note that a rank-k precoding codebook of smaller size can be obtained by selecting only a few of the M×M matrices and then picking any k columns out of each M_x_M matrix (the choice of the k column indices can also vary from one matrix to the other).
[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, only the set of vectors {v i 1 εC M }, {v i 2 εC M−1 }, . . . , {v i M−1 εC 2 } along with a set of complex scalars (described below) need be stored at the UE, thereby considerably lowering memory requirements at the UE, as compared to a scheme employing unstructured matrix codebooks. At the base station, where memory requirements are typically not as stringent, the matrix representation of the codebook can be stored. Moreover, it is not necessary for the UE to construct the matrix codewords to determine the optimal precoder matrix and the corresponding LMMSE filter for a given channel realization.
Precoder Selection
[0033] FIG. 4 is a flow chart providing an overview of an exemplary method of selecting the optimal precoder matrix in accordance with the present invention. Further details are set forth below. In an exemplary embodiment, the method shown is carried out at the UE, such as shown in FIG. 3 .
[0034] As shown in FIG. 4 , an estimate of the channel is made at 410 , as described in greater detail below. At 420 , based on the channel estimate H, an effective SINR is computed for each possible precoder matrix, in each beamforming rank. At 430 , the computed effective SINRs are compared and for each rank, the precoder matrix with the greatest corresponding effective SINR is selected. At 440 , the transmission rates that are anticipated by using the precoder matrices selected at 430 are determined. At 450 , the anticipated transmission rates are compared, and the corresponding precoder matrix (and thus its rank) is selected for implementation. At 460 , the selected precoder matrix, or a representation thereof, such as an index, is provided to the transmitter and to the receiver for implementation. The selected precoding rank is implicitly identified with the selected precoder matrix.
[0035] As mentioned above, in an exemplary embodiment, the precoder matrix selection takes place at the receiver (e.g., UE) and a representation (e.g., index) of the matrix selected is communicated to the transmitter (e.g., NodeB) via a feed-back channel. It is also contemplated by the present invention, however, that this process may be carried out at the transmitter instead.
[0036] The various aspects of the method of FIG. 4 will now be described in greater detail.
SINR Computations
[0037] In computing SINR, the channel model estimate can be expressed as H=[h 1 , h 2 , h 3 , . . . h m ], where m is the number of transmit antennas. For a precoded symbol stream p, where p=1,2, . . . , k, one can define:
[0000] H (p) =[h p ,h p+1 , . . . h m ]. (6)
[0000] For a precoding matrix of rank k, denoted by A (v i 1 1 , v i 2 2 , . . . , v i k k ), a matrix W i 1 , . . . , i k 1,k can be defined as follows:
[0000] W i 1 , . . . , i k 1,k =[S i 1 , . . . , i k 1,k ]*S i 1 , . . . , i k 1,k , (7)
[0000] where S i 1 , . . . , i k 1,k =HA (v i 1 1 , v i 2 2 , . . . , v i k k ) can be expanded as follows:
[0000]
S
i
1
,
…
,
i
k
1
,
k
=
[
Hv
i
1
1
,
H
(
2
)
v
i
2
2
-
2
α
i
1
,
i
2
1
,
2
α
i
1
(
1
)
(
Hv
i
1
1
-
h
1
)
,
…
,
H
(
k
)
v
i
k
k
-
2
∑
j
=
1
k
-
1
α
i
j
,
…
i
k
j
,
k
α
i
j
(
j
)
(
H
(
j
)
v
i
j
j
-
h
j
)
]
.
(
8
)
[0038] The SINR for the precoded stream p obtained with an LMMSE detector is given by:
[0000]
SINR
p
=
ρ
(
I
ρ
+
W
i
1
,
…
,
i
k
1
,
k
)
p
,
p
-
1
-
1
,
(
9
)
[0000] where ρ=P/N 0 , P is the average power per stream and N 0 is the noise variance. The effective SINR for the rank-k precoding matrix A (v i 1 1 , v i 2 2 , . . . , v i k k ) can be computed either as
[0000]
exp
(
∑
p
=
1
k
ln
(
1
+
SINR
p
)
)
-
1
or
as
∑
p
=
1
k
ln
(
1
+
SINR
p
)
.
[0000] The LMMSE filter is given by:
[0000]
(
I
ρ
+
W
i
1
,
…
,
i
k
1
,
k
)
-
1
[
S
i
1
,
…
,
i
k
1
,
k
]
*
.
(
10
)
[0039] In the case of an OFDM system, a narrow band channel model as in Eq. 1, can be assumed for each sub-carrier. Since the channel matrices are highly correlated among adjacent sub-carriers, the same precoder can be used in several consecutive sub-carriers. In this case, the SINRs and LMMSE filters can be determined for the channel seen on each sub-carrier using the above expressions. Moreover in this case, the effective SINR for the precoding matrix of rank k can be obtained using any one of the standard combining formulae. For instance, the effective SINR can be determined as:
[0000]
∑
i
∈
Ω
∑
p
=
1
k
ln
(
1
+
SINR
p
i
)
/
Ω
,
(
11
)
[0000] where SINR p i denotes the SINR computed for the stream p and subcarrier i using Eq. 9 and where Ω denotes the set of subcarriers using the same precoder.
[0040] Due to the nested structure of the codebook, the SINR computations and precoder selection are considerably simplified by avoiding redundant computations.
4×2 Embodiment
[0041] An exemplary embodiment of a system with a transmitter having four antennas (m=4), will now be described. In this embodiment, there are 16 possible precoder matrices per rank and the following vector codebooks are used:
[0000] { v i 1 εC 4 } i=1 4 ,{v j 2 εC 3 } j=1 4 ,[1,0] T εC 2 . (12)
[0000] In the case of a UE with two receive antennas (n=2), transmission can occur in rank-1 or rank-2. The 16 possible precoder matrices for rank-2 are obtained as:
[0000]
A
(
v
i
1
,
v
j
2
)
=
[
v
i
1
,
HH
(
v
i
1
-
e
1
4
)
[
0
v
j
2
]
]
,
1
≤
i
,
j
≤
4.
(
13
)
[0000] The 16 possible precoder matrices for rank-1 are obtained as the second columns of all 16 possible matrices {A(v i 1 , v j 2 )}, respectively.
[0042] An exemplary CQI-metric based selection scheme will now be described. For simplicity, the receiver can be assumed to be an LMMSE receiver and the channel can be assumed to obey a flat fading model. In an OFDM system where the same precoder is used over several consecutive sub-carriers (referred to as a cluster), the following steps (with some straightforward modifications) are performed once for each sub-carrier in the cluster. To reduce complexity, however, a few representative sub-carriers from the cluster can be selected and the following steps performed once for each representative sub-carrier.
[0043] For a channel estimate matrix H=[h 1 , h 2 , h 3 , h 4 ] of size 2×4, the following matrices are determined:
[0000] HA ( v i 1 ,v j 2 )=[ Hv i 1 ,{tilde over (H)}v j 2 −α i,j ( Hv i 1 −h 1 )], (14)
[0000] where {tilde over (H)}=[h 2 , h 3 , h 4 ] and the complex scalars {α i,j } i,j=1 4 are channel-independent factors that are pre-computed and stored at the UE. The optimal rank-1 precoding matrix can be determined as:
[0000] arg max i,j ∥{tilde over (H)}v j 2 −α i,j ( Hv i 1 −h 1 )∥ 2 . (15)
[0044] The following matrices are then computed:
[0000]
W
i
,
j
=
(
HA
(
v
i
1
,
v
j
2
)
)
*
HA
(
v
i
1
,
v
j
2
)
=
[
Hv
i
1
2
(
Hv
i
1
)
*
(
H
~
v
j
2
-
α
i
,
j
(
Hv
i
1
-
h
1
)
)
(
H
~
v
j
2
-
α
i
,
j
(
Hv
i
1
-
h
1
)
)
*
Hv
i
1
H
~
v
j
2
-
α
i
,
j
(
Hv
i
1
-
h
1
)
2
]
(
16
)
[0000] and the optimal rank-2 precoding matrix is determined as:
[0000]
arg
min
i
,
j
(
I
ρ
+
W
i
,
j
)
1
,
1
-
1
(
I
ρ
+
W
i
,
j
)
2
,
2
-
1
,
(
17
)
[0000] where ρ=P/N 0 , P is the average power per stream and N 0 is the noise variance. Note that in the OFDM case, the optimal precoder for a cluster is determined using the corresponding effective SINRs which are obtained using the combining formula described above.
[0045] The MMSE filters are then determined for the optimal precoder as described above.
[0046] The effective SINRs for the precoders selected for rank-1 and rank-2 are determined as described above. A more detailed description for a 4×2 embodiment is found in the aforementioned U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/888,193, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0047] In a further exemplary embodiment, there are 32 possible precoder matrices per rank and the following vector codebooks are used:
[0000] { v i 1 εC 4 } i=1 8 ,{v j 2 εC 3 } j=1 4 ,[1,0] T εC 2 . (18)
[0048] Due to the nested structure of the codebook, significant complexity savings can be achieved by avoiding the redundant computations otherwise involved. The savings in computational complexity (e.g., number of multiplications) achieved by the present invention over other approaches, including other structured codebook approaches such as that described in “Codebook Design for E-UTRA MIMO Pre-coding,” Document No. R1-062650, TSG-RAN WG1 Meeting #46bis, Seoul, South Korea, Oct. 9-13, 2006, can be quantified. In the case of 16 possible precoder matrices, for rank-2, the exemplary codebook implementation of the present invention results in L×118 fewer multiplications, where L is the number of representative sub-carriers used for precoder selection. For rank-1, there are L×64 fewer multiplications with the exemplary precoder scheme of the present invention. In the case of 32 possible precoder matrices, for rank-2, the exemplary codebook implementation of the present invention results in L×280 fewer multiplications, and for rank-1, L×168 fewer multiplications. The savings over unstructured codebook schemes are even greater.
Multi-Codeword Transmission
[0049] The exemplary transmitter and receiver described above with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 , respectively, can be readily extended for multi-codeword transmission. For q codeword transmission, where q can be at most m, the number of transmitting antennas, the p th codeword (where 1≦p≦q) is transmitted using k p streams along k p columns of the precoder matrix. The precoder rank is
[0000]
k
=
∑
p
=
1
q
k
p
.
[0000] Furthermore, when the CQI for the p th codeword is below a threshold, k p =0, so that the p th codeword is not transmitted.
[0050] For an m×k precoder matrix Q of rank k, a mapping rule decides the split k→(k 1 , . . . , k q ) as well as the column indices of Q that the k p streams of the p th codeword, where 1≦p≦q, should be sent along. For a given precoder matrix, split and choice of column indices, the SINRs for each codeword can be computed using the formulae given above (with simple modifications). Then, for a given precoder matrix, the optimal split and choice of column indices is the one which maximizes the anticipated transmission rate, which itself can be determined from the computed SINRs. Finally, the optimal precoder matrix is the one which along with its optimal split and choice of column indices, yields the highest anticipated transmission rate.
[0051] FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a q codeword transmitter 500 based on the architecture of the transmitter 200 shown in FIG. 2 . As shown in FIG. 5 , each of the q data streams is FEC encoded and modulated independently. Moreover, a CQI for each of the q data streams as well as mapping data are fed-back from the receiver.
[0052] FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a q codeword linear receiver 600 based on the architecture of the receiver 300 shown in FIG. 3 . The receiver 600 can operate with the transmitter 500 of FIG. 5 . In this embodiment, the q codewords are demodulated and then FEC decoded independently.
[0053] FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a q codeword receiver 700 incorporating successive interference cancellation (SIC). In this embodiment, each of q−1 recovered data streams, corresponding to codewords 1 through q−1, is re-encoded by a FEC encoder 735 and re-modulated by a modulator 737 , and then fed-back to the detector 710 .
[0054] The mapping information fed back from the receiver includes the split and the choice of column indices. The mapping rule can also be fixed, or varied slowly (“semi-static”). In this case, each m×k precoder matrix Q is associated with one split (k 1 , . . . , k q ) and one choice of column indices. With a fixed or semi-static mapping rule, the receiver need not feed-back mapping information to the transmitter because it can be inferred by the transmitter based on just the precoder matrix index that is fed-back.
[0055] It is understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative of only a few of the possible specific embodiments which can represent applications of the invention. Numerous and varied other arrangements can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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A multi-rank beamforming (MRBF) scheme in which the downlink channel is estimated and an optimal precoding matrix to be used by the MRBF transmitter is determined accordingly. The optimal precoding matrix is selected from a codebook of matrices having a recursive structure which allows for efficient computation of the optimal precoding matrix and corresponding Signal to Interference and Noise Ratio (SINR). The codebook also enjoys a small storage footprint. Due to the computational efficiency and modest memory requirements, the optimal precoding determination can be made at user equipment (UE) and communicated to a transmitting base station over a limited uplink channel for implementation over the downlink channel.
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BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention relates generally to operations performed and equipment utilized in conjunction with subterranean wells and, in an embodiment described herein, more particularly provides equipment and methods for use in underbalanced well completions.
[0002] At times it is useful to be able to isolate a portion of a tubular string, such as a production tubing, drill pipe, liner or casing string, from the remainder of the tubular string. For example, while drilling underbalanced, it is useful to be able to periodically trip a drill string in and out of the well without killing the well. In that instance, a valve may be interconnected in a casing string, the valve being opened upon tripping in the drill string, and the valve being closed when the drill string is tripped out of the well. A valve suitable for such an application is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,232, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference.
[0003] Other uses include running completion assemblies (including perforated or slotted liners) after drilling underbalanced, drilling overbalanced in areas of lost circulation to prevent kicks and loss of mud while tripping the drill string, and drilling in deep water where pore pressure and fracture gradient provide a narrow window for acceptable mud density and use of lower mud density is desired.
[0004] From the foregoing, it can be seen that it would be quite desirable to provide improvements in underbalanced well drilling and completions, in other operations, and in equipment utilized in these operations.
SUMMARY
[0005] In carrying out the principles of the present invention, in accordance with an embodiment thereof, an apparatus is provided which is an improvement over prior equipment utilized in the operations described above.
[0006] In one aspect of the invention, a well system is provided. The well system includes an apparatus positioned in a well and a tool conveyed through the apparatus in a container. The container engages the apparatus, actuating the apparatus and separating from the tool, as the tool is displaced through the apparatus.
[0007] In another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for use in a subterranean well in conjunction with a tool conveyed through the apparatus in a container is provided. The apparatus includes an engagement device which engages the container, preventing relative displacement between the container and the apparatus, as the tool is conveyed through the apparatus.
[0008] In yet another aspect of the invention, a valve for use in a subterranean well in conjunction with a tool conveyed through the valve in a container is provided. The valve includes a passage formed longitudinally through the valve, a closure assembly which selectively permits and prevents flow through the passage, and an engagement device which engages the container as the tool is conveyed through the passage. The closure assembly permits flow through the passage when the container is conveyed into the passage, and the closure assembly prevents flow through the passage when the container is removed from the passage. Engagement between the container and the engagement device separates the tool from the container.
[0009] These and other features, advantages, benefits and objects of the present invention will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon careful consideration of the detailed description of a representative embodiment of the invention hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic partially cross-sectional view of a well system embodying principles of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus used in the well system of FIG. 1 , the apparatus embodying principles of the invention, and the apparatus being depicted in an initial configuration;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus depicted in a configuration in which an engagement device of the apparatus has engaged a container containing a tool being conveyed through the apparatus; and
[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus depicted in a configuration in which the tool is being used to cut through a portion of the container.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] Representatively illustrated in FIG. 1 is a well system 10 which embodies principles of the present invention. In the following description of the system 10 and other apparatus and methods described herein, directional terms, such as “above”, “below”, “upper”, “lower”, etc., are used only for convenience in referring to the accompanying drawings. Additionally, it is to be understood that the various embodiments of the present invention described herein may be utilized in various orientations, such as inclined, inverted, horizontal, vertical, etc., and in various configurations, without departing from the principles of the present invention.
[0015] As depicted in FIG. 1 , the system 10 includes an apparatus 12 interconnected in a tubular string 14 positioned in a wellbore 16 . Representatively, the apparatus 12 is a valve which selectively permits and prevents flow through an interior passage 18 of the string 14 , and the string is a casing string cemented in the wellbore 16 . However, it should be clearly understood that the invention is not limited to these, or any other, specific details of the illustrated system 10 . For example, the casing string 14 could instead be a production tubing string, drill string, etc.
[0016] Another tubular string 20 is positioned in the casing string 14 . The tubular string 20 is used in the system 10 to convey a tool 22 through the passage 18 . Representatively, the string 20 is a drill string. However, the string 20 could be another type of conveyance, such as a production tubing string, a wireline, etc., in keeping with the principles of the invention.
[0017] The tool 22 could be a drill bit, a perforated or slotted liner, a mud motor, a production tool, a completion tool, a drilling tool, a packer, a multilateral tool, or any other type of well tool. Representatively, the tool 22 is a drill bit used to drill a wellbore extension 24 below the casing string 14 . In this situation, it may be desirable to close the valve 12 while the string 20 is tripped in and out of the wellbore 16 , such as when drilling overbalanced or underbalanced, but the valve would be opened when the drill bit 22 is conveyed therethrough into the wellbore extension 24 for further drilling.
[0018] In a unique feature of the invention, the drill bit 22 is conveyed in a container 26 attached to the drill string 20 . As the container 26 is conveyed into the valve 12 , the container engages the valve, operates the valve to open a closure assembly 28 of the valve, and then the container disengages from the tool, allowing the tool 22 to be conveyed into the wellbore extension 24 on the drill string 20 , without the container.
[0019] One advantage of this system lo is that the container 26 may be configured so that it can accommodate a variety of tools, and so a different container does not have to be constructed for each tool conveyed through the valve 12 . For example, the container 26 may be used to convey the drill bit 22 through the valve 12 during drilling operations, and then the same or a similar container may be used to convey an item of completion equipment (such as a packer, etc.) through the valve after drilling operations are completed.
[0020] Referring additionally now to FIG. 2 , an enlarged cross-sectional view of the valve 12 is representatively illustrated. In this view it may be seen that the closure assembly 28 is depicted as including a flapper 30 pivotably supported relative to a seat 32 .
[0021] When closed as shown in FIG. 2 , the flapper 30 prevents flow through the passage 18 . However, when pivoted downward about a pivot 34 , the flapper 30 no longer contacts the seat 32 , and flow is then permitted through the passage 18 . Note that other types of closure assemblies may be used in place of, or in addition to, the assembly 28 . For example, the closure assembly 28 could include a ball closure, a sleeve closure, etc.
[0022] Referring additionally now to FIG. 3 , the valve 12 is depicted with the drill string 20 conveyed through the casing string 14 . The drill bit 22 is contained within the container 26 , which is shown engaged with the valve 12 . This engagement includes sealing engagement between a sleeve 36 of the container 26 and seals 38 axially straddling the closure assembly 28 , and contact between the sleeve and an internal shoulder 40 formed in the valve 12 which prevents further downward displacement of the sleeve through the passage 18 .
[0023] The drill bit 22 is contained in the sleeve 36 between a shoulder 42 formed internally on the sleeve and a plug or abutment 44 closing off a lower end of the sleeve. If desired, the drill bit 22 may additionally be secured relative to the sleeve 36 , for example, using shear screws 46 or another type of securing device. However, preferably the drill bit 22 is permitted to rotate and/or reciprocate within the container 26 .
[0024] The abutment 44 may be secured relative to the sleeve 36 using shear screws 48 , or another type of securing device. Preferably, the abutment 44 is made of a tough but relatively easily drillable material, such as a composite material, relatively soft metal, etc. The abutment 44 may be bonded to the sleeve 36 , for example, using adhesives or other bonding agents.
[0025] The sleeve 36 could also be made of a composite material (or another relatively easily drillable material), in which case the sleeve and abutment 44 could be molded together, or otherwise integrally formed. If the sleeve 36 is made of a composite material, then the seal surfaces 50 may also be made of a composite material, or another relatively easily drillable material.
[0026] As the container 26 is conveyed into the valve 12 , the abutment 44 contacts the closure assembly 28 and pivots the flapper 30 downward, thereby opening the passage 18 . Damage to the flapper 30 and seat 32 is prevented in part by the abutment 44 being made of the relatively easily drillable material.
[0027] The sleeve 36 then enters and maintains the flapper 30 in its opened position. Again, damage to the flapper 30 and seat 32 may be prevented by the sleeve 36 being made of the relatively easily drillable material. Sealing engagement between the seals 38 and seal surfaces 50 formed externally on the sleeve 36 isolates the closure assembly 28 from debris, etc. in the passage 18 .
[0028] For example, during drilling operations this sealing engagement may prevent cuttings from becoming lodged in the closure assembly 28 . The sleeve 36 , or a similar sleeve, may be positioned in the valve 12 while the casing 14 is cemented in the wellbore 16 , in which case the sleeve would prevent cement from contacting the closure assembly 28 .
[0029] As described above, a lower end of the sleeve 36 contacts the shoulder 40 , preventing further downward displacement of the sleeve relative to the valve 12 . If the shear screws 46 or other securing devices are used, then at this point a downwardly directed force may be applied to the drill bit 22 (such as by slacking off on the drill string 20 to apply the drill string weight to the bit) in order to shear the screws 46 . However, if the drill bit 22 is not secured to the sleeve 36 (other than being contained between the shoulder 42 and abutment 44 ), then this step is not needed.
[0030] Referring additionally now to FIG. 4 , the valve 12 is depicted after the shear screws 46 have been sheared and the drill bit 22 has been displaced downward relative to the sleeve 36 . The drill bit 22 now contacts the abutment 44 .
[0031] As illustrated in FIG. 4 , the drill bit 22 is being used to cut through the abutment 44 while the abutment remains attached to the sleeve 36 . This will release the drill bit 22 from within the container 26 , allowing the drill bit and the drill string 20 to displace through the open valve 12 . The alternative configuration depicted in FIG. 4 has the abutment 44 bonded to the sleeve 36 .
[0032] However, if the abutment 44 is releasably attached to the sleeve 36 , such as by using the shear screws 48 as depicted in FIG. 3 , then the downward displacement of the drill bit 22 into contact with the abutment 44 may operate to shear the screws and release the abutment from the sleeve. In that case, the drill bit 22 may not cut into the abutment 44 until after the abutment falls (or is pushed) to the bottom of the wellbore extension 24 .
[0033] FIG. 4 also depicts another type of engagement device 52 used to provide engagement between the sleeve 36 and the valve 12 . The engagement device 52 includes a snap ring 54 (such as a C-shaped or spiral ring) engaged with a groove 56 formed internally on the valve 12 . The snap ring 54 is preferably carried externally on the sleeve 36 and, when the sleeve is properly positioned relative to the valve 12 , the snap ring snaps into the groove 56 , thereby releasably securing the sleeve relative to the valve. Note that the engagement device 52 may be used as an alternative to, or in addition to, the engagement between the lower end of the sleeve 36 and the shoulder 40 .
[0034] After the drill bit 22 has cut through or otherwise released the abutment 44 from the sleeve 36 , the drill bit and drill string 20 are used to drill the wellbore extension 24 . When the time comes to trip the drill string 20 out of the wellbore, or otherwise raise the drill bit 22 back up through the valve 12 , the drill bit will eventually contact the internal shoulder 42 in the sleeve 36 . As the drill bit 22 is raised further, the sleeve 36 will also be raised therewith, and with the sleeve no longer maintaining the flapper 30 in its open position, the closure assembly 28 will close off the passage 18 .
[0035] Of course, a person skilled in the art would, upon a careful consideration of the above description of representative embodiments of the invention, readily appreciate that many modifications, additions, substitutions, deletions, and other changes may be made to these specific embodiments, and such changes are contemplated by the principles of the present invention. Accordingly, the foregoing detailed description is to be clearly understood as being given by way of illustration and example only, the spirit and scope of the present invention being limited solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.
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Equipment and methods which may be used in conjunction with an underbalanced well completion. In a described embodiment, a valve for use in a subterranean well in conjunction with a tool conveyed through the valve in a container is provided. The valve includes a passage formed longitudinally through the valve, a closure assembly which selectively permits and prevents flow through the passage, and an engagement device which engages the container as the tool is conveyed through the passage. The closure assembly permits flow through the passage when the container is conveyed into the passage, and the closure assembly prevents flow through the passage when the container is removed from the passage. Engagement between the container and the engagement device separates the tool from the container.
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LIST OF PRIOR ART REFERENCES (37 CFR 1.56 (a))
The following references are cited to show the state of the art:
(1) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 18473/74, Sumiya, Feb. 18, 1974
(2) Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 102467/76, Tamai, Sept. 9, 1976
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to an apparatus for automatically examining or checking an external appearance of an object such as a contact welded to a leaf spring employed in relays, switches or the like in respect of the size, position, presence of failure or the like items.
The items in respect to which the object such as the contact is to be checked may include presence of foreign matter adhering to the surface, whether such foreign matter projects outwardly remarkably from the side of the contact, whether the contact has a sufficient contacting area to attain a good electrical contact when closed, whether the deviation of the relative position of contacts to be closed is in an allowable tolerance range, and so forth. When the contact is formed with a continuous injury of a predetermined length or deposited with an adhesive foreign substance of a predetermined size, then the contact is to be excluded as fault. The same will apply to the contact deposited with welding dusts adhering to the periphery thereof or one which has undergone a welding deformation which would deteriorate the electrical insulation when the contact is opened.
The examination of the object such as the contact in respect of many items has been heretofore carried out through visual observation. However, since the object to be dealt with has a miniature size, unsatisfactory contacts are often overlooked particularly when a large number of contacts or the like objects are to be checked, which involves of course a degraded reliability of the passed object in the operation or performance thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the invention is to provide an apparatus for examining automatically with a high reliability objects such as contacts in respect to whether the object or contact has a predetermined area, whether it is positioned in an allowable tolerance range or whether it has a continuous injury or foreign substance of a certain length.
Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus which is capable of examining automatically with a high reliability whether a foreign substance adheres to the surface of object such as contact in a outwardly projecting state.
According to the invention, there is provided an apparatus for automatically checking the external appearance of an object having a surface area of a predetermined size and a contour of the surface, comprising: an imaging and image pick-up device including an optical system for illuminating said object to produce an optical image having differential bright and dark portions between the surface area and the contour, the device receiving the optical image to produce a corresponding picture signal; a binary encoder circuit for comparing the picture signal with a predetermined threshold value to produce a binary signal having two logical levels corresponding to the bright and dark portions of the optical image; a coordinate determining means for determining frequency distributions in vertical and horizontal directions for one of the two levels of the binary signal in a binary encoded signal image constructed from the binary signal produced by the binary encoder circuit, thereby to determine in accordance with the frequency distributions a region coordinate for a region in which the object is positioned; a first check means for checking the position of the object by determining whether the region coordinate is within an allowable tolerance range preselected in the binary encoded signal image; and a second check means for setting a frame of a predetermined size on the binary encoded image in dependence on the region coordinate and dividing the binary encoded signal image within the frame into m×n picture elements through a sequential shift of the binary signal, thereby to check the distribution of either one of the two levels of the binary signal by a combination of the picture elements.
The second check means defines an outer frame of a size greater than the size of the object in the binary encoded signal image in dependence on the region coordinate, divides a region at the outside of said outer frame into p×q picture elements and evaluates the object as a fault when all of the p×q picture elements are those representing the dark portion of the optical image of the object.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a contact welded on a leaf spring which is to be examined by an apparatus according to the invention.
FIG. 2 is an optical image of the contact shown in FIG. 1 and picked up by a TV camera.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a general arrangement of an apparatus constructed in accordance with the teachings of the invention.
FIG. 4 is a schematic circuit diagram showing a binary encoder circuit shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 shows a binary coded signal image of the contact shown in FIG. 1 together with frequency distributions of black picture elements.
FIG. 6 shows a binary encoded signal image of a contact together with frequency distribution of black picture elements in the case where peripheral portions of the contact image are blurred.
FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing an arrangement of a frequency distribution generator circuit.
FIG. 8 illustrates a number of sampling and number of scanning lines for a binary encoded signal image.
FIG. 9 illustrates a binary encoded signal image of a contact having failures in the surface thereof and in which an inner frame and an outer frame are defined.
FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an outer frame processing and determination circuit shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 11a is a circuit diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an inner frame processing and determinating circuit shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 11b illustrates a failure of a contact in a matrix array of 7×7 picture elements.
FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram showing an arrangement of an inner frame generator circuit shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 13 is a circuit diagram showing an arrangement of an outer frame generator circuit shown in FIG. 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In the first place, reference is made to FIG. 3 which shows a general arrangement of an automatic external appearance inspecting apparatus constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this figure, reference numeral 2 denotes an object or article which is to be inspected or examined by the apparatus according to the invention and is assumed, by way of example, to be a rectangular contact welded onto a leaf spring 3. Specifications of the contact 2 relative to the external appearance thereof, i.e. the items in respect to which the contact 2 is examined may include whether the size of the contact 2 meets the minimum dimensional requirements concerning the length (h 1 ±ε 1 ) and the width (h 2 ±ε 2 ) illustrated in FIG. 1, whether the contact 2 is disposed on the leaf spring 3 at a position in an allowable range defined by a longitudinal dimension (l 1 ±δ 1 ) and a transversal dimension (l 2 ±δ 2 ), whether injuries or foreign substances are present in the surfacial area of the contact 2, whether welding dusts or deformations of remarkable size e are present in the regions located close to the periphery of the contact 2 as covered by a short distance d (on the order of about 0.2 mm), and so forth. In this connection, it is to be noted that the tolerances ε 1 and ε 2 are maintained extremely strictively on the order of 0.01 to 0.03 mm, while the tolerances δ 1 and δ 2 are on the order of 0.1 mm. Consequently, in order to examine the contact 2 in respect to the above enumerated items, the size of the contact 2 and the location thereof have to be examined independently from each other through separate procedures.
Referring again to FIG. 3, the contact 2 and the leaf spring 3 are illuminated by a light beam from a light source 44' through a condenser lens 45' and a half-mirror 46', as a result of surfaces of the contact 2 and the leaf spring 3 appear as bright regions when viewed vertically through the half-mirror 46', while the outer edge or contour 1 of the contact 2 offset from the leaf spring 3 will appear as a dark region. The images of the contact 2 and the leaf spring 3 thus produced through irradiation are then picked up by an image pick-up device such as TV camera 5 after having been magnified through a lens 4 with a magnification factor of about 50 and projected to an image screen (not shown) of the TV camera 5. In place of the TV camera, any suitable image pick-up device capable of performing a line scanning function such as photo-diode array or the like may be employed. In the TV camera 5, the image 7 of the contact 2 and the image 8 of the leaf spring 3 are converted into a series of video or picture signals through the raster scanning. These images 7 and 8 are illustrated in FIG. 2 as a bright-and-dark (white-and-black) pattern. The video signal 6 output from the TV camera 5 is then applied to a binary encoder circuit 9 which serves to compare the video signal 6 with a preselected threshold level V 1 thereby to produce a corresponding binary signal having two discrete signal levels corresponding to the bright and the dark portions of the composite image 7 and 8. To this end, a threshold generator circuit 98 and an analog comparator circuit 99 are provided in association with the binary encoder 9 as shown in FIG. 4. In FIG. 3, reference numeral 12 denotes a frequency distribution generator circuit the function of which will be now explained referring to FIG. 5. Referring to this figure, it is assumed that an image of the contact 2 on the leaf spring 3 is picked up by the TV camera 5 and converted into a binary encoded video signal through the binary encoder circuit 9, which signal represents an image 10. Then, the frequency distribution generator circuit 12 will count the number of picture elements in the black region along the ordinate and the abscissa thereby to produce a vertical frequency distribution curve 16 and a horizontal frequency distribution curve 17, respectively. The image 10 which may be referred to as the binary encoded signal image contains a black region 11 which corresponds to the contour or profile of the contact 2 and is represented by one logic level of the binary signal. An example of the frequency distribution generator circuit 12 will be explained in conjunction with FIG. 7.
Reference numeral 13 shown in FIG. 3 denotes a peak value detector circuit the function of which will be now explained referring to FIG. 5. Through the peak value detector circuit 13, the vertical frequency distribution curve 16 is divided into two parts along the center line 18 of the binary encoded image 10 and upper and lower positions 19 and 20 at which the peak or maximum values make appearance are detected. In a similar manner, the horizontal frequency distribution curve 17 is divided into two regions by the center line 18 of the binary encoded image 10 and the positions 21 and 22 of the peak values in the right and left regions are detected.
Referring to FIG. 3, a center position calculating circuit 14 is connected to the output of the peak value detector circuit 13. The circuit 14 serves to arithmetically determine center coordinates 23 and 24 of the vertical and horizontal distribution curves 16 and 17, respectively, by averaging the coordinates 19 and 20 of the peak values in the vertical direction (along the ordinate) and by averaging the coordinates 21 and 22 of the peak values in the horizontal direction (along the abscissa).
A coordinate determinating and checking circuit 15 shown in FIG. 3 operates to determine the center position 25 of the contact 2 having the contour 1 on the basis of the coordinates 23 and 24 in the vertical and horizontal directions and check if the center position 25 of the contact 2 lies in a tolerance range (±δ 1 , ±δ 2 ) in respect to the center or reference position of the image 10.
In this manner, the binary encoded signal image 10 as produced by the binary encoder circuit 9 is resolved into a number of picture elements by a clock pulse signal, from which the frequency distributions of black picture elements both in the vertical and horizontal directions of the contour 11 are determined by the frequency distribution generator circuit 12. The peak value detector circuit 13 determines the peak value coordinates (19, 20; 21, 22), from which the center position 25 of the contact 2 is calculated by the center position coordinate calculating circuit 14. Finally, the position coordinate determining and checking circuit 15 determines whether the center position 25 lies in a predetermined reference region of the image 10 defined by the tolerances ±δ 1 and ±δ 2 in respect to the center position of the image 10, thereby to examine if the contact 2 has been welded to the leaf spring 3 at a correct position.
To determine the center position coordinate 25 with a higher accuracy, a vertical threshold level 26 and a horizontal threshold level 27 are provided for the vertical and horizontal distribution curves of FIG. 5 respectively. The setting of such threshold levels may be effected either in a stationary manner or in a floating manner depending on the shapes of the distribution curves. The intersections between the threshold levels and the associated frequency distribution curves, i.e. the upper boundary position 28, lower boundary position 29, left boundary position 30 and the right boundary position 31 are substituted for the positions 19, 20; 21, 22 of the peak or maximum values.
In the case of an example such as shown in FIG. 6 in which one of the maximum or peak values of both the vertical and horizontal frequency distribution curves is indefinite and spurious components due to dusts present around the contact 2 or other noise sources will become more prominent, the setting of the threshold levels as described above is particularly advantageous. In the exemplary case shown in FIG. 6, it can be seen that the right and left maximum values of the horizontal frequency distribution curve 33 exceed the threshold level 27 thereby to allow the horizontal center coordinate to be determined, while the lower maximum value of the vertical frequency distribution curve 32 is indefinite. In such a case, a point which is spaced for a half standard dimension 34 (h 1/2 ) of contact 2 from the upper peak coordinate 19 or intersection 28 thereof with the threshold level 26 is presumed as the vertical center coordinate of the vertical frequency distribution curve 32.
It should be mentioned that the image pick-up device such as TV camera 5 is stationarily disposed at a predetermined position, while the contacts 2 or the objects to be examined are sequentially fed to a position under the TV camera 5 in a step-by-step manner by means of a carrier means such as a belt conveyor on which the leaf springs 3 with the contacts welded thereon are fixedly mounted and held in place by suitable holding means. Since the relative position between the leaf spring 3 and the image pick-up screen of the TV camera 5 can be fixed, it is possible to detect any positional deviation of the welded contact 2 from the reference position.
Next, description in detail will be made on the frequency distribution generator circuit 12 by referring to FIGS. 7 and 8. As described hereinbefore, the video signal from the TV camera 5 is converted into a binary coded signal through the binary encoder circuit 9. The binary signal thus obtained is applied to a gate 44 together with a clock signal to be sampled under the timing of the clock pulse. It is assumed that the number of sampling is selected to be equal to f in the horizontal direction (scanning direction) with the number of the scanning lines in the vertical direction being selected equal to g, as is shown in FIG. 8. Then, the generation of the vertical frequency distribution curve 16 for determining the center coordinate of the contact 2 in the vertical direction (along the ordinate) may be effected by counting the number of the black picture elements appearing in the direction of the scanning lines. To this end, a counter 35 is provided to count the number of black picture elements appearing in the sampled binary signal during a single scan line. This counter 35 is adapted to be cleared by a horizontal synchronizing signal H sync . The contents in the counter 35 is loaded into a memory 36 immediately before being cleared. The number of horizontal synchronizing or clear pulses are counted by another counter 37, thereby to correlate the sequential order of the scanning lines and the contents stored in the memory 36 through an address selection circuit 38. In this manner, the number of the black picture elements counted during the single scanning line by the counter 35 is stored in the memory 36 at an address associated with the above scanning line. Thereafter, the counter 35 is reset by the horizontal synchronizing signal H sync to become ready for the counting for the succeeding scanning line. The capacity of the counter 35 is selected to be compatible with the number f which is the possible maximum number of the black picture elements appearing in the single scanning line, while the capacity of the memory 36 is so selected that at least the maximum count f can be stored for g scanning lines.
On the other hand, generation of the horizontal frequency distribution curve 17 for determining the horizontal center coordinate of the contact 2 is also effected by counting the number of the black picture elements in the vertical direction. To this end, the sampled binary video signal by the clock signal is supplied to a carry input of a full adder 39, the sum output from which is directly supplied to a shift register 40. For example, assuming that g is equal to 1 with f also equal to 1, which means that the first sampled value during the first scanning line is logic "1" (black), the logic "1" is loaded into the shift register, since the full adder 39 is initially cleared (i.e. the initial content is zero and thus the sum output is equal to the input logic "1"). The contents placed in the shift register 40 is shifted by a clock signal having the same frequency as the sampling signal. It will be noted that the capacity of the full adder is so selected as to be capable of counting g binary bits at maximum. In a similar manner, the shift register 40 may be constructed from a parallel connection of shift register stages in number of g at maximum with the number of shift positions in each stage selected equal to f bits. For example, assuming that the sampling number f is selected equal to 100 with the number of scanning lines g equal to 128, the capacity of the full adder 39 may be of 7 bits, while the shift register 40 may be composed of 7 stages connected in parallel and each having 100 bits capacity in the shifting direction. With such arrangement, when a new sample value is supplied to the full adder 39, the added value therefrom is transferred to the shift register, whereby the contents in the shift register is shifted for one bit to the right as viewed in FIG. 7. When a single line scanning is completed after repetition of the above operation, the first sampled circuit (i.e. g=1 and f=1 ) reaches at the termination of the shift register after having been shifted for f bits. This output from the shift register 40 is again fed back to the full adder to be added with a new sampled signal input thereto which is a sampled result at the first address of the second scanning line, i.e. g=2 and f=1. If the new sampled signal is again logic "1", two sums are resulted, while the sum remains single for logic "0" of the new sampled signal. Thus, a binary number corresponding to these output states of the full adder is loaded into the shift register.
In this manner, the sampled signals obtained at the same addresses in the vertical direction are sequentially added together by the full adder and the resulted sums are stored in the shift register. The contents in the shift register is cleared at every termination of one frame by the vertical synchronizing signal V sync immediately after having been transferred to the memory 43. A counter 41 is provided to count the clock signal to correlate the sampling addresses with the contents in the shift register 40 through an address selector circuit 42.
In this way, the frequency distributions of the black picture elements in both of the vertical and the horizontal directions can be established or stored in the memories 36 and 43. Subsequently, the contents 101 and 103 (frequency distribution number or number of black picture elements) in these memories 36 and 43 corresponding to addresses designated by the address selectors 38 and 42 respectively are read out one by one and are supplied to the peak detector 13 which includes comparator means (not shown) As previously described, the peak detector 13 detects the coordinates or addresses 19 and 20 of the peak or maximum values in the vertical direction. As previously described, the center position calculating circuit 14 determines the vertical center position coordinate 23 (X 0 ) by averaging the coordinates 19 and 20 and determines the horizontal center position coordinate 24 (Y 0 ) by averaging the coordinates 21 and 22.
Referring to FIG. 3, an inner frame generator circuit 45 is provided, the function of which will be now explained referring to FIG. 9. This circuit 45 is adapted to produce a gate signal 53 which is always at logic "1" level at all the coordinate positions within an inner frame 55 of a predetermined size of (h 1 -ε 1 )×(h 2 -ε 2 ) which is defined within the area of the contact 2 around the center position coordinate (X o , Y o ) through the counters 37 and 41 which count up the clock signal for sampling the horizontal synchronizing signal H sync starting from the original at the coordinate (X o , Y o ) determined by the center position calculating circuit 14.
Further, an outer frame generator circuit 46 is provided which is adapted to produce a gate signal 54 which is always at a logic "1" at all coordinate positions in the outer side of an outer frame 56 of a predetermined size of (h 1 +2d)×(h 2 +2d) defined around the periphery of the contact 2 about the center position coordinate (X 0 , Y 0 ) as determined by the center position calculating circuit 14. More specifically, the outer frame 56 is defined in respect to the center position coordinate (X 0 , Y 0 ) by segments X 1 =X 0 -H 1 =X 0 -(h 1/2 +d) and X 2 =X 0 +H 1 =X 0 +(h 1/2 +d) in the vertical direction and by segments Y 1 =Y 0 -H 2 =Y 0 -(h 2/2 +d) and Y 2 =Y 0 +H 2 =Y 0 +(h 2/2 +d) in the horizontal direction, as is shown in FIG. 9. For implementing the generation of such outer frame, reference is to be made to FIG. 13. More particularly, the horizontal synchronizing pulses H sync (or the scanning lines) is counted by the counter 37. When the scanning lines (X 1 +1) and (X 2 +3) set by a vertical outer frame setting circuit 63 have been attained, logic "1" signals are applied to an OR gate 79 from the comparators 70 and 71, respectively, while a logic "1" signal is produced from the AND gate 74 during an interval between (Y 1 +1) and (Y 2 +3), whereby a gate signal which becomes logic "1" during the intervals corresponding to the upper and lower edges of the outer frame 56 is produced by an AND gate 83. On the other hand, when the counts in the counter 41 for counting the sampling clock pulses has attained the numbers of clock pulses corresponding to (Y 1 +1) and (Y 2 +3) set in a horizontal outer frame setting circuit 62, logic "1" signals are applied to an OR gate 78 from comparators 68 and 69, while logic "1" signal is produced from an AND gate 75 during an interval between (X 1 +1) and (X 2 +3), whereby the gate signal which becomes logic "1" in the regions of the left and right edges of the outer frame 56 is produced from an AND gate 82. Thus, the gate signal 54 having logic "1" level only along the whole periphery of the outer frame 56 is produced from the OR gate 84.
The inner frame 55 is defined by the edges X 3 =X 0 -H 3 =X 0 -(h 1 -ε 1 )/2 and X 4 =X 0 +H 3 =X 0 +(h 1 -ε 1 )/2 in the vertical direction and by edges Y 3 =Y 0 -H 4 =Y 0 -(h 2 -ε 2 )/2 and Y 4 =Y 0 +H 4 =Y 0 +(h 2 -ε 2 /2) in the horizontal direction, as is illustrated in FIG. 9. The generation of such an inner frame may be implemented in the circuit shown in FIG. 12. More specifically, the horizontal synchronizing pulses are counted by the counter 37 thereby to produce logic "1" signal through comparators 66; 67, the AND gate 73 and OR gate 77 during an interval between (X 3 +7) and (X 4 +1) set in a vertical inner frame setting circuit 61, while logic "1" signal is produced through comparators 64; 65, AND gate 72 and OR gate 76 during an interval between (Y 3 +7) and (Y 4 +1) set by a horizontal inner frame setting circuit 60. These logic "1" signals are both applied to an AND gate 81, whereby the gate signal 53 maintained at logic "1" level at any coordinates within the inner frame 55 is generated.
An inner frame binary encoding circuit 47 shown in FIG. 3 serves to convert the video signal derived from the TV camera 5 into a binary signal through comparison with a predetermined threshold value. The binary signal thus produced is then applied to a processing and determining circuit 49. An example of the processing and determinating circuit 49 will be explained in conjunction with FIG. 11a. An outer frame binary encoding circuit 48 also functions to convert the video signal from the TV camera 5 into a corresponding binary signal through comparison with a predetermined threshold value. The binary output from the circuit 48 is supplied to a processing and determinating circuit 50. An example of the processing and determining circuit 50 will be explained in conjunction with FIG. 10.
As is shown in FIG. 11a, the processing and determinating circuit 49 is constituted by seven shift registers 85 connected in series to one another and adapted to store the number of samplings during a single scanning line, a memory 86 having storage locations in a matrix of 7×7 for storing signals for each of picture elements produced from the outputs of the shift registers 85, OR gates 87 and 88 connected at the row and column outputs of the memory 86, AND gates 89 and 90 connected at the outputs of the OR gates 87 and 88, respectively, an OR gate 91 having inputs coupled to the outputs of the AND gates 89 and 90, respectively, and a counter circuit 92 for counting the number of logic "1" signals each representing a black picture element over all the storage locations of the memory 86. The counter circuit 92 produces an output signal of logic "0" level when the count is less than 16 and produces logic "1" signal when the count attains or exceeds 16. The outputs of the counter 92 and the OR gate 91 are connected to the inputs of an AND gate 93. With such an arrangement of the evaluation circuit 49, when a logic "1" signal is stored in any of the storage locations in any of the rows of the matrix memory 86, associated OR gates 87 will produce logic "1" signal. Additionally, if the logic "1's" are stored successively in all rows of the memory 86, the AND gate 89 is then enabled to cause the OR gate 91 to produce a logic "1" signal which represents a failure in the contact 2. On the other hand, when the contents in the counter circuit 92 (i.e. the number of black picture elements) becomes equal to or greater than 16, the counter 92 outputs logic "1" which also represents the presence of failure in the contact 2. Accordingly, when the counts each representing a single picture element in black becomes equal to 17 and corresponding logic "1's" are stored in the memory 86 in a continuous manner in the column direction, as illustrated in FIG. 11b, the AND gate 93 is enabled to produce an output signal representing a failure pattern. In this connection, assuming that a single picture element is selected to correspond to 7 μm in size, then the total length of seven picture elements will amount to about 49 μm. Since the determination of failure is made for the presence of more than 16 picture elements in black, the width of the failure pattern will correspond to 16/7=2.3 elements or about 16 μm on an average. Thus, the area of contact 2 determined to have a failure is at least about 49 μm×16 μm.
Referring to FIG. 3, the output of the evaluation circuit 49 is coupled to an input of a gate circuit 51 which has the other input applied with the inner frame gate signal 53 from the inner frame generator circuit 45 and serves to determine if a failure is present in the area of the contact 2 covered by the inner frame 55. Thus, when the counter image 11 of the contact 2 is remarkably distorted into the region of the inner frame 55 or when a continuously extending large injury or foreign matter 57 is present on the surface of the contact 2, the failure determination is made. More specifically, the whole surface area of the contact 2 of less than the minimum standard of (h 1 -ε 1 )×(h 2 -ε 2 ) or presence of a continuous injury or foreign matter of about 49 μm×16 μm in size provides a cause for determination of failure. In brief, the whole area of the inner frame 55 is scanned with a resolution of m×n picture elements in accordance with the size of the injury of foreign matter to be detected. In order to evade from the influences of noise or width of the injury of foreign matter, the number of black picture elements greater than a predetermined number T as well as continuity among these elements either in vertical or horizontal (column or row) direction are required for the determination of failure in the contact 2.
Referring to FIG. 10, the processing and determinating circuit 50 is composed of three shift registers 94 connected in series and adapted to store the binary encoded video signal by sequentially shifting the corresponding bits for a number of samplings executed during a single scanning line, a memory 95 having storage locations of 3×3 for storing the signals produced from the output of the shift registers 94 for each picture elements, and an AND gate having inputs connected to all the storage locations of the memory 95. Thus, when a black failure of about 21 μm×21 μm in size is present in the contact, the processing and determinating circuit 50 produces an output signal representing the failure of the contact 2 through the AND gate 96. The output of the circuit 50 is connected to an input of a gate circuit 52 which has the other input applied with the outer frame gate signal 54 from the outer frame generator circuit 46 and serves to determine if failure is present over the outer frame 56. More specifically, when a welding dust 58 and a welding deformation 59 having a width e greater than about 21 μm are present transversely over the outer frame 56 defined around the contact 2 spaced therefrom by a distance d of about 0.2 mm, as is illustrated in FIG. 9, the contact 2 is determined as a failure contact, as represented by the logic "1" signal from the gate circuit 52. In this manner, the outer frame is scanned with a resolution of p×q in number of picture elements selected in accordance with the size of welding dust or deformation to be detected and the failure determination is made when all the scanned picture elements are black. In the illustrated example, the scanning of the outer frame is assumed to be made along the periphery of the outer frame. However, in the case where the contour 97 of the leaf spring 3 constituting the background of the contact 2 does not make appearance, the scanning can be effected over the whole area at the outside of the outer frame 56.
In the illustrated embodiment, since different threshold values are used for processing the video signals in the binary encoder circuits 47 and 48 for the scannings of the inner and outer frames, the influence due to difference in brightness between the contact 2 and the leaf spring 3 as caused by different reflection factor as well as the influence of noises can be suppressed to a minimum. It will be however noted that the binary encoder circuits 47 and 48 may be spared and the binary encoder circuit 9 can be used in common when the illumination of the light source 44 is increased in combination with the use of a TV camera having a high sensitivity.
As will become apparent from the foregoing description, the automatic external appearance inspection apparatus according to the invention which operates by determining the center position coordinate of an object to be examined from the contour thereof will allow positional deviation of the object from a standard position in a relatively large range of tolerance to be checked independently from uneveness in dimension of the object which is imposed with relatively severe dimensional requirement. Further, it is possible to detect a continuous failure of a certain size present on the surface of the object or article. Additionally, by virtue of the evaluation system using frames, the examination of whether the object is located within or outside of the frame can be made simultaneously with the examination as to whether a failure is present within or outside of a frame. Besides, by narrowing the area to be examined, the influence of noise, different reflection-factors or the like can be significantly reduced, whereby erroneous detection can be prevented, involving an improved reliability of the apparatus.
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An apparatus for examining an object such as a contact welded on a leaf spring in respect of geometrical and qualitative factors comprises an image pick-up device such as TV camera for detecting an optical image of the contact and the leaf spring having a dark portion along the contour of the contact and converting the optical image into corresponding video signals which are then compared with a predetermined threshold level to be converted into a binary encoded signal having two logic levels corresponding, respectively, to bright and dark portions of the optical image. Frequency distributions of the binary signal representing the dark portion are determined along two orthogonal directions thereby to define a coordinate of a region in which the contact is located. A first checking device is provided to determine if the above coordinate is located in a preset allowable tolerance range. A second checking device is additionally provided which serves to define a frame of a size differed from that of the contact in dependence on the coordinate thereby dividing the area within the frame into a predetermined number of picture elements in a matrix array, whereby faults of the contact such as injury, welding dust or deformation are detected in dependence upon a predetermined combination of the picture element signals representing the dark portions of the optical image.
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RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 710,920, filed Aug. 2, 1976 now U.S. Pat. No. 4,047,475, issued on Sept. 13, 1977.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In hot, dry climates such as the desert regions of the Southwestern United States, evaporative cooling systems are widely used for cooling dwellings and other architectural structures. These cooling systems are popular because of their relatively low cost compared with refrigeration cooling or air conditioning systems. Evaporation coolers operate on the principle of the cooling effect provided when water evaporates from a saturated pad through which warm, dry air from outside the dwelling is passed into the dwelling under control of a fan or blower.
For most effective use of an evaporative cooler, it is necessary to exhaust air continuously from the building and to bring fresh air into the building through the evaporation pads of of the cooler. Generally, this is accomplished merely by leaving doors slightly ajar or opening windows in the room which are to be cooled. Because of security reasons and a general reluctance to leave doors and windows open, however, homes or buildings cooled by evaporative coolers often are closed up. This seriously impairs the operating efficiency of the evaporative cooler. Often purchasers of homes which have evaporative coolers in them do not know that it is necessary to have a continuous air flow into and out of the building or home to obtain maximum cooling. This is because this type of operation is in direct contrast to achieving maximum cooling efficiency with refrigeration type air conditioning systems in which it is desirable to have the home or building closed up as tightly as possible.
As a consequence, it is desirable to provide some means for obtaining maximum cooling efficiency from an evaporative cooler with a minimum of effort on behalf of the homeowner or building owner where an evaporative cooler is used. If further is desirable to obtain maximum operating efficiency of evaporative coolers without compromising the security of the dwelling or building in which an evaporative cooler is used. Finally, it is desirable to provide a means for obtaining maximum efficiency from an evaporative cooler which is simple to install and troublefree in operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of this invention to provide an improved damper assembly.
It is an additional object of this invention to provide an improved ventilating damper assembly including a pressure-actuated damper.
It is another object of this invention to provide an improved ventilating damper assembly having a temperature-responsive anti-draft damper and a pressure actuated damper.
It is a further object of this invention to provide an improved ventilating damper assembly particularly suited for installation in buildings cooled by evaporative coolers.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of this invention, a ventilating damper assembly includes a ventilating ceiling duct having open upper and lower ends and passing through the ceiling of the room in which the assembly is used. A first normally-closed pressure-opened damper closes the upper end of the duct and opens in response to a positive pressure air flow from within the room through the duct and outwardly into the space above the ceiling of the room in which the duct is used. In addition, a normally-open temperature responsive anti-draft damper is located in the duct to close the duct in response to temperatures above some pre-established temperature, irrespective of the position of operation of the pressure-opened damper.
The ventilating damper assembly is particularly well suited for installation in dwellings or buildings using an evaporative cooler and having an attic space above the ceiling. The air moving through the damper assembly then passes into the attic from which it is vented through the conventional attic vents. This causes the attic temperature to be reduced, thereby reducing the temperature on the ceiling of the dwelling and improving the cooling efficiency of the evaporative cooler.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the underside of a preferred embodiment of a damper assembly showing its installed appearance;
FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the damper assembly shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a detail of a portion of the assembly shown in FIG. 2; p FIG. 4 is a detail of another portion of the assembly shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly shown in FIG. 2;
FIGS. 6 and 7 show details of a portion of the assembly in FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a partially cut away view of the assembly of FIG. 5 illustrating an auxiliary feature; and
FIG. 9 shows the damper assembly installed in a dwelling using an evaporative cooler.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to the drawings, the same components are provided with the same reference numerals throughout the several figures. FIG. 1 shows a ventilating damper assembly 10 positioned in the ceiling of a dwelling preferably employing an evaporative cooler which creates a positive air pressure within the room in which the damper assembly 10 is located. From the underside of the damper assembly within the room, the only parts which can be seen are a decorative grill 11 and a decorative molding 12 around the opening into which the assembly 10 is inserted.
Also shown in FIG. 1, in a partially exploded position, is a plate 13 having a layer 14 of foam insulating material bonded to it. The dimensions of the plate 13 and foam layer 14 are such that it can be inserted in place of the decorative grill 11 during the wintertime or other times when no air flow through the damper assembly 10 is desired. This extra plate 13 is often desirable to close off the damper assembly for long periods of time of non-use. The grill 11 then is removed and replaced with the plate 13, and the molding 12 is fastened back in place with the screws 16 and 17.
FIG. 2 shows in greater detail the damper assembly 10. The assembly 10 is inserted through a suitable rectangular opening cut in the ceiling of a room to communicate with the attic of the building in which the damper assembly is used. The ceiling opening is cut slightly larger than the external dimensions of the duct portion of the assembly 10 formed by four parallel sides 20, 21, 22 and 23. The lower or ceiling edge of each of these sides is terminated in an outwardly flaring flange 25, 26, 27 and 28, respectively; and the upper or attic edges of the sides of the duct portion of the damper terminate in inwardly extending flanges 30, 31, 32 and 33, respectively. The flanges 25 through 28 and 30 through 33 all extend at 90° angles to the planes of the duct sidewalls with which each of these flanges are associated. Preferably the flanges are integrally formed with the duct side members 20 through 23 by conventional sheet metal bending and forming techniques.
The upper or attic end of the ventilating damper assembly 10 is closed by a pivotally-mounted damper lid 35 which is attached by a pair of hinges 37 and 38 to the rear sidewall 22 of the ventilator duct. The hinges 37 and 38 are shown as extending through slots cut in the flange 32 and may be attached to the lid 35 and sidewall 22 in any suitable manner, such as with threaded fasteners, brazing or welding. Alternatively, other forms of hinges other than the hinges 37 and 38 shown in FIG. 2 may be used. It is desired, however, to permit the lid 35 to open easily in response to positive air pressure flow from the room beneath the assembly 10 upwardly through the duct and out into the attic of the building in which the assembly 10 is installed.
The lid 35 normally is closed by gravity and rests on the flanges 30 through 33. To prevent clattering or noisy closure of the lid 35, padding or felt or other material may be placed on the flanges 30 to 33. This also will aid in effectively sealing the duct when the lid 35 is closed. The lid 35 closes in response to backdrafts from the attic into the duct or whenever the evaporative cooling system is turned off, eliminating the positive air pressure within the room in which the ventilating damper assembly 10 is placed.
Preferably the damper assembly 10 is made of aluminum or other suitable lightweight metal. Aluminum is particularly suitable for this application because it is not subject to corrosion, but other materials could be used as well to achieve the same purpose.
If the weight of the lid 35 is not sufficient to give the desired amount of resistance to air flow passing upwardly through the duct, a weight may be placed along the edge opposite the hinges 37 and 38 to cause the lid to be opened at the desired pressure for the particular installation in which the assembly is used. If adjustability of the pressure required to open the pressure-actuated damper lid 35 is desired, and adjustable weight, movably along either the upper or the lower surface of the damper lid 35 in a path perpendicular to the hinged rear edge of the lid, may be used. Then by adjusting the position of the weight along this path an adjustment in the pressure which opens the lid 35 may be made suited to the particular installation in which the damper assembly 10 is used.
To facilitate the installation of the damper assembly 10 into existing structures, the cut in the ceiling preferably is made alongside an existing joist. The rear wall 22 of the damper assembly then is fastened to this joist by means of a suitable fastener, such as the screws 40 and 41 (shown most clearly in FIG. 5). If, however, the joist to which the damper assembly 10 is attached is not perpendicular to the ceiling, it is possible that the opposite wall 20 of the damper assembly could extend downwardly into the room so that the flange 25 is not flush with the ceiling. To permit an adjustment in the tilt or angle of the damper assembly 10 relative to the joist to which it is attached, a flathead screw 45 (shown most clearly in FIG. 4) extends through an opening in the rear wall 22 of the duct of the assembly 10. This screw 45 is threaded into a Tinnerman fastener 42 slipped over the edge of the rear wall 22 through a slot formed in the flange 27. The inside end of the flathead screw 45 is slotted to receive a screwdriver, and the screw 45 may be turned to adjust the angle of the damper assembly 10 relative to the joist to which it is attached to bring the flange 25 into engagement with the underside of the ceiling in the room in which the damper assembly 10 is mounted.
Reference now should be made to FIG. 9. Whenever an evaporative cooler blower 70 is moving air into the room 71, a positive air pressure differential is built up inside the room 71 relative to the air pressure in the attic 72 above the ceiling in which the damper assembly 10 is placed. This positive air pressure then causes the damper lid 35 to open to permit the air to exit from the room into the attic space 72 above the ceiling. This air in the attic space then moves through the attic outwardly through the conventional attic vents 74 where it is discharged into the atmosphere. This relatively cool moving air passing through the attic of the dwelling substantially lowers the temperature of the air within the attic. This in turn lowers the temperature of the ceiling of the dwelling. The necessary positive air flow from outside of the dwelling through the cooler, through the dwelling, and back outside is continuously maintained. By passing the cooled air out of the room 71 through the attic 72 to lower the temperature on the ceiling of the room, the evaporative cooler 70 is able to maintain lower temperatures in the room than is possible with evaporative cooler systems operated in a conventional fashion without ceiling-attic ducts 35 of the type here described.
An additional feature is built into the duct assembly 10 and is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Along each of the opposite sidewalls 21 and 23 is an auxiliary anti-draft damper 50 and 51, respectively. Each of the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 is pivotally mounted along the upper edge just beneath the corresponding flange 31 or 33 by pivot pins 54 and 55, respectively, passing through the front and back sidewalls 20 and 22 of the damper assembly 10. The pins 54 and 55 extend through rolled over edges of the dampers 50 and 51 and, after insertion through the sidewalls 20 and 22, may be bent over or flattened to prevent their removal from the damper assembly 10.
Both of the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 are springbiased by respective biasing springs 57 and 58 to a closed position across the upper end of the opening of the duct formed by the sidewalls 20 through 23. The dampers 50 and 51 are spring-biased by respective biasing springs 57 and 58 to a closed position across the upper end of the opening of the duct formed by the sidewalls 20 through 23. The dampers 50 and 51 press against the underside of the flanges 30 through 33 to effectively seal off the opening through the duct whenever the dampers 50 and 51 are closed. The width of the dampers 50 and 51 is selected to cause them to overlie the flanges 30 and 32 on opposite sides of the duct, and the length of each of the dampers 50 and 51 is slightly greater than half the distance between the sidewalls 21 and 23. Thus, in their closed position, the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 overlap one another, as shown most clearly in FIG. 5. FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the structural details of the anti-draft damper 50, pivot rod 54 and spring 57. The spring 57 is shown in its extended position in FIGS. 5 and 6 and is shown in its stressed position in FIG. 7. A similar assembly is used on the opposite side for the damper 51.
During normal operation of the damper assembly 10, the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 are held against the sidewalls 22 and 23, respectively, (FIG. 8). These links may be formed of any suitable heat sensitive material having a preestablished melting point which is above the ambient temperatures normally encountered in structures in which the damper assembly 10 is used. Links of this type are commonly available and are made of low melting point metals or plastics and respond to excessive temperature reached for example, when an overheating condition such as might be caused by a fire exists in the immediate locality of the links.
When the ambient temperature in the region of the links 60 and 61 rises above the melting point of the links, they melt and permit the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 snap closed under the action of the biasing springs 57 and 58. In FIG. 5, as stated previously, the dampers 50 and 51 are shown in the closed position following the melting of the respective fusible links 60 and 61.
Since the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 each extend more than half way across the space between the walls 22 and 23, it may be advisable to cause the links 60 and 61 to have slightly different melting points; so that one of the anti-draft dampers 50 or 51 closes before the other. This would prevent the possibility, even though remote, of the dampers 50 and 51 binding together without fully closing the ducts as illustrated in FIG. 5. With different melting temperatures of the two links 60 and 61, an overlap of the dampers 50 and 51 in the closed position as shown in FIG. 5 will always occur.
Under normal conditions of operation of the ventilating damper assembly 10, the anti-draft dampers 50 and 51 never are closed. During times of emergency, however, such as occur when a fire exists in a room of the building, it is important to positively close off the duct with the dampers 50 and 51 irrespective of the condition of operation of the lid 35 to prevent heated air from rising upwardly through the duct into the attic of the dwelling in which the assembly 10 is used.
FIG. 5 shows the manner in which the grate 11 is held in place by the molding 12 and also shows the details of the manner in which the screws 16 and 17 connect the molding 12 to the lower flanges 26 and 28, respectively. In addition, FIG. 8 shows the plate 13 and insulating block 14 held in place by the molding 12 for the purpose described previously in conjunction with FIG. 1.
The damper assembly 10 is an effective low-cost device for substantially improving the operating efficiency of an evaporative cooling system.
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A ventilating damper assembly particularly adapted for use in conjunction with an evaporative cooler system for architectural structures includes a duct inserted into the ceilings of rooms cooled by the evaporative cooling system to discharge air from within the room through an attic space located above the ceiling and out into the atmosphere through vents in the attic. The ventilating damper assembly has a gravity-closed pivotally-mounted lid on the upper end of the duct to keep the duct closed whenever the evaporative cooling system is not in operation or whenever backdrafts from the attic occur. Positive air pressure within the room moves upwardly through the damper assembly, opening the lid to permit air to escape from the room into the attic, thereby maintaining the air flow necessary for efficient operation of an evaporative cooler and additionally exhausting the relatively cool air into the attic space above the ceiling to further improve the cooling efficiency of the system. Temperature sensitive normally-open self-closing anti-draft dampers close the duct whenever abnormally high temperatures occur.
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FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to electro-mechanical key and lock devices and more particularly to an electro-mechanical cylinder lock-key combination using an optical code, such as a holographic code or a bar code provided on the key.
BACKGROUND
It is previously known a variety of lock devices that make use of electronically controlled elements for increasing the security of the lock. However, the demand for lock systems with a high level of security is constantly increasing.
Many prior art electro-mechanical lock devices rely on a power source external to the lock device for powering the electronic circuitry of the device. This poses a problem, particularly when fitting a new electro-mechanical lock in an existing installation.
One way to avoid this problem is to provide a replaceable battery either in the lock device or in the keys used with the lock device. However, the replacement of the battery is often a cumbersome operation. Furthermore, the battery takes up valuable space, irrespectively of whether it is provided in the lock or in the key. Also, batteries constitute an environmental hazard.
Another problem with today's electro-mechanical lock devices is that they must include not only mechanical locking elements but also the electronic circuitry and elements controlled by the electronic circuitry. All these elements must fit into the space defined for conventional all mechanical locks. The size of the electronic part of the locking mechanism must therefore be kept to a minimum.
Yet another problem with prior art electro-mechanical lock devices is that when the key having correct mechanical code is inserted then all key-actuated moveable blocking elements are moved to non-blocking position; only the electro-mechanical blocking element remains to prevent the rotation of the cylinder core.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a key and lock device of the kind initially mentioned, wherein a high degree of security is obtained while the space requirements are kept to a minimum.
The invention is based on the realisation that the movement of at least one of the blocking elements conventionally found in a mechanical lock can be prevented by the provision of an optical code element on the key.
According to the invention there is provided an electro-mechanical cylinder lock-key combination as defined in the appended claims.
By using at least one of the mechanical elements already present in the lock as part of the electronically controlled blocking mechanism, in combination with the use of an optical code requiring no moveable parts for the reading thereof, space requirements in the lock device are kept to a minimum.
In a preferred embodiment, the optical code element is provided in the form of a hologram. This provides for a very high level of security thanks to the huge amount of possible codes and the difficulty in copying the key.
In another embodiment, a reflective bar code is provided as optical code on the key.
Further preferred embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The invention is now described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a key and lock device according to the invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a key according to the invention;
FIG. 3 is a top sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 before insertion of a key;
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b are cross-sectional views of the device shown in FIG. 3 taken along the lines IIIa—IIIa and IIIb—IIIb, respectively, in FIG. 3 ;
FIGS. 4–7 are top sectional views of the device shown in, FIG. 1 during different stages of insertion of a key;
FIGS. 6 a and 7 a are cross-sectional views taken along line VIa—VIa in FIG. 6 and line VIIa—VIIa in FIG. 7 , respectively;
FIG. 8 is a top sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 with a fully inserted key;
FIG. 8 a is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 8 taken along the line VIIIa—VIIIa in FIG. 8 ;
FIG. 9 is a top sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 with an inserted key having incorrect optical code;
FIG. 9 a is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 9 taken along the line IXa—IXa in FIG. 9 ;
FIG. 9 b is a sectional side view showing the position of an inserted key;
FIGS. 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views of the device according to the invention showing the interaction between a special pin tumbler and a pin blocking element; and
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative key according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following a detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be given.
In FIG. 1 , an overall perspective view of an electro mechanical cylinder lock-key combination 1 according to the invention is shown. The combination comprises a generally cylindrical cylinder housing 10 and a key 20 inserted into a key-way of a cylinder core 30 rotatably provided in the cylinder housing. By means of rotation of the key, a campiece 12 is actuated so as to act on a follower of a lock device. The cylinder housing 10 has the same general shape as conventional cylinder housings and the lock cylinder according to the invention can thus replace already installed all-mechanical lock cylinders.
The key 20 is shown in its entirety in FIG. 2 . It has a conventional shape and comprises a grip portion 22 and a bit portion 24 . The bit portion has an upper code surface 26 arranged to cooperate with tumbler pins provided in the lock cylinder.
On a side surface of the bit portion there is provided an elongated holographic image or hologram 28 having a surface being essentially flush with the side surface of the bit portion so as not to interfere with the insertion of the key into the cylinder core 30 . The hologram functions as an additional code and a key must thus have both a correct mechanical code, i.e., code surface 26 , and optical code, i.e., hologram 28 . This adds a further level of security as compared to an all-mechanical lock.
A top sectional view of the lock cylinder is shown in FIG. 3 , wherein it is seen how the elongated cylinder core 30 is provided in the cylinder housing 10 . A key-way 32 is provided centrally in the cylinder core so as to receive the key 20 . Centrally aligned in the cylinder core are also six pin tumbler chambers 34 – 39 , wherein the five front chambers 34 – 38 each contains conventional pin tumblers acting as blocking elements when a key having incorrect mechanical code is inserted in the cylinder. An example of pin tumbler is given in FIG. 3 a , showing a top pin 34 a and a bottom pin 34 b.
The inner pin tumbler chamber 39 contains a conventional top pin 39 a and a special kind of bottom pin, designated 39 b in FIG. 3 b . This pin is provided with a circumferential waist or indent 39 b ′ arranged to receive an outer portion of a pin-blocking element 40 provided at the outer end of a piezo-electric bender 42 . This bender is arranged to move the pin blocking element 40 into and out of engagement with the waist portion 39 b ′ of the special pin 39 b . This function will be further explained below.
The inner end of the piezo-electric bender 42 is fixed so as to make the outer end move when current flows through the piezo-electric bender.
By using the inner pin tumbler as electronically controlled blocking element, several advantages are obtained. Firstly, the time from when the key 20 enters the cylinder core 30 to when it contacts the inner pin tumbler is long enough for the electronics to process the information in the optical code and control the pin tumbler 39 a , 39 b accordingly. Secondly, the piezo-electric bender 42 can be made long enough so as to displace the pin-blocking element 40 out of engagement with the special pin tumbler.
The electrical operation of the lock cylinder is controlled by means of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 44 . This ASIC is electrically connected to an optical unit comprising a laser diode 46 and an array of opto-electronic sensors 48 for recording an incoming laser beam. This will be fully described below with reference to FIG. 4 .
On the opposite side of the key-way from the opto-electronic components there is provided a striking pin or “hammer” 50 running in a cylindrical cavity 52 in the cylinder core 30 . The hammer is provided with a finger 54 arranged to cooperate with the tip of the key 20 during insertion thereof and is spring-biased towards the front end of the cylinder core 30 by means of a helical spring 56 .
An electric capacitor 58 is connected to the electrical power consuming components of the lock cylinder and is provided for storing electric energy by these components. Finally there is provided a piezo-electric generator 60 in the cavity 52 . The generator comprises piezo-electric ceramic, i.e., a material made of crystalline substance, which creates charges of electricity by the application of pressure and vice versa. The generator functions in the following way. In its resting position shown in FIG. 3 , the hammer 50 is pressed against the generator 60 by means of the force exerted by the helical spring 56 . When the hammer is moved from this position by the key tip, se FIG. 4 , this force is removed and the generator 60 thus produces a weak electric current, which is supplied to the ASIC 44 and the laser diode 46 . The current thus functions as a “wake up signal” for the ASIC, which is essentially powered by the capacitor 58 . When the hammer is returned to its original position, as will be described below with reference to FIG. 7 , mechanical energy is again converted into electric energy, charging the capacitor 58 .
If so desired, the helical spring 56 can be given a characteristics adapted to provide defined force on the hammer.
The operation of the lock cylinder will now be explained. In FIG. 4 there is shown how the key is inserted into the key-way. The hammer 50 is moved from its resting position shown in FIG. 3 when the tip of the key bit reaches the finger 54 thereof. The electric energy thus created by the generator 60 is directed to the ASIC 44 , thereby making it operative. The laser diode 46 is then controlled by the ASIC to emit a laser beam in the direction of the side of the key bit provided with the hologram containing the holographic code. During insertion of the key 20 , the hologram breaks up this laser beam in between 1 and 32 sub-beams and these are reflected onto the opto-electronic sensors 48 in dependence of the holographic code. In other words, during insertion of the key 20 the 32 bit optical code contained in the hologram is recorded by the sensors 48 and this code is transmitted to the ASIC 44 .
By reading the optical code while the key is moving, valuable time is saved and the user inserting the key into the lock cylinder will experience no time delays for reading and evaluating the optical code.
The correct optical code of the cylinder is stored in the ASIC. This correct code is compared with the code recorded by the sensors 48 and if they are identical, then the laser diode 46 is switched off and the pin-blocking element 40 is moved to a non-blocking position, as will be explained below. If the codes differ from each other, the laser diode is still switched off but the pin-blocking element 40 is left in blocking position.
In FIG. 5 there is shown how the key 20 has been inserted further into the cylinder core 30 , bringing the hammer 50 with it, compressing the helical spring 56 . When the helical spring is compressed further, the force exerted by it on the hammer makes the finger 54 of the hammer 50 slip off the key tip and take the position shown in FIG. 6 a . During this operation, the entire hammer 50 is turned. The spring force from the helical spring 56 then returns the hammer to its original position shown in FIG. 3 .
If the key 20 inserted into the cylinder has a correct optical code, the ASIC connects the generator 60 and the piezo-electric bender 40 . When the hammer is released and hits the piezo-electric generator, the generator generates a voltage, which is directed across the piezo-electric bender 42 . The generator 60 and the bender 42 thereby form a matched electrical circuit, providing a reliable actuator. The voltage across the piezo-electric bender makes it bend and thereby moves the pin blocking element 40 out of engagement with the special blocking pin 39 b . With the pin blocking element in this position, the pins 39 a , 39 b function as the ordinary pins 34 a,b– 38 a,b . Thus, the tip of the key 20 pushes the pins 39 a,b upward, see FIG. 10 , and the key can be fully inserted into the cylinder core to the position shown in FIG. 8 . If the mechanical key code 26 provided on the key is correct, then all pin tumblers have been moved to a position wherein the shear line between top and bottom pins is aligned with the shear line between the cylinder housing 10 and the cylinder core 30 . This enables rotation of the cylinder core 30 and thereby unlocking of the lock provided with the lock cylinder 1 .
When a correct key is withdrawn from the position shown in FIG. 8 , the piezo-electric bender is returned to its straight shape.
If the optical code provided on the key is incorrect, the pin blocking element remains in engagement with the special pin 39 b and the special pin tumbler 39 a,b is stuck in position, see FIG. 11 . This in turn prevents the key 20 from being fully inserted into the cylinder core and it can only be inserted to the position shown in FIGS. 9 and 9 b.
As appears from FIG. 9 b , in this position of the key, not only the pin tumbler 39 a, b that is controlled by the optical code but also all other pin tumblers block rotation of the cylinder core. This is a significant advantage, as a key provided with correct mechanical code but with incorrect optical code releases no blocking elements in the lock cylinder.
The pin-blocking element 40 is shown in detail in FIG. 11 in the position wherein a user of a key having incorrect optical code tries to push the key to its fully inserted position. The pin-blocking element is attached to the piezo-electric bender 42 through an aperture therethrough and is provided with a tapering flange 40 a in the direction of the pin 39 b . Its outer portion ends in a tip 40 b dimensioned so as to fit into the waist portion 39 b ′ of the special pin 39 b . The pin-blocking element 40 is normally kept level by means of the spring force provided by a helical spring 40 c.
Returning to FIG. 9 a , if a user of a key lacking correct optical code urges the key to the special blocking pin 39 b , this pin is moved slightly upward to an extent allowed by the tilt of the pin blocking element 40 . In the position shown in FIGS. 9 a and 11 , the flange 40 a cooperating with the cylinder core material provides a self-locking arrangement, pressing the pin-locking element towards the special blocking pin 39 b . This provides a mechanical arrangement adapted to withstand the forces from a hammer hitting the key grip, for example.
By using piezo-electronic components, large movable masses in the electronically actuated lock mechanism are avoided, increasing the speed by which the unlocking can be effected and saving space.
A preferred embodiment of an electromechanical cylinder lock-key combination and a key according to the invention has been described. The person skilled in the art realises that this could be varied within the scope of the appended claims. Thus, although a hologram has been described as the preferred optical code element, it will be appreciated that other forms of code elements could be used as well. An example of an alternative embodiment is given in FIG. 12 , wherein a reflective bar code 28 ′ is provided on the side surface of the bit portion. If this kind of optical code is used, the above described laser diode 46 is replaced by a conventional light emitting diode (LED).
Alternatively, the optical code could be provided not on the side surface of the key bit but on the underside thereof.
In its preferred embodiment, the inventive lock cylinder is provided with a special blocking pin tumbler arranged to be released by a piezo-electric bender upon detection of a correct optical code. The piezo-electric bender could of course be replaced by another kind of actuator, such as a solenoid etc.
A lock cylinder having six pin tumblers has been described. It will be realised that a cylinder having a different configuration than the embodiment shown can be used without departing from the inventive concept.
By providing a piezo-electric generator, the battery found in many electromagnetic locks is dispensed with. However, the inventive idea is also applicable to a lock having an internal battery or being externally powered.
In the preferred embodiment, the inner pin tumbler is used as the electronically blocked element. However, other pin tumblers can be blocked either in addition to or instead of the inner pin tumbler.
The electronic lock mechanism has been shown controlled by means of an ASIC. Any micro controller or other processing unit can of course be used for that purpose.
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An electromechanical cylinder lock-key combination includes a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably arranged in the cylinder housing and having a key-way for receiving a key. A plurality of key actuated moveable blocking elements block the rotation of the cylinder core unless a correct key is inserted in the key-way. An optical code reader in the lock reads an optical code element provided on an inserted key. At least one of said blocking elements functions as a bar element barring insertion of the key into the key-way unless a correct optical code element is provided on the key. By using at least one of the mechanical elements already present in the lock as part of the electronically controlled blocking mechanism, in combination with the use of an optical code requiring no moveable parts for the reading thereof, space requirements in the lock device are kept to a minimum.
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TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This document pertains generally to implantable medical devices, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to implantable medical devices configured as a pedometer.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Implantable medical devices include, among other devices, cardiac rhythm management devices. Such implantable medical devices can include a motion sensing device such as an accelerometer, a tilt switch, or a mercury switch, and the motion sensing device can be used to detect and monitor the physical activity of a patient. This physical activity data has been used to modulate a pacing rate as a function of a patient's physical activity. However, many times the activity data generated by a motion sensing device associated with an implantable medical device is cryptic and difficult to interpret.
OVERVIEW
[0003] This overview is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the subject matter of the present patent application.
[0004] In Example 1, a system includes an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device includes a control circuit and a motion sensing device, coupled to the control circuit, the motion sensing device configured to transmit a signal to the control circuit. The control circuit is configured to identify one or more steps of a patient using the motion sensing device signal.
[0005] In Example 2, the motion sensing device of Example 1 optionally includes an accelerometer.
[0006] In Example 3, the systems of Examples 1-2 optionally include a telemetry circuit, the telemetry circuit coupled to the control circuit for communicating to an external device.
[0007] In Example 4, the systems of Examples 1-3 optionally include the external device, wherein the external device is a local external device; and further wherein the local external device is configured to communicate with a remote external device.
[0008] In Example 5, at least one of the implantable medical device and the external device of Examples 1-4 are optionally configured to calculate, using data about the one or more steps of the patient, at least one of a count of the one or more steps of the patient, a count of the one or more steps of the patient during a particular period of time, a physical activity category, a distance traveled by the patient during a particular period of time, an amount of time spent walking by the patient during a particular period of time, a caloric expenditure by the patient during a particular period of time, an amount of time between episodes of walking, a stride pattern of the patient, a measure of activity of the patient, a velocity of the patient, a length of a particular step, and an amount of time relating to a duration of the particular step.
[0009] In Example 6, the systems of Examples 1-5 optionally include an electrical stimulation circuit coupled to the control circuit, the electrical stimulation circuit configured to deliver at least one electrical pulse using data about the one or more steps of the patient.
[0010] In Example 7, the data about the one or more steps of the patient of Examples 1-6 are optionally used to initiate or adjust at least one of an AV delay, a current pacing rate, a baseline pacing rate, an upper limit of a pacing rate, and an acceleration of a pacing rate.
[0011] In Example 8, the control circuit of Examples 1-7 is optionally configured to confirm a single step by identifying a first step followed by a second step within a particular period of time.
[0012] In Example 9, the control circuit of Examples 1-8 is optionally configured to confirm a single step by identifying three consecutive steps.
[0013] In Example 10, the accelerometer of Examples 1-9 optionally includes a three axis accelerometer, and the control circuit is optionally configured to identify a step up by the patient, a step down by the patient, and a step forward by the patient.
[0014] In Example 11, the systems of Examples 1-10 optionally include a drug titration circuit, the drug titration circuit configured to deliver a drug using data about the one or more steps of the patient.
[0015] In Example 12, the systems of Examples 1-11 optionally include an alert circuit coupled to the control circuit, the alert circuit configured to provide an alert using data about the one or more steps of the patient.
[0016] In Example 13, the control circuit of Examples 1-12 optionally include a circuit to identify the one or more steps of the patient by one or more of identifying a peak in an output of the accelerometer and by pattern matching an output of the accelerometer.
[0017] In Example 14, a process includes receiving data from an implantable motion sensing device, and processing the data to identify one or more steps taken by a patient.
[0018] In Example 15, the motion sensing device of Example 14 optionally includes an accelerometer.
[0019] In Example 16, the processes of Examples 14-15 optionally include transmitting the data from the implantable motion sensing device to an external device, and displaying the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient on the external device.
[0020] In Example 17, the processes of Examples 14-16 optionally include transmitting the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient to an external device, and displaying the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient on the external device. The processing the data to identify the one or more steps taken by the patient optionally occurs on the external device.
[0021] In Example 18, the processes of Examples 14-17 optionally include using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient to calculate at least one of a number of steps taken by the patient, a number of steps taken by the patient during a particular time period, a physical activity category, a caloric expenditure by the patient, a stride pattern of the patient, a measure of activity of the patient, a velocity of the patient, a length of a time interval between episodes of walking by the patient, a time duration of an episode of walking of the patient, a distance covered by the patient, a measure of sustained steps during a period of time, and a gait of the patient.
[0022] In Example 19, the processes of Examples 14-18 optionally include identifying a step by identifying three or more consecutive steps.
[0023] In Example 20, the processes of Examples 14-19 optionally include identifying a step by identifying a first step followed by a second step within a particular period of time.
[0024] In Example 21, the processes of Examples 14-20 optionally include a disease progression of a patient using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient.
[0025] In Example 22, the processes of Examples 14-21 optionally include generating an alert using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient.
[0026] In Example 23, the processes of Examples 14-22 optionally include altering an operation of an implantable medical device using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient.
[0027] In Example 24, the processes of Examples 14-23 optionally include identifying the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient by one or more of identifying a peak in an output of the accelerometer and by pattern matching the output of the accelerometer.
[0028] In Example 25, the processes of Examples 14-24 optionally include categorizing a patient into a physical activity category using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient.
[0029] In Example 26, the processes of Examples 14-25 optionally include identifying a first step, starting a timer, and inhibiting an identification of a second step until after expiration of the timer.
[0030] In Example 27, the processes of Examples 14-26 optionally include evaluating patient compliance using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient.
[0031] In Example 28, the patient compliance of Examples 14-27 optionally relates to a patient exercise program.
[0032] In Example 29, the processes of Examples 14-28 optionally include identifying a step up by the patient, a step down by the patient, and a step forward by the patient.
[0033] In Example 30, a system includes an implantable medical device, the implantable medical device including a control circuit, a motion sensing device, coupled to the control circuit, the motion sensing device configured to transmit a signal to the control circuit, and a telemetry circuit, coupled to the control circuit, and configured to transmit a signal to an external device. The external device is configured to identify one or more steps of a patient using the signal from the implantable medical device.
[0034] In Example 31, the system of Example 30 optionally includes the external device.
[0035] In Example 32, the motion sensing device of Examples 30-31 optionally includes an accelerometer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe substantially similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of substantially similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various examples discussed in the present document.
[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an implanted medical device in communication with an external device via a telemetry system.
[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a block diagram of an implantable medical device.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates an example output of an accelerometer.
[0040] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flowchart of a process to identify steps of a patient using an implantable medical device.
[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates several measurements that can be calculated using patient step data.
[0042] FIG. 6 illustrates several methods to verify an actual patient step.
[0043] FIG. 7 illustrates several actions that can be taken using patient step data.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” The embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, logical and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0045] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B.” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. Furthermore, all publications, patents, and patent documents referred to in this document are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, as though individually incorporated by reference. In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and those documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated reference(s) should be considered supplementary to that of this document; for irreconcilable inconsistencies, the usage in this document controls.
[0046] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a medical device system 100 , and portions of an environment in which it is used. The environment includes a body 102 with a heart 105 . System 100 includes an implantable medical device 110 , a lead system 108 , a first adjunct device or external system 170 , a second adjunct device or external system 180 , and a wireless telemetry link 160 . The first external system 170 can be referred to as a local external system, and the second external system 180 can be referred to as a remote external system. Heart rate data, pacing data, EGM data, motion sensing device data (e.g., accelerometer data), and other data can be transferred from the device 110 to the external system 170 via the telemetry link 160 . The telemetered data loaded into the device 170 can then be used for analysis and interpretation either immediately or at a later time.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the implantable medical device 110 of FIG. 1 . The device 110 includes a control circuit 210 and an accelerometer 220 . While FIG. 2 illustrates an example device 110 as including an accelerometer, other motion sensing devices such as a mercury switch could also be used. In systems in which an accelerometer is present, the accelerometer could be a 1-axis, 2-axis, or 3-axis accelerometer. For ease of explanation, examples of the device 110 described herein will be described as having an accelerometer.
[0048] In an example, an anti-aliasing or other filter 230 is located between the control circuit 210 and the accelerometer 220 . An amplifier could also be placed between the control circuit 210 and the accelerometer 220 . A telemetry circuit 240 , a memory circuit 250 , an electrical stimulation circuit 260 , a drug titration circuit 270 , or an alert circuit 280 can be connected to the control circuit 210 .
[0049] The memory circuit 250 can be configured to store data about the one or more steps of a patient. The data can include an accelerometer trace as illustrated in FIG. 3 . The accelerometer trace 300 includes information such as the amplitude of a peak associated with a step (such an amplitude is normally less for a step up than a normal step or a step down), an interval between steps, and a duration of a step.
[0050] In an example system, the implantable medical device 110 can be a cardiac rhythm management device. In another example system, the telemetry circuit 240 can be configured to communicate with the external system 170 . The external system 170 can be a local external system. The local external system can be attachable to a patient's body, or it can be a system that is separate from a patient's body. The external device can also be a remote external device, such as a device to which a patient's physician can have access. In a system with a remote external device, a local external device is configured to communicate with the remote external device.
[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates an example trace 300 of an implantable accelerometer output generated by a patient walking on a treadmill at a speed of approximately 2 mph. The trace 300 includes several peaks (valleys) or depressions 310 that are caused by the patient's foot coming in contact with the treadmill surface during the test. These depressions 310 can be referred to as footfalls, and the control circuit can be configured to identify the depressions 310 , and consequently identify each step that a patient takes. This identification of the depressions 310 can be a function of amplitude, morphology, or a combination of amplitude and morphology. This analysis of the depressions 310 can be performed in the control circuit 210 , the external device 170 , or the external device 180 .
[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flowchart of a process 400 to identify steps of a patient using an implantable medical device such as the implantable medical device 110 of FIG. 2 . The operations illustrated in FIG. 4 need not all be executed in each example implantable medical device system, and the operations need not be executed in the order as illustrated in FIG. 4 . At 405 , data is received from an implantable motion sensing device, such as an implantable accelerometer. At 410 , candidate patient steps are identified. At 415 , the identified candidate steps are confirmed as actual patient steps. At 420 , a step is classified. For example, a step can be classified as a step up, a step down, or a step forward.
[0053] The data about the one or more steps taken by the patient are used to calculate several measures associated with the patient. FIG. 5 illustrates that these measures can include a number of steps taken by the patient during a particular time period ( 505 ), a total number of steps taken by the patient without regard to a time period ( 510 ), a classification of the patient based on the number of steps taken by the patient ( 515 ), a caloric expenditure of the patient ( 520 ), a stride pattern of the patient ( 525 ), a measure of activity of the patient ( 530 ), a velocity of the patient ( 540 ), a length of a time interval between episodes of walking by the patient ( 545 ), a time duration of an episode of walking by the patient ( 550 ), a distance covered by the patient ( 560 ), a measure of sustained steps during a period of time ( 565 ), and a gait of the patient ( 570 ). At 575 , a three-axis accelerometer 220 in an implantable medical device 110 can identify a step up by the patient, a step down by the patient, and a step forward by the patient. Such data can be used by a physician to monitor patient compliance, general health status of a patient, or the progression or regression of a diseased patient.
[0054] As indicated above, a patient can be classified into a group based on the number of steps that that patient takes during a day. In an example, the group includes a physical activity category. One such classification system has been developed by the New York Heart Association (NYHA). A similar system could be developed based on the number of steps that a patient takes in a day. For example, a patient who takes more than 10,000 steps per day could be identified as a class I patient. A class I patient may not be limited in any activities, and may suffer no symptoms from ordinary activities. A patient who takes between 5,000 and 7,000 steps per day could be identified as a class II patient. A class II patient may be mildly limited in activities, and may be comfortable with rest or mild exertion. A patient who takes between 3,000 and 5,000 steps per day could be identified as a class III patient. A class III patient may experience a marked limitation of activity, and a class III patient may only be comfortable when at rest. A patient who takes less than 1,000 steps per day could be identified as a class IV patient. A class IV patient should be at complete rest in a bed or a chair. Any physical activity may bring on discomfort for a class IV patient, and symptoms may occur in a class IV patient at rest.
[0055] The caloric expenditure can be calculated by first using the number of steps taken by a patient to determine the distance traveled by the patient, and then using the weight of the patient, calculating the caloric expenditure of the patient by one of several methods known in the art. In an example system, a change in the gait or stride pattern of a patient can be noted by saving data relating to the stride or gait of a patient in the memory circuit 250 , such as the average time between footfalls, and thereafter comparing current stride and gait data with the patient's historical data. In another example system, the length of the patient's stride can be calculated and recalculated based on the time between footfalls.
[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates that the control circuit 210 , the external system 170 , or the external system 180 can execute one or more of several procedures that help assure that only steps of a patient are identified (and not some other activity, disturbance, or noise), and that a step is counted only once. In one example, at 610 , a step is identified as a step when the control circuit 210 , the external system 170 , or the external system 180 identifies three or more consecutive steps. This can be accomplished by identifying three consecutive depressions 310 in FIG. 3 within a time frame wherein a patient would take three consecutive steps. If three depressions 310 are not identified in that time frame, then data in that time frame is not identified as a step. In another example, at 620 , the control circuit 210 , the external system 170 , or the external system 180 identifies a step by identifying a first step that is followed by a second step within a particular period of time. The period of time can be set on a patient by patient basis by testing the patient and determining the average time between footfalls of the patient during normal walking of the patient.
[0057] In another example system, at 630 , the control circuit 210 , the external system 170 , or the external system 180 identifies a first step (via the detection of a depression 310 (i.e., a footfall)), starts a timer, and then inhibits the identification of a second step until after expiration of the timer. The timer can be a dynamic timer, such that as the pace of a patient's walking increases, the timer window is shortened to compensate for the increased walking pace. The use of a timer in this manner prevents counting a single step as more than one step, or interpreting noise in the system as a step.
[0058] FIG. 7 illustrates several functions that an implantable medical device can implement using patient step data. At 710 , a disease progression of a patient can be monitored using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient. For example, if the number of steps taken by a patient per day decreases over a period of time, that can be indicative of a worsening of the patient's condition. In connection with the worsening of the patient's condition, it can also be noted whether a patient has moved from one physical activity category to another physical activity category.
[0059] At 720 , the alert circuit 280 , the external system 170 , or the external system 180 can generate an alert using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient. This alert can be for the benefit of the patient to inform that patient that he is either hyperactive for his particular condition, hypoactive for his particular condition, or as an indication that his condition is worsening. The alert can also be for the benefit of the patient's physician, and can serve as general information regarding how the patient is progressing or digressing, or can indicate a more dire situation such a substantial decrease in the patient's number of steps taken over a time period indicating a worsening of the patient's condition. At 730 , a physician or other health care provider can use the patient step data to evaluate patient compliance. For example, if a patient has been instructed to exercise by walking a certain distance per day, or the patient has been instructed to rest and recover, the patient's compliance with those instructions can be determined at the external system 170 or the external system 180 using the patient step data.
[0060] At 740 , the control circuit 210 alters an operation of the implantable medical device 110 using the data about the one or more steps taken by the patient. For example, if the implantable medical device 110 is a cardiac rhythm management device having an electrical stimulation circuit 260 , the control circuit 210 could alter an AV delay, a current pacing rate, a baseline pacing rate, an upper limit of the pacing rate (by lowering it or raising it in response to the patient step data), or an acceleration of the current pacing rate. As another example, at 750 , if the implantable medical device 110 includes a drug delivery circuit 270 , an operation of the drug delivery circuit could be altered by the control circuit 210 using the patient step data. If the drug delivery circuit 270 delivers insulin to the patient, the rate or level of insulin delivery can be modified based using the patient step data. For example, if a patient is taking more steps over a particular period of time than is normal for that patient, the drug delivery circuit 270 can increase the rate or level of insulin delivery in response to the increase in steps taken by the patient.
[0061] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (or one or more aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.
[0062] The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), which requires that it allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.
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This document discusses, among other things, a system including an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device includes a control circuit and a motion sensing device. The motion sensing device is coupled to the control circuit, and the motion sensing device is configured to transmit signals to the control circuit. The control circuit is configured to identify one or more steps of a patient using the motion sensing device signal.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A mule is a type of shoe that typically has a closed toe and is backless or has no strap around the heel. These types of shoes are designed for a foot to easily slide into or out of the shoe. Such shoes are desirable because the slip-on style is convenient as it takes a short time to put the shoes on with no buckles or shoelaces to tie, and mules can be worn with any style of dress from casual to formal.
Mule-type shoes, however, are not typically worn for activities, such as sports, that involve running, jumping, climbing and quick starting and stopping motions. One reason is that mule-type shoes are not convenient or useful for such activities because the shoes can easily fall off of a person's foot or feet during these activities. Thus, most athletic shoes used for sports, running and other similar activities have a closed heel to securely hold the shoes on a person's feet. Many people that wear mule-type shoes, therefore, typically have to carry a pair of closed heel shoes with them to change into if they are going to be doing athletic activities such as sports. Needing an extra pair of shoes for such activities can be burdensome and inconvenient, as well as expensive.
Additionally, many people manually convert regular closed heel shoes into mule-type shoes by forcibly smashing the heel downward against the footbed with their feet. In particular, children will forcibly bend the heel down so that they can easily slip their closed heel shoes on and off their feet without having to spend time tying their shoelaces or securing straps. Forcibly bending the heels down on shoes that are not constructed to be bent down causes the material forming the heels to deteriorate and lose support, ultimately destroying the shoes.
BRIEF SUMMARY
An article of footwear is provided that has a foldable heel portion with a cushioning heel pad that provides comfort and support to a user's heel when the heel portion is moved downward against a footbed to convert the article of footwear to a mule.
In an embodiment, an article of footwear is provided that includes an outsole, an upper attached to the outsole and a heel portion attached to the outsole and movably connected to the upper. The heel portion is movable between a support position, where the heel portion is substantially transverse to the outsole, and a mule position, where the heel portion is substantially parallel to the outsole. A cushioning heel pad is attached to an outer surface of the heel portion, where the heel pad has a designated thickness and contacts and supports a user's heel when the heel portion is in the mule position.
In another embodiment, an article of footwear is provided that includes an outsole, a footbed placed on an upper surface of the outsole and an upper attached to the outsole and enclosing the footbed. The upper defines a foot entry opening and includes a heel portion that is movable between a support position, where the heel portion is substantially transverse to the footbed and supports a back portion of a user's heel, and a mule position, where the heel portion is substantially parallel to the footbed. A pillow-shaped heel pad is attached to an outer surface of the heel portion, where a user's heel contacts and is supported by the heel pad when the user's foot presses against the outer surface of the heel portion and moves the heel portion to the mule position.
DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of the present article of footwear having a foldable heel with the heel portion in the support position.
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 with the heel portion in the mule position.
FIG. 3 is a top view of the article of footwear shown in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-section view of the heel portion taken substantially along line 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 .
FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 where a user's foot is inserted into the article of footwear with the heel portion in the support position.
FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 where a user's foot is inserted into the article of footwear with the heel portion in the mule position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to FIGS. 1-6 , the present article of footwear includes a foldable heel portion having a cushioning heel pad that provides support and comfort to a user's heel when the heel portion is folded downward to form a mule-type shoe.
The article of footwear or shoe generally designated 10 , includes an upper 12 connected to an outsole 14 . As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the upper 12 includes a front end 16 and a rear end 18 that are connected by opposing sides 20 . The sides 20 extend to the rear end or heel portion 18 and are joined together by stitching or any suitable connector or connection method. The front end 16 of the upper 12 is generally made of a non-stretchable material portion 21 that extends from a toe portion 22 and along the sides 20 of the upper. The non-stretchable material portion 21 is preferably a polyester air mesh or sandwich mesh material but may be any suitable material or combination of materials.
The upper 12 also includes a flex portion 24 that is made of a stretchable material extending down a center area of a top surface of the upper and along the sides 20 to the rear end or heel portion 18 . The flex portion 24 is connected to the non-stretchable material portion 21 of the upper by cross-stitching. It should be appreciated that other types of stitching and other suitable connection methods may be used to connect the flex portion to the non-stretchable material portion. The stretchable material of the flex portion 24 is preferably a laminated stretchable mesh material such as a Lycra® material but may be any suitable material or combination of materials.
The toe portion 22 of the upper 12 includes a toe cap 26 made of a suitable durable material such as rubber. Two quarter pieces 28 extend from the toe cap 26 and along the sides 20 of the upper 12 . Each quarter piece 28 includes a generally triangular member 30 having a front edge 32 and a rear edge 34 where the rear edge slants at a designated rearward angle downwardly to the outsole 14 . As shown in FIG. 1 , the quarter pieces 28 are made of a combination of a relatively rigid mesh material and a durable material such as rubber, a PU coated synthetic leather or leather. Each quarter piece 28 is attached to the upper 12 by stitching or other suitable connectors or connection methods. At least two eyelets 36 are attached to the triangular portions 30 and are used to secure one or more shoelaces 38 to the shoe. The eyelets 36 are preferably made of a metal such as stainless steel but may be made out of any suitable material. Each eyelet 36 defines an opening 40 for receiving and securing the shoelaces 38 to the upper 12 .
Each side 20 of the front end 16 of the upper 12 includes overlapping shoelace straps 42 where ends 44 of the straps are secured to the upper 12 by stitching and form a loop 46 at an inner end. To help secure the shoelaces 38 to the shoe 10 , a front shoelace guide 48 is attached to a front end 50 of the flex portion 24 and a rear shoelace guide 52 is attached to a rear or opposing end 54 of the flex portion. The rear shoelace guide 52 has a U-shape and is connected at spaced ends 56 to the flex portion 24 by stitching. The opposing end or U-shaped portion 58 of the rear shoelace guide 52 is not fixedly attached to the upper 12 so that the opposing end 58 can be lifted upwardly away from the flex portion 24 to allow the shoelace or shoelaces 38 to be inserted through an opening 60 defined by the rear shoelace guide 52 . The U-shaped portion 58 of the rear shoelace guide 52 includes a loop and hook-type connector 60 such as Velcro® that secures the U-shaped portion 58 to the flex portion 24 . One or more shoelaces 38 are inserted through the front shoelace guide 48 , each of the loops 46 formed by the shoelace straps 42 , the eyelets 36 on the quarter pieces 28 and the opening 62 of the rear shoelace guide 52 in a criss-cross pattern. The shoelaces 38 are tightened by simply pulling on the ends of the shoelaces and then locking the shoelaces in position using a tightener 64 . The tightener 64 includes a release button 66 which enables a user to move the tightener upwardly and downwardly along the shoelaces to respectively tighten and loosen the shoelaces 38 relative to the upper 12 .
A lower portion 68 of each quarter piece 28 extends from a bottom end 70 of one of the quarter pieces around the heel portion 18 to the bottom end 70 of the opposing quarter piece as shown in FIG. 1 . The stretchable material of the flex portion 24 that extends along the sides 20 of the shoe also extends around the periphery of the heel portion 18 . Next to the flex portion 24 is a non-stretchable material section 72 that extends from generally the middle of the heel portion 18 to a foot entry opening 74 . Cross-stitching or other suitable stitching is used to connect the stretchable and non-stretchable materials together at the heel portion 18 .
Referring now to FIGS. 1-4 , a cushioning heel pad 76 is attached to the heel portion 18 by stitching and extends from a point below the foot entry opening 74 to the quarter piece 28 . The cushioning heel pad 76 has a pillow shape with a designated thickness for providing support and comfort to a user's foot as described below. Preferably, the designated thickness of the heel pad 76 is greater than a thickness of the heel portion 18 as best shown in FIG. 4 . It is contemplated that the heel pad 76 may have any suitable thickness for cushioning and supporting a user's heel. The cushioning heel pad 76 may be molded or formed from a single material such as a cold press, compression molded Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), and have a designated thickness or be formed from a combination of materials where at least one of the materials is a cushion-type material such as a foam, EVA or rubber. The heel pad 76 is stitched to the heel portion 18 and helps to hold the abutting ends of the upper 12 together. In the illustrated embodiment, the heel pad 76 extends from a point below the foot entry opening 74 to the quarter piece 28 . In another embodiment, the heel pad 76 extends from the foot entry opening 74 to the outsole 14 .
A liner 78 made of a flexible or stretchable material is stitched on an inner surface 80 of the upper 12 and extends from the foot entry opening 74 to a strobel 82 connected by stitching to the outsole. The liner 78 is preferably made of a generally stretchable material such as a thin neoprene foam but may be any suitable material. The shoe 10 also includes a removable footbed 84 that is positioned on top of the strobel 82 and has a size and shape conforming to a size and shape of the internal portion of the shoe.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the positioning of the non-stretchable material portion 21 next to or adjacent to the flex portion 24 on each side of the heel portion 18 forms flexible areas, flexible lines or bending zones 86 that enable the heel portion 18 to be folded inwardly toward the footbed 84 . Specifically, when the heel portion 18 is folded inwardly, the opposing sides of the heel portion fold along the respective flexible area or bending zone 86 between the non-stretchable portion 21 and flexible portion 24 . Thus, the heel portion 18 can be folded inwardly and downwardly onto the footbed 84 as best shown in FIG. 3 to form a mule shoe. In this position, the cushioning heel pad 76 on the outer surface of the heel portion 18 now forms part of the footbed 84 such that when a user's foot is inserted into the foot entry opening 74 , it contacts and rests on top of the heel pad.
As stated above, the cushioning heel pad 76 is formed or molded to have a designated thickness to act as a cushion for providing enhanced comfort and support for a user's heel when they are wearing the present shoe as a mule. It is contemplated that the size and shape of the cushioning heel pad 76 may be changed to accommodate different sizes of feet and to provide more comfort and support to a user's heel such as to the rear and sides of the heel. The heel pad 76 may also extend from the foot entry opening 74 down to the quarter piece 28 or be any other suitable size to adjust the cushioning and support provided by the heel pad.
To raise and move the heel portion 18 from the mule position ( FIG. 2 ) to the upright or support position ( FIG. 1 ), a user grabs a loop 88 attached to the heel portion 18 and pulls upwardly and rearwardly on the loop. This pulling motion causes the heel portion 18 to move upwardly and outwardly away from the footbed 84 and back to the support position.
As described in the above embodiments, the cushioning heel pad 76 of the present shoe 10 provides a significant amount of cushioning, comfort and support for a user's heel when a user is wearing the shoe as a mule. It should be appreciated that the present shoe 10 may include one or more cushioning heel pads 76 . It should also be appreciated that the heel pad 76 may be any suitable size or shape and can be made with any suitable thickness to enhance the cushioning, comfort and support provided by the heel pad on a user's foot.
While a particular embodiment of the present article of footwear has been described herein, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the invention in its broader aspects.
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An article of footwear including an outsole, an upper attached to the outsole and a heel portion attached to the outsole and movably connected to the upper. The heel portion is movable between a support position, where the heel portion is substantially transverse to the outsole, and a mule position, where the heel portion is substantially parallel to the outsole. A cushioning heel pad is attached to an outer surface of the heel portion, where the heel pad has a designated thickness and contacts and supports a user's heel when the heel portion is in the mule position.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
In manufacturing velour-like textiles, the process of severing pile loops in pile forming machines is of considerable economical and ecological importance, inasmuch as the subsequent shearing of loops necessarily results in considerable loss of pile material. Such losses can be avoided by producing cut pile textiles.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the past, a plurality of methods for manufacturing cut pile textiles have been developed. Regardless of the type of materials being used to make the product, however, only those methods which severed pile loops by two cutting edges, cooperating in a scissor-like manner, were successful under practical conditions.
Early proposals of this type of mechanism for manufacturing cut pile fabrics on loopwheel machines are described in DE-A-73 161, DE-A-77 975 and DE-A79 328 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 2,579,621). A cutting element is associated with each pile element or sinker. The cutting element is mounted together with or separately from the pile element and is actuated relatively thereto for severing pile loops. The cutting edge of the cutting element is disposed at an angle, usually called an opening angle, with the cutting edge of the pile element, such that both edges are disposed in a V-like configuration prior to the cutting movement which brings them together like a pair of scissors.
This basic concept was subsequently transferred to manufacturing carpets in tufting machines, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,335,487, and to the manufacturing cut pile fabrics on circular knitting machines, for example, according to DE-A2-11 53 452 and DE-A2-15 85 051.
Particularly in the case of a laterally adjacent arrangement of pile elements and cutting elements, the cutting movement has been performed with an inadequate side pressure between the cutting edges. Therefore, it is easily possible for the cutting edges of the cutting and pile elements to be deflected by the unsevered pile loops encircling the pile elements. This may happen particularly if the pile loops are tightly enclosed around the pile elements and if the pile yarn is, furthermore, a material having high tenacity and/or abrasion resistance.
In order to obtain increased contact pressure between the cutting elements and the pile elements, and to permit the possibility of setting such contact pressure in accordance with the pile yarn material, the cutting elements on tufting machines were mounted separately from the pile elements and, starting out on the side of the active flank of the pile element, i.e. the flank comprising the cutting edge, were arranged to resiliently contact the latter at a relative inclination or pressurized contact angle.
Since the nibs of the cutting elements contact the pile elements as a result of the inclined arrangement of the cutting elements, a risk is created of obstructing contact between the cutting edges of the cutting elements and the cooperating cutting edges of the pile elements, and the flanks of the cutting elements are also arranged to be inclined with respect to the pile elements. Therefore, prior to the cutting movement, the cutting edges of pile elements and cutting elements have a corresponding overlapping configuration, referenced as a cutting angle, and the elements have only one point of contact. This point of contact shifts during the cutting movement from the lower ends of the cutting edges across their entire length to their upper ends and in the process deflects the overlapping part of the cutting elements from the pile elements. The gap created thereby is to prevent pinching of severed pile loops and deflection of the cutting edges being separated.
Therefore, this cutting angle between the two elements is of particular importance. The cutting angle must be dimensioned to sufficiently separate the elements after the cutting point and to also avoid pinching of pile loops. In tufting machines, the cutting movement is performed by a relative movement of the mounting bar of the cutting elements in parallel with the flanks of the pile elements. A constant contact pressure between the elements is ensured exclusively by an adequate cutting angle in combination with a shallow angle under which the cutting element is pressed against the pile element during the cutting motion.
These same conditions, in combination with a restricted opening between the respective cutting edges, ensured that the flanks of the cutting elements projecting between the pile elements cannot contact the pile elements with their front ends and cause a reduced contact pressure between the cutting edges or even their separation, respectively. As an increased cutting angle will, however, also intensify wear of the cutting edges, and must therefore be avoided, the requirements to the dimensions of cutting, opening and pressurized contact angles are in direct contradiction.
Due to the contact angle of the cutting element to the pile element, the required contact pressure for severing the pile loops is obtained, whereby the cutting elements are flexibly bent. Therefore, the pressurized contact angle is smaller in the area of the cutting edges than in the mounting area as a function of the material thickness.
The thickness of the cutting elements is determined by the gauge and by the thickness of the pile elements. The pile elements must be of a sufficient size that the cutting angle cannot be reduced or neutralized by a deflection of the pile elements as a result of pressurized contact with the cutting elements. The maximum thickness of the cutting elements is, therefore, determined by the gauge and the thickness of the pile elements under consideration of the pressurized contact angle and the cutting angle. To obtain cutting elements having sufficient strength on finer gauge tufting machines, the inactive flanks of the pile elements opposite the cutting edges are partially bevelled to obtain the required space in between the pile elements. Adequate strength of the cutting elements is necessary to avoid torsional forces in the transverse axis of the cutting elements whereby also the cutting angle of the cutting edges may be reduced or neutralized, respectively, and the cutting elements would contact the pile elements with their front ends.
Under the above described conditions it is obvious that owing to adequate contact and cutting angles a reduction of the space in between the pile elements is limited and tufting machines with a gauge of less than 1/10 in. are regarded as a fine gauge machine.
The above described conditions for severing pile loops were applied to a circular knitting machine for manufacturing cut pile fabric according to the proposal of EP-A2-0 082 538 (corresponding to U.S. Pat. No. 4,592,212) keeping in mind consideration of the requirements for a correct fabric construction. In order to permit sufficient dimensions of the pile and cutting elements in view of the reduced space between pile and cutting elements required for the respective usual gauges of 18 or 20 needles per inch, it was necessary to reduce the angles required for the severing operation, especially the pressure contact angle. This was realized by a reduced distance between the cutting edges and the mounting of the cutting elements in the sinker ring.
Owing to the fact that the cutting elements in circular knitting machines are moved in their fixed mounting during the cutting movement, an increased contact pressure resulted even under a smaller pressure contact angle. This increased the possibility of the pile element being deflected in a lateral direction, or the cutting edge of the cutting element being twisted, both of which can cause the above described negative consequences in severing pile loops.
As can be gathered from the foregoing description of the presently applied methods for severing pile loops in pile forming textile machines, satisfactory severing of the pile loops along with a fairly suitable service life for the cutting edges will result only from an extremely precise harmonization of the dimensions of pile and cutting elements and of the contact, opening and cutting angles of these parts. A particular disadvantage resides in the limitation of the range of gauges.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
With the foregoing in mind, it is the object of this invention to reduce wear of the cutting edges by reducing their cutting angle and yet create a maximum spacing or gap by separating the cutting element from the pile element subsequent to the point of severing to thereby avoid pinching pile loops while at the same time realizing finer machine gauges.
These objects are attained, according to the present invention, in that the cutting elements are arranged to extend from a mounting point located on the side of the inactive flanks of the pile elements, i.e. the side opposite the cutting edge thereof, toward and into contact with the active flanks of the pile elements, i.e. the side flank having the cutting edge.
By this surprisingly simple measure all the disadvantages and restrictions of the described anterior proposals are eliminated entirely or at least to a large extent.
Due to the proposed disposition of the cutting elements relative to the pile elements, the angle of pressurized contact between the elements is increased relative to the inclined disposition of the cutting elements in their mounting (sinker-ring) so that subsequent to or beyond the point of severing both elements are separated from each other, thereby preventing a planar contact between their respective facing flanks. In contrast to previous proposals, this mounting and operating arrangement makes it possible to increase the opening angle of the cutting edges and to reduce the contact force.
Despite a substantial reduction of the cutting angle it is also ensured that both elements contact each other in one point only, resulting in a substantially prolonged useful life of the cutting edges and increasing the intervals between replacement. Likewise, shut down periods and related costs are reduced. In addition, the pile and cutting elements may be produced by simpler methods from more economic materials and, therefore, at reduced costs.
The novel disposition of the pile and cutting elements relative to each other requires less space thereby enabling construction of very fine gauge machines with small distances between pile elements and cutting elements. As the reduced cutting angle need not be compensated by increased contact pressure, especially the cutting elements can be dimensioned with a view to better stability. Also the lateral pressure applied by the cutting elements to the pile elements is reduced, and more uniform contact pressure is obtained during the severing action so that undesirable lateral movement or twisting of the elements are greatly lessened or prevented.
The technical progress realized by this invention makes it possible to adopt the pile forming and cutting device into the manufacturing process of velour-like fabrics performed by a variety of methods.
Hereinafter this will be described and demonstrated by reduced and simplified drawings of various embodiments.
Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following description in the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of the specification, and wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a partial side elevational view of the arrangement of pile elements and cutting elements in a circular knitting machine for manufacturing cut pile fabrics;
FIG. 2 is a sectional view along line A-B in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a sectional view along line C-D in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a partial side elevational view of the pile and cutting elements of a circular knitting machine in accordance with another embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a sectional view along line E-F in FIG. 4;
FIGS. 6 and 7 are partial side elevational views of different designs of pile elements and cutting elements on tufting machines;
FIG. 8 is a partial side elevational view of an arrangement of pile and cutting elements in a pile forming warp-knitting or raschel machine in a lateral view;
FIGS. 9 and 10 are partial side elevational views of an arrangement of pile and cutting elements for manufacturing a velour-like surface from a fiber fleece;
FIG. 10a is an enlarged detail view from FIG. 10; and
FIG. 11 is a partial side elevational view of an arrangement of pile elements and cutting elements in a needle-felt machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Since the manufacture of textiles in accordance with the various methods is known from numerous publications as well as from manuals for the respective machines, the following description is particularly directed to the task of severing pile loops developed from yarns or fibers.
The invention is generally implemented on machines on which yarns or fibers are drawn out to form pile loops. This is performed by the pile forming surfaces at the free ends of the pile elements. In the longitudinal continuation of their pile forming ledges, the pile elements include cutting edges forming a V-shaped mouth with the cutting edges of separate cutting elements prior to any scissor-like cutting movement that will sever the held or retained pile loops.
A corresponding arrangement of pile elements and cutting elements on circular knitting machines is shown in the two embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5. These are based on a circular knitting machine referred to in EP-A2-0 082 538 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,592,212, respectively, that are hereby incorporated by reference.
Manufacturing pile fabrics by needles N mounted in a dial R and pile elements 1 mounted in the cylinder Z is furthermore known from a multitude of publications. Conventionally, pile yarns are drawn out into pile loops H1 (FIG. 1) over pile forming ledges 1a during the knitting step and remain on the pile elements during the subsequent knitting steps while sliding downwardly on the stems of the pile elements, as a result of the take-down action, to the cutting zone constituted by the pile elements 1 and the cutting elements 2.
Cutting zones are formed on the pile elements 1 as a continuation of the pile forming ledges 1a, by grinding the lateral cutting flanks of these pile elements at an angle γ1 to form cooperating cutting edges 1c (FIG. 2). Sharp cutting edges 2c are correspondingly ground at angle γ2 on the cutting elements 2, specifically on their cutting flanks, so that cutting edges 2c will contact the pile elements 1 and cutting edges 1c. Due to an oblique positioning of the cutting edges 2c relative to the substantially vertical cooperating cutting edges 1c of the pile elements 1, the facing cutting edges 1c and 2c form a vertical V-like mouth or an angled upwardly directed angle opening as shown in FIG. 1 (opening angle).
For severing pile loops, the cutting elements 2 are shifted toward pile elements 1 thereby closing the V-like opening between cutting edges 1c and 2c. By disposing the cutting elements 2 at a distance x underneath the needles N (FIG. 1), it is ensured that at least the pile loops H1 of the last course knitted will not be severed by movement of cutting element 2 since they are still too high on pile element 1. Subsequently, the cutting elements 2 are retracted so that uncut pile loops can slide down pile element 1 into the V-like space between the cutting edges by knitting succeeding courses. The control mechanism for the cutting elements is described in EP-B 0 082 538, the disclosure of which is herewith fully incorporated by reference.
Sufficient lateral contact pressure between the cutting elements 2 and the pile elements 1, to assure severing of the pile loops, is preferably realized by separately mounting the cutting elements 2 and the pile elements 1 (FIGS. 1 and 2). In a circular knitting machine this is preferably effected by mounting in the cutting elements 2 in a sinker ring P which is rotatable in a lateral direction with respect to cylinder Z which supports the pile elements 1.
To generate the lateral contact pressure between the cutting elements 2 and the pile elements 1 according to the invention, the cutting elements 2 are mounted in a sinker ring P. The sinker ring P is itself adjustable in a lateral direction relative to the cylinder Z into a condition in which the flanks of the cutting elements 2, subsequent to contacting the cutting edges 1c of the pile elements 1, are moved at an angle α (FIG. 2) relative to the flanks of the pile elements 1 and elastically pressed thereagainst. This necessarily results in formation of a gap between the facing flanks of pile elements and cutting elements, respectively, subsequent to the point of severing, thus preventing pile loops from being pinched. A sufficient angle α of preferably between 2° and 8° ensures that this gap is also preserved if a pile element 1 insignificantly deflects to the side or if the flank of a cutting element 2 is insignificantly twisted. In any case, a planar contact between the respective flanks of the elements is thereby prevented and the effect of concave grinding in a pair of scissors is obtained.
In contrast with previous arrangements of cutting elements and pile elements, the gap formed between the flanks of the elements according to the invention following cutting, is obtained by the inclined disposition of the cutting elements 2 relative to the pile elements 1. The vertical inclination of the flanks of the cutting elements 2 at an angle β relative to the flanks of the pile elements 1 (cutting angle) according to FIG. 3 can be kept smaller than in the known approaches to the problem. This angle β is generated by the correspondingly oblique mounting of the possibly planar cutting elements 2 relative to each other, and/or by correspondingly overlapping disposition of the ranges of the cutting edges. This arrangement increases durability of the cutting edges and reduces stop times of the machines to replace blunted elements along with a reduced consumption of pile and cutting elements.
A further advantage of the arrangement or relative position of the cutting elements 2, according to the invention, resides in the fact that the laterally shifted disposition of the mounting of the cutting elements relative to the contact surface on the pile elements is smaller than in the known proposals so that the cutting angle α required at the point of contact between the elements is realized with a decreased angle in the mounting (sinker ring) or an equivalent solution.
As shown in FIG. 2, even in finer gauge machines, where there is a small distance between the pile elements 1, sufficiently sturdy cutting elements 2 can be arranged between the pile elements 1 while having the required pressurized contact angle α and cutting angle β. Even finer gauges may be obtained if that part of the cutting elements 2 which overlaps the pile elements is reduced in thickness and/or where the nib 2n of the cutting elements 2, or a corresponding limiting surface 1s on the pile element 1, comprises a bevel-edge.
Preferably, continuous contact exists between the cutting elements 2 with the pile elements 1 (other than during the severing action) through a nib 2n shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. If that part of the pile elements 1 below the cutting edge 1c nevertheless projects between the cutting elements 2, the relevant portions is, shown FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, must have a greater bevel than at the pressurized contact angle α. Therefore, the elements contact each other exclusively on the cutting edge 1c or in the continuation is thereof. Further, the vertical movement of the pile elements 1 on the cutting element 2 produces a self-sharpening effect on the cutting edge 1c.
FIGS. 4 and 5 demonstrate an arrangement of pile elements 11, that include pile forming ledges 11a and cooperating cutting edges 11c, and of cutting elements 12 that have cooperating cutting edges 12c. Continuous contact between the elements is ensured by the guide surface 11s of the pile element 11 which projects radially outwardly beyond the cutting edges 11c and has a bevel surface that is angled a correspondingly greater amount than the cutting angle α. Such a solution is largely reserved for machines having coarser gauges. For finer gauges, the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 3 is preferred to largely avoid the bevel-edging of pile elements.
The foregoing described arrangement of individually actuated pile and cutting elements on circular knitting machines according to the invention can also be applied to other textile machines for manufacturing cut pile fabrics.
FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the pile elements and cutting elements on a tufting machine for manufacturing velour fabrics. The elements are fixed in bars which are actuated in a well known manner. The needles S, which are arranged in one row or have a staggered arrangement in two rows, penetrate through a ground or backing fabric T to thereby form loops which are engaged by pile forming ledges 21a or 31a of the respective pile elements 21 and 31. By forming subsequent courses of pile loops, the previously formed pile loops slide along the stems of the pile elements, from left to right in FIGS. 6 and 7, toward a cutting zone. The cutting zone is formed between the cutting edges 21c and 22c of pile elements 21 and cutting elements 22, respectively, in FIG. 6,.or by cutting edges 31c of pile elements 31 and cutting edges 32c of respective cutting elements 32 in FIG. 7.
FIG. 6 demonstrates the traditional shape of pile elements 21 and cutting elements 22. To ensure the required inclined disposition of the cutting elements with respect to the pile elements 21, a bevel-edged contacting face 21s is necessary according to the above description of FIGS. 4 and 5.
As shown in FIG. 7, the cooperating cutting edge 31c, or its continuation on the pile element 31, extends across the cutting element 32. Owing to the corresponding shape of cutting element 32, continuous contact with the pile element 31 is realized by at least one nib 32n (shown in dashed lines in the down or retracted condition of cutting element 32). To prevent damage to the ground fabric T by the upward cutting movement of the cutting element 32, a corresponding upwardly angled diversion is provided in the path followed by the ground fabric. In accordance with the description of FIGS. 1 to 3, finer gauges of tufting machines may thereby be obtained.
This arrangement of pile elements and cutting elements for manufacturing cut-pile fabrics is also suitable for other textile machines.
For example in FIG. 8 a possibility of manufacturing a cut-pile fabric on a warp-knitting machine or on a raschel machine is illustrated. The production of uncut loop fabrics on such machines is known. In contrast with the previous methods for knitting a cut-pile fabric, the bar 48 for the pile elements 41 has to be moved and controlled independently of the guide bars L1 to L4. The pile elements 41 may be arranged between the needles N1 either permanently, or only temporarily when the stitching process with the simultaneous forming of pile loops is performed. Furthermore, a lateral shifting of the pile elements 41 together with their bar 48, the cutting elements 42 and their bearing in the bar 46 may be provided.
The pile yarns of at least one of the shown guide bars L1 to L4, with the number of guide bars depending upon the machine layout, are engaged by the pile elements 41 and drawn out over the elements into pile loops. As knitting continues, the pile loops will continue to slide along the pile elements 41 toward and into a cutting, zone of pile cutting edges 41c. For severing such pile loops, cutting elements 42 are actuated towards the pile elements 41. This movement of the cutting edges 42c toward pile cutting edges 41c closes the space that existed therebetween. Due to the inclined arrangement of the cutting elements 42 with respect to the pile elements 41, as described for the previous embodiments, the pile loops that have slipped between the cutting edges 41c and 42c are severed. The actuation of cutting elements 42 to the pile elements 41 is performed, in analogy with the art known from tufting machines, to realize a continuous contact of the elements at least by a nib 42n.
As is also known, additional weft yarns may be inserted into the ground fabric.
An alternative is the incorporation of a fibre fleece into the ground fabric simultaneously with the knitting action. This would remove the necessity of subsequently laminating a pile fabric with a fleece material.
When consolidating a fiber fleece into the ground fabric on a raschel or stitch-bonding machine, it is also possible to produce pile loops, at least from a part of fibers of the fleece, by lapping such fibers round a pile element and to sever these pile loops by means of a cutting element. A respective proposal is illustrated in FIG. 9. Pile elements 51 and cutting elements 52 are mounted in bars 58 and 56, respectively, and are actuated as described for the above described embodiment.
A loose fleece F of staple fibers is supplied in the known manner for example from feeding sinkers 55 into the range of needles N2 which penetrate through the fleece F in their rising movement. Simultaneously, the pile elements 51 penetrate into the loose fleece F. After the binding yarns supplied by at least one guide bar L1-L4 have been lapped into the needle hooks, the needles N2 are retracted into the knockover position. Previously, the sinker bar 57 and the pile bar 58 with the pile elements 51 will have been retracted, whereby the pile element hooks 51h draw pile fibers onto the pile elements 51. These loops are finally incorporated by the knitted binding yarns and slide along the pile elements 51 until they are severed by the cutting movement of the cutting elements 52 between the cooperating cutting edges 52c and 51c of the cutting and pile elements, respectively. In this case, a velour-like surface of severed pile fibers is obtained on the left-hand side, i.e. the side opposite the stitch side.
The velour-like surface of severed pile fibers can also be realized on the stitch side of the fabric; a respective embodiment is shown in FIG. 10.
As referred to above, a fiber fleece F is supplied into the machine and is penetrated by the pile elements 61 in a longitudinal direction. Between the pile elements 61 the needles N3 penetrate through the fleece F to engage the binding yarns from at least one guide bar L1 or L2, respectively, which consolidates the fleece. Simultaneously, lapping loops from pile fibers are formed over the pile elements 61 as shown in FIG. 10a. The transportation of the looped fabric is supported by the hooked shape 61h of the pile elements 61. The lapped fiber loops on the pile elements 61 then slide along the pile element into the cutting zone where the loops are severed by the cutting edges 62c of cutting elements 62 that cooperate with cutting edges 61c of the pile elements 61 in accordance with the inclined relative arrangement of the invention.
To avoid a longitudinal orientation of the velour-like surface of the fabric in the embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10, a reciprocating racking of the fleece may be carried out in conjunction with feeding of the fleece.
According to well-known methods of stitch-bonding (for example Mali fleece), it is not necessary to use binding yarns. By use of adequate needles and their actuation, the consolidation of a fleece is accomplished by knitting loops from a part of the fibers from the fleece. Simultaneously, the forming of pile loops from another part of the fibers, which are subsequently severed, can be accomplished under comparable conditions to the embodiments of FIGS. 9 or by an inclination of the cutting edges according to the invention.
The description of the foregoing embodiments also demonstrates that the consolidation of a fleece by forming pile loops simultaneously is not restricted to methods in which stitches are formed.
In FIG. 11 the consolidation of a fleece on a needle punch machine is shown in a simplified manner. The felting needles N4 are arranged in the movable bar 74 and penetrate the supplied fleece F, consolidating the fleece in cooperation with a perforated plate 73. The pile elements 71 are actuated at least into a part of the working area of the felt needles, picking up pile fibers to form pile loops thereof. In the further course of production, the pile loops are transported into the cutting zone and severed there by a corresponding cutting movement of the cutting edges 72c of the cutting elements 72 which, according to the invention, are positioned at an inclination relative to the cutting edges 71c of the pile elements 71.
The present embodiments illustrated and described herein exclusively demonstrate fundamental possibilities for manufacturing cut pile fabrics in accordance with different methods of producing textile fabrics. These methods are modifiable in accordance with the disposition of the elements forming or processing a ground fabric and pile loops. The invention preferably employs cutting elements 2, 12, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62 and 72 that are inclined relative to the pile elements 1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61 and 71 as illustrated and described according to FIGS. 1 and 3, thereby forcibly guiding the cutting elements away from the pile elements at an angle α subsequent to the point of contact of the cutting edges.
While the invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
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A pile forming textile machine (circular knit, tufting, raschel, stitch-bonding or needle punch machine) is equipped with a plurality of pile elements (1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71) drawing out pile loops from pile yarns or fibers incorporated into a ground fabric and controlling this pile loops to be severed from a cutting apparatus comprising a plurality of pile elements (2, 12, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62, 72) each cooperating with one (of the plurality) of said pile elements by reciprocating movement of said cutting elements transversally to and from said pile elements, each provided with a cutting edge (1c, 11c, 21c, 31c, 41c, 51c, 61c, 71c) cooperating with a cutting edge (2c, 12c, 22c, 32c, 42c, 52c, 62c, 72c) one each of said cutting elements which will contact one another in a point by a lateral (β) and a longitudinal (α) inclination, whereby the longitudinal inclination (α) of said cutting elements is obtained by a pressured arrangement of said cutting element by their location in their mounting on a side adjacent to the noncutting (inactive) flank of said cooperating pile element.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to recombinant proteins/peptides from plant and animal materials, compositions comprising the proteins/peptides and methods for making them.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Biopharmaceuticals are the fastest growing sector within the pharmaceutical industry, with a U.S. market value of $120 billion in 2009. These proteins/peptides are mainly produced using recombinant technology and established production platforms such as microbial, yeast, or mammalian cell cultures. The effectiveness of different platforms is judged primarily on protein yield, posttranslational modifications, ease of downstream purification and the capital requirements needed for commercialization. E. coli was the first large-scale protein production host and has several advantages such as cheap fermentation runs, short generation times and high titers of recombinant protein.
[0003] Mammalian cultures (CHO cells predominantly) were introduced to overcome some of the shortfalls of the microbial expression platforms such as the formation of inclusion bodies upon high titers, difficulty in purification due to endogenous endotoxin contaminants, and most importantly microbes' lack of eukaryotic posttranslational modifications (glycosylation, acylation, disulphide bridge formation etc.) which are often required for protein folding and function. CHO cells can produce recombinant proteins with glycoprofiles similar to those of native proteins. Innovations in target-gene insertion, culture media manipulation and apoptosis inhibition have improved titers to over 5 g/L.
[0004] Currently, CHO cells are the most utilized production platform despite their high infrastructure and process costs. The rapidly growing demand for biologics of all types has caused extreme shortages in manufacturing capacity. By creating a few successful biologics, the pharmaceutical industry has heightened the public need for a greater supply of additional useful protein drugs and protein agents. The high capital requirements related with the aforementioned platforms has restricted the supply of biopharmaceuticals, prompting other production strategies to be investigated for improved economics and improved capacity.
[0005] With the advent of plant transformation technology, plants and algae have proven to be feasible bioreactors for the large-scale production of recombinant proteins. The advantages arc in terms of production costs, scalability and product safety, case of storage and distribution, none of which can be matched by any current bacterial or mammalian production platform. Despite the compelling advantages, several molecular pharming initiatives have fallen short primarily due to the high costs associated with the downstream purification processes. These processes rely heavily on aqueous chromatographic technology, and can account for over 70% of the total operational costs. In addition to the operational costs, there are also issues with contamination, product degradation via proteases, and large amounts of waste produced as a byproduct of aqueous recombinant protein purification. For example, even when commercial protein is expressed in seed endosperm as a non-targeted foreign protein and left to its own devices, the protein-of-interest is often trapped in undesirable protein-protein interactions with host proteome components. See, e.g. Peters et al., Efficient recovery of recombinant proteins from cereal endosperm is affected by interaction with endogenous storage proteins, Biotechnology Journal 8, (10), 1203-1212, October 2013.
[0006] Therefore, a purification process that is cheap, clean and safe is needed to overcome the significant shortfalls found in conventional aqueous purification strategies. The invention described herein solves the limitations of current aqueous purification methods by first pinning or tethering the protein onto the surface of a cellular particle such as starch granule, a particle that is then isolated to a dry state followed by cleavage of the fusion protein employing an anhydrous method. The technology eliminates product loss due to proteolytic degradation; the dry environment prevents bacterial or pathogen contaminations, and drastically reduces the amount of environmentally harmful buffers and reagents typically used for aqueous recombinant protein purification. The novel functionalized particle bearing the protein of interest can be deployed directly or further cleaved to liberate the protein of interest, freed of its carrier domain and carrier particle.
[0007] Selective chemical cleavage has proven to be a useful way to identify proteins by observing their subsequent cleavage patterns. In 1953, there was a report of selective bond cleavages for peptides that contained serine, threonine, and glycine residues when exposed to hydrochloric acid at room temperature. The cleavages at the N-terminal of the serine and threonine followed a mechanism involving a N→O shift of hydroxyl groups. The first selective cleavage at aspartic residues was observed in 1950 when a protein was heated and incubated in a weak acid solution. This caused cleavage at aspartic and asparagine residues.
[0008] In 1993, a specific and very facile cleavable bond was observed in the gas phase. This bond was the Asp-Pro peptide bond, and is much more unstable than any other bond. The mechanism of cleavage between this peptide bond is facile due to the presence of a labile proton on the side chain of aspartic acid along with the basicity of the downstream proline. The labile proton found in the side chain of the aspartic acid is important for cleavage as its esterification inhibited cleavage. The Asp-Pro bond can be cleaved under conditions where all other peptide bonds are stable. Furthermore, the Asp-Pro pairing is amongst the rarest of all amino acid pairs found in nature. The distinct properties of the Asp-Pro bond and its rarity in peptides and proteins, makes it an ideal gas-phase cleavable linker.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0009] The invention described herein provides a method for the separation and purification of proteins/peptides from cellular material, whether the proteins/peptides are endogenous, exogenous or recombinant. The invention is based on gas-phase cleavage chemistry, allowing separation and purification of proteins/peptides anhydrously from dried cellular material derived from any living organism. Knowing that gas-phase cleavage has been used in solid-phase protein sequenators to preferentially liberate the N-terminal phenylthiohydantoin amino acid residue, we reasoned that gas-phase cleavage of protein/peptide bonds could be deployed to release proteins/peptides directly from dried biological material.
[0010] In various embodiments, the invention described provides a method or process for the separation and purification of recombinant proteins/peptides from cellular material, based on the utilization of cleavable gas-phase peptide linker sequences. Fusion proteins present in dried biological material containing said gas-phase linkers can be separated and purified from dry biological material using gas-phase chemistry.
[0011] In some specific embodiments, the gas-phase linker sequence is located in the fusion protein/peptide where cleavage of said linker releases the recombinant protein of interest in to the air-flow from its fusion partner. This recombinant protein is collected in high purity by passing the air-flow through a collection chamber or protein/peptide trap. The invention represents an economic and scalable way of recombinant protein separation and purification, as well as an anhydrous protein/peptide screening method that can be used to separate, isolate and identify proteins/peptides without requiring aqueous buffers or reagents.
[0012] In various embodiments, the invention provides a scalable, cost effective anhydrous strategy for the purification of recombinant proteins from any transformed biological material. Traditional protein purification strategies from biological feedstock usually include a means of grinding, breaking, pulverizing or disrupting the cells of the production organism, and use of an aqueous, buffered extraction medium. The biological extracts are then separated into fractions (for example by centrifugation or sedimentation) and the recombinant protein is further purified using several steps of chromatography. In one specific embodiment the invention provides a method for utilizing the protein of interest while it still remains tethered or attached to the cellular carrier particles, having been rendered as novel functionalized particles.
[0013] In another embodiment, recombinant proteins are recovered from the surface of any cellular organelle or structural component (e.g., glycogen granule, starch granule, protein body, cell wall, chloroplast membrane, flagella) comprising the step of incubating the desiccated or dried biological material with a suitable gaseous cleavage reagent.
[0014] In such embodiment, the recombinant protein is expressed as a fusion protein, consisting of a carrier fragment and a second element, either upstream or downstream, encoding the protein of interest separated by a peptide linker site susceptible to cleavage in the gas phase. A specific area for recombinant protein expression is within the seed, a dry environment nature has designed to accumulate and store proteins. In such case, a gas phase cleavable linker is selected from the group of Asp-Pro, Gly-Thr, Gly-Gly, Met, Scr, Trp, Asn-Gly with Asp-Pro being favored. The gaseous reagent used for cleavage of the -Asp-Pro- peptide linker is selected from the group consisting of gaseous heptafluorobutyric acid, acetic acid, formic acid, hydrochloric acid, anhydrous hydrazine, perfluorobutyric acid, trifluoroacetic acid, fluorosulfuric acid or perfluoric acid and mixtures thereof.
[0015] In another embodiment the method includes steps to isolate cellular organelles or structural components prior to incubation with the gaseous cleavage reagent. It also includes steps to capture the cleaved protein of interest in aqueous buffers, sterile water, on a dry filter, or in a protein/peptide dust trap.
[0016] The method provides a number of advantages over conventional recombinant protein purification strategies i.e., those that rely on aqueous buffers/reagents and chromatography. A critical advantage of dry purification is that it prevents product loss that usually occurs from proteolysis. Most known proteases are of aqueous cytoplasmic origin, and thus are only active in an aqueous environment, and inactive in low moisture environments. The anhydrous strategy eliminates the need for conventional bio-processing protease inhibitor cocktails and hundreds of thousands of liters of bio-waste that is produced from large scale aqueous purification strategies. Anhydrous purification can be accomplished at a fraction of the cost compared to the conventional aqueous strategies.
[0017] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The details of the present invention, both as to its structure and operation, may be gleaned in part by study of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and in which:
[0019] FIG. 1 is an exemplary mechanism for one embodiment of the gas-phase decomposition of an Asp-Pro bond in a peptide with acid.
[0020] FIG. 2 is an example of the very limited biodiversity of the aspartyl-prolyl sequence in nature and its remarkable paucity thus making it a surprisingly useful cleavage site for dry fission of carrier element from protein-of-interest element. The average number of Asp-Pro bonds per protein is shown plotted versus molecular weight, using a database of known previously sequenced protein primary sequences.
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates immunolocalization of puroindoline fusion proteins in rice seed according to one exemplary embodiment. The bright halos represent the fusion protein tethered onto starch granule surfaces.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates SDS-PAGE analysis of protein banding proteins of anhydrous cleavage of tyrosinase with gaseous trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) according to one exemplary embodiment. Identification of three anhydrous cleavage products indicated by arrows (right-hand lane), after 16 hours exposure of tyrosinase (80 kDa) to pure, gaseous TFA at room temperature by silver stained 15% SDS-PAGE gels, run at 120V for 2.5 hours. Tyrosinase unexposed to pure, gaseous TFA was used as a control (center lane). Aliquots were loaded such that each well contained 4 μg of protein, as determined by the Bradford protein concentration assay. Left lane represents 5 μl the PageRuler protein ladder, used as the molecular weight marker for control of relative mobility (Mr) of unknown proteins in the gel.
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates immunodetection of puroindoline carrier element (PIN) in transgenic rice flour. Triton X-114 phase partitioning of protein extracts from wheat (positive control), transgenic PIN+ rice, and wild type rice cultivar Kaybonnet (negative control) were fractionated on a native PAGE gel. Separated proteins were transferred to a Nitrocellulose membrane and incubated with anti-PN primary antibody and anti-rabbit conjugated horseradish peroxidase secondary antibody. Lane (1) Mr Ladder, (2) wheat cultivar AC Barry PIN extract, (3) PIN+ rice extract, (4) wild type rice flour PIN extract.
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates SDS-PAGE of anhydrous cleavage of catalase with gaseous TFA. Catalase is a 72 kDa protein possessing at least one Asp-Pro cleavage site in its 527 residue amino acid sequence when isolated from Bos taurus. An Asp-Pro cleavage site in bovine catalase appears approximately in the middle of the amino acid sequence of catalase, therefore two cleavage products of similar sizes are predicted. The expected peptide sizes are 35 and 37 kDa, visualized as one band in a low resolution SDS-PAGE gel but can be resolved into two distinct bands in a high resolution gel. Photograph displays identification of two anhydrous cleavage products of similar mass represented by the red arrow (lane 2), after 16 hour exposure of catalase (72 kDa) to pure, gaseous TFA in air at room temperature by silver stained 15% SDS PAGE, run at 120V for 2.5 hours. Catalase unexposed to pure, gaseous TFA was used as a control (lane 1). Aliquots were loaded such that each well contains 4 μg of protein, as determined by Bradford assay. Lane MW represents 5 μl of the PageRuler protein ladder, used as the molecular weight marker.
[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates a modified schematic diagram of an anhydrous cleavage apparatus for treating dry plant and animal particles with gases that preferentially cleave rare amino acid residue pairs in fusion proteins that are tethered to the particle by a carrier protein domain according to one embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 8 illustrates rice starchy endosperm as viewed by a transmission electron micrograph. Starch granules (St), amyloplast membranes (AM), protein bodies (Pb), and cell walls (Cw) are the only components visible according to one embodiment. During endosperm maturation the other organelles such as Golgi, lysosomes, peroxisomes, and rER are digested via the Autophagy pathways. The upper right hand corner indicates the structure of a typical composite starch granule (circled) wherein aggregate the polyhedric individual sub-granules.
[0027] FIG. 9 illustrates particle size distribution of powdered and micronized rice flour after Matsubo elbow-jet air-classification according to one embodiment. The red line represents particle size distribution of milled rice flour and the green line represents the particle size distribution of milled and air-classified rice flour. There was no separation of particles (e.g. individual rice starch granules) after milling alone, but after the powder was air-classified a sharp peak at the expected position of starch granule size (4-6 μm) was observed.
[0028] FIG. 10 illustrates a scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of rice powder before and after jet-milling according to one embodiment. Ninety micron wide particles predominate in Hammer Milled Powder (HMP) shown in left column panels labeled “Before Jet-milling” (top left panel, turquoise arrow) but were no longer observed in Jet Milled Powder (JMP) “After Jet-milling” column. Several HMP particles contain large fissures (left column, middle row panel, white arrow). Higher magnification images of HMP indicate the presence of a mosaic of <10 um wide particles held together (lower left panel).
[0029] FIG. 11 illustrates a process flow schematic diagram of the invention indicating turbulent dispersion of proteinated granules bearing recombinant protein contained inside a horizontal gas-phase cleavage flow according to one embodiment. The invention process can also be operated by placing the fluidized bed reactor or dispersion of particles into a vertical or angulated orientation, one wherein the particles do not clog the fritted glass discs retaining the proteinated granules in the gas-phase cleavage reactor bed or column.
[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates a drawing of one possible configuration of the invention wherein dry animal or plant sourced particles are tumbled in an airflow in a manner similar to a lottery ball tumbler filled with ping-pong balls. In this rendition and embodiment, during Stage 1 the Protein-Easer™ performs aero-abrasion via particle-particle collision to release the untethered proteins from the particles (e.g. rice starch granules) into the air flow to remove the background protein matrix and host organism proteome mixture. Protein content of the exiting air by Near Infra-Red (NIR) or real-time spectral methods will indicate when all untethered proteins have been air-polished off the surface of the particles. When judged clean and free of non-recombinant proteins, then the carrier particles are ready for gas-phase cleavage treatment. By use of a valve at the inflow tube the air flow is switched over to a supply of air carrying in it a mixture of heptafluorobutyric acid or other gas-phase cleavage gas for anhydrous fission (breaking) of susceptible peptide bond(s) in the linker. In this way the dry recombinant protein-of-interest is liberated from the particle reactor bed, departing it via the exit flow tube indicated at the top of the model diagram. Such POI is trapped in dry or wet form, as the need be, using prior art dust collection technology.
[0031] FIG. 13 illustrates how dry starch granules tethered with Protein of Interest are removed from transgenic rice kernels by successive comminution, subjected to hydrolytic gas flow cleavage, liberating protein of interest quickly, and in purified dry form. In one preferred embodiment of the process of the invention, endogenous, exogenous and recombinant proteins/peptides from plants and animals are separated and purified using aqueous-free, anhydrous strategies. Transgenic rice expressing commercial protein is harvested, polished, stored until needed, and hammer-milled, followed by jet milling, and elbow-jet milling (e.g. Matsubo ‘Coanda’ mill). Particle reduction and particle separation steps employ milling and air classification procedures known in the prior art and are easily adaptable to large-scale, custom-tailored specifications under GMP conditions. The final step of processing these proteinated granules uses gas phase fission whereby the Protein of Interest is separated quickly from the solid starch granule surface and purified in dry form using protein capture methods of powder entrapment filters, or if preferred, using sparging into sterile water or buffer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] The present invention relates to novel methods for production of recombinant proteins and peptides that can be anhydrously purified from host cell components. DNA used for encoding the protein of interest may be all or part of a naturally occurring sequence; it may be a synthetic sequence or a combination of The method relates to preparing an expression cassette which comprises a DNA sequence encoding a fusion carrier linked to a second DNA sequence encoding a gas-phase cleavable linker and fused to a third DNA sequence encoding the protein or peptide of interest. The chimeric DNA sequence will be ligated downstream of a promoter sequence of choice and ligated upstream of a terminator sequence of choice. This will depend on host cell, desired expression pattern, and final deposition of the expressed recombinant fusion protein to a location that is readily accessible by gas or vapors to ensure cleavage and separation of the protein or peptide of interest from the fusion carrier and host cell components.
[0033] The transformed host cells may be any source including but not limited to plants, algae, fungi, bacteria and animals. In this embodiment the host cells are of plant and algal origin, and the recombinant fusion protein is expressed and translocated to starch granules, cell wall, chloroplast membranes, protein body surfaces or on the surface of other subcellular organelles or structural components. In one specific embodiment, the translocation of the fusion protein will be to starch granules and cell wall. In one specific embodiment, in plants the recombinant fusion protein is expressed in the seed and localized onto the starch granule surfaces and in algae the recombinant fusion protein is expressed inside the chloroplast and localized to the starch granule surfaces.
[0034] One advantage of using seed based expression and the starch granule surface as a landing zone for our recombinant fusion proteins is that they can be easily isolated from host cell components using anhydrous methods such as milling, air-classification and air-cyclone technologies. In combination, these technologies can isolate starch granules from the other cellular components based on their size and density. These technologies are a fraction of the cost of aqueous based methods, and provide a dry environment where the recombinant fusion protein remains stable. There are a range of dry and wet milling techniques, but few of these reduce particles to the required size of <10 μm wide. The preferred technique preserves the rice powder in the dry state (i.e. <14% total moisture). Hammer-milling draws particles into its milling chamber by vacuum suction.
[0035] Once inside the chamber, high speed hammer arms fracture the rice particles. Rice particles remain in the chamber until reduced to the pore size of the exit sieve and are then drawn into a collection flask. This milling technique is effective at reducing rice to particles 100 μm wide, but readily clogs finer exit sieves. Jet-milling also uses air pressure to feed or drive the powder into the milling chamber, but rather than an exit sieve, jet-milling uses rapid directional changes in air-flow to retain unmilled particles. Air is injected tangentially to the wall of the cylindrical milling chamber. This jet of air drives the particles in the chamber to circulate rapidly around the chamber. The air is drawn radially to the centre of the chamber to an exit port. Particles in the chamber experience a drag force that is proportional to their cross-sectional area. If the particles do not possess sufficient momentum to continue on their circular path, they are drawn out of the chamber and collected as fines. Jet-mills do not impact the powder with machinery; they rely on high energy particle-particle collisions to mill the powder. As a result, jet-milling can readily mill rice to small micron diameters. See, e.g., Jeong, E. L. et al., Effect of particle size on the solubility and dispersibility of endosperm, bran, and husk powders of rice. Food Science and Biotechnology 2008, 17, (4), 833-838.
[0036] Most air-classifiers operate on the same principles as jet-milling. Particles with a large drag force and a small moment of inertia (e.g. protein bodies) are selectively drawn out in the fines stream. Unlike the jet-mill, the particles do not collide because a second stream is added to remove the heavier particles (the coarse stream). Particle separation depends on three factors: particle density, shape, and size. The separation of particles is improved as the difference in particle diameter between fine particles and coarse particles is increased. Experimenters commonly use laser diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and combustion protein assays (e.g., ELEMENTAR instrument) to characterize the physical properties of cereal starches. Laser diffraction uses laser diffraction patterns produced by a dispersion of particles to estimate the volume distribution of the particles rather than the shape of the particles. Even so, if the particles can be approximated as spheres, the volumes can be used to estimate the particles' equivalent spherical diameter. This statistic gives a rough estimate of the average size of a particle in the powder. One main strength of this technique is its rapid quantitative analysis of a large sample of particles. See, e.g., Stoddard, F. L., Survey of starch particle-size distribution in wheat and related species. Cereal Chemistry 1999, 76, (1), 145-149; Kim, W. et al., Effect of heating temperature on particle size distribution in hard and soft wheat flour. Journal of Cereal Science 2004, 40, (1), 9-16.
[0037] The isolated starch granules can then be incubated with a gas or vapor in order to induce cleavage of the gas-phase cleavable linker situated between the fusion carrier and protein or peptide of interest. Such incubation can be performed by one skilled in the art of exposing animal or plant particles to chemical treatments in dry gas form, such as used in grain fumigation. In one embodiment the particles bearing the protein of interest are incubated in a flow-through cartridge or air column (See FIG. 12 ). In this embodiment, the gas-phase cleavage linker consists of but is not limited to Asp-Pro, Gly-Thr, Gly-Gly, Met, Ser, Trp, Asn-Gly.
[0038] In one specific embodiment, the gas-phase linker sequence is Asp-Pro. Following cleavage, the protein of interest is liberated from the starch granule surface and can be easily captured. The anhydrous process protects the protein of interest from all aqueous based proteases, provides a cost advantage and limits environmentally damaging waste that is associated with conventional aqueous purification methods.
[0039] For embodiments of the invention wherein the recombinant fusion protein is to be expressed and purified from starch granules located in plant seed, the DNA expression cassette will include, in the 5′ to 3′ direction, promoter and 5′UTR sequence capable of expression and localization in plant seeds, a second DNA sequence encoding a carrier protein capable of localizing the recombinant protein to the starch granule surface, a gas-phase cleavable linker and the protein of interest followed by a 3′UTR and terminator sequence functional in plants. In other embodiments the protein of interest is placed upstream of the linker followed by the carrier protein encoding clement.
[0040] Of particular interest for transcription and translation in plant species, DNA encoded sequences for targeted expression into the seed endosperm tissue can be obtained from rice, wheat, corn, barley, oat or soybean. The required regions for expression of the tethering/anhydrous-cleavage cassette in plant seeds are found in seed storage proteins, starch regulatory proteins or defense proteins. The DNA regulatory sequence (promoter) will be from a gene expressed during seed germination and early stage seedling development, specifically a promoter sequence from the glutelin, globulin, zein or prolamins.
[0041] For production of recombinant proteins in algal chloroplasts, a promoter would be chosen to provide maximal expression in said host. The DNA regulatory sequence (promoter) will be from a gene highly expressed in chloroplasts, photosystem A and photosystem B.
[0042] This gas phase treatment of biological particles previously tethered with fusion proteins is novel. In this novel process of Dry Fission (or Dry Phission for production of Pharmaceutical proteins) the sample is never exposed to liquids, reducing exposure to proteases and reducing costs for process buffers. Therefore, because of the size of dry proteinated granules and their heavy weight neither open liquid column chromatography type reaction columns or chambers, nor liquid batch vessels for the solid support is necessary to retain the sample in a liquid reaction vessel. However, this tethering fusion protein process still affords the user the option of treating the proteinated granule feedstock of particles with classical down-stream protein purification and polishing methods that are liquid based.
[0043] In one embodiment of the novel gas phase cleavage process described herein, the primary requirement for preventing sample loss is a means of protecting the fusion polypeptide from being dislodged from the proteinated granule or particle by excessive mechanical shearing forces such as the gentle Stage One aeroabrasion air flow and Stage Two cleavage gas (which liberates the protein of interest from the granule) that flow past the granule (See, FIG. 12 ). This requirement is met by placing the particles in an up-flow chamber whose floor is a suitable sized filter such as a fritted glass disc.
[0044] Other methods for treating fusion proteins involve embedding the granules in a thin film of Polybrene dispersed on a porous glass disc. For example, the disc may be comprised of a fritted disc of glass (Altosaar, 1956, Patent CA 529624). In another embodiment the starch granules can be entrapped in a mesh of overlapping fibers, held transversely across the reaction chamber allowing the air flow (Stage 1) and the cleavage gas flow (Stage 2) to surround and percolate through the bed of beads ( FIG. 12 ). This structure possesses a relatively high total surface area (hence allowing maximal air-cleaning of the starting particles and maximal interaction of cleavage gas with the surface area of the proteinated granules) with a minimum dimension in the direction of fluid flow. It is known to those skilled in the art of exposing solid proteins to gas phase reactions that the Polybrene film is readily permeable to the reagent vapors so that flowing gases can diffuse into and out of the film to carry out chemical reactions or extractions without mechanically disturbing the sample. The Polybrene forms a cohesive film that adsorbs strongly to the porous glass disc and because of this property the proteinated granules are even further insoluble if user opts to perform liberation of the protein of interest with liquid extraction solvents.
[0045] One important characteristic of the fusion protein reaction chamber or cartridge (See FIGS. 7, 11, 12 ) built around the particle support disc is the ease with which the sample containment area can be miniaturized. This, along with the simple flow-through nature of the cartridge assembly, allows the particle polishing air flow, as well as the peptide bond cleavage gas phase reagent to consume much less of that used in previous commercial instruments for releasing and capturing recombinant proteins. Several benefits of host proteome removal from proteinated granules by aero-abrasion in such vessels or cartridges, and several benefits of dry-fission of recombinant proteins from carrier proteins like puroindoline are well worth noting. The first is a significant reduction in operating costs.
[0046] A second is the increased practicality of providing the required amounts of ultrapure cleavage reagent, an important consideration since many of the commercially available chemicals such as enterokinase enzyme for cleaving peptide linker regions require additional purification to provide the desired level of purity.
[0047] Yet a third advantage is the increase in speed with which the recombinant protein samples can be cleaved and captured. This is, in part, a result from the decreased time required for mass transfer in the miniaturized system and from the very rapid changeover from one sample of proteinated granule batch to another. Cycle time for gas cleavage can be as short as only 45-55 min, and particle batch reloading (including cartridge cleanup and Polybrene precycling) is only 3-4 h.
[0048] Finally, the lower reagent usage per gas phase cleavage cycle results in a reduced accumulation of impurities (endogenous host protein fragments) accompanying the granule-derived samples that are captured downstream. Low background levels of the dry fission recombinant protein process and this miniaturization of artifacts is essential to many applications where recombinant proteins are employed at ultramicro levels. The efficiency with which this new process performs purification of recombinant proteins or peptides is many fold higher than existing art.
[0049] The following examples are offered by way of illustration and not by limitation.
Example 1
Isolation of Transgenic Plant Seed Starch Zranules and Anhydrous Purification of the Recombinant Protein of Interest
[0050] Isolation of seed starch granules is done by first milling the seed into fine flour using a hammer mill, ball mill or elbow-jet mill. This processed flour containing starch granules, protein bodies and cell wall debris can be separated based on size and density using air-classifier or air-cyclone technologies, resulting in a starch granule fraction harboring the recombinant fusion protein on its surfaces. The gas-phase linker (Asp-Pro) can be cleaved by incubating the starch granules with a vapor of heptafluorobutyric acid at 60° C. for 18 hrs. The liberated protein of interest can be collected in an inert air flow and captured on a filter, or isolated through an additional air-classification or air-cyclone step.
Example 2
Isolation of Algal Chloroplast Starch Granules and Anhydrous Purification of the Recombinant Protein of Interest
[0051] Isolation of algal chloroplasts is done using a density gradient or a hydrocyclone. The isolated chloroplasts are sheared using sonication and the starch granules within can be subsequently isolated using starch granules' distinctive buoyant density, i.e. a sucrose gradient or hydrocyclone. The isolated starch granules are dried to a moisture content of 25% or less using a dryer and incubated with 0.2% heptafluorobutyric acid vapors at 60° C. for 18 hrs. The liberated protein of interest can be collected in an inert air flow and captured on a filter, or isolated through an air-classification or air-cyclone step.
[0052] Cultures of algae transformed by the gas-phase cleavable linker-protein of interest (GPCL-POI) expression cassette are dried into cellular powder and then mechanically ruptured by air abrasion (particle-particle collision in air jet mills) and air classification techniques to expose the algal starch granule to gas-phase cleavage.
Example 3
Purification of E. coli Expressed Recombinant Proteins by Starch Granule Binding and Dry Fission
[0053] Recombinant proteins can be expressed using E. coli , yeast, insect or mammalian cell lines. Expression of recombinant proteins as puroindoline fusions in these hosts will allow for their batch purification using starch granules as affinity beads. The addition of starch granules to the expression slurry of any host cell platform harboring puroindoline fusions will result in the binding of the recombinant protein::puroindoline fusion onto the starch granule surfaces. The starch granules can then be isolated from the endogenous host proteome and cellular debris using prior art such as batch decanting, gradients, filtration or centrifugation technologies. These starch granules can be rigorously washed with sterilized water or buffers to ensure removal of any loosely bound endogenous host proteins and/or cell debris. The isolated starch granules harboring this recombinant fusion protein on their surfaces can be dried carefully in air (See FIG. 7, 11, 12 ) or under vacuum and subjected to dry fission using the scissile peptide bonds described above as specified in this DryPhission process, cleaving the recombinant protein (cargo) from the puroindoline fusion carrier, liberating it from the starch granules (See FIGS. 7 , 11 , 12 ) for downstream capturing by methods know to one skilled in the art of trapping dry protein powders.
Example 4
Flexible Placement Options for Positioning Carrier and Cargo Domains for Tethering and Subsequent as Phase Cleavage
[0054] The fusion protein construct can be designed with several possible orientations wherein the carrier is upstream of the cargo domain (e.g. PIN-Asp-Pro-POI), downstream of the cargo domain (POI-Asp-Pro-PIN) or even interspersed within the sequence of the protein of interest (POI), the latter case producing two domains or useful subunits of the POI upon dry fission cleavage [amino-terminal domain of POI-Asp-(Pro-PIN Carrier-Asp)-Pro-carboxy-terminal domain of POI]. It will be obvious to one skilled in the arts of protein chemistry that upon cleavage with a gaseous scissile agent like trifluoroacetic acid that cleavage of such peptide bonds will yield biosimilars wherein the protein of interest may have an adventitious prolyl residue at its amino terminus, or an aspartyl residue at its carboxyl terminus, as the case may be. It is known in the art that such single amino acid residue changes often add stability to and increase the biological activity of recombinant biologics compared to the native wild type protein sequence. It will also be clear to one skilled in the arts of protein hydrolysis that such domain juggling can be an advantage to catalyzing scissile bond cleavage in a sequence specific manner whereby nearest neighbor effects of POI or carrier sequence residues influence the susceptibility of the gas phase linker to rapid and more specific cleavage. As is the case with many of the genomic and proteomic techniques, the large biodiversity of protein sequences in nature means that each construct prepared for granule tethering and gas cleavage will be able to take advantage of such sequence-specific catalysis enhancement.
[0055] In another embodiment the carrier domain can comprise any tethering sequence that functions to bind the fusion protein to the target biological particle of choice. For example the tryptophan rich domain of puroindoline-a or -b can contain 5, 7, or more amino acid residues and fusion constructs with such truncated or engineered carriers can be placed downstream of any endosperm-specific promoter to achieve expression in seeds.
Example 5
Isolated Proteins Containing Scissile Peptide Bonds Like Asp-Pro are Cleaved by Exposure to Acidic Gases
[0056] The usefulness of dry rice flour as a high-throughput food-grade platform involves convenient and inexpensive features such as the ease of determining optimal anhydrous peptide cleavage conditions by varying factors such as volume and concentration of gaseous reagents, length and temperature of incubation, moisture content and mass of rice flour or other chosen biological particles as tethering medium. Anhydrous TFA will cleave Asp-Pro bonds within proteins associated with starch granules isolated from rice. Anhydrous cleavage can be observed readily by exposing model proteins containing the labile Asp-Pro bond to gaseous TFA. The model proteins catalase and tyrosinase were obtained from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, Mo., cat. nos. 120E-7160 and 29C-9640, respectively). Catalase (2 mg) and tyrosinase (2 mg) were weighed and placed into separate microcentrifuge tubes (1.5 ml).
[0057] The gas-cleavage apparatus developed in this example was a novel modification of the Solid-Phase nucleic acid polymer synthesizer, comprising of a filter packed in the bottom of a glass reaction vessel (See FIG. 7 ). Samples of model proteins were loaded on to the filter, where the gas passage can occur. The reaction vessel is connected to a line of tubing that enables a flow path for the gas reagents. The samples were treated with inert nitrogen gas prior to exposure of gaseous TFA. The nitrogen gas flow removes the loosely associated starch granule associated proteins. Samples were then exposed to gaseous TFA for 16 hours and incubated at room temperature. TFA (5 μl) exposed catalase and tyrosinase samples from various incubation periods were placed in 96 well Terasaki Plate (Alpha Biotech Ltd London, UK), in duplicates. BSA standards were also prepared with concentrations ranging from 0.2-2 mg/ml using the Albumin Standard (PIERCE, ILL., USA, #23209). 2504, of Bradford reagent was added to each well. Samples were pipetted up and down and shaken for 30 minutes to mix. Absorbances were read at 595 nm with the PowerWave Microplate Spectrophotometer (BioTek Instruments Inc. Winooski, Vt.). SDS-PAGE gels were run using the Bio-Rad Protein Tetra Mini-Gel System. Samples (4 ug/ul) of model proteins: catalase and tyrosinase exposed to TFA were loaded onto 15% SDS-polyacrylamide mini-gels (8 cm×7.3 cm×1 mm). Concentration of samples was determined by Bradford Assay Standard Curve. The protein marker used was 5 μl of the Benchmark Protein Ladder (Invitrogen). The gels were electrophoresed at 120V for 2.5 hours and silver stained using the 1985 protocol by Heukeshoven and Dernick. Model proteins, tyrosinase (2 mg) and catalase (2 mg) were thus exposed to gaseous TFA using the novel, gas-phase cleavage apparatus ( FIG. 7 ) to observe anhydrous peptide cleavage. Each sample was incubated with pure TFA (gas) in the cleavage apparatus for 16 hours at room temperature to permit cleavage of peptides, specifically at any labile Asp-Pro bond in the model proteins. Following incubation, the sample was transferred from the filter paper directly into a microcentrifuge tube (1.5 ml). The remaining TFA was removed from the sample by vacuum, and the proteins were solubilized in 1 ml of Tris buffer. The same procedure was repeated with catalase. A Bradford Protein Assay was performed after TFA incubation to normalize the amount of protein in each sample. Tyrosinase (4 μg) and catalase (zing) were loaded onto a 15% SDS-PAGE gel. The gel was run at 120V for 2.5 hours. The gel was then silver stained to observe anticipated anhydrous cleavage products ( FIGS. 4 and 6 ). Cleavage products of the anticipated masses, as predicted based on the location of the Asp-Pro bonds, were observed for the model proteins, tyrosinase and catalase. As known to one skilled in the art, mass spectrometry is used to elucidate the sequence of the cleavage products and confirm the cleavage occurred at the Asp-Pro site.
[0058] Tyrosinase isolated from Bos taurus is an 80 kDa protein consisting of two Asp-Pro cleavage sites. With the presence of two Asp-Pro cleavage sites, three cleavage products are predicted. Based on the amino acid sequence (GenBank: AAL02331.2), the expected peptide sizes are 11, 20, and 49 kDa. Upon five minute exposure to pure, gaseous TFA using the novel anhydrous cleavage apparatus, cleavage of tyrosinase was observed, and indicated by arrows (See FIG. 4 ). The right hand lane in the silver stained SDS-PAGE gel showed the presence of three cleavage products, as three faint bands were observed (See FIG. 4 ). Three cleavage products were expected during anhydrous cleavage of tyrosinase at the Asp-Pro bond. Since a very little quantity of protein was loaded (4 μg), it is expected that the bands may not be as visible with heavier protein sample applications. Higher concentrations of protein allow one to observe more distinct cleavage products. Middle lane represents a control sample of tyrosinase, unexposed to gaseous TFA. It is therefore expected that cleavage products be absent in the center lane. The multiple faint bands of higher Mr in the center and right hand lanes may indicate low purity of the tyrosinase protein sample or different possible isoforms. It is expected that one band at 80 kDa can be identified as tyrosinase using western blotting or mass spectrometry of the gel slice. Left hand lane represents 5 μl of the PageRuler protein Ladder. The PageRuler Ladder underwent some degradation and thus the 10 bands that were expected to be observed are absent. The 85 kDa band was the only band present. Since the Benchmark Protein Ladder is not observed in the left lane, it is difficult to assign accurate sizes to the cleavage products in the right lane. However, the migration distance of the cleavage products on the gel corresponds to the predicted peptide sizes of 11, 20 and 49 kDa.
[0059] Anhydrous Cleavage of Catalase is another model system that exemplifies the power of particle tethering of fusion proteins followed by liberation via gas cleavage of the rt Protein. Catalase from Bos taurus is a 72 kDa protein containing at least one Asp-Pro cleavage site. The amino acid sequence (NCBI Reference Sequence: NP 001030463.1) shows that an Asp-Pro cleavage site appears approximately in the middle of the amino acid sequence of catalase, therefore two cleavage products of roughly similar sizes are predicted from that scissile bond. The identification of the faint 50 kDa MW band, however, suggests that the band corresponding to the cleavage products may represent the expected sizes of 35 and 37 kDa. Similar to the results obtained for tyrosinase, a 16 hour exposure to gaseous TFA in our anhydrous cleavage apparatus resulted in cleavage of catalase, represented by the red arrow (See FIG. 6 ). Unlike tyrosinase, the catalase protein is represented by a single band in the SDS-PAGE silver stained gel, indicating a high level of purity (See FIG. 6 ). One distinct band was observed as a cleavage product in lane 2. This single band is expected to represent two cleavage products of similar masses, which is expected upon anhydrous cleavage of catalase at the Asp-Pro bond. Lane 1 represents a control sample of catalase, unexposed to gaseous TFA. It is therefore expected that cleavage products be absent in lane 1. In order to distinguish between the 35 kDa and 37 kDa cleavage products, a high percentage Tricine-SDS-PAGE gel can be run to resolve the gas cleavage peptides. Tricine-SDS-PAGE is a relatively new technique which is becoming the method for resolving proteins in the 1-100 kDa range preferred by those skilled in the art of protein gel electrophoresis.
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The present invention relates to recombinant proteins/peptides from plant and animal materials, compositions comprising the proteins/peptides and methods for making them.
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TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention relates generally to light emitting devices, and, more particularly, to a method for producing an InGaAsN active region for a long wavelength light emitting device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Light emitting devices are used in many applications including optical communication systems. Optical communication systems have been in existence for some time and continue to increase in use due to the large amount of bandwidth available for transporting signals. Optical communication systems provide high bandwidth and superior speed and are suitable for efficiently communicating large amounts of voice and data over long distances. Optical communication systems that operate at relatively long wavelengths on the order of 1.3 micrometers (μm) to 1.55 μm are generally preferred because optical fibers generally have their lowest attenuation in this wavelength range. These long wavelength optical communication systems include a light source capable of emitting light at a relatively long wavelength. Such a light source is a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), although other types of light sources are also available.
[0003] The alloy indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN) is useful to form the active-region for a VCSEL operating at the long wavelengths preferred for optical fiber communication. This material allows the operating wavelength of a conventional aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs) VCSEL to be extended to approximately 1.3 μm. Furthermore, in other applications using photonic devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), edge-emitting lasers, and vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), excellent performance characteristics are expected for InGaAsN active regions as a consequence of the strong electron confinement offered by AlGaAs heterostructures, which, provide carrier and optical confinement in both edge-emitting and surface-emitting devices. InGaAsN active regions benefit both edge- and surface-emitting lasers and may lead to InGaAsN becoming a viable substitute for indium gallium arsenide phosphide (InGaAsP) in 1.3 μm lasers.
[0004] Forming an InGaAsN active region is possible using a technique known as molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). MBE uses a nitrogen radical, generated by a plasma source, as a source of active nitrogen species. The purity of the nitrogen is typically high because high purity nitrogen gas is widely available. Further, using MBE, the incorporation efficiency of nitrogen into the epitaxial layer approaches unity. Unfortunately, MBE provides a low growth rate, resulting in a long growth time, and does not scale well, and therefore does not lend itself to high volume production of light emitting devices.
[0005] Another technique for producing semi-conductor based light emitting devices is known as organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE), sometimes referred to as metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). OMVPE uses liquid chemical precursors, through which a carrier gas is passed, to generate a chemical vapor that is passed over a heated semiconductor substrate located in a reactor. Conditions in the reactor are controlled so that the combination of vapors forms an epitaxial film as the vapors pass over the substrate.
[0006] Unfortunately, growing high quality InGaAsN using OMVPE is difficult because the purity of the nitrogen precursor (typically dimethylhydrazine (DMHy), [CH 3 ] 2 NNH 2 ) is difficult to control, and the components that form the InGaAsN alloy are somewhat immiscible. This results in a non-homogeneous mixture where the nitrogen may not be uniformly distributed throughout the layer. Instead, the nitrogen tends to “clump.” The alloy composition fluctuations translate into bandgap fluctuations. This causes broadening of the spontaneous emission spectrum and the gain spectrum, which raises laser threshold current.
[0007] Furthermore, it is difficult to extract atomic nitrogen from the DMHy molecule, thereby making it difficult to incorporate a sufficient quantity of nitrogen in the InGaAsN film. The ratio of DMHy to arsine (AsH 3 , the arsenic precursor) must be increased because the arsenic provided by the arsine competes with the nitrogen for the group-V lattice sites. Unfortunately, reducing the proportion of arsine tends to reduce the optical quality of the InGaAsN film.
[0008] To incorporate a sufficient quantity of nitrogen in the epitaxial film, extremely high dimethylhydrazine ratios (DMHy:V, where “V” represents the total group-V precursor flow rate, comprising DMHy+AsH 3 ) are used during OMVPE growth of InGaAsN. However, even when the DMHy ratio is raised to 90% or greater, the nitrogen component in the film may be negligible (<<1%), despite the very high nitrogen content in the vapor. Moreover, the nitrogen content drops even further in the presence of indium, which is a necessary component for a 1.3 μm laser diode quantum well layer. Ideally, for 1.3 μm light emitting devices, the indium content should be about, or greater than, 30%, and the nitrogen content about 0-2%. Without nitrogen, a 1.2 μm wavelength is the longest likely attainable wavelength from a high indium content quantum well (where the maximum indium content is limited by the biaxial compression). The addition of even a very slight amount of nitrogen (0.3%<[N]<2%) leads to a large drop in the bandgap energy that enables the wavelength range to be extended to 1.3 μm and beyond. Nevertheless, it is still difficult to achieve a nitrogen content of [N]˜1%, even when the nitrogen content of the vapor exceeds 90%.
[0009] Therefore, it would be desirable to economically mass produce a high optical quality light emitting device having an InGaAsN active layer using OMVPE.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Embodiments of the invention provide several methods for using OMVPE to grow high quality light emitting active regions. In one embodiment, the method comprises placing a substrate in an organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) reactor, the substrate for supporting growth of an indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN) film, supplying to the reactor a group-III-V precursor mixture comprising arsine, dimethylhydrazine, alkyl-gallium, alkyl-indium and a carrier gas, where the arsine and the dimethylhydrazine are the group-V precursor materials and where the percentage of dimethylhydrazine substantially exceeds the percentage of arsine, and pressurizing the reactor to a pressure at which a concentration of nitrogen commensurate with light emission at a wavelength longer than 1.2 um is extracted from the dimethylhydrazine and deposited on the substrate.
[0011] In an alternative embodiment, the method comprises placing a substrate in an organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) reactor, the substrate for supporting growth of an indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN) film, supplying to the reactor a group-III-V precursor mixture comprising arsine, alkyl-gallium, alkyl-indium and a carrier gas, where the arsine is the group-V precursor material, growing a sublayer of In x GaAs 1-x , where x is equal to or greater than 0, discontinuing the group-III precursor mixture, and supplying to the reactor a group-V precursor mixture comprising arsine and dimethylhydrazine where the percentage of dimethylhydrazine substantially exceeds the percentage of arsine.
[0012] In another alternative embodiment, the method comprises providing a substrate in an organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) reactor, supplying to the reactor a group-III-V precursor mixture, where the group-III precursor mixture includes alkyl-gallium and alkyl-indium, and the group-V precursor mixture comprises arsine and dimethylhydrazine, and growing a layer of indium gallium arsenide nitride commensurate with light emission at a wavelength longer than 1.2 um over the substrate by minimizing the amount of arsine and maximizing the amount of dimethylhydrazine.
[0013] Other features and advantages in addition to or in lieu of the foregoing are provided by certain embodiments of the invention, as is apparent from the description below with reference to the following drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The invention, as defined in the claims, can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components within the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention.
[0015] [0015]FIG. 1A is a schematic view illustrating an exemplary vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) constructed in accordance with an aspect of the invention.
[0016] [0016]FIG. 1B is a schematic view illustrating the optical cavity of the VCSEL of FIG. 1A.
[0017] [0017]FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating an OMVPE reactor constructed in accordance with an aspect of the invention.
[0018] [0018]FIG. 2B is a detailed view of the VCSEL shown in FIG. 2A.
[0019] [0019]FIG. 3 is a graphical illustration showing a comparison of the photoluminescence for two InGaAs quantum wells, one fabricated at a reactor pressure of 100 mbar and the other fabricated at a reactor pressure of 200 mbar.
[0020] [0020]FIG. 4 is a graphical illustration showing the relationship between the concentration of nitrogen (N) in a solid film epitaxial layer (y in InGaAs 1-y N y ) and the concentration of nitrogen precursor in the vapor (DMHy/[DMHy+AsH 3 ]).
[0021] [0021]FIGS. 5A through 5F are schematic views illustrating an alternative embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] While described below using a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) that incorporates InGaAsN epitaxial layers, other device structures can benefit from the invention. For example, an edge-emitting laser including a high quality InGaAsN epitaxial layer can be economically fabricated using the concepts of the invention.
[0023] [0023]FIG. 1A is a schematic view illustrating an exemplary vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) 100 constructed in accordance with an aspect of the invention. The VCSEL 100 comprises an N-type gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrate 102 over which an N-type distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) 110 is formed. In this example, the DBR 110 includes approximately 40 alternating pairs of aluminum arsenide (AlAs) and gallium arsenide (GaAs) epitaxial layers, exemplary ones of which are illustrated using reference numerals 112 and 114 , respectively. As known to those having ordinary skill in the art, the reflectivity of the DBR 110 is determined by the index of refraction difference between the two materials that comprise the alternating layers of the DBR and the number of layers used to construct the DBR. These parameters, as well as others, can be varied to fabricate a DBR having specific properties.
[0024] A gallium arsenide (GaAs) lower cavity spacer layer 120 is formed over the DBR 110 . In a VCSEL, a pair of cavity spacer layers sandwich the active region and are sometimes referred to as optical cavity spacer layers, or cavity spacer layers. The thickness of the cavity spacer layers is adjusted to optimize the optical mode and quantum well gain of the VCSEL, thereby providing the proper Fabry-Perot resonance, as known to those having ordinary skill in the art. An analogous structure is the separate confinement heterostructure (SCH) layers that sandwich the active region in an edge-emitting device.
[0025] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, an active region 130 comprising alternating layers of indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN) quantum well layers and GaAs barrier layers is then formed over the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 . A GaAs upper cavity spacer layer 140 is formed over the active region 130 and a p-type DBR 150 comprising approximately 25 alternating pairs of AlAs and GaAs epitaxial layers is formed over the GaAs upper cavity spacer layer 140 . An InGaAsN quantum well layer and the surrounding GaAs barrier layers form a quantum well. In the example shown in FIG. 1A, the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 forms the barrier layer for the lowermost InGaAsN quantum well layer in the active region 130 . Similarly, the GaAs upper cavity spacer layer 140 forms the barrier layer for the uppermost InGaAsN quantum well layer in the active region 130 .
[0026] The GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 , the GaAs upper cavity spacer layer 140 , and the active region 130 form an optical cavity 160 in which light generated by the active region 130 and reflected between the DBRs 110 and 150 passes until emitted through one of the DBRs. Depending on the direction of the desired light emission, one of the DBRs will have a reflectivity slightly less than the other DBR. In this manner, light will be emitted from the VCSEL through the reflector having the slightly less reflectivity. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, InGaAsN quantum well layers that are formed as part of the active region 130 are grown in an OMVPE reactor at an elevated pressure, as will be described below with particular reference to FIG. 2.
[0027] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, high quality InGaAsN quantum well layers are grown using a growth stop procedure in which epitaxial growth is stopped during the introduction of nitrogen. This “growth stop” procedure will be described in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 5A through 5F.
[0028] [0028]FIG. 1B is a schematic view illustrating the optical cavity 160 of the VCSEL 100 of FIG. 1A. As shown in FIG. 1B, the active region 130 that includes a first InGaAsN quantum well layer 132 fabricated over the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 . A GaAs barrier layer 134 is fabricated over the first InGaAsN quantum well layer 132 . The combination of an InGaAsN quantum well layer and the surrounding GaAs barrier layer 134 and GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 forms a quantum well. Alternating quantum well layers and barrier layers are deposited until the desired number of quantum wells is formed. Finally, the GaAs upper cavity spacer layer 140 is fabricated over the last InGaAsN quantum well layer, thus completing the optical cavity 160 .
[0029] [0029]FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram 200 illustrating an OMVPE reactor 210 constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Many of the details of an OMVPE reactor are omitted for clarity, as they are known to those having ordinary skill in the art. A reactor controller 215 is coupled to the reactor 210 via connection 217 . The reactor controller can control various operating aspects and parameters of the reactor 210 . As will be described in greater detail below, the reactor controller 215 can be used to control, among other parameters, the pressure in the reactor 210 during epitaxial growth.
[0030] To facilitate OMVPE epitaxial growth, a carrier gas is bubbled through the constituent precursor compounds so that a saturated vaporous precursor is created for each compound. After the carrier gas is bubbled through the constituent precursor compounds, the saturated vaporous precursors are then diluted with other gasses as known to those having ordinary skill in the art. The vaporous precursors are transported into the reactor by the carrier gas. The vaporous precursors are pyrolized inside the reactor and passed over a heated substrate wafer, yielding the constituent atomic elements. These elements are deposited on the heated substrate wafer, where they bond to the underlying crystal structure of the substrate wafer, thereby forming an epitaxial layer.
[0031] In the example shown in FIG. 2A, and to facilitate the growth of an InGaAsN quantum well layer, the vaporous precursors 214 may include arsine (AsH 3 ), the arsenic precursor, dimethylhydrazine (DMHy), the nitrogen precursor, trimethylgallium (TMGa), the gallium precursor, trimethylindium (TMIn), the indium precursor, and a carrier gas. Trimethylgallium is also known to those having ordinary skill in the art as alkyl-gallium, which has the chemical formula (CH 3 ) 3 Ga, and trimethylindium is also known to those having ordinary skill in the art as alkyl-indium, which has the chemical formula (CH 3 ) 3 In.
[0032] Other vaporous precursors can also be used depending on the desired composition of the epitaxial layers. The carrier gas can be, for example, hydrogen (H 2 ) or nitrogen (N 2 ). The carrier gas is bubbled through these chemical precursors. These flows are subsequently combined into a vaporous mixture of the appropriate concentrations, and carried into the OMVPE reactor 210 .
[0033] To achieve optimum layer thickness, composition uniformity and interface abruptness, additional carrier gas may be introduced to increase the flow velocity. A heated susceptor 212 comprises a heated surface (typically graphite, silicon carbide, or molybdenum) on which a crystalline substrate 220 resides. The DBR 110 , lower cavity spacer layer 120 , active region 130 , upper cavity spacer layer 140 and the DBR 150 are grown over the crystalline substrate 220 and form the VCSEL 100 (FIG. 1A). In this example, the InGaAsN quantum well layers and GaAs barrier layers are grown over the lower cavity spacer layer 120 (FIG. 1B) as will be described below with respect to FIG. 2B. In this example, the substrate is GaAs to ensure lattice matched epitaxial growth of the GaAs lower and upper cavity spacer layers 120 , 140 , and the DBRs 110 and 150 . Alternatively, for an edge-emitting laser, the GaAs substrate ensures a lattice match for AlGaAs cladding layers.
[0034] The InGaAsN material that forms the quantum well layers has a bulk lattice constant that is larger than the bulk lattice constant of the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 . Therefore the lattice mismatch that occurs between the InGaAsN material and the GaAs material subjects the InGaAsN layers to a compressive strain, referred to as biaxial compression.
[0035] In accordance with the operation of an OMVPE reactor 210 , the vaporous precursors travel into the OMVPE reactor, as indicated using arrow 216 , and eventually pass over the heated substrate 220 . As the vaporous precursors pass over the heated substrate 220 , they are decomposed by pyrolysis and/or surface reactions, thereby releasing the constituent species on the substrate surface. These species settle on the heated surface of the substrate 220 , where they bond to the underlying crystal structure. In this manner, epitaxial growth occurs in the OMVPE reactor 210 .
[0036] [0036]FIG. 2B is a detailed view of the VCSEL 100 shown in FIG. 2A partway through the fabrication process. The epitaxial layers that form the DBR 110 , lower cavity spacer layer 120 , active region 130 , upper cavity spacer layer 140 and the DBR 150 are deposited using MOCVD. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, and to ensure a sufficient quantity of nitrogen in the InGaAsN quantum well layers, the pressure in the OMVPE reactor 210 is elevated so that the arsine flow rate can be reduced. This results in a larger proportion of nitrogen being extracted from the dimethylhydrazine and deposited in the InGaAsN quantum well layers. Typical growth pressure in an OMVPE reactor ranges from 50 to 100 millibar (mbar). However, the pressure in the OMVPE reactor 210 can be increased to several hundred mbar, even approaching atmospheric pressure (1000 mbar).
[0037] Raising the pressure in the OMVPE reactor 210 permits continuous growth of InGaAsN while ensuring that a sufficient quantity of nitrogen is deposited on the epitaxial layer. Raising the pressure in the OMVPE reactor 210 reduces the amount of arsine (AsH 3 ) required to produce a high quality optical device. The reduced arsine requirement permits a relatively high dimethylhydrazine (DMHy) ratio, thereby reducing the likelihood that the arsenic will occupy the group-V lattice sites that are preferably left vacant for the nitrogen to occupy. In this manner, it is possible to produce an InGaAsN quantum well having superior optical properties, while still ensuring that a large fraction (as much as on the order of 2%) of nitrogen will be present in the InGaAsN material from which the quantum well layer is formed.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 2B, a first InGaAsN quantum well layer 224 is grown over the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 . Because the lower cavity spacer layer 120 is formed using GaAs, the lower cavity spacer layer 120 acts as a barrier layer for the first InGaAs quantum well layer 224 . A GaAs barrier layer 226 is then grown over the first InGaAsN quantum well layer 224 . This growth process is repeated until the desired number of quantum wells is grown.
[0039] To understand the role of increased growth pressure in growing InGaAsN, a description of the arsine partial pressure with respect to growing GaAs will first be provided. At higher growth pressures the quantity of arsine required to fabricate a device of high optical quality is reduced when using OMVPE to fabricate an InGaAsN quantum well layer. For example, it is possible to grow GaAs of excellent optical and optoelectronic quality (i.e., high internal quantum efficiency of radiative recombination) with a lower arsine flow rate if the growth is performed at a higher total pressure. Total pressure is the sum of the partial pressures of the vaporous precursors and is the pressure that is maintained in the reactor 210 . The arsine partial pressure is a growth parameter that is frequently expressed as the V:III ratio, which is directly proportional to the arsine partial pressure for GaAs. This analysis can easily be extended to quaternary compounds such as InGaAsN, as will be described below.
[0040] The poor optoelectronic quality of GaAs grown with an insufficient V:III ratio suggests that some minimum partial pressure of arsine is desirable to suppress the formation of defects that limit the light-emission efficiency of the device. These defects may be arsenic vacancies, which are more likely to form under arsenic-deficient conditions. Regarding the solid-state chemistry of defect formation, the group-V vacancy concentration tends to diminish as the concentration of active group-V precursor species in the vapor over the substrate wafer is raised. Thus, there is some threshold value for the arsine partial pressure for producing material of good optical quality. While this value depends somewhat on the growth conditions (rate, temperature, etc.) and reactor geometry, it is estimated that for growth of arsenides by OMVPE, an arsine partial pressure of at least 1 mbar provides material having excellent optoelectronic characteristics, which can be characterized by an internal quantum efficiency of radiative recombination approaching 100%.
[0041] Consequently, during growth of group-III-arsenides, as the total pressure is increased, the minimum partial pressure of arsine (AsH 3 ) may be obtained with a decreased arsine flow rate. For example, a typical single-wafer reactor may have a carrier flow rate of several liters per minute. If growth is conducted at a low pressure of 50 mbar, an arsine flow rate of about 50 standard cubic centimeters per minute (sccm) is preferable for growth of material having excellent optoelectronic characteristics. This flow rate establishes an arsine (AsH 3 ) partial pressure estimated to be 1 mbar. However, if the growth is instead performed at a high pressure of 200 mbar, the arsine partial pressure requirement can be satisfied by a flow rate decreased to only about 10 sccm. This lower arsine flow rate during OMVPE growth at higher pressures applies to other reactor geometries as well. For example, in a simple, single-wafer vertical reactor, an arsine flow rate of only approximately 20 sccm is desired for growth at atmospheric pressure, while 100 sccm is desired at 100 mbar (both corresponding to an arsine partial pressure of about 1-2 mbar).
[0042] Generally, the above-described advantage of high-pressure growth is obtained at the expense of more difficult interface formation that occurs at elevated pressures. However, in the context of InGaAsN growth, higher pressure is especially advantageous because it can be employed to minimize the arsine flow rate and maximize nitrogen incorporation.
[0043] A primary challenge in InGaAsN growth is realizing a very high vapor concentration of the exemplary nitrogen precursor dimethylhydrazine, while still preserving an arsine partial pressure that is sufficient for growth of material having an internal quantum efficiency of radiative recombination approaching 100%. Although the [N] vapor composition can conventionally be increased by reducing the arsine flow rate, this may also produce material having poor optoelectronic characteristics. However, by growing at a higher total pressure, the arsine flow rate may be reduced, while maintaining the same arsine partial pressure. The resulting mixture is highly nitrogen-rich for enhancing the nitrogen content of InGaAsN alloys, and forming a material having excellent optoelectronic characteristics.
[0044] The advantage for a lower arsine (AsH 3 ) flow rate is especially clear when it is considered that the dimethylhydrazine flow rate is limited because it is a liquid source, the vapor of which is transported into the reactor using a carrier gas, such as hydrogen. Generally, for a liquid source, the bubbler's carrier gas flow should not exceed 500 sccm. Otherwise, the carrier gas may no longer be saturated with the precursor vapor. In addition, the bubbler temperature should be held lower than room temperature to avoid condensation in the gas lines between the bubbler and reactor. These considerations dictate that the maximum DMHy flow rate should be limited to:
f DMHy maximum ≅ 500 sccm · 163 mbar 400 mbar - 163 mbar ≈ 350 sccm
[0045] This assumes a bubbler temperature of 20° C. (for which the DMHy vapor pressure is 163 mbar), and a total bubbler pressure of 400 mbar (˜300 Torr).
[0046] The nitrogen content of the InGaAsN film will increase as the nitrogen content of the vapor increases. Thus, to achieve the maximum [N] vapor , the maximum DMHy bubbler flow rate should be used, along with an arsine flow rate no higher than that, which satisfies the arsine partial pressure requirement. Computing the vapor concentration of dimethylhydrazine [N] vapor =f DMHy /{f DMHy +f AsH3 } (where f DMHy and f AsH3 are the dimethylhydrazine and arsine flow rates, respectively), from the numerical examples above gives, for the two different growth pressures of 50 mbar (minimum AsH 3 =50 sccm) and 200 mbar (minimum AsH 3 =10 sccm),
[ N ] vapor 50 - mbar ≅ 350 sccm 350 sccm + 50 sccm ≈ 0.875
[ N ] vapor 200 - mbar ≅ 350 sccm 350 sccm + 10 sccm ≈ 0.972
[0047] Thus, this example indicates that raised growth pressure can enable a significantly higher nitrogen concentration in the vapor, while simultaneously maintaining sufficient arsine supply for epitaxial growth of material with excellent optoelectronic quality.
[0048] [0048]FIG. 3 is a graphical illustration 300 showing a comparison of the photoluminescence for two InGaAs quantum wells, one fabricated at an increased growth pressure of 100 mbar and the other fabricated at an increased growth pressure of 200 mbar. In this example, InGaAs quantum wells are used to illustrate the minimum amount of arsine used to grow an InGaAs quantum well having high optical quality. Essentially, FIG. 3 illustrates the effect that increasing the total growth pressure and lowering the arsine flow rate has on light intensity.
[0049] In FIG. 3, the left-hand vertical axis 302 represents light intensity, the right-hand vertical axis 306 represents the full width at half maximum (FWHM) spectral peak in millielectron volts (meV), and the horizontal axis 304 represents the arsine (AsH 3 ) to group-III material ratio. This ratio represents the absolute ratio of arsine (AsH 3 ) to group-III materials. For example, an arsine (AsH 3 ) to group-III ratio of 10 indicates that atomically there are 10 times more arsine (AsH 3 ) molecules than group-III precursor molecules. This ratio is also the arsine to group III atomic ratio because each arsine molecule contains one arsenic atom and the TMGa and TMIn molecules each contribute one group III atom. In an InGaAs quantum well, the indium and gallium are considered the group-III materials, while arsenic is the group-V material.
[0050] As shown using curves 310 and 312 , the intensity of the phosphorescence of the InGaAs quantum well represented by curve 310 (where the InGaAs quantum well was formed at a reactor pressure of 200 mbar) exceeds the intensity of the phosphorescence of the InGaAs quantum well represented by curve 312 , which was grown at a 100 mbar growth pressure, for arsine (AsH 3 ) to group III ratios in the approximate range of 2-80. Further, the arsine to group-III ratio indicates a lower arsine quantity for a given intensity and FWHM value for the InGaAs quantum well fabricated at the elevated 200 mbar growth pressure.
[0051] Similarly, the width of the spectral peak of the InGaAs quantum well formed at a growth pressure of 200 mbar (indicated by line 314 ) is narrower than the width of the spectral peak of the InGaAs quantum well formed at a growth pressure of 100 mbar, referred to using reference numeral 316 . From the graph 300 it is clear that a high quality InGaAs quantum well can be grown with a lower arsine to group-III ratio, and therefore, at a lower arsine flow rate, by raising the reactor pressure from 100 mbar to 200 mbar.
[0052] [0052]FIG. 4 is a graphical illustration 400 showing the relationship between the concentration of nitrogen (N) in an epitaxial layer (y in InGaAs 1-y N y ) and the concentration of nitrogen precursor in the vapor (DMHy/[DMHy+AsH 3 ]). In the graph 400 , the vertical axis 402 represents the fraction of nitrogen in an epitaxial layer of InGaAsN, while the horizontal axis 404 represents the concentration of nitrogen precursor in the vapor DMHy/[DMHy+AsH 3 ] (the total group-V precursor including the arsine and the DMHy). The dotted diagonal line 406 represents a nitrogen incorporation of unity in the epitaxial layer for dimethylhydrazine. As shown from the curve 408 , it is clear that the amount of nitrogen in the solid epitaxial film (the vertical axis 402 ) at a growth pressure of 200 mbar, far exceeds the amount of nitrogen in the solid film at a growth pressure of 50 mbar. Essentially a higher growth pressure permits a higher [N] solid because the arsine content (AsH 3 ), as a proportion of the total group-V material, may be reduced so that the InGaAsN film may be grown in a more nitrogen-rich environment.
[0053] [0053]FIGS. 5A through 5F are schematic views illustrating an alternative embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 5A one or more sublayers of InGaAs 504 are formed over a GaAs region, which has the same characteristics as the GaAs lower cavity spacer layer 120 described above. The sublayers each have a thickness of one or two atoms.
[0054] In FIG. 5B, the growth of the InGaAs sublayer 504 is stopped. This is referred to as a “growth stop” where the flow of the group-III precursors is discontinued. Additionally, the arsine flow rate is lowered and a high DMHy flow rate is switched into the reactor. This exposes the surface of the sublayer 504 to an ambient atmosphere with a very high nitrogen vapor content. The nitrogen atoms, an exemplary one of which is indicated using reference numeral 506 , bond to and are incorporated in the sublayer 504 .
[0055] In FIG. 5C, the flow of the DMHy is discontinued, the flow of the group-III precursors is restored and the arsine flow is restored to its original level. Accordingly, the growth of the InGaAs is resumed and an additional sublayer 508 comprising InGaAs is grown over the nitrogen atoms 506 . In FIG. 5D, another growth stop is performed, and the surface of the sublayer 508 is exposed to an ambient atmosphere having a very high nitrogen vapor content. As mentioned above with respect to FIG. 5B, nitrogen atoms 510 bond to the surface of the sublayer 508 . A typical quantum well layer has a thickness of eight (8) nm, which, for InGaAsN are 15 sublayers. Accordingly, it is desirable to perform at least a few complete growth stop/nitrogen dose cycles for each quantum well layer. Preferably, each InGaAsN quantum well layer comprises eight (8) growth stop/nitrogen dose cycles, although more or fewer growth stop/nitrogen dose cycles are possible.
[0056] In FIG. 5E, alternating growth of InGaAs sublayers and nitrogen dosing steps is continued until a full thickness quantum well layer 520 of InGaAsN is grown. Finally, in FIG. 5H, a barrier layer 522 of, for example, GaAs, is grown over the InGaAsN quantum well layer 520 . In this manner, InGaAsN having higher average nitrogen content may be achieved.
[0057] [0057]FIGS. 5A through 5F demonstrate that a high nitrogen content may be incorporated into an InGaAsN epitaxial film at an interface during a growth stop with a dimethylhydrazine+arsine mixture flowing into the reactor. In this case, analysis indicates a very high nitrogen content at the first QW interface (nitrogen atoms 506 ), when a 5-sec growth stop is incorporated to establish AsH 3 and DMHy flows into the reactor. In this manner, it is possible to enhance the nitrogen content of an InGaAsN quantum well layer by frequently stopping the InGaAs growth and dosing the surface with a DMHy/AsH 3 flux having a high DMHy to arsine ratio.
[0058] In another alternative embodiment, because nitrogen incorporates more favorably on a GaAs surface than on an InGaAs surface, it is possible to “passivate” an InGaAs sublayer by growing one monolayer of GaAs by discontinuing the indium precursor during growth of the monolayer. Such a monolayer could be formed by using a composition of In x GaAs 1-x , where x is equal to 0. The resultant GaAs surface is then exposed to a mixture of DMHy and AsH 3 that is rich in DMHy to enhance the nitrogen content in the InGaAsN.
[0059] During a growth stop, there is a dynamic equilibrium between absorption and desorption of arsenic from the crystal surface of the InGaAs sublayer. However, to stabilize the surface against decomposition, the arsine flow rate should be somewhat less than the flow rate required to support growth of high-quality material. Consequently, during each growth stop, the arsine flow rate may be reduced, thereby increasing the relative DMHy content of the vapor mixture to further encourage greater nitrogen incorporation.
[0060] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations may be made to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, as set forth above, without departing substantially from the principles of the present invention. For example, many light emitting devices can benefit from the economical growth of an InGaAsN active layer. The InGaAsN active region, including InGaAsN quantum well layers can be used in surface-emitting as well as edge-emitting lasers. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present invention, as defined in the claims that follow.
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Several methods for producing an active region for a long wavelength light emitting device are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises placing a substrate in an organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) reactor, the substrate for supporting growth of an indium gallium arsenide nitride (InGaAsN) film, supplying to the reactor a group-III-V precursor mixture comprising arsine, dimethylhydrazine, alkyl-gallium, alkyl-indium and a carrier gas, where the arsine and the dimethylhydrazine are the group-V precursor materials and where the percentage of dimethylhydrazine substantially exceeds the percentage of arsine, and pressurizing the reactor to a pressure at which a concentration of nitrogen commensurate with light emission at a wavelength longer than 1.2 um is extracted from the dimethylhydrazine and deposited on the substrate.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In digital computer networks such as the Internet, collections of data, referred to as “datagrams,” are typically transferred from node to node over the network in packets. Each packet of data typically includes a header portion and a data portion. In accordance with the common Internet protocol (IP), the header portion typically includes a 32-bit source identifying portion which identifies the source node that originated the packet and a 32-bit destination identifying portion which identifies the destination node to which the packet is ultimately to be transferred.
At each node, a router is used to forward the packet to the next node in the path toward the destination node. When a router receives a packet, it examines the destination address in the packet header. It then searches its locally stored routing table to determine the next node to which the packet should be transferred in order to ensure that it will reach its destination, typically along the shortest possible path. The router then forwards the packet to the next node identified in the routing table. This process continues at each successive node until the destination node is reached.
Another technique used to forward packets which can be implemented in IP routers is referred to as multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), or simply label switching. In MPLS, a path or route, referred to as a label-switched path (LSP), through a label-switched network or subnetwork is created before actual data traffic is forwarded over the network. The LSP directs the forwarding of datagrams from a given ingress point to a given egress point in the bounded network or subnetwork.
In general, any pair of network nodes may be directly connected by more than one physical link. These physical links are equivalent to each other in the sense that a packet may be sent over any of them without affecting the way it is delivered to the ultimate destination. A set of such links comprises a single “logical link.” This configuration is referred to herein as “multiple parallel links.” In traditional IP forwarding, data traffic for a particular source and destination, i.e., a “flow,” should always travel along the same link to ensure that data packets are not misaligned in time when they arrive at the destination node. Therefore, a router must select one of multiple links for transmission of data packets to the next link, and, for each source/destination pair, it must select the same link to ensure proper alignment of data at the destination. The router typically performs an analysis of the packet header contents to assign each packet to a physical link. Usually this involves a hash function of the 5-tuple of fields in the IP header (source IP address, destination IP address, protocol, source port number, destination port number) or a subset of these fields, such as source IP address and destination IP address. A hash function is designed to perform a computation on one or more data words and return a unique data word of shorter length. For example, a hash function performed on two 32-bit IP addresses may divide the combined 64-bit word by a constant and return as a result the value of the remainder in fewer bits, e.g., five. Other hash procedures include the use of a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) and the use of a checksum. Each time a hash procedure is performed on the same initial values, the same result is obtained. Therefore, deriving the link assignment from such a hash ensures that all packets with the same field contents take the same physical link, and thus all packets of a given application flow also take the same link. This ensures that the existence of multiple links does not contribute to the risk of misordered packets within a flow.
In MPLS packet forwarding, MPLS can be used to route some traffic over a path other than the shortest one in order to relieve congestion on some paths. In a label switching network, paths are set up in advance for given sets of traffic that are to be forwarded along the same path. A set of traffic that is to follow the same paths is commonly referred to as a forwarding equivalence class (FEC). The ingress router can create label-switched paths (LSPs) to each of the other edge routers to which it expects to send traffic, and it can make all the decisions about the routes taken by the packets it forwards. It can do so by asking each downstream router in the path to assign a label value to the path. Using a signaling protocol such as RSVP or LDP, the ingress node sends a path setup request signal along the desired path to request labels from each of the nodes in the path. When the signal reaches the egress node, the egress node begins the process of allocating labels for the path. The egress node sends its allocated label back to the next preceding node, which stores the label and generates its own label for the traffic and transmits that label back to its next preceding node. This continues until all of the nodes along the path have assigned labels for the given FEC traffic.
When the ingress router desires to send a packet along a path, it places a small header, referred to as the MPLS header, on the front of the packet. The MPLS header contains the label value assigned by the next router in the path. The router then forwards the packet with the new MPLS header to the next router, which removes the label from the packet and replaces it with the label assigned by the next router. The packet is then forwarded to the next router. This continues until the packet has been forwarded over the entire LSP, i.e., it reaches the egress router. The egress router knows that it is at the end of the LSP, so it removes the MPLS header from the packet and forwards the packet on the network using the traditional IP destination address lookup.
In MPLS, the labels assigned by the nodes identify the route to be taken from node to node along the LSP, but they do not readily provide the ability to distinguish multiple physical parallel links within the route or path. One reason for this is that it is difficult to compute an IP address hash at each node or “hop,” as is done in IP forwarding, because the IP header is “hidden” behind the MPLS header. Hence, the hash procedure, which may be usable to select one of many paths, is not readily adaptable to MPLS. One of the features of MPLS is that the LSP carries opaque traffic, that is, the end points of the LSP know what protocol is carried, but the interior nodes do not. This feature could allow MPLS to be used to create virtual private networks that carry other protocols as well as IP. This means that an interior node cannot reliably compute an address hash, because it does not know anything about the contents of the packet behind the first MPLS header. Furthermore, even if it is known that all packets carry IP datagrams, there is a problem knowing where the IP header is located within the packet. This is because MPLS permits a stack of label headers to be added to the front of a packet. The label header format includes a single bit indicating the last label before the encapsulated protocol begins, meaning that the position of the encapsulated header must be found by examining the label headers, one-by-one, until the last one is found.
Conventional MPLS suffers a drawback in that, with conventional MPLS, it is relatively inefficient to set up multiple parallel paths to distribute traffic over multiple parallel physical links. In particular, each individual path needs to be independently signaled, i.e., set up. This signaling becomes particularly inefficient when there are a large number of potential parallel paths.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention solves the above problems and drawbacks of the prior art by providing a technique for allocating multiple paths in a route that is defined from node to node in a label switching network and a technique for distributing traffic of an FEC over multiple paths while ensuring that traffic of individual flows is not sent over different paths. The invention is directed to an apparatus and method for forwarding data from a source to a destination over a network which includes a subnetwork within the network, which in one embodiment is a label-switching subnetwork. The subnetwork includes a plurality of subnetwork nodes connected by a plurality of subnetwork links. The subnetwork nodes include an ingress node and an egress node coupled to the source and destination, respectively. At least one pair of subnetwork nodes is connected by a plurality of subnetwork links, i.e., parallel physical links. The subnetwork nodes and links define a plurality of subnetwork paths between the ingress node and the egress node. A response request signal is forwarded from the ingress node to the egress node along a route through a subset of subnetwork nodes between the ingress node and the egress node. The response request signal requests a response from each node along the route. The response signals sent by the nodes define or allocate a plurality of paths within the route between the ingress node and the egress node.
In general, the subnetwork is a label-switching network within a larger network such as the Internet which forwards data using the Internet protocol (IP). The ingress node can be coupled to and receive packets from multiple source nodes and/or nodes interposed between the source nodes and the ingress node. Likewise, the egress node can be coupled to and transmit packets to multiple destination nodes and/or nodes interposed between the egress node and the destination nodes. In general, packets can be forwarded to the ingress node of the subnetwork using IP packet forwarding. The ingress node router can attach an MPLS header to the packet and forward it along the subnetwork using label switching in accordance with the invention to the egress node router. The egress node router then removes the MPLS header from the packet and forwards the packet to the next node on the way to the destination node using IP forwarding.
The data for each source/destination pair will be assigned a single path within the route. As a result, misalignment of data at the egress node is avoided.
In one embodiment, the response signals sent by the nodes simultaneously define the multiple paths in accordance with the invention. The response signal can include a label word which defines a number of data bits for the label. A certain predefined portion of the bits of the label word define the route to be used such that packets are forwarded along the correct path from node to node. The remaining bits are used to define multiple paths within the route allocated by the nodes to carry data. For example, in one embodiment, a complete label word is twenty bits long. To establish 32 paths, for example, the first fifteen bits of the response label word can be used by a node to identify the route. The remaining five bits can be used to select one of 32 possible paths within the route. Hence, in the response label word transmitted by a node, the first subset or group of bits, e.g., fifteen bits, identifies the route. The remaining, e.g., five, bits are “don't cares.”
The ingress router can select one of the available allocated paths based on the source and destination of an arriving packet. For example, the ingress router can perform a hash operation on the IP source and destination fields in the IP header of the packet to produce a unique word of the same number of bits as the number of “don't care” bits in the response label. The resulting word can then be used to select one of the paths. In the example above, where five bits are used to select one of 32 paths, a hash operation can be performed on the 32-bit source and destination IP addresses to produce a unique five-bit word, which is then used to select one of the 32 possible allocated paths.
In actuality, each node router need not actually transmit the don't care bits back up the route to the ingress router. Only the bits used to identify the route need be transferred. The ingress router can perform the necessary operations for selecting one of the allocated paths. Since the system provides for selection of a single path for a given source/destination pair via the hashing procedure, it is ensured that misalignment of data at the egress node is avoided.
The approach of the invention provides numerous advantages. For example, label switching, which is much faster and more efficient than IP forwarding, can be used efficiently in an environment with multiple parallel links. The system allows multiple paths to be set up simultaneously instead of requiring that each path be set up individually. This saves considerable processing time, which leads to improved network operation, particularly with respect to reduced time to set up or adjust paths. This also allows a bundled set of paths to be handled with reduced control resources, when compared to the resources required to set up paths individually.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a network 10 which can implement a packet forwarding technique in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2 contains a detailed block diagram of the subnetwork shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram which illustrates a variation on the subnetwork of FIG. 2 in which pairs of subnetwork nodes can be connected by multiple links.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a network 10 which can implement a packet forwarding technique in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 1 , the network 10 can include multiple nodes 16 connected by links 24 which carry data packets from node to node on the network 10 . As shown, the network includes multiple source nodes 12 and destination nodes 14 connected to the network nodes 16 . A source node 12 can forward data packets over the network 10 to a destination node 14 . It will be understood that the source and destination nomenclature is used as a convention to describe the direction of data flow. In conventional networks, all nodes can typically serve as a source node or a destination node, depending upon whether it is sending or receiving data.
In accordance with the invention, the network 10 includes a subnetwork 22 over which packets can be transferred en route from a source node 12 to a destination node 14 . Packets enter the subnetwork 22 through a node X( 26 ) and exit the subnetwork 22 through a node Y( 28 ). In accordance with the invention, the network 10 is primarily an IP network which transfers packets between the nodes 16 using the common IP packet forwarding protocol. Each node includes a router with a stored routing table which allows the router to determine the node to which a packet should be forwarded based on a table lookup of the destination address stored in the IP header of the packet. In accordance with the invention, the subnetwork 22 does not forward data packets using the IP protocol. It is an MPLS label switching network which forwards packets using label switching. Node X forwards packets into the subnetwork 22 using IP forwarding protocol. The packets are forwarded through the subnetwork 22 as described below in detail using a label switching technique in accordance with the invention and are transferred out of the subnetwork 22 to node Y using IP packet forwarding. From there, the packets continue on to their designated destination nodes 14 using IP forwarding.
FIG. 2 contains a detailed block diagram of the subnetwork 22 shown in FIG. 1 . The subnetwork 22 includes multiple nodes 17 connected by links 19 . A datagram or packet from node X( 26 ) to node Y( 28 ) enters the subnetwork 22 at ingress node router A and exits through egress node router I. In traditional IP forwarding, each router in the network would independently compute the shortest paths for packets to all known destinations, and each router would forward each packet by looking up its destination address in a forwarding or routing table. For a packet from X to Y, the shortest path would be A-B-G-I.
Thus, traditional node-by-node or hop-by-hop IP routing would try to make every packet take the shortest path from entry to exit in the subnetwork. This is efficient, but it might leave some network resources relatively underutilized, while causing some other resources to become overloaded. In FIG. 2 , the path A-B-C-D-I is an alternative path for packets from X to Y that, while longer than the path selected by hop-by-hop routing, could still be used to carry some of the load. This might help to relieve congestion on the path B-G-I.
MPLS can be used to route some of the traffic over a path other than the shortest one. In order to increase the degree of control of network path utilization, MPLS paths can be managed from a single point rather than hop-by-hop. For instance, the ingress router A can create label-switched paths (LSPs) to each of the other edge routers to which it expects to send traffic, and it can make all the decisions about the routes taken by the packets it forwards.
An ingress router A creates a label-switched path by asking each downstream router in the path to assign a label value to the path. In one implementation, a label is an integer value small enough to be used as an index value in a table lookup. As an example, it is assumed that ingress router A wishes to send set up a label-switched path A-B-C-D-I. Using a signaling protocol, such as RSVP or LDP, it sends a path setup request along that path. The routers in the path assign, for example, the following label values to it: B assigns 4, C assigns 20, D assigns 38, and I assigns 9. It should be noted that these label values are selected for purposes of illustrating an example of the invention. In practice, the values selected by the nodes in a path may in general be different each time that path is created. When the response comes back to A, the path is set up. Now if A wishes to forward a packet along that path, it places an MPLS header on the front of the packet containing the value assigned by B (4) and sends the packet on a link to B. B, receiving a packet labeled 4, knows it must froward the packet on a link to C with the new label value 20. It replaces the 4 with 20 in the label header and sends the packet to C. Each router in the path replaces the label value with the new one assigned by the next-hop router until the packet arrives at I, bearing the label value 9. Router I knows that it is the end of the path for packets labeled 9, so it strips the label header from the packet and forwards it toward Y using the traditional IP destination address lookup.
In MPLS packet forwarding, each router stores a label map which defines how data with a particular label is to be routed through the network. A label map includes a table which includes an entry for the input circuit identifier, i.e., the identifying label for the router receiving the packet for forwarding, the output link, i.e., the link over which the packet should be forwarded out of the present node, and an output circuit identifier, i.e., the label identifier for the next succeeding node in the path to which the packet is to be forwarded. When a router at a node receives a packet, it examines the label map to determine the link on which the packet is to be forwarded to the next node. It discards the label that was on the packet when it arrived and replaces it with the label for the next node, such that the next node can use its own label map to forward the packet to the next succeeding node.
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram which illustrates a variation on the subnetwork 22 of FIG. 2 . In the subnetwork 122 of FIG. 3 , multiple links 19 can be used between nodes 17 of the subnetwork 122 . The multiple links are managed in such a way that the existence of multiple equivalent links between any pair of routers is known only to the link layer. In traditional IP forwarding, they appear as if they were a single link. Under IP forwarding, in the subnetwork 122 of FIG. 3 , router A would look up the destination address in a packet for a destination coupled to node Y. The router A decides that the shortest path to Y follows one of the links from A to B. It must select one of five equivalent links for transmission of each packet in such a way as to balance the traffic load over all the available links. There are many ways of making this selection, but it is important to ensure that all packets from X to Y that belong to the same flow take the same link. If they took different links, there is a danger that they would not arrive at Y in the same order that X sent them. Such misordering of packets can cause TCP protocol implementations to react as if packets were lost, resulting in unnecessary retransmission and reduced throughput. Thus router A performs an analysis of the packet header contents to assign each packet to a physical link. Usually this involves a hash function of the 5-tuple of fields in the IP header (source IP address, destination IP address, protocol, source port number, destination port number) or a subset of these fields, such as source IP address and destination IP address. Deriving the link assignment from such a hash ensures that all packets with the same field contents take the same physical link, and thus all packets of a given application flow also take the same kink. This ensures that the existence of multiple links does not contribute to the risk of misordered packets within a flow.
Using traditional MPLS to forward packets through the subnetwork of FIG. 3 presents certain problems. For example, using MPLS to route traffic over the path A-B-G-I in FIG. 3 is considered. The desire is to distribute the traffic evenly across all the links, without producing out-of-order delivery. In this case, it is difficult to compute an IP address hash at each node because the IP header is hidden behind the MPLS header. In accordance with the invention, optimal distribution of the traffic over the multiple links in this path using MPLS is achieved by creating multiple label-switched paths (LSPs) between nodes. In one embodiment, the number of LSPs needed to create the path from the ingress router A to the egress router I is equal to the least common multiple (LCM) of the number of links on each individual hop. For example, for the path A-B-G-I, the number of links on the A-B hop is 5, the number of links on the B-G hop is 3, and the number of links on the G-I hop is 2. Therefore, the number of LSPs generated for the A-B-G-I path should be a minimum of the least common multiple (LCM) of 5, 3 and 2; LCM (5,3,2)=30. The A-B hop would divide the 30 LSPs into five groups of six; the B-G hop would divide the 30 LSPs into three groups of ten; and the G-I hop would divide the LSPs into two groups of fifteen.
Whereas LCM computes the minimal number of paths needed to balance the distribution of paths over a plurality of physical links, this minimal number may be much fewer that the most desirable number. For example, if the number of hops from A to B and B to G in FIG. 3 where changed to 8, LCM (8, 8, 2) gives 8 as the number of paths needed to ensure equal distribution of paths over links on each hop. But if one of the links from B to G were to fail, then LCM (8, 7, 2)=56. In this situation it becomes impossible to balance the load over the remaining links using only eight switched paths. In this example, a number of paths on the order of eight times the LCM may be required to ensure the load can still be a balanced after one or more link failures.
In accordance with the invention, these multiple LSPs are generated simultaneously in response to a single request signal from the ingress router A sent along the path. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a mask value is added to the label value when setting up a LSP. By way of example, the MPLS standard uses a 20-bit label. The mask value added according to one embodiment is also a 20-bit number in which a bit is set (1) to indicate that the corresponding label value bit is important in determining the route that packets will take, and clear (0) to indicate that it is not, i.e., that it is a “don't care” bit. The effect is to simultaneously set up a number of LSPs that take the same router-to-router path, but that do not necessarily use the same links between the routers when multipath links are present. The number of LSPs simultaneously created and maintained can be 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, etc., depending on the number of bits that are zero in the mask value. In general, if the number of zero bits is n and the number of paths set up is N, then, in one embodiment, N=2 n . These multiple LSPs are referred to herein as an “LSP bundle.”
A number of alternative implementations for the mask value of the invention are possible. In one embodiment, the mask value can be transmitted as part of the path setup message. Alternatively, the mask value can be configured in each router in the path. The mask value can be represented as a 20-bit field with ones in the mask position. Alternatively, the mask value can be represented by an integer indicating the number of leading one bits (or trailing zero bits) in the mask. Use of an integer value implies that the mask is a contiguous string of one bits starting in the left-most bit position. It will be understood that other configurations are possible. Also, the bit value interpretations, i.e., one or zero, can be reversed.
The operation of setting up the LSP bundle is analogous to setting up a single path as described above. Assuming by way of example only that a 64-path LSP bundle is to be created for the route A-B-G-I in FIG. 3 , in one embodiment, router A sends a path setup request along that path, sending the binary mask value 1111 1111 1111 1100 0000. Each router in the path assigns 64 label values for the 64 bundled LSPs that are being created. The label values are assigned so that they all share the same bit pattern in the bits corresponding to “1” bits in the mask value. One such set of assignments is shown by way of example only in Table 1 below.
TABLE 1
Router
Label Range Assigned
B
0000 0000 0001 0000 0000 2 –
0000 0000 0001 0011 1111 2 (256 10 –319 10 )
G
0000 0000 0101 0000 0000 2 –
0000 0000 0101 0011 1111 2 (1280 10 –1343 10 )
I
0000 0000 0010 0100 0000 2 –
0000 0000 0010 0111 1111 2 (576 10 –639 10 )
Each router assigns the 64 labels assigned by the downstream router to the links to the next hop so that each link carries approximately the same number of paths. For example, router A could divide router B's 64 labels into four groups of 12 and one group of 16, assigning labels 256 through 267 to one link, 268 through 279 to the next link, 280 through 291 to the next link, 292 through 303 to the next link, and 304 through 319 to the fifth link.
Router A is the entry or ingress to the LSP. It is the last point at which the IP header contents are visible. In one embodiment, router A assigns incoming traffic to one of the LSPs using the IP header. In one embodiment, it computes an IP address hash for each packet and uses the hash value to assign each packet to one of the 64 LSPs. In this particular example, the hash operation returns a 6-bit word used to select one of the 64 LSPs. The hash operation used to compute the hash value can be of the type described in, for example, The Art of Computer Programming , Volume 3, “Sorting and Searching,” by Donald E. Knuth, published in 1973 by Addison-Wesley, pages 512–513, or other suitable hash operation. The hash operation can include performing a division on the IP source and destination addresses, such as by dividing them by a constant and keeping the remainder as the hash result. Alternatively, the hash can include a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) or a checksum. It will be recognized that other hash procedures can be used in accordance with the invention. The result, given a sufficiently large aggregation of application flows along the route, is a statistically even distribution of traffic across the available links to the egress router I. It should be noted that the hash operation need not be performed on the address fields in the IP header of the packets. Alternatively, the hash can be performed on the protocol field or some other information which identifies the packet as being part of a particular flow between a source node and a destination node.
In accordance with the invention, multiple LSPs can be merged, that is, packets can arrive at a router on different links or with different labels and go out on the same link with the same label. There are three cases considered with respect to merging of LSPs. The first case is the one in which an LSP bundle is joined to a single LSP. In this case, there are two possibilities: either the single LSP can become a bundle, or all the LSPs in the bundle can merge into the single LSP. This choice is a matter of network administration, and it does not increase the possibility that packets will be misordered. The second merging case is the case in which one LSP bundle joins another LSP bundle. In this case, there are three choices for merging: the number of LSPs proceeding forward from the merge point can be the number of LSPs in the original bundle, or it can be the number in the bundle that joined it, or it can be the sum of the two. When mapping one LSP into another, it is only necessary to ensure that packets entering on one LSP do not somehow exit on more than one, since that would cause packet misordering. The third merging case is the case in which a single LSP joins a bundle. In this case, the single LSP must join just one of the LSPs in the bundle.
It is desirable that all routers in the path of the bundled LSP support the mask in the signaling protocol. If they do not, it is still possible to set up bundled LSPs in the routers that support them using a static configuration of the mask length. The mask length should be configured to 20, for example, i.e., exactly one LSP in a bundle, on links toward routers that do not support bundling. If a single LSP is configured to branch into a bundle at some point in the path, it is necessary to look inside the packet, determine if and where an IP header exists within, and hash its contents to assign each packet to one of the bundled LSPs.
It is also possible to signal bundled LSPs along such a heterogeneous path. There are at least two cases considered. The first case is that of a path with a set of links from a router that uses bundled LSPs to one that does not. To illustrate this case, referring to FIG. 3 , it is assumed that router A supports bundling and router B does not. When router A receives a bundled LSP setup request for a path leading to B, it can replicate this as it propagates it to B. Each LSP in the bundle generates an individual request to B, so that the number of LSPs in the bundle is maintained.
The second case is that of a path with a set of links from a router that does not use bundled LSPs to one that does. To illustrate this case, referring to FIG. 3 , it is assumed that router A supports bundling and router B does not. However, in this case, it is also assumed that router B is setting up a group of paths that lead to router A. When it receives the first request, A can pass it along to the next hop as a bundled request. As it receives subsequent requests from B for LSPs taking the same route, it can map them into the established bundle and send a successful reply to B, without propagating the request further downstream.
An MPLS path or “tunnel” can be configured to be carried inside a second MPLS tunnel by adding a second MPLS header to the front of the packet. Both inner and outer tunnels can be bundled LSPs in accordance with the invention. Individual LSPs of the inner bundle can be mapped to those of the outer bundle. The inner label value implicitly carries the IP address hash information that was calculated at the original ingress. In effect, this same hash can determine LSP assignment into any number of tunnels in a hierarchy.
While this invention has been particularly shown and described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
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An apparatus and method for forwarding data on a network are described. A label-switching subnetwork within the network includes an ingress node and an egress node coupled to source and destination nodes, respectively, on the network. The ingress node sends a signal along a route within the subnetwork through a plurality of subnetwork nodes to the egress node. In response, the subnetwork nodes transmit response signals back along the route toward the ingress node which define the route through the subnetwork and simultaneously allocate a plurality of paths within the route. A single path can be selected for forwarding of data packets associated with a source/destination pair, ensuring that data packets arriving at the destination are not misaligned.
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[0001] This is a divisional of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/931,455, filed on Oct. 31, 2007.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to compounds, compositions for use in reversing multidrug resistance in cancer cells, process for the preparation thereof and their uses in treating cancers. More particularly, the present invention relates to 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarin compounds for use in reversing P-glycoprotein over-expression mediated multidrug resistance in cancer cells, process for the preparation thereof, pyranocoumarins containing composition, and their uses in treating cancers.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Symptom of multidrug resistance (MDR) is generally reported in cancer patients in the course of their chemotherapy treatment, of which partial cancer cells are still allowed to survive and keep growing under the influence of a single anticancer drug, and show resistance to a wide spectrum of structurally and functionally unrelated anti-cancer agents, which results in the reduction of chemotherapy efficacy or even leads to chemotherapy failure.
[0004] A number of mechanisms have been described to explain the phenomenon of MDR in mammalian cells (1. Krishna R, Mayer L D. Multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer. Mechanisms, reversal using modulators of MDR and the role of MDR modulators in influencing the pharmacokinetics of anticancer drugs. Eur J Pharm Sci 2000; 11:265-283. 2. Stavrovskaya A A. Cellular mechanisms of multidrug resistance of tumor cells. Biochemistry (Moscow) 2000; 65:95-106. 3. Ozben T. Mechanisms and strategies to overcome multiple drug resistance in cancer. FEBS Lett 2006; 580:2903-9). These include Glutathione S-transferease (GST) overexpression, which enhances metabolic biotransformation of many anticancer drugs or xenobiotic detoxification; upregulation of DNA topoisomerase II or topoisomerase II gene mutation, which neutralize actions of anticancer drugs targeting at topoisomerase II; mutation of tumor suppressor gene p53 that deregulates cell cycle arrest in G 1 and apoptosis following DNA damage caused by anticancer drugs, or overexpression of bcl-2, a gene that block cell death; overexpression of lung-resistance-related protein (LRP) in the cytoplasm which participate in the transport of substrates from nucleus to cytoplasm and sequestration into vesicles; lastly, overexpression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters such as multidrug resistance associated protein (MRP), P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) that cause reduced intracellular drug accumulation through binding with anticancer drug substrates and bringing them out of cells. Of all these mechanisms, P-gp-directed drug transport has been studied in most detail and appears to be a very common mechanism of MDR both in vitro and vivo.
[0005] P-gp is an ATP-dependent plasma membrane transporter protein encoded by MDR1 gene. P-gp is expressed with high level in the tissues of liver, gastrointestinal mucous membrane, kidney and pancreas etc, and is proposed to function as an efflux pump, excreting xenotoxins from the membrane bilayer to the exterior, therefore preventing body from damage by exogenous substances from food, drugs or environment. Many currently used chemotherapeutic anticancer drugs are P-gp substrates. These drugs are mainly structurally and functionally unrelated hydrophobic or amphipathic natural products, including anthracyclines, vinca alkaloids, taxanes, and podophyllotoxins (1. Krishna R, Mayer L D. Multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer. Mechanisms, reversal using modulators of MDR and the role of MDR modulators in influencing the pharmacokinetics of anticancer drugs. Eur J Pharm Sci 2000; 11:265-283. 2. Ambudlcar S V, Kimchi-Sarfaty C, Sauna A U, Gottesman M M. P-glycoprotein: from genomics to mechanism. Oncogene, 2003; 22:7468-7485. 3. Ozben T. Mechanisms and strategies to overcome multiple drug resistance in cancer. FEBS Lett 2006; 580:2903-9). Over-expression of P-gp in tumor tissues can greatly decrease substrate drug accumulation within tumor cells and cause failure of chemotherapy because P-gp actively pumps them out by using ATP.
[0006] Resistance of tumor to an anticancer agent can be reversed by coadminstering a multidrug resistance modulator (or inhibitor) with the anticancer agent. P-gp modulators themselves are non-toxic compounds or compounds with low toxicity, with no effect on cell proliferation, but can increase cellular accumulation of anticancer drugs that are P-gp substrates through inhibiting P-gp-mediated drug efflux, therefore enhance or restore drug sensitivity of MDR cells. Said P-gp modulator includes Verapamil (a coronary artery dilating drug), Reserpine (an antihypertensive drug), Cyclosporin A (immunosuppressant), XR9576, PSC-833, LY-335979, VX-710 and the like. In general, these drugs or compounds are small hydrophobic aromatic molecules, which can bind to P-gp in a competitive, or non-competitive manner so as to inhibit the transportation of anti-cancer medicaments by P-gp. Though several candidates such as XR9576, LY335979 are undergoing phase III clinical trial, there are currently no clinically applicable P-glycoprotein modulators (1. Kohler S, Stein W D. Optimizing chemotheraphy by measuring reversal of P-glycoprotein activity in plasma membrane vesicles. Biotechnol Bioeng 2003; 81:507-517. 2. Dantzig A H, Shepard R L, Cao J, Law K L, Ehlhardt W J, Baughman T M, Bumol T F, Starling J J. Reversal of P-glycoprotein mediated multidrug resistance by a potent cyclopropyldibenzosuberane modulator LY 335979. Cancer Res 1996; 56:4171-4179. 3. Ozben T. Mechanisms and strategies to overcome multiple drug resistance in cancer. FEBS Lett 2006; 580:2903-9). Accordingly, development of an inhibitor specific to P-gp with low toxicity has become a hotspot of research and development among the scientists.
[0007] (±)-Praeruptorin A, isolated from a medicinal plant Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn, is the first angular pyranocoumarin (also called 7,8-pyranocoumarin) discovered that increases drug sensitivity of Pgp-MDR cells, but its enhancement effect is only moderate (Wu J Y, Fong W F, Zhang J X, Leung C H, Kwong H L, Yang M S, Li D, Cheung H Y. Reversal of multidrug resistance in cancer cells by pyranocoumarins isolated from Radix Peucedani. Eur J Pharmacol 2003; 473:9-17).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In these circumstances, due to the limitations (significant toxic side effects) of the multidrug resistance reversing agents in the art, multidrug resistance reversing agents that definitely reverse the multidrug resistance caused by P-gp over-expression, increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to anti-cancer medicaments, and increase the therapeutic efficacy of anti-cancer medicaments are required.
[0009] Contribution to the above-mentioned problems is provided by the structural modification of (±)-Praeruptorin A by the inventor, which results in the formation of a series of derivatives, i.e. 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarin compounds. It was found that as compared with (±)-Praeruptorin A, 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins possess lower toxicity and better activity in the reversal of multidrug resistance, which lead to the development of new multidrug resistance reversing agent for inhibiting cancer that exhibits higher activity and lower toxicity. In addition, the present invention discloses the process for the preparation and the use of the above compounds.
[0010] More particularly, the present invention provides 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarin compounds having the following general formula:
[0000]
[0011] wherein, R1 and R2 may be the same or different, independently represents aryl, and ester groups at C-3′ and C-4′ are either in cis-configuration or in trans-configuration. Said cis-configuration may be 3′(R),4′(R) or 3′(S),4′(S) or combination of these two; trans-configuration may be 3′(R),4′(S) or 3′(S),4′(R) or combination of these two. Preferred aryl is selected from alkoxy-substituted aryl, and more preferably, aryl is selected from methoxy substituted aryl such as those selected from the group consisting of 4-methoxyphenyl, 4-methoxybenzyl, 4-methoxystyryl, 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl, 3,4-dimethoxybenzyl and 3,4-dimethoxystyryl. More preferably, compound of the present invention is (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-cis-khellactone, (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-trans-khellactone, (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-cis-khellactone or (±)-3′-O,4 ′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-trans-khellactone.
[0012] In another aspect, the present invention also provides the process for the preparation of 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarin compounds, which comprises the following steps:
[0013] (a) To prepare (±)-3′,4′-cis-dihydroxy-7,8-pyranocoumarin (also called (±)-cis-khellactone) and (±)-3′,4′-trans-dihydroxy-7,8-pyranocoumarin (also called (±)-trans-khellactone) respectively using (±)-Praeruptorin A as the lead compound; and
[0014] (b) To prepare (±)-3′,4′-cis-diaromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins and (±)-3′,4′-trans-diaromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins from (±)-cis-khellactone and (±)-trans-khellactone, respectively.
[0015] More particularly, the process of the present invention includes the following step (a) and (b):
[0016] (a) To dissolve (±)Praeruptorin A in dioxane and stir it at about 60° C. for 10-30 minutes in the presence of about 0.5 M potassium hydroxide, followed by slow addition of about 10% sulphuric acid at room temperature for acidification, and then extract the resultant reaction solution with chloroform, and undergo purification with silica gel column chromatography to afford (±)-cis-khellactone and (±)-trans-khellactone, respectively; and
[0017] (b) To dissolve (±)-cis-khellactone and (±)-trans-khellactone in dichloromethane, respectively, followed by stirring under reflux with 5-8 times by mole of aromatic carboxylic acid compound in the presence of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) and 4-dimethylamino pyridine (DMAP) for 2.5-3 hours. Filter the resultant reaction solution after cooling, and the filtrate is subjected to purification with column chromatography to afford pure (±)-3′,4′-cis-diaromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins and (±)-3′,4′-trans-diaromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins, respectively.
[0018] In another aspect, the present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of the present invention. Said pharmaceutical compositions may be in the form of parenteral preparations or oral preparations, but not limited to these.
[0019] Preferred parenteral preparations according to the present invention are injection preparations, but not limited to these. Preferred oral preparations according to the present invention are tablets, capsules, granules and oral solution, but not limited to these.
[0020] It should be understood that compositions containing the compounds of the present invention can be formulated into the required preparations by the person skilled in the art according to the conventional pharmaceutical preparation process in the art.
[0021] In another aspect, the present invention also provides the method for treating cancers, which includes the step of administering therapeutically effective amount of the compounds of the present invention or pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention to the subjects in need thereof, wherein mammals are the preferred subjects, and human is more preferred. Preferably, said compounds or compositions possess the following efficacies:
[0022] (a) Increasing the sensitivity of multidrug-resistant cancer cells to anti-cancer medicaments;
[0023] (b) Reactivating Doxorubicin in drug-resistant cells to induce G2/M arrest, which lead to cells apoptosis;
[0024] (c) Significantly increasing drug accumulation level of Doxorubicin in drug-resistant cells; or
[0025] (d) Significantly decreasing the expulsion of Rh-123 and H33342 in drug-resistant cells.
[0026] Additionally, the compound or the pharmaceutical composition above mentioned may be administered to a subject in need thereof in combination with an anticancer medicament. The anti-cancer medicament includes but not limited to Doxorubicin, Vinblastine, Puromycin and/or Paclitaxel. The significant efficacy of the present invention is that 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarin compounds are effective in reversing multidrug resistance in cancer cells, which is superior to their precursor compound, (±)-Praeruptorin A, and that the process for the preparation thereof is simple and practicable. A drug that can definitely reverse the multidrug resistance and increase the therapeutic efficacy of anti-cancer medicaments is provided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 shows that (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives and Verapamil increase the accumulation level of Doxorubicin in K562-DR and HepG2-DR cells, wherein the increased cellular level of Doxorubicin (%)=100×(F S −F 0 )/F 0
[0000] (Fs: cellular fluorescence intensity of Doxorubicin in the presence of testing drugs; F o : cellular fluorescence intensity of Doxorubicin in the absence of any P-gp modulator).
[0028] FIG. 2 shows that (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives and Verapamil reduce the expulsion of Rh-123 in K562-DR and HepG2-DR cells, wherein the increased cellular level of Rh-123(%)=100×(F S −F 0 )/F 0
[0000] (Fs: cellular fluorescence intensity of Rh-123 in the presence of testing drugs; F o : cellular fluorescence intensity of Rh-123 in the absence of any P-gp modulator).
[0029] FIG. 3 shows that (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives inhibit the expulsion of H33342 in HepG2-DR cells.
[0000] Relative amount of intracellular H33342(%)=100×( F S −F 0 )/ F 0
[0000] (Fs: cellular fluorescence intensity of H33342 in the presence of a testing drug; F o : cellular fluorescence intensity of H33342 in the absence of any P-gp modulator).
[0030] FIG. 4 shows that (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives do not affect the expression of P-gp in drug-resistant cells. After 72-hour incubation in a complete culture solution containing respectively 4 μM of cis-DMDCK (3), 4 μM of cis-DMDBK (4), 4 μM of trans-DMDCK (5) and 4 μM of trans-DMDBK (6), and in a complete culture solution in the absence of the above four components (2), changes in P-gp level in HepG2-DR, KB V1, K562-DR cells were not observed. (1) is the control for sensitive cells.
[0031] FIG. 5 shows the influence of (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives on the binding of UIC2 to P-gp. Under the influences of 5 μM of cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK or trans-DMDBK, intracellular fluorescence intensity increases due to the increase in the binding of UIC2 to P-gp in HepG2-DR cells. Under the influences of 5 μM of trans-DMDCK, intracellular fluorescence intensity decreases due to the reduction of the binding of UIC2 to P-gp in HepG2-DR cells.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] The 7,8-pyranocoumarins according to the present invention and the pharmacological activities thereof were prepared or discovered according to the examples shown below. Said preparation process employed in the present invention relates to technical means that the person skilled in the art can completely master and apply. However, the following examples should not be construed to limit the scope of the appended claims in meaning.
Example 1
Preparation and Structure Identification of (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-cis-khellactone
[0033] (±)-cis-khellactone (80 mg, 0.3 mmol) was dissolved in 5 ml dichloromethane, followed by addition of 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid (310 mg, 1.5 mmol), DCC (206 mg, 1 mmol), DMAP (4 mg, 0.032 mmol), reaction was allowed to stir under reflux for 2.5-3 hours, and then left it to cool. The filtrate obtained from filtration was subjected to purification with flash column chromatography on silica gel using mixed solvent of petroleum ether/ethyl acetate (75:25) as eluent. Fractions were monitored by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Factions containing component with molecular weight of M=642 were collected, dried, and further purified by recrystallization in mixed solvent of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate to afford 22 mg of pure (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-cis-khellactone represented by cis-DMDCK, optical Rotation [α] D =0 (for its Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ( 1 H-NMR), see table 1).
Example 2
Preparation and Structure Identification of (±)-3 ′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-cis-khellactone
[0034] (±)-cis-khellactone (80 mg, 0.3 mmol) was dissolved in 5 ml dichloromethane, followed by addition of 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid (270 mg, 1.5 mmol), DCC (206 mg, 1 mmol), DMAP (4 mg, 0.032 mmol), reaction was allowed to stir under reflux for 2.5-3 hours, and then left it to cool. The filtrate obtained from filtration was subjected to purification with flash column chromatography on silica gel using mixed solvent of petroleum ether/ethyl acetate (75:25) as eluent. Fractions were monitored by LC/MS. Factions containing component with molecular weight of M=590 were collected, dried, and further purified by recrystallization in mixed solvent of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate to afford 40 mg of pure (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-cis-khellactone represented by cis-DMDBK, optical Rotation [α] D =0 (for its Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ( 1 H-NMR), see table 1).
Example 3
Preparation and Structure Identification of (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-trans-khellactone
[0035] (±)-trans-khellactone (80 mg, 0.31 mmol) was dissolved in 5 ml dichloromethane, followed by addition of 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid (310 mg, 1.5 mmol), DCC (206 mg, 1 mmol), DMAP (4 mg, 0.032 mmol), reaction was allowed to stir under reflux for 2.5-3 hours, and then left it to cool. The filtrate obtained from filtration was subjected to purification with flash column chromatography on silica gel using mixed solvent of petroleum ether/ethyl acetate (75:25) as eluent. Fractions were monitored by LC/MS. Factions containing component with molecular weight of M=642 were collected, dried, and further purified by recrystallization in mixed solvent of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate to afford 30 mg of pure (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl)-trans-khellactone represented by trans-DMDCK, optical Rotation [α] D =0 (for its Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ( 1 H-NMR), see table 1).
Example 4
Preparation and Structure Identification of (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-trans-khellactone
[0036] (±)-trans-khellactone (80 mg, 0.31 mmol) was dissolved in 5 ml dichloromethane, followed by addition of 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid (270 mg, 1.5 mmol), DCC (206 mg, 1 mmol), DMAP (4 mg, 0.032 mmol), reaction was allowed to stir under reflux for 2.5-3 hours, and then left it to cool. The filtrate obtained from filtration was subjected to purification with flash column chromatography on silica gel using mixed solvent of petroleum ether/ethyl acetate (75:25) as eluent. Fractions were monitored by LC/MS. Factions containing component with molecular weight of M=590 were collected, dried, and further purified by recrystallization in mixed solvent of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate to afford 13 mg of pure (±)-3′-O,4′-O-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzoyl)-trans-khellactone represented by trans-DMDBK, optical Rotation [α] D =0 (for its Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy ( 1 H-NMR), see table 1).
[0000]
TABLE 1
1 H-NMR data (δppm, CDCl 3 ) of (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives
trans-DMDCK
cis-DMDCK
trans-DMDBK
cis-DMDBK
3-H
6.22 (1H, d, 9.3 Hz)
6.20 (1H, d, 9.3 Hz)
6.19 (1H, d, 9.6 Hz)
6.14 (1H, d,
9.4 Hz)
4-H
7.61 (1H, d, 9.6 Hz)
7.60 (1H, d, 9.6 Hz)
7.54 (1H, d, 9.6 Hz)
7.57 (1H, d,
9.7 Hz)
5-H
7.41 (1H, d, 8.4 Hz)
7.38 (1H, d, 8.5 Hz)
7.42 (1H, d, 8.1 Hz)
7.46 (1H, d,
8.4 Hz)
6-H
6.86 (1H, d, 8.4 Hz)
6.85 (1H, d, 8.8 Hz)
6.80 (1H, d, 8.1 Hz)
6.85 (1H, d,
8.5 Hz)
2′-(CH 3 ) 2
1.53,
1.56,
1.58,
1.62,
1.43 (3H each, s)
1.46 (3H each, s)
1.47 (3H each, s)
1.47 (3H each, s)
3′-H
5.51 (1H, d, 3.9 Hz)
5.52 (1H, d, 4.8 Hz)
5.62 (1H, d, 3.3 Hz)
5.61 (1H, d,
4.7 Hz)
4′-H
6.41 (1H, d, 3.9 Hz)
6.97 (1H, d, 5.3 Hz)
6.58 (1H, d, 3.6 Hz)
6.90 (1H, d,
4.9 Hz)
2 × (Ar-2-H)
7.04,
6.98,
7.57 (2H, s)
7.54 (2H, s)
7.00 (1H each, s)
6.97 (1H each, s)
2 × (Ar-5-H)
6.82,
6.76 (2H, d, 8.2 Hz)
6.90 (2H, d, 8.4 Hz)
6.87 (2H, d,
6.81 (1H each, d, 8.4 Hz)
8.5 Hz)
2 × (Ar-6-H)
7.06 (2H, d, 8.4 Hz)
6.95 (2H, d, 8.0 Hz)
7.76 (2H, d, 8.4 Hz)
7.71 (2H, d,
8.4 Hz)
4 × (OCH 3 )
3.90, 3.88, 3.87,
3.88, 3.86, 3.80,
3.93 (9H, s)
3.90 (3H, s),
3.86 (3H each, s)
3.77 (3H each, s)
3.88 (3H, s)
3.89 (3H, s), 3.84 (6H,
s)
2 × (Ar—CH═)
6.30 (1H, d,
6.31 (2H, d, 15.8 Hz)
15.9 Hz)
2 × (—OCOCH═)
7.66 (1d, d, 15.9 Hz)
7.60 (2H, d, 15.5 Hz)
Example 5
The Effect of Several (±)-Praeruptorin a Derivatives in Reversing Multidrug Resistance in Cancer Cells Caused by Overexpression of P-gp
[0037] I. Assay for the Growth Inhibition of Cancer Cell In Vitro
[0038] 1. Materials and methods
[0039] Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, puromycin, paclitaxel, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and verapamil.
[0040] Cells and cell culture: cell lines used in the experiments are human hepatoma cell line (HepG2), human leukemia cell line (K562), human epidermoid carcinoma cell line (KB-3-1) and their multidrug resistant sublines HepG2-DR, K562-DR and KB V1. The culture conditions for all cells are following: at 37° C. and 5% CO 2 , KB-3-1 and KBV1 were cultured in MEM medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum and 100 U/mL antibiotics; K562, K562-DR, HepG2, HepG2-DR were cultured in RPMI-1640 medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum and 100 U/mL antibiotics. For maintaining the phenotypic characteristics of multidrug resistance, 1.2 μM and 0.1 μM doxorubicin were respectively added into the mediums of HepG2-DR and K562-DR; 200 ng/mL vinblastine was added into the medium of KBV1. Drug resistant cells were grown in drug free medium for at least 7 days before test.
[0041] Drug test: Cell growth inhibitory effects of various drugs were determined by SRB assay in KB-3-1, KB V1, HepG2 and HepG2-DR cells (Skehan P, Storeng R, Scudiero D, Monks A, McMahon J, Vistica D, Warren J T, Bokesch H, Kenney S, Boyd M R. New colorimetric cytotoxicity assay for anticancer-drug screening. J Natl Cancer Inst 1990; 82:1107-12) and by MTT assay in K562 and K562-DR cells (1. Mosmann T. Rapid colorimetric assay for cellular growth and survival: application to proliferation and cytotoxicity assays. J Immunol Methods 1983; 65:55-63. 2. Gerlier D, Thomasset N. Use of MTT colorimetric assay to measure cell activation. — J Immunol Methods 1986; 94:57-63), and evaluated by their respective IC 50 values (concentration inhibiting 50% of cell growth). Each growth inhibition experiment must be repeated three times and results are expressed as mean±standard deviation (SD). Solvents and media were included as blank control.
[0042] In SRB assay, cells are inoculated at 5000 cells/well in a 96-well microplate and incubated overnight to let cells adhere. Drug treatment lasts for 72 hours and cells are fixed for 1 hour at 4° C. with 50 μl ice-cold 15% trichloroacetic acid and washed with triple-distilled water 5 times. Cellular protein is stained by adding 50 μl of 0.4% SRB in 1% acetic acid for 10 minutes, rinsed with 1% acetic acid 5 times and air-dried. The protein-bound dye is dissolved in 100 μl per well of 10 mM Tris base (pH 10.5). The color intensity of SRB, which positively correlate to cell number in preliminary experiments, is estimated at OD 515 nm.
[0043] In MTT assay, cells are inoculated at 5000 cells/well and are incubated overnight. Drug treatment lasts for 68 h. MTT (5 mg/ml in PBS) is added to each well (1:10 dilution). After incubation for 4 hour at 37° C., 5% CO 2 , 1000 of stop solution (10% SDS-50% isobutanol-0.01N HCl) is added to each well to stop the reaction. Viable cell number is estimated by correlating to OD at 570 nm.
[0044] 2. Results
[0045] Table 2 and 3 show the growth inhibitory effects of anti-tumor drugs and cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK in cancer cells. Compared to parental drug sensitive HepG2, K562 and KB-3-1 cells by IC 50 values, drug resistant HepG2-DR, K562-DR and KB V1 cells were highly resistant to the four anticancer drugs tested. The drug resistance ratio (=IC 50 (drug resistant cell) /IC 50 (sensitive cell) ) ranged from 122 to 9271. For example, KB V1 cells were 9271 times more resistant than KB-3-1 cells to vinblastine, HepG2-DR cells were 597 times more resistant than HepG2 cells to puromycin, and K562-DR cells were 5417 times more resistant than K562 cells to paclitaxel (Table 2).
[0046] cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, and trans-DMDBK showed no significant growth inhibitory effects (IC 50 >27 μM) in all six cell lines. Resistance to the four compounds was not observed in drug resistant cells (Table 3).
[0000]
TABLE 2
Cytotoxity of anti-tumor drugs to tumor cells (IC 50 , μM)
Cell line
Vinblastine
Doxorubicin
Puromycin
Paclitaxel
KB-3-1
0.11 ± 0.01 (×10 −3 )
0.18 ± 0.04
0.21 ± 0.05
0.002 ± 0.001
KB V1
1.04 ± 0.34
31.98 ± 2.74
79.30 ± 8.81
8.00 ± 1.48
Resistant ratio
9271
178
378
4000
HepG2
0.10 ± 0.01 (×10 −3 )
0.17 ± 0.10
0.17 ± 0.07
6.07 ± 2.61 (×10 −3 )
HepG2-DR
0.31 ± 0.06
37.27 ± 2.42
104.47 ± 2.48
4.23 ± 0.06
Resistant ratio
3100
219
597
696
K562
0.88 ± 0.25 (×10 −3 )
0.24 ± 0.08
0.39 ± 0.16
0.60 ± 0.23 (×10 −3 )
K562-DR
0.20 ± 0.07
31.02 ± 17.07
47.69 ± 9.00
3.25 ± 0.45
Resistant ratio
227
129
122
5417
[0000]
TABLE 3
Cytotoxity of (±)-praeruptorin A derivatives to tumor cells (IC 50 , μM)
Cell lines
trans-DMDCK
trans-DMDBK
cis-DMDCK
cis-DMDBK
KB-3-1
59.64 ± 2.41
58.96 ± 0.11
61.68 ± 0.63
63.94 ± 0.77
KB V1
27.71 ± 4.99
31.56 ± 2.21
32.30 ± 3.35
29.48 ± 4.92
Resistant ratio
0.47
0.53
0.52
0.46
HepG2
55.19 ± 3.62
47.51 ± 4.94
54.70 ± 3.02
49.19 ± 4.34
HepG2-DR
75.28 ± 5.70
62.35 ± 7.56
70.41 ± 10.38
58.68 ± 2.07
Resistant ratio
1.36
1.31
1.29
1.19
K562
62.17 ± 5.63
56.52 ± 4.67
54.43 ± 4.24
65.85 ± 3.47
K562-DR
88.71 ± 2.01
85.14 ± 6.38
70.01 ± 3.10
60.10 ± 3.29
Resistant ratio
1.42
1.50
1.29
0.91
[0047] II. Assay for the Activity of (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives in Reversing Multidrug Resistance in Tumor Cells
[0048] 1. Materials and methods: the same with I.
[0049] To evaluate the multidrug resistance reversing ability of (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives, IC 50 values of anticancer drugs in the presence and absence of cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, or trans-DMDBK at certain concentration were determined in HepG2-DR, K562-DR and KB V1 cells. The fold decrease of IC 50 value of an anticancer drug in certain cell line achieved by a test compound is calculated (fold decrease=IC 50 of an anti-tumor drug alone/IC 50 of the anti-tumor drug in combination with the test compound) and is used for evaluating the ability of the test compound to reduce drug resistance. The larger the fold decrease value is, the stronger its ability to reverse drug resistance is. The results were average values of three repetitive tests. Verapamil (P-glycoprotein modulator) is the positive control.
[0050] 2. Results
[0051] As shown in table4, all the four compounds significantly reduced drug resistance of drug resistant tumor cells to anti-tumor drugs. cis-DMDCK was the most active. In the presence of 4 μM of cis-DMDCK, IC 50 values of vinblastine, doxorubicin, puromycin and paclitaxel in HepG2-DR cells were decreased by 130, 160, 140 and 150 folds, respectively. In the presence of 2 μM of cis-DMDCK, the corresponding decreases were 105, 107, 111 and 89 times, respectively. Even at the concentration as low as 1 μM, cis-DMDCK reduced the relative IC 50 values by 45, 22, 29 and 23 times, respectively. cis-DMDBK at 4 μM reduced the drug resistance of HepG2-DR cells to the four anti-tumor drugs by 62-117 times, was the second most active. Similar effects were observed in K562-DR and KB V1 cells. cis-DMDCK exhibited multidrug resistance reversing ability that was obviously superior to the other three compounds. In HepG2-DR or K562-DR cells trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK also showed significant effect but were less effective than cis-DMDCK and cis-DMDBK. In KB V1 cells, however, trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDCK exhibited limited ability in reducing drug resistance. For example, decrease in IC 50 values of vinblastine or doxorubicin in the presence of 4 μM of trans-DMDCK or trans-DMDCK was less than 5 folds. The ability of the four compounds for reversing drug resistance of tumor cells are listed as following: cis-DMDCK>cis-DMDBK>trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK.
[0000]
TABLE 4
Analysis of the reversing parameter of (±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives
Cell strains
Drug
Vinblastine
Doxorubicin
Puromycin
verapamil
HepG2-DR
cis-DMDCK
4 μM
129.9 ± 35.5
160.6 ± 12.6
140.9 ± 65.1
159.9 ± 35.0
2 μM
105.7 ± 21.2
107.9 ± 51.9
111.1 ± 38.0
89.6 ± 24.1
1 μM
45.7 ± 10.3
22.5 ± 9.1
29.5 ± 13.0
23.1 ± 7.6
cis-DMDBK
4 μM
82.1 ± 13.1
117.1 ± 13.8
74.6 ± 21.2
62.2 ± 7.9
2 μM
12.4 ± 6.1
33.5 ± 7.5
15.4 ± 4.6
16.1 ± 10.9
1 μM
4.8 ± 4.1
6.2 ± 0.7
4.6 ± 1.3
6.7 ± 6.4
trans-DMDCK
4 μM
13.9 ± 5.8
59.4 ± 18.5
26.6 ± 6.4
32.9 ± 6.9
2 μM
1.9 ± 0.0
8.0 ± 0.6
5.6 ± 0.6
1.6 ± 0.6
trans-DMDBK
4 μM
19.3 ± 10.4
58.2 ± 17.2
28.5 ± 0.2
45.3 ± 7.8
2 μM
1.5 ± 0.3
3.8 ± 1.6
4.6 ± 1.4
1.6 ± 0.6
varapamil
4 μM
4.5 ± 1.5
5.7 ± 2.0
7.6 ± 1.9
4.9 ± 1.3
K562-DR
cis-DMDCK
4 μM
138.7 ± 39.6
28.8 ± 8.9
38.8 ± 8.9
169.9 ± 39.4
cis-DMDBK
4 μM
75.6 ± 21.3
18.9 ± 7.9
21.8 ± 3.1
105.8 ± 51.1
trans-DMDCK
4 μM
31.6 ± 5.1
16.1 ± 9.6
31.1 ± 16.7
27.8 ± 8.7
trans-DMDBK
4 μM
11.0 ± 0.6
7.0 ± 2.2
6.7 ± 0.4
9.8 ± 2.1
verapamil
4 μM
7.2 ± 2.6
5.2 ± 0.4
5.6 ± 0.3
31.0 ± 3.3
KB V1
cis-DMDCK
4 μM
331.2 ± 155.4
50.0 ± 19.1
131.0 ± 7.1
499.8 ± 202.8
2 μM
115.0 ± 17.6
19.1 ± 11.1
61.4 ± 31.3
128.2 ± 53.8
1 μM
2.3 ± 0.8
8.9 ± 2.3
37.0 ± 14.4
9.0 ± 9.7
cis-DMDBK
4 μM
51.6 ± 11.0
16.1 ± 9.5
36.8 ± 16.6
83.3 ± 35.3
2 μM
3.5 ± 1.4
5.6 ± 2.4
15.4 ± 3.3
6.8 ± 2.9
trans-DMDCK
4 μM
1.9 ± 0.3
3.0 ± 1.2
15.3 ± 2.5
6.0 ± 3.1
trans-DMDBK
4 μM
1.4 ± 0.2
2.7 ± 0.9
8.4 ± 4.2
2.2 ± 0.4
verapamil
4 μM
3.9 ± 3.0
2.3 ± 0.3
12.3 ± 4.3
9.3 ± 7.4
[0052] III. The Effect of (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives in Recovering the Activity of Doxorubicin for Inducing G2/M Arrest in HepG2-DR Cell
[0053] 1. Materials and methods
[0054] 1.1 Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, and doxorubicin.
[0055] 1.2 Instruments: FACSCAN flow cytometry (Becton Dickinson Immunocytometry Systems, San Jose, Calif.), the obtained data were analyzed using the software of Macintosh CellQuest.
[0056] 1.3 Cell lines: HepG2, HepG2-DR.
[0057] 1.4 Drug treatment: HepG2 and HepG2-DR cells were respectively treated with each of cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK and doxorubicin for 48 hours, or treated respectively with the combination of doxorubicin and one of cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK for 48 hours.
[0058] 1.5 Treatment and detection of sample cells: after washed twice by ice-cold PBS, the cells were fixed with 70% ethanol at −20° C. overnight. The fixed cells were washed by PBS once and resuspended in 1 mL of PBS containing 100 μg/mL RNAase A and incubated at 37° C. for 30 minutes. Finally, propidium iodide solution (final concentration is 40 μg/mL) was added to bind with DNA and incubated at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Cells were analyzed by FACSCAN flow cytometry immediately.
[0059] 2 Results: Doxorubicin is a topoisomerase II inhibitor that induces G2/M arrest in cell cycle. Table 5 shows that, in drug sensitive HepG2 cells doxorubicin achieved almost a complete G2/M arrest at 0.2 μM but in P-glycoprotein-overexpressing HepG2-DR cells the concentration required was over 50 μM. By themselves cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK or trans-DMDBK at 4 μM had no effect on cell cycle of HepG2-DR cell, but significantly enhanced doxorubicin-induced G2/M arrest in HepG2-DR cells. Treatment with lμM cis-DMDCK, 2 μM cis-DMDBK, 4 μM trans-DMDCK or 4 μM trans-DMDBK reduced the effective doxorubicin concentration from 50 to 1 μM. These results indicated the four compounds can reverse the dominant drug resistance of multidrug resistant cell to doxorubicin.
[0000]
TABLE 5
(±)-Praeruptorin A derivatives enhanced doxorubicin-induced cell cycle arrest in HepG2-DR cells
Cell cycle distribution (%)
Cells
Drug
SubG 1
G 0 /G 1
S
G 2 /M
HepG2
control
1.88 ± 1.03
60.34 ± 3.59
10.06 ± 0.78
22.59 ± 0.96
0.2 μM doxorubicin
0.92 ± 0.45
4.92 ± 0.91
8.89 ± 0.83
76.57 ± 1.32
HepG2-DR
control
1.74 ± 0.14
54.91 ± 3.76
9.90 ± 4.12
32.79 ± 2.11
1 μM doxorubicin
2.37 ± 0.34
51.33 ± 0.92
7.74 ± 3.57
33.47 ± 0.17
10 μM doxorubicin
3.37 ± 0.17
24.81 ± 0.23
6.86 ± 1.80
60.80 ± 0.79
50 μM doxorubicin
4.88 ± 0.75
12.05 ± 5.08
5.58 ± 1.34
73.43 ± 9.00
4 μM cis-DMDCK
2.25 ± 0.51
52.10 ± 0.61
8.38 ± 4.24
33.20 ± 2.05
4 μM cis-DMDBK
2.27 ± 0.49
52.36 ± 0.98
7.66 ± 3.22
34.36 ± 0.42
4 μM trans-DMDCK
2.07 ± 0.06
47.46 ± 0.55
7.97 ± 1.05
33.42 ± 1.98
4 μM trans-DMDBK
1.33 ± 0.24
49.57 ± 0.15
6.17 ± 1.55
34.41 ± 3.70
1 μM doxorubicin +
4.35 ± 0.59
8.46 ± 1.63
6.52 ± 1.76
79.79 ± 4.56
0.5 μM cis-DMDCK
1 μM cis-DMDCK
5.59 ± 4.35
4.39 ± 1.50
5.36 ± 3.13
81.42 ± 6.02
2 μM cis-DMDCK
6.40 ± 5.54
4.51 ± 0.45
8.87 ± 4.04
77.12 ± 3.36
0.5 μM cis-DMDBK
2.92 ± 1.09
35.82 ± 2.26
6.44 ± 0.77
52.79 ± 5.64
1 μM cis-DMDBK
4.08 ± 0.81
13.52 ± 1.36
5.85 ± 3.09
73.03 ± 1.89
2 μM cis-DMDBK
7.13 ± 6.57
3.74 ± 0.76
6.86 ± 2.57
79.01 ± 6.01
1 μM trans-DMDCK
3.94 ± 0.77
34.29 ± 0.21
8.80 ± 3.64
48.46 ± 2.52
2 μM trans-DMDCK
6.55 ± 0.12
21.21 ± 1.48
5.79 ± 4.05
64.06 ± 3.56
4 μM trans-DMDCK
4.29 ± 1.99
6.03 ± 0.91
5.70 ± 4.20
79.52 ± 0.66
1 μM trans-DMDBK
3.31 ± 0.89
34.60 ± 2.58
7.61 ± 3.69
49.53 ± 0.69
2 μM trans-DMDBK
5.30 ± 2.52
17.56 ± 2.20
7.03 ± 2.34
67.89 ± 1.19
4 μM trans-DMDBK
5.11 ± 2.84
5.37 ± 1.06
4.71 ± 3.62
81.56 ± 2.62
Example 6
The Effect of (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives on the Transport Ability of P-gp in Multidrug Resistant Cells
[0060] I. Doxorubicin Accumulation Assay
[0061] 1. Materials and methods
[0062] Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, doxorubicin and verapamil (as positive control)
[0063] Cell lines: K562-DR, HepG2-DR
[0064] Instruments: as described in example 5 III 1.2
[0065] Test for accumulation level of doxorubicin: About 1×10 6 HepG2-DR or K562-DR cells were suspended in 1 ml of medium containing 10 μM doxorubicin with or without 2 μM, 5 μM or 10 μM cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK or verapamil and incubated at 37° C. for 1 hour. Cells were washed with ice-cold PBS twice and resuspended in 1 ml of ice-cold PBS. Cellular doxorubicin fluorescent intensity was monitored by a FACSCAN flow cytometer (Becton Dickinson Immunocytometry Systems, San Jose, Calif., USA). Data were analyzed with the Macintosh CellQuest software. In the experiment, verapamil, the known P-gp inhibitor, was used as the positive control.
[0066] 2. Results: Due to Pgp overexpression, drug concentration in tumor cells could not reach the desired effective level, so the effect thereof was lessened and thus causing the cells possess drug resistance. In this study, cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK or verapamil significantly increased cellular doxorubicin accumulation within HepG2-DR and K562-DR cells in a dose-dependent manner. Consistent with their activity in reversing multidrug resistance, cis-DMDCK and cis-DMDBK were more active than trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK. With addition of 5 μM cis-DMDCK or cis-DMDBK, cellular doxorubicin fluorescence increased by more than 80% in HepG2-DR and by more than 70% in K562-DR cells, compared to 50% and 40% of increases induced by 5 μM verapamil. trans-DMDCK also exhibited higher activity than verapamil in both HepG2-DR and K562-DR cells. trans-DMDBK showed comparative activity to verapamil at lower concentration but at 10 μM it exhibited higher activity in HepG2-DR cell than verapamil (shown in FIG. 1 ).
[0067] II. Rhodamine-123 Efflux Assay
[0068] 1. Materials and methods
[0069] 1.1Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, rhodamine-123 (Rh-123), and verapamil (positive control)
[0070] 1.2Cell line: as described in example 511.2
[0071] 1.3Instruments: as described in example 5 III 1.2
[0072] 1.4Test for Rh-123 transport: HepG2-DR cells or K562-DR cells (1×10 6 cells in 1 mL complete growth medium) were incubated with 5 μg/mL Rh-123 at 37° C. for 1 hour to allow Rh-123 uptake. Rh-123 loaded cells were washed with ice-cold PBS twice, and resuspended in 1 mL fresh medium with or without various concentrations of cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK or verapamil. After 1 hour of incubation at 37° C., cells were washed with ice-cold PBS twice and resuspended in 1 mL ice-cold PBS. Cellular fluorescence of Rh-123 was determined by flow cytometry to analyze the inhibitive effect of test compounds on drug expulsion from cells. In the experiments, verapamil, the known P-gp inhibitor, was used as the positive control.
[0073] 2. Results: Rh-123 is a fluorescent P-gp substrate. Due to the transport activity of P-gp, the Rh-123 level in HepG2-DR and K562-DR cell decreased dramatically one hour after the dye was removed from the medium. The experimental results indicated cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK had the ability to slow down the Rh-123 loss in P-gp overexpressed tumor cell. Among them, cis-DMDCK and cis-DMDBK had the most significant effect. Compared with untreated cells, treatment with 10 μM cis-DMDCK or cis-DMDBK caused 480% or 400% increases in cellular Rh-123 fluorescence in HepG2-DR cells, and 200% or 140% increases in K562-DR cells, respectively. Corresponding increases in cellular Rh-123 fluorescence caused by 10 μM trans-DMDCK or trans-DMDBK were less than 200% and 50%, respectively ( FIG. 2 ).
[0074] III. Hoechst 33342 Efflux Assay
[0075] 1. Materials and methods
[0076] 1.1 Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, and Hoechst 33342
[0077] 1.2 Cell line: HepG2-DR
[0078] 1.3 Instruments: BMG FLUOstar OPTIMA Microplate Reader
[0079] 1.4 Hoechst 33342 transport test: HepG2-DR Cells (5×10 4 cells in 100 μL, medium per well) were seeded in 96-well plate and incubated overnight to permit cell attachment. The medium was replaced with fresh medium containing 20 μg/mL Hoechst 33342 and cells were incubated at 37° C. for 1 hour. Cells were then washed with 100 μL ice-cold PBS twice. New medium containing the test compound of various concentrations was added and cells were further incubated at 37° C. for 1 hour. Cells were washed with ice-cold PBS twice and cellular fluorescence intensity was measured at λ ex =365 nm (λ em =460 nm) by a BMG FLUOstar OPTIMA Microplate Reader. Inhibitory effect of the test compound on Hoechst 33342 efflux was expressed as the percentage increase of retained Hoechst 33342 in cells.
[0080] 2. Results: Hoechst 33342 is another fluorogenic substrate of P-gp, and acts on a binding site different from Rh-123. The experimental results indicated cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK could slow down the Hoechst 33342 loss in HepG2-DR cell in a dose-dependent manner ( FIG. 3 ). cis-DMDCK and cis-DMDBK had the most significant effect. Compared with untreated cells, 5 μM cis-DMDCK or 10 μM cis-DMDBK achieved the highest effect of 200% increase of cellular Hoechst 33342 fluorescence. For trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK at 20 μM and the highest increase of cellular Hoechst 33342 fluorescence was about 150%. Similarly, the inhibitive effects of the four compounds on the Hoechst 33342 efflux out of cells are as follows: cis-DMDCK>cis-DMDBK>trans-DMDCK and trans-DMDBK (shown in FIG. 3 ).
Example 7
Assay for the Interaction Between (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives and P-gp
[0081] I. Effect of (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives on the Expression of P-Gp in Drug Resistant Cell
[0082] 1. Materials and methods
[0083] Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK
[0084] Cell lines: as described in example 511.2.
[0085] Immunoblotting analysis of P-gp expression: cells were treated with 4 μM of cis-DMDCK, 4 μM of cis-DMDBK, 4 μM of trans-DMDCK, or 4 μM of trans-DMDBK for 72 hours. Treated cells were collected and mixed well in ice-cold lysis buffer (50 mM Tris pH7.4, 100 mM NaCl, 2 mM EDTA, 1% sodium deoxycholate, 0.1% SDS, 1% triton X-100, 2 mM PMSF, 1% aprotinin) for 30 minutes and then centrifuged to get the total protein. Protein concentration was determined using Bradford assay. In this experiment, 50 μg total protein was separated by 8% SDS-PAGE and electro-transferred to nitrocellulose membranes. The membrane was blocked by 5% skim milk/0.1% Tween-20/TBS (10 mM Tris pH7.5, 100 mM NaCl), and then incubated with anti-P-pg antibody for 1 hour, followed by horseradish-peroxidase-conjugated secondary antibody for another 1 hour. Protein bands were detected by the ECL method.
[0086] 2. Results: Experimental results were shown in FIG. 4 , KB V1, HepG2-DR and K562-DR cell expressed P-gp at high level when compared with parental drug sensitive cells thereof. After a 72 hour treatment with 4 μM cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, or trans-DMDBK, there was no detectable alteration on the expression level of MDR1 in all the three cell lines.
[0087] II. Assay for the Effect of (±)-Praeruptorin A Derivatives on P-Gp Reactivity to Monoclonal Antibody UIC2 (MDR1 Reactivity Shift Assay).
[0088] 1. Materials and methods
[0089] 1.1Agents: cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK, trans-DMDCK, trans-DMDBK, sodium vanadate, and cyclosporine A
[0090] 1.2Cell line: HepG2-DR
[0091] 1.3Instruments: as described in example 5 III 1.2.
[0092] 1.4MDR1 reactivity shift assay: HepG2-DR Cells were washed with PBS and resuspended in UIC2 binding buffer (PBS+1% BSA). Approximately 1×10 6 cells in 1 mL UIC2 binding buffer (1% BSA PBS solution) were pre-warmed at 37° C. for 10 minutes, incubated with drugs at 37° C. for another 10 minutes, and 1 μg of the monoclonal antibody UIC2 was added. After 15 minutes at 37° C., 700 μL of ice-cold UIC2 buffer was added to stop the reaction. Cell samples were washed with ice-cold UIC2 binding buffer twice, resuspended in 500 μL ice-cold UIC2 binding buffer and 2 μL of goat anti-mouse IgG 2a -PE was added. After 15 minutes at 4° C. in the dark, samples were washed, resuspended in 1 ml ice-cold UIC2 binding buffer and analyzed by using a FACSCalibur flow cytometer.
[0093] 2. Results: Conformation-sensitive monoclonal antibody UIC2 preferentially recognizes Pgp that is associated with transport substrate or competitive inhibitors (1. Mechetner E B, Schott B, Morse B S, Stein W D, Druley T, Davis K A, Tsuruo T, Roninson I B. P-glycoprotein function involves conformational transitions detecTable by differential immunoreactivity. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1997; 94:12908-12913. 2. Nagy H, Goda K, Arceci R, Cianfriglia M, Mechetner E, Szabo G J. P-Glycoprotein conformational changes detected by antibody competition. Eur J Biochem 2001; 268: 2416. 3. Maki N, Hafkemeyer P, Dey S. Allosteric modulation of human P-glycoprotein. Inhibition of transport by preventing substrate translocation and dissociation. J Biol Chem 2003; 278:18132-18139). P-gp conformational change caused by binding of a substrate can increase UIC2 reactivity to Pgp whereas the conformational change caused by binding of a compound to the allosteric site on Pgp can decrease UIC2 reactivity. Thus, UIC2 reactivity indirectly reflects the drug-Pgp interaction. UIC2 binding can be detected by labeling with a fluorescent secondary antibody. The intensity of cellular fluorescence positively reflects the reactivity of UIC2 with P-gp. In this experiment, P-gp substrate control cyclosporine A increased cellular fluorescence whereas sodium vanadate, an allosteric modulator of P-gp, decreased the cellular fluorescence. 5 μM cis-DMDCK, cis-DMDBK and trans-DMDBK increased cellular fluorescence like cyclosporine A, showed substrate-like activity. 5 μM trans-DMDCK decreased cellular fluorescence like sodium vanadate, implying an interaction between trans-DMDCK and the allosteric site on Pgp (shown in FIG. 5 ).
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The present invention relates to methods of using 3′,4′-aromatic acyloxy substituted 7,8-pyranocoumarins compounds in reversing P-glycoprotein overexpression mediated multidrug resistance in cancer cells including uses in treating cancers.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is the U.S. National Phase Application of PCT International Application Number PCT/EP2010/058646, filed Jun. 18, 2010, which claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2009 027 122.8, filed Jun. 23, 2009, and German Patent Application No. 10 2010 001 676.4, filed Feb. 8, 2010, the contents of such applications being incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to an electronic brake system having friction linings and to an associated operating method for an electronic brake system, in particular an externally actuable parking brake system including an electronic brake system having a friction brake comprising friction linings for at least one wheel brake, and having at least one electronic control device (ECU), wherein by at least one integrated electronic means (ESP+EPB−ECU) for automated activation, in particular for bedding in friction partners of the friction brake.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Electronic brake systems are as a matter of principle known. Friction brakes are used with brake linings which act on a friction ring of a brake disk or a friction face of a brake drum. The friction lining is mounted on a carrier such as, for example, on a carrier plate or on a brake shoe. For various reasons, a factory-new friction lining can be provided with a coat or a coating. For example, the coating can serve to improve the external appearance of the friction lining or else of the carrier plate with respect to visible surfaces, for example in the installed state within a wheel brake. A technical reason for a coat in a drum brake can be considered that of at least temporarily avoiding undesired corrosion processes between the actual friction face of the friction lining and a friction face of the metallic brake drum or brake disk. A technical disadvantage of the coating or coat can result from the fact that the friction properties of the friction lining are affected. Quite independently of the coat or coating, a friction pairing does not achieve its complete friction effect until after a number of actuations of the brake. The reason for this is that settling and leveling processes of the involved friction partners have to take place, in the context of which the friction partners become adjusted to one another in terms of their carrying behavior. As a function of the driving behavior and brake activation behavior, such a bedding in process can extend over a relatively long time period in the usual brake operating mode of a motor vehicle. This braking process usually requires a particularly careful driving style after a change of the friction lining, and in this context, for example, emergency braking should be avoided initially in order to avoid punctiform vitrification of the friction lining. On the other hand, a service performed at a specialist workshop may include carrying out this bedding in process by carrying out a test run with test braking operations and checking on a brake test bench before the vehicle is handed over to the customer.
A disadvantage of known procedures is that the bedding in process is to a certain extent carried out individually, and therefore not in a reproducible fashion. As a result of this, it may as a matter of principle be the case that a bedding in process is not carried out sufficiently or not with the necessary care. It is as a matter of principle also conceivable that the bedding in process incorrectly fails to occur at all.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An aim of the present invention is to ensure a satisfactory bedding in process and to make it possible to reproduce the braking behavior of factory-new motor vehicles or that of motor vehicles whose friction linings have been replaced in a specialist workshop.
This is achieved for a device of the generic type and for a method of the generic type together with an electronic brake system having a friction brake comprising friction linings for at least one wheel brake, and having at least one electronic control device (ECU), wherein by at least one integrated electronic means (ESP+EPB−ECU) for automated activation, in particular for bedding in friction partners of the friction brake. A core aspect of the invention is at least one integrated electronic means for automated bedding in of friction partners of the friction brake. A core idea of a corresponding operating method is, in particular, that an automated, electronically open-loop controlled or electronically closed-loop controlled routine for bedding in friction partners of the friction brake is provided, in that the automated bedding in routine is protected in that the routine is processed completely after an enable, in particular after an input of an enable code, or after electronic connection of an interface of the brake system with a separate control device, and in that result data of the bedding in routine are stored in a storage area of the control device. An advantage of the present invention is that an added value function is made possible which can be implemented, in particular by software, on the basis of indispensable components of an electronic brake system in the vehicle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is best understood from the following description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. Included in the drawings is the following figures:
FIG. 1 shows method steps in a schematic form,
FIG. 2 shows current profiles (I), speed profiles (W) and travel profiles (s) plotted over time (t),
FIG. 3 shows a detail of a current/time profile plotted over time (t) from FIG. 2 , and
FIG. 4 is a schematic and exemplary view of a rear axle brake circuit of an electronically controlled motor vehicle brake system comprising an integrated electromechanical parking brake system EPB.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
An electronically controlled motor vehicle brake system 1 having hydraulic wheel brakes 2 , 3 of the friction type, which as a matter of principle have friction linings 4 , 5 and associated friction faces in the region of friction rings 6 , 7 or brake drums, also has an electric actuation means 8 for a driver of a vehicle such as, in particular, a switch or pushbutton key for an electromechanical actuator system AC of the wheel brakes 2 , 3 as well as a hydraulic brake actuation unit 9 such as, for example, a master cylinder brake booster unit. Furthermore, means are provided for external actuation, including means for generating energy such as, in particular, a motor pump unit HCU which is driven by electric motor and in particular also performs ESP driving stability functions, and for this purpose has an electronic control unit ESP-ECU with an electronic open-loop and closed-loop control program for the brake system 1 . This is, in particular, an integrated brake system which connects both a hydraulic wheel brake actuator system and an electromechanical wheel brake actuator system to one another. In this context, the electromechanical actuator system AC serves, in particular, to carry out, in particular, external actuation functions within an integrated electromechanical parking brake system EPB. Although FIG. 4 exhibits a wheel-specific actuator system AC in this context, the electromechanical actuator AC can in principle be embodied as an electromechanical Bowden cable device (EPB_CP), as a hydraulically and electromechanically actuable brake caliper (EPB_CI) which can be actuated in combination and which has the electromechanical actuator, or as what are referred to as electromechanically actuable Duo-Servo drum brakes (DSe) extending as far as purely electromechanically actuable brake calipers (EMB), and the illustrative clarification can therefore be understood symbolically.
The electronic control of such a electromechanically actuable parking brake EPB is preferably carried out by means of an integrated electronic control unit of the driving stability system ESP+EPB−ECU by providing an integrated EPB control device. Alternatively it is conceivable that the EPB parking brake system has a separately provided electronic control unit, in which case it is also conceivable that the electromechanical actuator or actuators has/have the electronic control unit or components of the electronic control unit. As a matter of principle, the electromechanical parking brake systems EPB are operated with a predefined minimum brake application force of, for example, approximately 17 kN so that a motor vehicle can be securely parked and this parking process also corresponds to legally prescribed requirements or minimum standards.
Although the invention can in principle be applied for all externally actuable electronic brake systems, said invention is suitable, in particular, for the brake systems with an electromechanical parking brake EPB, in order to permit a bedding in routine for new friction linings 4 , 5 . In this context, the invention proposes that the brake system 1 has at least one integrated electronic means for automatically bedding in friction partners of the friction brake. The bedding in process is accordingly performed, controlled and monitored in an electronically automated fashion on the basis of a brake system 1 which is mounted in a complete form on the vehicle, and faulty or forgotten bedding in routines are therefore eliminated. It is therefore possible to carry out the bedding in routine in a standardized reproducible fashion, with the result that an added value functionality is achieved. This improves the product quality.
It is as a matter of principle assumed that the bedding in routine is carried out while the respective vehicle wheel with the friction partners (friction lining 4 , 5 , friction rings 6 , 7 ) to be bedded in is rotated at a constant speed by virtue of a test run or by virtue of an external drive such as, for example, by means of a brake test bench at a vehicle manufacturer or at a specialist workshop. In this context, it may be necessary, in particular, that the activation of the bedding in routine certain safety functions or operating functions of the electromechanical parking brake EPB which ensure the driving stability in the normal driving mode are at least temporarily deactivated. This may include, in particular, an ESP driving stability function which as a matter of principle prevents activation of an electromechanical rear axle parking brake if a specific vehicle reference speed vref, or a specific wheel speed vRad of the wheels of a rear axle, is exceeded, in order to prevent skidding processes.
In a further refinement of the invention there is provision that the bedding in routine is implemented as a separate process in an electronic brake actuation strategy and is stored by software in the associated electronic unit such as, in particular, the ESP+EPB−ECU. In this context, the bedding in routine can measure or determine, in an at least semi-automated fashion, parameters such as, in particular, the manner of actuating the brake and/or a wheel speed during the bedding in routine and/or a wheel torque during the bedding in routine, perform open-loop and/or closed-loop control of the parameter or parameters, in particular vary said parameter or parameters, and/or coordinate variation of a plurality of parameters simultaneously and in a reproducible fashion. An essential point is that an electronic brake system 1 which is mounted completely on the motor vehicle is provided within the scope of the method according to aspects of the invention as an independent device for carrying out an electronically open-loop or closed-loop controlled bedding in routine, with the result that a bedding in process and a separate device outside the motor vehicle can as a matter of principle be dispensed with. It is therefore possible according to aspects of the invention to economize in terms of expenditure elsewhere. In this context, the control device ESP+EPB−ECU predefines, during the bedding in routine, at least one direct or indirect bedding in parameter, such as, in particular, a brake application force, a friction torque, a combination of all parameters or, if appropriate, of even their modified profile as a function of the time, which emerges in particular in an exemplary fashion from FIGS. 2 and 3 .
A bedding in routine according to aspects of the invention can as a matter of principle also include the possibility of providing automatic monitoring of a time period tBedding of the bedding in routine, wherein the specific time period t can be predefined and adapted in order to permit flexible adaptation to different application situations, such as, in particular, to different types of friction brake.
A particular man/machine interface or the actuation means 8 , 9 which are present anyway can be provided and serve to activate the automatic bedding in routine. In one preferred embodiment, the activation of the bedding in routine is provided in a protected or encoded fashion in order to avoid misuse. For the purpose of enabling, identification may be necessary, which can be made possible, for example, by additional networking of the electronic control device ESP+EPB−ECU with an additional external control device (master computer, host, service terminal) of an automobile manufacturer or of a specialist workshop, as well as by means of a handshake based on an exchange of certified protocol data.
It is possible to provide that the electronic control device ESP+ESC−ECU has a reserved, addressed storage area which is reserved for the electromechanical actuator AC, and wherein data, specifically, in particular, result data from the bedding in routine are stored in the memory area. Furthermore, a visual display device is possible, wherein the control device ESP+EPB−ECU has an interface with the display device such that a positive or negative conclusion of a bedding in routine which has been carried out can be displayed visually. Likewise, it is, in principle, possible to display visually when a bedding in routine has entirely failed to occur. However, it is possible to implement that a bedding in process is carried out automatically at certain times, such as, for example, when the electromechanical actuator AC is first commissioned, in order to additionally improve the product quality and product reliability of the brake system 1 .
It goes without saying that the bedding in routine can be carried out with open-loop or closed-loop control, and that this requires measurement data which are fed to the control device ESP+ESC−ECU. For this purpose, the control device ESP+ESC−ECU is connected electrically to sensors and/or measuring circuits such as, in particular, to at least one current sensor, and/or to at least one travel sensor, and/or to at least one wheel speed sensor s/u, and/or to at least one force sensor or at least one pressure sensor p/u. Accordingly, the operating states of the wheel brakes 2 , 3 and/or of the electromechanical actuators AC can be detected and processed further for the bedding in routine.
As is apparent, in particular, from FIG. 2 , a bedding in method according to aspects of the invention has a plurality of phases which can be differentiated. After the start, a learning phase L(L 1 ,L 2 ,L 1 a ,L 1 b ,L 1 c ) occurs for detecting a rear stop Mp (Mp=mounting position) of the actuator. Mp is detected by the release actuation of the actuator and is, if appropriate, newly learnt and, if appropriate, stored. Subsequently, a brake application motion is carried out and an engagement point (Ap) of the involved friction partners is detected automatically by the control device ESP+ESC−ECU, in particular, by detection of a current demand of the electromechanically driven actuator AC which has risen in a jump-like or ramp-like fashion, or by the actuator AC blocking, and, if appropriate, this engagement point (Ap) is learnt and, if appropriate, stored. This is followed by a bedding in phase B(B 1 ,B 21 ,B 2 ,B 3 ) during which the friction partners are successively bedded in. In this context, subsequent to a phase B 1 ,B 21 with a substantially constant current at least one engagement ( FIG. 2 , B 2 ,B 3 ) of the friction partners which is preferably amplified in a pulse-like fashion is performed by renewed actuation, which is manifest in the increased travel increment dS 2 ,dS 3 . It is possible to increase and decrease the brake application force in a multiply repeated fashion in the manner of a pulse during the bedding in phase, in order additionally to intensify the bedding in process in a metered fashion. A bedding in routine which has taken place and which has also been successfully concluded or a bedding in routine which has not been successfully concluded can be indicated visually by a display device. In principle, the same applies to a bedding in process which has not been successful or to one which has failed to occur, which can be clarified as fault E.
As a conclusion of the bedding in phase B, the actuator according to FIG. 2 is moved again automatically to the rear stop Mp and the method is ended (Stop).
Irrespective of a change of friction lining or of initial commissioning of a brake system 1 in a new vehicle, the reproducible bedding in of friction linings according to aspects of the invention can in principle also be applied automatically if, for example, an actuated (locked) electromechanical parking brake system EPB has not been released over a relatively long time period, and the control device ESP+ESC−ECU receives a command to release the parking brake system. This measure makes it possible in a quite selective fashion and according to requirements to remove corrosion products from the friction contact faces without producing unnecessary wear of the friction linings 4 , 5 .
The invention also extends, in particular, to a separate control device EST which is intended, for example, for a specialist workshop and which is provided for connection to the electronic control device ESC+EPB−ECU, and can serve, in particular, for the activation of the bedding in routine by authorized personnel.
LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS
1 Brake system
2 , 3 Wheel brake
4 , 5 Friction lining
6 , 7 Friction ring
8 Actuation means
9 Actuation unit
AC Electromechanical actuator
EPB+ESC−ECU Control device
p/u Pressure sensor
s/u Travel or rotational speed sensor
HCU Hydraulic unit
EST Control device
TMC Master brake cylinder
Mp Stop
Ap Engagement point
t Time
s Travel
I Current
dS,dS 1 ,dS 2 Travel increment
L 1 ,L 1 a ,L 1 b ,L 1 c ,L 2 Learning phase
B 1 ,B 2 ,B 21 ,B 3 Bedding in phase
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The invention relates to a device and an operating method for an electronically controlled braking system having a friction brake, including friction linings for at least one wheel brake and having at least one electronic control device ESP+EPB−ECU. The aim of the invention is to provide an improved seat grinding device and an improved seat grinding process. The aim is achieved by proposing that an automated, electronically controlled or regulated routine is provided for seat grinding the friction partners of the friction brake, such that the automated seat grinding routine is fully executed after a release, particularly after entering a release code or after electronically connecting an interface of the electronic control device ESP+ESC−ECU of the braking system to a separate control device EST, and the results data of the seat grinding routine are stored in a memory area of the electronic control device ESP+ESC−ECU.
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STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT INTEREST
The invention described herein was made in the performance of official duties by one or more employees of the Department of the Navy, and the invention herein may be manufactured, practiced, used, and/or licensed by or for the Government of the United States of America without the payment of any royalties thereon or therefore.
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of sight mount adjustment components, and specifically to a device which verifies the continued alignment of a sight unit and the center line of a bore.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a boresight verification device (BVD).
FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary BVD.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary BVD.
FIG. 4 is an exemplary embodiment of a BVD in use.
TERMINOLOGY
As used herein, the term “securing component” refers to any structure or device used to securely attach two components. Securing components may include, but are not limited to, screws, shoulder screws, set screws, screw/lock washer assemblies, adhesives, welding, brazing, nails, bolts, spring plungers, expanding jaws or collars, spring-loaded feet, tapered shafts and combinations of these and other structures or devices known in the art. Securing components may create permanent or temporary bonds.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The current apparatus to accomplish bore sight verification is a large assembly of two parts, the M154 Alignment Device and the Bore Sight Adapter, both known in the art. The Bore Sight Adapter is inserted into the mortar bore and rotated to level. The M154 is then assembled onto the dovetail of the Bore Sight Adapter. The user views the crosshairs inside the M154 collimator through the sight mounted on the weapon, and uses the micrometer knobs to align the crosshairs of the M154 and the weapon's sight. The user then reads the angle measured from the micrometer knob and compares the new, measured value to the standard value. If the measured value is the same as the standard value within tolerance, the mortar is considered to have a verified bore sight.
The current method and equipment has a number of limitations and disadvantages.
The Bore Sight Adapter uses a rubber o-ring to locate and hold the assembly level in the bore. This o-ring must maintain a coat of grease. If ungreased, the o-ring will tear when the Bore Sight Adapter is leveled. However, excessive grease is also an issue; with excessive grease, the o-ring will no longer hold, allowing the weight of the M154 and the Bore Sight Adapter to pull the unit out of level. If the o-ring falls down the bore of the mortar, no tool exists to retrieve it. Therefore, the mortar must be taken back to the depot for special maintenance to disassemble the weapon in order to extract the o-ring.
The Bore Sight Adapter uses a dovetail-style mount to secure the M154. However, there is no physical locator to force the M154 to be in the same place from use to use, creating the problem of repeatability in measurements. The level vial used to level the assembly is located at the top of the Bore Sight Adapter. In this location, it is difficult to read, and it is unprotected from impact and the elements.
To use the weapon, the mortar must be elevated to a point near the extreme limit of travel. Not only does this take valuable emplacement time and effort, it also presents a set of optically-related challenges. The M154 must be in the same optical plane as the sight telescope for proper operation. When on solid ground before firing, the base plate of the mortar is sitting on the ground and this is not an issue. If the users must verify bore sight after firing, the base plate has sunk into the ground, and it may no longer be possible to elevate the mortar to the proper elevation for verifying bore sight. In this case, the weapon must be relocated, laid, and bore sight must be verified again before allowed to fire, which would take several minutes.
The manufacturing tolerance stack-up from the o-ring to the end of the M154 is excessive. Tolerance stack-up is a phenomenon which occurs when the individual parts of a component are all manufactured within required specifications, but the resulting larger component is out of tolerance as a result of the variances of its components. For example, if a 12-inch (±0.5) bar is needed out of three 4-inch (±0.2) components, it is possible to have a 12.6-inch bar, which is out of tolerance, comprised of three 4.2-inch components, each of which is in tolerance.
The tolerance stack-up from the o-ring to the end of the M154 increases the angle tolerance, resulting in a large tolerance which is unacceptable in the artillery field. The size of the M154 and Bore Sight Adapter are also a potential hindrance due to the large protective case they are stored in. When loaded, the case is heavy and takes up a large amount of the valuable cargo area inside a vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a boresight verification device (BVD) comprised of a circular housing with a rear portion of smaller diameter and a front portion of larger diameter. The front portion securely holds a level. The circular housing also contains a plurality of spring plungers that grip the inside of a muzzle and center the BVD in the muzzle when the BVD is inserted into a muzzle for use. A tooling ball provides a stable reference point.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the present invention, references are made in the text to exemplary embodiments of a boresight verification device, only some of which are described herein. It should be understood that no limitations on the scope of the invention are intended by describing these exemplary embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that alternate but functionally equivalent materials, components, and devices may be used. The inclusion of additional elements may be deemed readily apparent and obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art. Specific elements disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to employ the present invention.
It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale; instead, emphasis has been placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In addition, in the embodiments depicted herein, like reference numerals in the various drawings refer to identical or near identical structural elements.
Moreover, the terms “substantially” or “approximately” as used herein may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of boresight verification device (BVD) 100 . Housing 10 is cylindrical with back section 14 having a smaller diameter and front section 16 having a larger diameter. Level 30 is shown contained in front section 16 and secured by screws 40 a , 40 b . Spring plungers 50 a , 50 b , 50 c are equally spaced on back section 14 , with indicator 55 attached to front section 16 . Indicator 55 acts as an aiming point for the crosshair of a sight unit, and therefore projects outward from BVD 100 .
In the exemplary embodiment shown, level 30 is a more sensitive level than others known in the art. Levels become more sensitive as both length and diameter increase. In the exemplary embodiment shown, level 30 is both longer and larger in diameter than the levels used with current Bore Sight Adapters known in the art. BVD 100 therefore provides a higher degree of accuracy and repeatability than the current Bore Sight Adapters. Level 30 is also positioned for easier viewing and is recessed into the body of BVD 100 to protect it from impact and other adverse conditions.
FIG. 2 is a side view of BVD 100 . Two spring plungers 50 a , 50 c are shown, with the third spring plunger 50 b located on the opposite side of BVD 100 and not shown. Indicator 55 is connected to front section 16 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, spring plungers 50 a , 50 b and 50 c are symmetrically arranged around BVD 100 .
Spring plungers 50 a , 50 b and 50 c grip the inside of a muzzle and center BVD 100 within the muzzle. In further exemplary embodiments, BVD 100 may contain more or fewer spring plungers, and spring plungers may be positioned around BVD 100 in an unsymmetrical arrangement.
Spring plungers 50 a , 50 b , 50 c act as independent yet equal springs, centering BVD 100 in muzzle 92 more accurately and with less physical effort than an o-ring as known in the art. Spring plungers 50 a , 50 b , 50 c also require little to no maintenance, and cannot fall down muzzle 92 of mortar 95 since they are press-fit into place.
In the exemplary embodiment described, spring plungers 50 a , 50 b , 50 c are each made of a plunger, spring and ball nose. In further exemplary embodiments, BVD 100 could use any method to self-center in the bore, including, but not limited to, expanding jaws or collars, spring-loaded feet, tapered shafts and combinations of these and other structures or devices known in the art. An extra set of spring plungers or other centering structure could be added deeper in the bore to provide further stability.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, indicator 55 is a tooling ball comprised of a rod with a rounded knob-like structure at its end. However, in further exemplary embodiments, indicator 55 may be replaced with any other component known in the art to provide a reference point, such as a pointed dowel pin or square edge.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of BVD 100 taken along the line A-A. Spring plunger 50 is shown seated, and spring plungers 50 remain fully seated during assembly of BVD 100 . When inserted into a muzzle, spring plunger 50 exerts an outward force onto the inner surface of the muzzle in order to hold BVD 100 in place.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, spring plunger 50 must exert enough force to keep BVD 100 from falling into a muzzle or slipping out of position. In further exemplary embodiments, spring plungers may include a textured or coated surface to increase the friction between the spring plungers and muzzle's inner surface. For example, spring plungers may contain a rubber, silicone or other coating which increases a spring plunger's gripping ability.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of BVD 100 in use with boresight verification magnifier 90 . As illustrated, BVD 100 is in muzzle 92 of mortar 95 . BVD 100 is releasably secured in muzzle 92 through spring plungers 50 a , 50 b , 50 c (not shown), which are manipulated to grip the inside of muzzle 92 . Using mortar's 95 sight unit and magnifier 90 , the sight unit is adjusted until the crosshairs align with indicator 55 . In some exemplary embodiments, BVD 100 may be used with a boresight verification magnifier (BVM) known in the art.
In the exemplary embodiment described, the vertical hairline of the crosshairs is brought tangent to the outer edge of indicator 55 . The value for the comparison is then read from the micrometer of the crosshairs and compared to the standard value. pring plungers 50 a , 50 b and 50 c , in combination with the other structures of BVD 100 , improves both the repeatability and accuracy of measurement.
In the exemplary embodiments described, BVD 100 is made of aluminum because of aluminum's high strength-weight ratio. However, in further exemplary embodiments, BVD 100 could also be made of any material capable of withstanding the press forces of assembly, including, but not limited to, aluminum, steel, cast iron, and some plastics and polymers.
In the exemplary embodiments shown, indicator 55 is press-fit into a tooled aperture in BVD 100 by a pneumatic or hydraulic press, or any other method which would provide even, mechanical pressure to indicator 55 . Indicator 55 has a rod with slightly larger dimensions than its corresponding aperture. When forced into the aperture, indicator 55 is therefore held in place by friction between its rod and its aperture. However, in further exemplary embodiments, indicator 55 may be held in place through any structure or method known in the art, including, but not limited to, corresponding threading, welding, clips, brackets and combinations of these and other joining structures.
Indicator 55 of BVD 100 is press-fit into place with a tightly held tolerance. Indicator 55 facilitates much simpler reference through the sight unit, and its simplicity eliminates much of the tolerance stack-up as seen with the Bore Sight Adapters known in the art, allowing for more repeatable, accurate measurements.
BVD 100 was designed to use a much lower weapon elevation than the Bore Sight Adapters known in the art, which allows for faster emplacement times, and, as a result, less time verification before the mortar is ready to fire rounds on target. The lower elevation also prevents the users from having to move the weapon to verify boresight after firing the mortar, which sinks the mortar baseplate into the ground, as the elevation required to use BVD 100 is always attainable.
Because BVD 100 does not rely on the alignment of optical planes, there is no longer a possibility of being forced to move mortar 95 to verify boresight. BVD 100 and its associated gear are smaller and lighter than the current equipment, allowing for a case almost half the size of the case currently issued.
While certain features of the embodiments of the invention have been illustrated as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the embodiments.
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A boresight verification device (BVD) comprised of a circular housing with a rear portion of smaller diameter and a front portion of larger diameter. The front portion securely holds a level. The circular housing also contains a plurality of spring plungers which grip the inside of a muzzle when BVD is inserted into a muzzle for use. A tooling ball provides a stable reference point.
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FIELD OF THIS INVENTION
[0001] This invention describes a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area, such as mass transit systems (metro stations, train stations, airports, ports and others), commercial buildings, schools, factories, data centers and other places where the movement of people into restricted areas must be controlled. It more specifically comprises a monitoring and access control system with a processing unit which receives information from a user authentication unit and an image capture device and in turn activates one or more bars of luminous elements arranged in barriers which limit a Gated Area. Each user category (Authorized User, Unauthorized User or Special User) is associated with an indicative window of a specific and programmed color that accompanies the movement of the user within the Gated Area, facilitating the action of security agents with regard to visual identification and eventual approach to an Unauthorized User and permission to entry into the Restricted Area for Authorized and Special Users.
BACKGROUND OF THIS INVENTION
[0002] In applications requiring the control of the flow of people, multiple ways of validating or preventing unauthorized access are used. The most common are blocking devices known as turnstiles consisting of mechanical arms arranged in angles of 90° (four arms) or 120° (three arms). In this case, users interact physically with the arms, pushing them so the device can rotate to allow passage of the user through the turnstile, if properly validated. The turnstile can either be rotated physically by the user or can be rotated by a motorized mechanism installed in the turnstile. If the passage is not validated, the turnstile mechanism blocks the rotation of the arms thereby impeding the passage of an Unauthorized User.
[0003] Document US2006101716 describes an automatic gate that allows or prevents access to a restricted area or to a transport vehicle. Said automatic gate is equipped with flaps rotating between a closed position, in which the flap forms a barrier preventing the passage of an unauthorized user, and an open position allowing the passage of a person who has been validated through the insertion of a ticket in an authentication device. Such automatic gates dispense the physical interaction of the user with the blocking device.
[0004] In these state of the art solutions, where the user's physical contact with the equipment is not necessary, the activation of sliding doors or flaps, for blocking or allowing users' access to a restricted area, is usually performed by infrared optical sensors monitoring the user's passage, sending this information to a processing unit which in turn opens the doors or flaps when the passage is validated or maintaining them closed when not validated.
[0005] Document CN103295301 describes an access control system equipped with an identification module that includes an infrared sensor, which identifies the user when approaching a gated area.
[0006] In the case of devices in which the user does not have physical contact with the equipment, two main characteristics are explored: the blockage of passage of users without permission and the monitoring of “tailgate” or “piggy-back” users, that is, those who follow closely behind a user with authorized access to gain unauthorized entry to a restricted area.
[0007] When an unauthorized user enters together with an authorized user, the system detects the unauthorized user and automatically activates the blocking elements or mechanism, sometimes even preventing the entry of authorized users, which may even have been overtaken by the unauthorized user. The closure of the blocking mechanism is normally accompanied by sonorous alarms and/or visual warnings, which in turn trigger security teams. However, in some circumstances, security personnel cannot quickly and accurately identify the unauthorized user.
[0008] Document WO2013135922 describes an access control device applicable to equipment with a barrier in order to detect the passage of unauthorized users, taking advantage of the valid access of an authorized users (i.e. in this case, unauthorized users are “tailgaters” or “piggy-backers). This device comprises a people counting sensor, sonorous and visual alarms, and a means for spraying a dye or powder on the unauthorized user, where such spray or dye can be easily removed or cleaned.
[0009] Document CN101847278 describes a system and a method for adjusting the level of safety and signaling in controlled areas in order to detect the presence of one or more individuals to determine if a user is an authorized or unauthorized individual, or an intruder.
[0010] Document U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,692 describes an access system that allows the passage of authorized individuals through a door and where unauthorized individuals are prevented from reaching the restricted area by being automatically redirected to an unrestricted area for further processing. Such procedure avoids activating the blocking device thereby maintaining the flow of authorized individuals. The system includes visual and sonorous alarms.
[0011] Document JP2006209728 describes a device for detection of unauthorized entry and a detection method to prevent the unauthorized entry of an unauthorized person accompanying a person with authorized permission (i.e. “tailgaters” or “piggy-backers”). In this entry control system, an individual authentication device is installed in an authentication room closed by a first door allowing entry from the outside and a second door allowing entry to the control section, and opening/closing of the second door is controlled on the basis of a collation result by the individual authentication device to prevent the unauthorized entry to the control section. The entry control system controlling the entry to the control section has: a camera installed in the upper part (ceiling) of the authentication room installed with the authentication device; an unauthorized entry detection device performing image processing on the basis of a video of the whole inside of the authentication room photographed by the camera, and deciding “absence”, “authorized entry”, or “unauthorized entry”, for a state inside the authentication room; and a controller controlling the opening/closing of the first door and the second door on the basis of a decision result of the unauthorized entry detection device and the collation result of the individual authentication device
[0012] Therefore, state of the art access control systems feature visual and/or sonorous alarms to alert the entry or attempted entry of unauthorized users in the restricted area, or the attempt of entry by “tailgate” or “piggy-back” users (those who are not authorized to enter, but attempt to do so by closely following an authorized user). However, these state of the art systems do not visually follow the user(s) movement within a gated area (i.e. the movement between the authentication device and the blocking device), so it is not possible to precisely identify the unauthorized user(s) who is (are) within the gated area.
[0013] Furthermore, state of the art access control systems identify the user's category only at the authentication device, so that authorized users with a special condition (such as, but not limited to, senior citizens, handicapped users, users exempt from payment, students, users with different fare conditions, visitors, third party workers, service providers, amongst others) are not precisely identified as they move within the Gated Area, resulting in attendance delays by security personnel, slow downs in the flow, and sometimes stoppage of flow at the blocking device.
[0014] Thus, this invention has as an object a Control and Monitoring System and Method for Access to a Restricted Area with a Gated Area prior to the Restricted Area. A user authentication module or device is placed at the entrance of the Gated Area which sends authentication and user category (Authorized User, Unauthorized User or Special User) data to a processing unit which in turn triggers the creation of an indicative window composed of luminous elements situated on barriers where such indicative windows have unique colors associated with each user category. This indicative window follows the movement of each user within the Gated Area, based on information captured by an image capture device and processed by a processing unit. If more than one user is in the Gated Area, each individual user will have a corresponding indicative window for that user's category. The indicative window(s) signal(s) to security agents a possible incident so that action may be taken. The imaging device constantly identifies the presence of one or more users within the gated area, transferring this information to the processing unit, which calculates the users' position, speed and direction of movement, and in turn controls the closing or opening speed of a blocking device in proportion to the speed, location and direction of movement of Unauthorized Users, resulting in partial or total closure or partial or total opening of the blocking device.
SUMMARY
[0015] The invention provides a monitoring and control system and method for access to restricted areas, which features an electronic processing unit connected to a user authentication device that authenticates, or not, a user and determines a user category for that user. This information is sent to the processing unit which in turn activates luminous elements arranged in the barriers of a Gated Area, creating visual indicative windows of the user category (Authorized User, Unauthorized User and Special User) that follow the movements of the corresponding user within the Gated Area. At the end of the Gated Area, and just before the entrance to the Restricted Area, is a blocking device, which is controlled by the processing unit to open or close, fully or partially.
[0016] The invention provides a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area which features an Image Capture Device with an imaging range defined by an Imaging Area which monitors a user's presence within the Gated Area and sends this information to a processing unit which calculates the location, speed and direction of movement of the user within the Gated Area. Based on the processed information, the processing unit activates an indicative window by way of luminous elements situated in barriers which delimit a Gated Area. Such indicative windows are illuminated in specific colors for each user category (Authorized User, Unauthorized User, and Special User). These indicative windows follow the movement of the respective user within the Gated Area, both towards or away from the Restricted Area, based on constantly updated presence information sent by the image capture device to the processing unit.
[0017] The invention provides a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area that incorporates a Blocking Device located immediately prior to the Restricted Area, whose partial or complete closing or opening and the speed of such partial or complete closing or opening is controlled by the processing unit, in proportion to the speed of passage, location and direction of movement of a user detected by an image capture device within the Gated Area. Such partial or complete closing or partial or complete opening of the Blocking Device is usually executed for Unauthorized Users as they approach the Restricted Area (partial or complete closing of the Blocking Device) or as they move away from the Restricted Area (partial or complete opening of the Blocking Device). The blocking device is usually kept open for authorized users or special users.
[0018] The invention provides a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area, which gives every user category (Authorized User, Unauthorized User, Special User), previously identified by the user authentication device, a unique and pre-determined visual identification for that user category, in the form of an indicative window with a specific color for that category of user, composed of luminous elements arranged in the barriers which delimit the Gated Area. Such indicative windows follow the movement of the user within the Gated Area, facilitating the action of security officers by providing accurate visual identification of Unauthorized Users or Special Users, while permitting unhindered entrance to the Restricted Area for Authorized Users and other Special Users.
[0019] The invention provides a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area, which provides an indicative window consisting of luminous elements arranged in the barriers of the Gated Area that follow the movement of the user within the Gated Area, even in situations where a first user overtakes a second user of the same or a different category, in which case the first user's indicative window transposes the indicative window of the second user being overtaken. In such cases the indicative window of the first user and second user continue to follow the corresponding user even during and after the process of overtaking has occurred.
[0020] The invention provides a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area, allowing security officers or gatehouse staff a fast and precise identification and eventual segregation of Unauthorized or Special Users moving through the Gated Area towards the Restricted Area.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0021] FIG. 1 shows a representation of the control and monitoring system and method for access to a Restricted Area (RA), showing the Gated Area (GA) limited by Barriers ( 30 ), each Barrier ( 30 ) equipped with a Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ), the User Authentication Unit ( 20 ), usually located at the entrance of the Gated Area (GA), the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) and the Blocking Device ( 50 ), usually positioned at the entrance to the Restricted Area (RA).
[0022] FIG. 2 shows a representation of the Imaging Angle and the Imaging Area of the Image Capture Device ( 40 ), highlighting the monitoring limits or area, as well as evidencing the movement of an Authorized User (AU), an Unauthorized User (UU), and a Special User (SU) within the Gated Area (GA).
[0023] FIG. 3 shows the representation of the different types of user categories—Authorized User (AU), Unauthorized User (UU) and Special User (SU)—moving within the Gated Area (GA). Each user category is followed by their respective User Category Window ( 311 for Authorized Users [AU], 312 for Unauthorized Users [UU], 313 for Special Users [SU]). A specific color can be programmed/attributed to each User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) depending on the corresponding user category (AU, UU, SU) moving within the Gated Area (GA).
[0024] FIG. 4 shows the representation of the movement of an Authorized User (AU) entering the Gated Area (GA), after authorization by a User Authentication Unit ( 20 ), with his/her respective User Category Window ( 311 ) shown in the color programmed/attributed to identify an Authorized User (AU). FIG. 4A shows the Authorized User (AU) leaving the Gated Area (GA) and entering the Restricted Area (RA), with the Blocking Device ( 50 ) in the open position thereby allowing entry of the Authorized User (AU) into the Restricted Area (RA). The User Category Window ( 311 ) follows the movement of the Authorized User (AU) within the Gated Area (GA) until such Authorized User (AU) exits de Gated Area (GA) by either entering the Restricted Area (RA) or moving backwards beyond the User Authentication Device ( 20 ).
[0025] FIG. 5 shows the representation of the movement of an Unauthorized User (UU) with his/her respective User Category Window ( 312 ) followed by an Authorized User (AU) with his/her respective User Category Window ( 311 ) within the Gated Area (GA), with the Unauthorized User (UU) having his/her entry into the Restricted Area (RA) prevented by the Blocking Device ( 50 ), here shown in the closed position.
[0026] FIG. 6 shows an Authorized User (AU) followed by his/her respective User Category Window ( 311 ) entering the Restricted Area (RA), with Blocking Device ( 50 ) open allowing passage of the Authorized User (AU). Such Authorized User (AU) is trailed by an Unauthorized User (UU) identified with his/her respective User Category Window ( 312 ).
[0027] FIG. 7 shows the representation of the movement of an Unauthorized User (UU) and of an Authorized User (AU) for a bidirectional Gated Area (GA), evidencing an additional Image Capture Device ( 40 ) positioned in the one of the Barriers ( 30 ) as well as an additional User Authentication Device ( 20 ), this time located at the frontier between the Gated Area (GA) and the Restricted Area (RA).
[0028] FIG. 8 shows the block diagram of the control and monitoring system for access in restricted areas.
[0029] FIG. 9 shows the flowchart of the steps in the control and monitoring method for access in restricted areas.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0030] For the purposes of this invention, the following terms are conceptualized:
[0031] “Gated Area” (GA) is and area laterally bounded by Barriers ( 30 ) each equipped with a Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ). This Gated Area (GA) is positioned just before a Restricted Area (RA).
[0032] “Restricted Area” (RA) comprises an area for access only to Authorized Users (AU) and Special User (SU) previously enrolled in an User Authentication Device ( 20 ) located at the entrance of the Gated Area (GA). A Blocking Device ( 50 ) can be positioned immediately before the Restricted Area (RA) which allows entry to the Restricted Area (RA) by Authorized Users (AU) and/or Special Users (SU) and prevents access to the Restricted Area (RA) by Unauthorized Users (UU).
[0033] “Authorized User” (AU) comprises the user category that is authorized for entry into the Restricted Area (RA). Authorization is given by the User Authentication Device ( 20 ), usually located at the entrance of the Gated Area (GA).
[0034] “Special User” (SU) comprises an Authorized User that presents a specific condition of access. Examples of such Special Users (SU) include, but are not limited to, senior citizens, handicapped users, user exempt from payment, users with different fare structures, visitors, service providers, and others. Special Users (SU) are authorized by the User Authentication Device ( 20 ), usually located at the entrance of the Gated Area (GA), for entry into the Restricted Area (RA). The User Category Window ( 313 ) of Special Users (SU) can be programmed/attributed to have a specific color assigned to the Special User (SU) category or, if more detailed identification is necessary, a specific color can be programmed/attributed for each different type (senior citizens, handicapped users, etc.) of Special User (SU), such colors being different from those of Authorized Users (AU) and Unauthorized Users (UU). Such visual identification facilitates the surveillance by the security officer.
[0035] “Unauthorized User” (UU) comprises a user not unauthorized by the User Authentication Device ( 20 ), usually located at the entrance of the Gated Area (GA), or the user who has not identified himself at the User Authentication Device ( 20 ). Unauthorized Users (UU) are not allowed entry into the Restricted Area (RA).
[0036] “Imaging Area” comprises the imaging range of the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) and is partially defined by the Imaging Angle of the Image Capture Device ( 40 ). The Imaging Area includes the Gated Area (GA) and certain adjacencies.
[0037] An indicative luminous window marking the category and position of the user within the Gated Area (GA), is in this document referred to as the “User Category Window” ( 311 , 312 or 313 ), and comprises a window consisting of one or more luminous elements of the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) located on the Barriers ( 30 ). The User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) follows the displacement of the user within the Gated Area (GA) with the luminous indication of the user category: Authorized user (AU) with User Category Window ( 311 ), Unauthorized User (UU) with User Category Window ( 312 ), and Special User (SU) with User category Window ( 313 ). Each User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) has a specific color programmed or attributed to that User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ).
[0038] The control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area comprises a Gated Area (GA) before a Restricted Area (RA). This Gated Area (GA) is limited by Barriers ( 30 ) with Bars of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) that are activated by a Processing Unit ( 10 ) that receives, or not, an authentication and user category type from the User Authentication Device ( 20 ). The Image Capture Device ( 40 ) constantly identifies the presence of the user(s) within the Gated Area (GA) and sends such presence information to the Processing Unit ( 10 ) which calculates the location, speed and direction of movement of the user(s) within the Gated Area (GA). In turn, the Processing Unit ( 10 ) activates a User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) by way of the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) located in the Barriers ( 30 ) in a color stipulated for the user category identified by the User Authentication Device ( 20 ): Authorized User (AU) with specific User Category Window ( 311 ); Unauthorized User (UU) with specific User Category Window ( 312 ); and Special User (SU) with specific User Category Window ( 313 ). Based on information received from the Processing Unit ( 10 ) The User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) follows the movement of the corresponding user within the Gated Area (GA), signaling possible incidents to the security agents so that they can take action.
[0039] Preferably, the Barriers ( 30 ) provided in the Gated Area (GA) allow the unidirectional movement of Authorized Users (AU), Unauthorized Users (UU) and Special Users (SU) towards the Restricted Area (RA), as shown in FIG. 2 .
[0040] A bi-directional user flow can be foreseen by placing a second User Authentication Device ( 20 ) at the frontier of the Gated Area (GA) with the Restricted Area (RA) and/or an Image Capture Device ( 40 ) to configure the corresponding User Category Windows ( 311 , 312 or 313 ), as shown in FIG. 7 .
[0041] The Bar Of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) can be equipped with light-emitting diodes (LEDs); laser beams; lamps; or luminous displays such as LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays), plasma, LED, or similar.
[0042] The User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) moves parallel and together with the movement of the corresponding user within the Gated Area (GA). When a first user overtakes a second user, the first user's User Category Window also overtakes the second user's User Category Window, so that both users' User Category Windows ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) continue aligned with the movement of the respective users, during and after the process of overtaking.
[0043] When an Authorized User (AU), Unauthorized User (UU) or Special User (SU) located within the Gated Area (GA) overtakes, by moving forwards or backwards within the Gated Area (GA), any other user (AU, UU or SU), also located within the Gated Area (GA), the corresponding User Category Windows ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) of the overtaking user and that of the overtaken user will continue to follow the corresponding user which has overtaken and the user which has been overtaken, both during and after overtaking has occurred.
[0044] The User Authentication Device ( 20 ) includes any state of the art device, whose function is the identification of a user, by such means as biometric identification elements (as, for example, iris recognition, facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, finger or palm veins, among others) or non-biometric identification methods (such as badges with magnetic stripe or barcode, including those known as 2D, punch cards, radio-frequency cards, smartcards, among others).
[0045] The Image Capture Device ( 40 ) monitors and records the presence of static and dynamic objects within the Imaging Area and communicates with the Processing Unit ( 10 ), sending data that enables the Processing Unit ( 10 ) to calculate the position, speed and direction of movement of one or more users (AU, UU or SU) located within the Gated Area (GA). The result of such calculations is the data needed to activate the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) with the appropriate User Category Window ( 311 , 312 and 313 ) which follow the corresponding user (AU, UU, SU) as he/she moves within the Gated Area (GA). The Processing Unit ( 10 ) can, optionally, provide additional electronic information, such as flow intensity, time of entrance into e out of the Gated Area (GA), user dwell time, etc.
[0046] The Image Capture Device ( 40 ) can be any device that recognizes a static or dynamic image within an Imaging Area. Examples of such Image Capture Devices ( 40 ) include video or thermal cameras, distance capture devices, and other devices that allow the assembly of a representative image of the surroundings within the Imaging Area, including the Gated Area (GA).
[0047] The User Category Window ( 311 , 312 , 313 ) that accompanies the movement of the user (Authorized User [AU], Unauthorized User [UU] or Special User [SU]) within the Gated Area (GA) identifies the user category thereby facilitating the identification and category of the user (Authorized User [AU], Unauthorized User [UU] or Special User [SU]) for security agents and/or gatehouse staff to, if necessary, take action. For example, the movement of an Unauthorized User (UU) within the Gated Area (GA) promotes the combined movement of the respective User Category Window ( 312 ) for the Unauthorized User (UU) in a color stipulated to such a category, so that the security officers can quickly identify this Unauthorized User (UU) and perform a possible approach or another stipulated procedure.
[0048] In a preferred configuration, a Blocking Device ( 50 ) is placed at the entrance to the Restricted Area (RA). This Blocking Device ( 50 ) is wholly or partially closed by commands from the Processing Unit ( 10 ) to prevent the passage of an Unauthorized Users (UU) or certain kinds of Special Users (SU) to the Restricted Area (RA). When Authorized Users (AU) are passing within the Gated Area (GA), the Blocking Device ( 50 ) is maintained by the Processing Unit ( 10 ) in the open position, thereby allowing the free flow of such users into the Restricted Area (RA).
[0049] Optionally, the Blocking Device ( 50 ) can be removed. In this case, an Unauthorized User's (UU) access to the Restricted Area (RA) would have to be prevented by security agents based on the visual identification provided by the User Category Window ( 312 ) characteristic for an Unauthorized User (UU).
[0050] The Blocking Device ( 50 ) includes any device usually used to restrict user flows such as turnstiles, blockers, sliding doors, swing gates/doors and the like.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 6 , when an Unauthorized User (UU) moves into the Gated Area (GA) right behind an Authorized User (AU) or a Special User (SU), the respective User Category Windows ( 312 for Unauthorized User [UU], 311 for Authorized user [AU] and 313 for Special user [SU]) are activated in the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) of the Barriers ( 30 ), in order to signal the category of each one of the users. The Processing Unit ( 10 ), based on data received from the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) and processed by the Processing Unit ( 10 ), activates the Blocking Device ( 50 ) which starts to partially close or fully block the flow of an Unauthorized User (UU) as such a user approaches the Blocking Device ( 50 ), thereby blocking the passage only for the Unauthorized User (UU) and allowing the entry into the Restricted Area (RA) only for Authorized Users (AU) and Special Users (SU). The closing or opening speed of the Blocking Device ( 50 ) can be variable in proportion to the location, speed and direction of movement of an Unauthorized User (UU). For example, as an Unauthorized User (UU) approaches the Restricted Area (RA), the Blocking Device ( 50 ) will close more slowly if the Unauthorized User is moving slowly within the Gated Area (GA) and more quickly if the Unauthorized User (UU) moves faster within the gated Area (GA). Conversely, the Blocking Device ( 50 ) will start opening more slowly or quickly as the Unauthorized User (UU) moves away from the Restricted Area (RA) at a, respectively, slower or faster pace.
[0052] The Processing Unit ( 10 ) may also record and store by electronic means any event, based on previously established rules, making it possible, for example, to record the time of entry, speed of entry, dwell time and forced entry attempts by Unauthorized Users (UU), or even identify objects left inside the Gated Area (GA). These events, which are stored for future reference, can also alert security officers, so that they can take appropriate action.
[0053] Optionally, the User Authentication Device ( 20 ) can be removed, so that the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) in conjunction with the Processing Unit ( 10 ) can validate an object by way of geometric relationships of features of that object to determine if the object can be authorized, or not, to enter a Restricted Area (RA), thereby activating the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) to configure the respective User Category Window ( 311 , 312 or 313 ).
[0054] Optionally, contiguous to the Gated Area (GA) can be created an area where Unauthorized User (UU) can be quarantined by security agents, thereby avoiding flow restrictions or stoppages in the Gated Area (GA).
[0055] Optionally, the control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area can be used for counting. In this condition, the User Authentication Device ( 20 ), the Blocking Device ( 50 ) and the Bar of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) in the barrier ( 30 ) can be suppressed. As a counter, the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) identifies the users passage through the Gated Area (GA) and the Processing Unit ( 10 ) performs the counting functions.
[0056] Optionally, the control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area can be used for animal sorting, categorizing by physical attributes, through recognition or identification devices, such as, but not limited to, earrings with bar codes, among others. In this situation, the Image Capture Device ( 40 ) identifies the animal through, for example, the reading of an earring identifier, and sends a signal to the Processing Unit ( 10 ) that triggers the respective indicative window stipulated for its category, following the movement of the animal within the Gated Area (GA), allowing the identification of, for example, females/males, vaccinated/unvaccinated animals, and other conditions. Depending of the category of animal identified, the Blocking Device ( 50 ), can be used to divert such animals into their respective segregation areas, according rules previously programmed in the Processing Unit ( 10 ).
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We describe a control and monitoring system and method for access to a restricted area, such as mass transport systems (subways, trains, airports, ships and others), commercial buildings, schools, factories, datacenters, and other places with people moving, composed of a Processing Unit ( 10 ) that receives information both from a User Authentication Device ( 20 ) and an Image Capture Device ( 40 ). The Processing Unit ( 10 ) processes this information determining user category as well as user location, speed and direction of movement within a Gated Area (GA). In turn, the Processing Unit ( 10 ) triggers one or more Bars of Luminous Elements ( 31 ) arranged in Barriers ( 30 ) limiting a Gated Area (GA), giving every user (Authorized User [AU], Unauthorized User [UU] or Special User [SU]) a User Category Window ( 311, 312 or 313 ) that follows the movement of the user within the Gated Area (GA). A Blocking Device ( 50 ) can be activated by the Processing Unit ( 10 ) to be partially or fully closed or opened and at a speed proportional to the location, velocity and direction of movement of the user within the Gated Area (GA).
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/833,677, filed Jun. 11, 2013, which application is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to loop-type laundry holders having a strap or belt with a buckle fastener for holding garments together such as in a sports team laundry environment in which athletic uniforms and the like for a number of players are laundered together but are desirably kept organized such that each player's garments can be readily separated from the rest.
Various such laundry holders have been created in the past, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,038,748 to Durney et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,478,464 to Miller, both of which patents are hereby incorporated by reference. However, a need remains for improvements in the art. The above-referenced Miller patent discusses some of the drawbacks of the prior art including drawbacks of the Durney laundry holder, but proposes a solution that is more complicated than necessary and has its own drawbacks in that it adds a mesh bag for retaining articles of clothing, such as socks, that do not have openings for the passage of a strap that is useful for holding shirts, shorts and the like.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the invention involves a laundry collar with a strap having opposing ends and a fastener for releasably interconnecting the strap ends, and a locking clip attached on one end of the strap. The clip has opposing jaws, with each jaw having a plurality of teeth. A means for locking the jaws closed around an article of clothing secures the article to the laundry collar.
Another aspect of the invention involves a laundry collar with a strap having opposing ends and a fastener for releasably connecting the ends, and clip attached on one end to the strap, the clip having first and second articulated arms each having a generally planar body portion and defining an array of discrete frictional contact points extending away from the body portion toward the other arm. The arms are movable from an open clip position to a closed clip position in which a sock placed between the arms is securely frictionally retained by the frictional contact points.
A further aspect of the invention involves a laundry collar having a strap with opposing ends and a fastener for releasably connecting the ends, and a clip attached to the strap, the clip having an upper articulated arm with first and second rows of teeth that are spaced apart, defining an upper cavity therebetween. The clip also has a lower articulated arm with third and fourth rows of teeth that are spaced apart, defining a lower cavity therebetween. The arms are movable from an open clip position to a closed clip position, whereby a portion of a sock placed within the cavities may be stressed differentially from other portions of the sock outside the clip and frictionally retained by the rows of teeth.
The objects and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a drawing of one embodiment of a laundry collar or holder according to the present invention with an alligator clip holding a pair of athletic socks.
FIG. 2 is a drawing of the laundry collar of FIG. 1 additionally holding a shirt.
FIG. 3 is a drawing of the laundry collar of FIG. 1 additionally holding a pair of shorts.
FIG. 4 is a drawing of the laundry collar of FIG. 1 with the buckle engaged and the socks, shirt and shorts thereby secured together for washing and drying.
FIG. 5 shows a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 1 having a label adjacent to the buckle, and showing the alligator clip in an open position.
FIG. 6 shows the laundry collar of FIG. 5 holding a pair of athletic socks in the alligator clip.
FIG. 7 is a side view of the alligator clip in an open position.
FIG. 8 is a side view of the alligator clip in a closed position.
FIG. 9 is an enlarged view showing the hook and catch of the alligator clip.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
Referring to FIGS. 1-4 , one embodiment of a laundry collar or holder 10 according to the present invention comprises a flexible strap 12 , constructed from a length of nylon or polypropylene webbing, secured on each end to one half of a side-release buckle fastener 14 . More specifically, one end 12 a of the strap is secured to the male part 14 a of the buckle and the opposite end 12 b of the strap is secured to the mating female part 14 b of the buckle. In each case, the end of the strap is threaded through an attachment loop 16 of the buckle and then looped or folded back on itself and sewn together in a conventional manner to define a loop to secure the strap to the associated buckle half. The strap and buckle may both be approximately 1″ in width. The finished length of the strap in the disclosed embodiment is approximately 16″ from one buckle half to the other.
A locking plastic fastener 18 with teeth, sometimes called an alligator clip, is attached to one end of the strap, in this embodiment the end adjacent the female buckle half. The type of teeth may vary within the scope of the present invention. Each tooth may be smooth or serrated, including partly serrated, and adjacent teeth may adjoin each other or have space between them as shown in FIGS. 5 through 8 . The teeth in the preferred embodiment provide one form of multiple discrete, substantially non-piercing frictional contact points with a sock or other article of clothing desired to be held by fastener 18 . A tooth structure that pierces an article of clothing may be useful in certain applications but is less preferred.
The locking fastener is preferably attached to the strap at a point within 1″ of the buckle by means of a secondary nylon cord 20 which may have a cow hitch or lark's head knot formed therein to attach it to the hinge of the clip, as perhaps best shown in FIG. 5 . The free ends of the secondary cord are contained within a folded-over portion 22 of the strap, as best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , and are secured therein by sewing and/or adhesive, for example. If desired, the tips of the free ends may be enlarged by melting in order to inhibit pull-out from strap end portion 22 , which may extend approximately 1″ beyond the seam which defines the size of the loop attaching the strap to the female buckle half. One suitable clip is a model NP10 plastic net clip commercially available from Cleaner's Supply Inc., Conklin, N.Y., accessible online at cleanersupply.com. This clip, in its closed position, is approximately 3½″ long and has a square cross-section approximately ¾″ wide. The clip is preferably capable of holding two pairs of socks securely in an intuitive, user-friendly way. One or more additional clips may be attached to the strap in certain applications of this invention.
The clip shown in FIG. 5 has a first row of teeth 23 a along one side of lower jaw (or articulated arm) 25 and a second row of teeth 23 b along the opposite side, creating a cavity 27 between the rows. Upper jaw 29 has the same features and is joined in one-piece construction to lower jaw 25 through living hinge 31 (see FIG. 7 ). A clasp, opposite the living hinge, has a hook 33 and a catch 35 that locks ( FIGS. 8 and 9 ) the clip in a closed position when desired. When in a closed position, the teeth of the lower jaw interdigitate with the teeth of the upper jaw, as perhaps best shown in FIG. 8 . Alternatively, although less preferred, the upper and lower teeth may be vertically aligned such that there is cusp-to-cusp contact when the clip is closed. Each jaw may have two parallel, straight-line rows of teeth as disclosed, or may have an array of teeth in a different pattern.
The laundry collar may have a label 24 located near the buckle that is suitable for permanent marking such as with a permanent or indelible marker, to allow the user to personalize the collar with personal identification that will not wash off. One example label, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , is approximately 1¾″ long×1″ high and is sewn onto a free end 26 of the strap which may extend approximately 1¾″ to 2″ beyond the seam which defines the size of the loop attaching the strap to the male buckle half. In another embodiment, the label size is approximately 2″ long×¾″ high.
With the buckle unfastened, one end of the strap is threaded through a garment, for example, a shirt sleeve 30 and/or a pant leg 32 , and the buckle is then secured to keep the garments together. The strap may also be utilized for holding girdles, headbands or other garments which have openings through which the strap can be passed. An advantage of the polypropylene webbing is that it does not shrink or curl after repeated washing and drying. Socks 34 are inserted into the open alligator clip and the clip is then snapped closed securing the socks to the laundry collar. When the clip is closed, a portion of the pair of socks is captured within the cross-sectional cavity created by the co-location of the cavities in the lower and upper jaws. This allows the sock material of the captured portion to either be axially tensioned or compressed within the cross-sectional cavity. This relative change in stress on the sock material adjacent the frictional engagement of the rows of teeth of the clip with the socks provides an additional barrier to sock pull-out, augmenting the pull-out barrier provided by the frictional engagement of the teeth with the socks. This improvement provides a simplified answer to the inherent problems associated with laundry straps and cords cited in the Miller patent, while not overcomplicating things by resorting to mesh bags, which their own inherent problems, also cited in the Miller patent. The webbing and the clip, which is preferably made of heat resistant plastic, are safe inside both washers and dryers.
The new laundry collar holds socks quickly and yet firmly and saves precious time and energy by better facilitating simultaneous laundering of the clothing of numerous individuals without the need to sort through the laundry to find everyone's socks and other garments. The laundry collar with alligator clip is highly advantageous for laundering the uniforms or other garments of high-school sports teams, collegiate sports teams, professional sports teams, military units and more. It makes sports team laundry and other group laundry easier and more organized than with other approaches.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
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A laundry collar having a strap and a fastener that releasably interconnects the opposing strap ends, and a locking clip attached to one end of the strap and having opposing jaws which each have a plurality of teeth. A means for locking the jaws closed around an article of clothing secures the article to the laundry collar.
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PRIORITY
This application is a divisional of and claims priority to the non-provisional application entitled Centrifuge Gyro Diaphragm Capable Of Maintaining Motor Shaft Concentricity, Ser. No. 09/334,956, filed Jun. 17, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,988 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a centrifuge rotor shaft assembly, and more particularly to a centrifuge assembly where a diaphragm is disposed about the rotor shaft assembly to permit the rotor shaft assembly to pivot while substantially limiting horizontal displacement thereof. Also, a member situated between a rotor shaft and a rotor shaft substantially limits vertical displacement of the rotor shaft, while allowing angular deflection of the rotor shaft with respect to the drive shaft.
2. Description of the Prior Art
A centrifuge instrument is a device by which liquid samples may be subjected to a centrifugal force. The samples are typically carried in tubes situated within a member known as a centrifuge rotor. The rotor is mounted at the top of a rotor shaft, which is connected to a drive shaft that provides a source of motive energy. Centrifuge drive systems must be designed to accommodate unbalanced rotating loads. The imbalance may exist initially when loading samples into the centrifuge rotor, or it may result from a tube failure during operation of the centrifuge. The imbalance represents a non-uniform distribution of matter throughout the mass of the rotor.
Any given mass, or centrifuge rotor, has a geometric center based on the dimensions of the mass, and a mass center based on the distribution of matter within the mass. The mass center is also referred to as the center of gravity. In an actual mass or centrifuge rotor, the mass center is offset from the geometric center due to machining errors and density variations. A rotating mass mounted on a drive and suspension system, has a critical speed at which the mass laterally shifts its axis of rotation from rotating about its geometric center to rotating about its mass center.
Centrifuge drive systems operate below and above a critical speed. Below the critical speed, the centrifuge rotor rotates about its geometric center. Above the critical speed, the centrifuge rotor attempts to rotate about its mass center. Because centrifuge drive and suspension systems need to have some type of spring in the system to allow the transition through critical speed, the centrifuge rotor approaches rotation about its mass center. A vibration is induced because centrifuge rotor mass center and the centerline of the drive system do not fully align. The amount of vibration that the rotor produces at a given speed is dependent on the distance between the rotor's mass center and drive geometric center. If the components of the drive system for the centrifuge are rigidly interconnected, then the vibration would subject the drive system to damaging stresses that could possibly destroy the centrifuge. Accordingly, centrifuge drive systems are typically designed to enjoy a certain degree of flexibility.
For a centrifuge rotor to approximate rotation about its mass center, the rotor shaft must be allowed to horizontally shift its axis of rotation. Accordingly, two flexible joints are required between the drive shaft and the rotor shaft. Flexible shafts and gyros, which are well known in the prior art, both allow the required horizontal shift.
A flexible shaft must bend or deflect in order to allow a rotor to spin about its mass center. The greater the flexibility of the shaft, the further it can be deflected to accommodate the horizontal shift and thus reduce the load on the centrifuge motor bearings, motor suspension and instrument frame. However, there is a tradeoff. Greater flexibility is generally achieved by reducing the diameter of the flexible shaft. Smaller diameter shafts have a greater difficulty in making the critical speed transition, and they can be more easily damaged by an unbalanced rotor or by a rotor that has been dropped on the shaft. Smaller diameter shafts also limit the amount of torque that can be transmitted, thus limiting the acceleration rate.
Gyro systems are more robust and less expensive to replace than flexible shaft systems. A gyro system is basically comprised of a rotor shaft pivotally connected to a drive shaft or motor shaft through an intermediate coupling. The intermediate coupling serves as a universal joint that allows the axis of the rotor shaft to assume a position different from that of the drive shaft. The centrifuge rotor is connected to the rotor shaft with a flexible coupling.
The problem associated with centrifuge operation above critical speed is well recognized in the prior art. The following patents illustrate several mechanisms that have been developed to reduce vibrations.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,770,191 (Blum) discloses a centrifuge drive system that automatically causes the center of gravity of a rotor to become aligned with the axial center of the drive system. An articulated rotor shaft permits lateral movement of the rotor whereby the geometric center of the rotor can be displaced so that its center of gravity become aligned with the axis of the drive system. A sliding block element is disposed about the articulated rotor shaft to reduce undue vibration of the shaft.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,568,324 (Williams) discloses a drive shaft assembly including a damper disposed between a flexible shaft and a bearing shaft. The damper accommodates the flexure of the flexible shaft while damping vibrations that are imposed on the flexible shaft by a rotor.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,827,168 (Howell) discloses a disk, rotatably attached to a centrifuge drive shaft, for reducing vertical vibrations of the drive shaft. Damping bearings are positioned against a surface of the disk to reduce vibrations thereof.
FIG. 1 shows a cross section of a typical centrifuge gyro drive shaft assembly of the prior art. A gyro housing 10 generally encloses one end of a rotor shaft 15 and one end of a drive shaft 25 , which are interconnected through a coupling 20 . The other end of drive shaft 25 is housed within a motor 40 . Rotor shaft 15 is supported within gyro housing 10 by bearings 30 a and 30 b, and flexible mounting 35 . The flexible mounting 35 is composed of a bearing housing 36 and two elastomeric rings 37 a and 37 b. A rotor (not shown) is positioned on top of rotor shaft 15 .
At rest, and at speeds below the critical speed, rotor shaft 15 and drive shaft 25 share a common vertical axis 45 . During centrifuge operation, motor 40 provides a rotational motive force that rotates drive shaft 25 , coupling 20 and rotor shaft 15 . Motor 40 accelerates, thus increasing the angular velocity of rotor shaft 15 . At the critical speed, the rotational axis of rotor shaft 15 shifts both horizontally and at an angle away from vertical axis 45 . This shift is permitted by flexible mounting 35 .
Bearings 30 a and 30 b are horizontally displaced by the horizontal displacement or shift of rotor shaft 15 . Flexible mounting 35 compresses and expands to accommodate the displacement of bearings 30 a and 30 b. As with any spring mass system, the elastic stiffness of flexible mounting 35 results in a resonant frequency that is within the normal operating range of most centrifuge systems.
A drive assembly configured as shown in FIG. 1 suffers from several inherent deficiencies. First, the horizontal shift of rotor shaft 15 and bearings 30 a and 30 b is itself a source of resonant vibration. A resonance is undesirable in a system where an objective is to minimize vibration. Second, to accommodate the shift and provide an adequate degree of torsional flexibility, flexible mounting 35 is typically composed of an elastomer. As rotational velocity increases, the elastomer becomes less flexible, and less responsive to the horizontal shift. Third, the elastomer is not a very good thermal conductor. Consequently, heat generated by bearings 30 a and 30 b is not efficiently dissipated, and they are therefore stressed and susceptible to premature fatigue.
Another undesirable degree of freedom can be found in the vertical movement of rotor shaft 15 . Because bearings 30 a and 30 b are mounted by elastomeric rings 37 a and 37 b, rotor shaft 15 can move vertically. This vertical movement introduces another mode of vibration at a resonant frequency within the normal operating range of most centrifuge systems.
There is a need for a centrifuge drive assembly that can accommodate the tendency of a rotor to shift its axis of rotation from its geometric center to its mass center while minimizing vibration introduced by horizontal displacement of the drive shaft assembly.
There is also a need for a centrifuge drive assembly that minimizes vibration caused by a vertical displacement of a rotor shaft while allowing angular deflection of the rotor shaft with respect to a drive shaft.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a centrifuge assembly that comprises a rotor shaft assembly and a diaphragm disposed about the rotor shaft assembly. The diaphragm permits the rotor shaft assembly to pivot off a vertical axis while horizontal displacement of the drive shaft assembly is substantially limited.
This unique centrifuge assembly typically comprises a rotor, a rotor shaft assembly and a diaphragm flexibly secured about the rotor shaft assembly. The rotor shaft assembly may include a rotor shaft coupled to the drive shaft via an intermediate coupling, and, optionally, a gyro housing enclosing one end of the rotor shaft and one end of the coupling.
In one embodiment, the diaphragm is comprised of a plurality of radially directed bars.
In a second embodiment, the diaphragm is comprised of an inner flange and an outer flange having a common center point. The flanges are connected by radially directed bars.
In a third embodiment, the diaphragm is a disk with a centrally located hole. The disk provides flexible security throughout a 360° arc.
The centrifuge may additionally comprise one or more springs to vertically support the rotor shaft assembly. The springs can be situated beneath the base of the rotor shaft assembly, or formed from an elastomeric ring and disposed about a load bearing perimeter of the rotor shaft assembly, or can be incorporated into a drive coupling.
The present invention allows nutation of the rotor about the rotor shaft assembly and limits horizontal displacement of the axis of rotation of the coupling. Accordingly, the vibration associated with the horizontal displacement is substantially reduced due to the avoidance of any reasonant frequencies within the operating range of the centrifuge rotor. That is, the greater the horizontal stiffness, the higher the resonant frequency is pushed above the operating range of the centrifuge.
Additionally, a member situated between a rotor shaft and a drive shaft limits vertical movement of the rotor shaft while allowing angular deflection of the rotor shaft with respect to the drive shaft. The member takes up a gap between the rotor shaft and the drive shaft caused by manufacturing tolerances. In one embodiment, the member is comprised of a cylindrical spacer and two disk-shaped pads. In a second embodiment, the member is comprised of a first sleeve disposed substantially around an end of the rotor shaft, a second sleeve disposed substantially around an end of the drive shaft, and a column disposed between the two sleeves.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a cross section of a centrifuge gyro drive shaft assembly of the prior art;
FIG. 2 is a cross section of a centrifuge drive shaft assembly;
FIG. 3 is a top planar view of a diaphragm according to one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a top planar view of another embodiment of a diaphragm according to the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a top planar view of still another embodiment of a diaphragm according to the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional of a centrifuge assembly according to the present invention, including springs for vertical support of a rotor shaft assembly;
FIG. 7 is a top planar view depicting the relationship between the springs and diaphragm bars;
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a centrifuge drive shaft assembly with another embodiment of a spring;
FIG. 9A is a graph depicting the vibratory force produced by a conventional gyro of the prior art;
FIG. 9B is a graph depicting the vibratory force produced by a horizontal spring gyro of the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a member situated between a rotor shaft and a drive shaft according to the present invention;
FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a member situated between a rotor shaft and a drive shaft according to the present invention;
FIG. 11B is a top planar view of a sleeve with a slit as seen along line 11 B— 11 B of FIG. 11A;
FIG. 12A is a side elevation of a flexible coupling; and
FIG. 12B is an end view of a flexible coupling as seen along line 12 B— 12 B of FIG. 12 A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 2 shows a cross section of a centrifuge assembly 100 according to the present invention. Centrifuge assembly 100 has a motor 150 , a motor housing 140 , a diaphragm 130 , a rotor shaft assembly 105 , a drive spud 187 and a rotor (now shown).
A drive shaft 145 is coupled to a rotor shaft 115 via a coupling 120 . It also includes a gyro housing 100 , which encloses one end of rotor shaft 115 and one end of coupling 120 . Rotor shaft 115 is supported within gyro housing 110 by bearings 163 . Drive spud 187 is pivotally connected to rotor shaft 115 , and the rotor is positioned on top of drive spud 187 .
Diaphragm 130 is disposed about coupling 120 and flexibly couples rotor shaft assembly 105 to motor housing 140 . Diaphragm 130 is, optionally, connected to gyro housing 110 by bolts 125 a and 135 n , and connected to motor housing 140 by bolts 135 a and 135 n . As will be described below, diaphragm 130 permits rotor shaft assembly 105 to pivot on a rotor shaft assembly pivot point 155 .
During centrifuge operation, motor 150 provides a rotational motive force that rotates drive shaft 145 , coupling 120 , rotor shaft 115 , drive spud 187 , and ultimately the rotor. At speeds below a critical speed the rotor rotates about its geometric center. The rotor's geometric axis is located at an axis 175 a, which coincides with a vertical axis 165 . Gyro housing 110 , rotor shaft 115 and drive shaft 145 are also centered along vertical axis 165 . Diaphragm 130 lies in a plane substantially perpendicular to drive shaft 145 .
At and above the critical speed, the rotor rotates about its mass center. The mass center is offset from the geometric center by a distance 180 . The rotor's mass center aligns with axis 175 a, and consequently, the rotor's geometric axis is forced to shift horizontally to axis 175 b. The relationship between axis 175 a and 175 b as shown in FIG. 2 represents an instant in time. As the rotor rotates about its mass center at axis 175 a, the rotor's geometric axis revolves around axis 175 a. That is, the geometric axis travels in a circle with a centerpoint at axis 175 a and a radius of distance 180 . Since axis 175 a coincides with vertical axis 165 , which is also the axis of drive shaft 145 , the rotation of the rotor shaft about its mass center is concentric with the rotation of drive shaft 145 .
Since the rotor is pivotally connected to drive spud 187 at drive spud pivot point 185 , the rotor and its geometric axis are allowed to pivot along an arc 170 and remain vertical. However, the axis of rotor shaft 115 is deflected from vertical axis 165 to an axis 190 . Axis 190 is defined by endpoints at drive spud pivot point 185 and rotor shaft assembly pivot point 155 . As the rotor A rotates about its mass center at axis 175 a , axis 190 revolves, and defines a cone of precession, around vertical axis 165 . As seen in FIG. 2, the rotor shaft assembly 105 is permitted to pivot with respect to drive shaft 145 and vertical axis 165 when the rotor is rotating.
As the axis of rotor shaft 115 is deflected to axis 190 , diaphragm 130 permits gyro housing 110 to pivot along an arc 160 so that the centerline of gyro housing 110 likewise coincides with axis 190 . In this illustration, which shows an instant in time, gyro housing 110 pivots on rotor shaft assembly pivot point 155 in a counter-clockwise direction as shown by arc 160 . The side of gyro housing 110 that is connected to diaphragm 130 by bolt 125 a moves down, and the other side of gyro housing 100 , which is connected to diaphragm 130 by bolt 125 n , moves up. During centrifuge operation, gyro housing 110 oscillates about vertical axis 165 . This oscillatory movement on the part of gyro housing 110 is referred to as “nutation”. Gyro housing 110 is thus permitted to pivot off vertical axis 165 but its horizontal displacement is substantially limited.
In an actual centrifuge system, the difference between a rotor's mass center and geometric center, i.e., distance 180 , is typically about 0.05 (50 thousandths) inches, and arc 160 represents about 1° of angular displacement off the vertical axis 165 . The nutation of a gyro housing 110 is barely discernible to the naked eye, but a tremendous amount of force must be constrained. For example, a 57 pound rotor rotating at 9,000 cycles per minute (CPM) is subjected to approximately 6,000 pounds of centrifugal force.
Gyro housing 110 nutates, and diaphragm 130 flexes, at the same rate that the rotor rotates. Diaphragm 130 must be flexible enough to accommodate the nutation of gyro housing 110 , yet strong enough to endure the stress imposed during centrifuge operation. Ideally, diaphragm 130 would have a zero spring rate and freely allow the rotor to shift its axis of rotation from its geometric center to its mass center. However, all objects oscillate at a natural frequency that is a function of their spring rate and mass. In practical application, diaphragm 130 is designed with a spring rate greater than the operating frequency of the centrifuge system. That is, a lower spring rate can be used in a centrifuge system with a heavy rotor and a low operating frequency, than in a system with a light rotor or high operating frequency. Several alternative embodiments of diaphragms are presented below.
FIG. 3 is a top planar view of one embodiment of a diaphragm 192 according to the present invention. Diaphragm 192 is comprised of a plurality of radially directed bars 193 disposed about the circumference of a coupling 199 at regular angular intervals 198 . Bars 193 are connected to a motor housing 194 by bolts placed through holes 195 , and connected to a gyro housing 196 by bolts placed through holes 197 . Bars 193 are approximately 0.180 inches wide and 0.060 inches thick, and manufactured of stainless steel.
FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a diaphragm 200 according to the present invention. An outer flange 210 and inner flange 215 share a common center point 220 . Inner flange 215 and outer flange 210 are connected by radially directed bars 225 . Bars 225 are spaced at regular angular intervals 240 to partition diaphragm 200 into substantially equal arcs. Diaphragm 200 is connected to a gyro housing by bolts placed through holes 230 , and connected to a motor housing by bolts placed through holes 235 . Bars 225 are approximately 0.180 inches wide and 0.060 inches thick. Diaphragm 200 is manufactured of stainless steel.
FIG. 5 depicts still another embodiment of a diaphragm 300 , comprising a disk 310 with a centrally located hole 315 . Diaphragm 300 is connected to a gyro housing by bolts placed through holes 320 , and connected to a motor housing by bolts placed through holes 325 . Diaphragm 300 is manufactured of 16 gauge stainless steel.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a centrifuge assembly in which vertical springs provide support for a rotor shaft assembly. A drive shaft 445 is coupled to a rotor shaft 415 via a coupling 420 . It also includes a gyro housing 410 , which encloses one end of rotor shaft 415 and one end of coupling 420 . A flexible drive spud 487 is pivotally connected to rotor shaft 415 , and a rotor (now shown) is positioned on top of drive spud 487 . A diaphragm with radially directed bars 430 a and 430 b is disposed about coupling 420 . Springs 450 a and 450 b are positioned to support rotor shaft assembly 405 .
Springs 450 a and 450 b are intended to relieve some of the vertical force imposed upon diaphragm bars 430 a and 430 b by the combined weight of rotor shaft assembly 405 and the centrifuge rotor. Springs 450 a and 450 b serve to extend the useful life of diaphragm bars 430 a and 430 b.
Springs 450 a and 450 b can be a manufactured of a metallic or elastomeric material. Practical examples include helical springs, wound springs, machined springs and elastomeric springs such as a Lord FlexBolt™, manufactured by Lord Corporation of Erie, Pa. However, elastomeric springs, as compared to metallic springs, provide better damping of vertical and oscillatory ringing of rotor shaft assembly 405 .
FIG. 7 is a top planar view showing the relationship of springs to diaphragm bars. Springs 450 a and 450 b, and bars 430 a and 430 b, are subsets of a plurality of springs 450 a - 450 n, and bars 430 a - 430 n, respectively. Springs 450 a - 450 n and bars 430 a - 430 n are disposed about the perimeter of coupling 420 . Any given spring 450 a - 450 n is located in an arc 460 formed between two adjacent bars 430 a - 430 n.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a centrifuge assembly with another embodiment of a spring for vertical support of a rotor shaft assembly. A rotor shaft assembly 505 includes a gyro housing 520 generally enclosing one end of a rotor shaft 525 and one end of a drive shaft 535 , which are interconnected through a coupling 515 . A flexible drive spud (not shown) and a rotor shaft (not shown) are positioned on top of rotor shaft 525 . A diaphragm 530 is disposed about coupling 515 . Spring 510 is disposed about a load-bearing perimeter of gyro housing 520 .
Spring 510 is a solid elastomer ring. It absorbs some of the vertical force imposed upon diaphragm 530 by the combined weight of rotor shaft assembly 505 and the centrifuge rotor. Spring 510 serves to extend the useful life of diaphragm 530 .
FIGS. 9A and 9B are graphs comparing the performance of a conventional gyro (FIG. 9A) to a horizontal spring gyro of the present invention (FIG. 9 B). The horizontal axes of these graphs represent rotor cycles per minute (CPM) and the vertical axes represent units of acceleration (G).
A conventional gyro, represented in FIG. 9A, produces significant vibrations of approximately 7 G at 6 k CPM (ref. 610 ), and increases to approximately 14.3 G at 18.8 k CPM (ref. 620 ).
In contrast, a horizontal spring gyro of the present invention, represented in FIG. 9B, produces vibrations of approximately 4 G at 6 k CPM (ref. 630 ) and 2 G at 18.8 k CPM (ref. 640 ). The vibrations of the horizontal spring gyro are significantly lower than those of the conventional gyro in the range of 6 k CPM to 18.8 k CPM. Vibratory acceleration peaked at approximately 32.3 G at 20.5 k CPM (ref. 650 ). 20.5 k CPM is therefore the resonant frequency of the system. The frequency at which the peak occurs is adjustable by altering the thickness and width of the bars in the various embodiments of the diaphragm of the present invention. As the bars are made thicker and wider, the spring rate and the resonant frequency of the system increases. The spring rate can be increased to set the resonant frequency above the operating frequency range of the system.
FIG. 10 shows one embodiment of a member situated between a rotor shaft and a drive shaft for limiting vertical displacement of the rotor shaft. A member 725 is situated between a rotor shaft 705 and a drive shaft 710 . Member 725 is accommodated within an axially directed center hole through a coupling 730 , and is held in place by coupling 730 .
Member 725 is comprised of a metal cylindrical spacer 720 and two rubber disk-shaped pads 715 a and 715 b. However, a spacer 720 or pad 715 a alone may be adequate in some applications. Spacer 720 and pads 715 a and 715 b can be made of metal, rubber, nylon, polymeric material or any stiff elastomeric material.
Downward movement of rotor shaft 705 is limited by member 725 . Pads 715 a and 715 b will compress to allow an angular deflection of rotor shaft 705 in relation to drive shaft 710 .
FIG. 11A shows a second embodiment of a member situated between a rotor shaft and a drive shaft for limiting vertical displacement of the rotor shaft. A member 750 is situated between a rotor shaft 705 and a drive shaft 710 . Member 750 is accommodated within an axially directed center hole through a coupling 730 , and is held in place by coupling 730 .
Member 750 is comprised of a column 760 disposed between a first sleeve 755 and second sleeve 765 . Sleeve 755 slides over and substantially around an end of rotor shaft 705 . Sleeve 765 slides over and substantially around an end of drive shaft 710 . Member 750 can be made of metal, rubber, nylon, polymeric or any stiff elastomeric material.
The diameter of column 760 is small enough, and flexible enough, to allow an angular deflection of rotor shaft 705 in relation to drive shaft 710 . Vertical movement of rotor shaft 705 will be limited by the firmness of column 760 .
Referring to FIG. 11B, sleeve 765 includes axial slits 770 . Sleeve 755 , in FIG. 11A, also includes slits. The slits 770 allow sleeves 755 and 765 to more easily slide over the ends of their respective shafts 705 and 710 .
As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, coupling 730 includes a clamping mechanism 775 to compress slits 770 and secure sleeves 755 and 765 to shafts 705 and 710 , respectively. A single piece flexible shaft coupling such as that shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B is available from Helical Products Co. of Santa Maria, Calif. Generally, coupling 730 can be any type of shaft coupling with a center hole.
Alternatively, instead of including and compressing slits 770 , sleeves 755 and 765 can be secured to shafts 705 and 710 using set screws (not shown).
Those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of the present invention may impart numerous modifications thereto. Such modifications are to be construed as lying within the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.
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In a centrifuge comprising a drive shaft assembly, a diaphragm disposed about the drive shaft assembly reduces noise and vibration. The diaphragm permits the drive shaft assembly to pivot off a vertical axis while substantially limiting horizontal displacement thereof. Also, where a centrifuge includes a rotor shaft and a drive shaft, a member situated between the rotor shaft and the drive shaft substantially limits vertical displacement of the rotor shaft while allowing angular deflection of the rotor shaft with respect to the drive shaft.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a device for applying a liquid medium to a moving product web, particularly a board web.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] An applicator device has been described in DE 10032500.9. In the case of this device, which is used to apply a liquid medium to one or both sides of a moving product web, especially a board web, the web runs over a roll or runs through a nip between two rolls.
[0005] At least one feed apparatus for the application medium is provided. Under operating conditions, a liquid pond then forms between the rolls or between one roll and the web. In this area of the pond, the application medium, in particular size or starch, penetrates into the product web, that is to say penetrates into the web. Specific properties of the web are intended to be changed and improved thereby.
[0006] By way of specifically shaped nozzle lips, which can be fitted to the nozzle element of the feed apparatus, the desired size of the free surface of the pond and also the immersion depth or the level can be adjusted. In order to feed the pond on one or on both sides of the web, use is made in each case of a feed apparatus having the aforementioned nozzle element and the nozzle lips. In this case, the nozzle lips form the discharge opening for the application medium.
[0007] In the case of the aforementioned solution, the nozzle lips, including the discharge opening, project into the pocket existing between material web and roll. The application medium flows approximately parallel to the running direction of the web and the roll or rolls. Nevertheless, the flow behavior of the application medium in the pond is not yet optimal. At higher required running speeds of the size press, increased and undesired eddy formation is conceivable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides an applicator device with which the running properties and the application options of size presses can be improved further and with which adequate penetration of the application medium into the product web, particularly into a board web, is also possible.
[0009] The invention comprises, in one form thereof, an application device for applying an application medium to at least one side of a moving product web, the web having a running direction. The application device includes at least one roll supporting the web, at least one pocket between at least one roll and at least one side, at least one pocket having a size and a shape, at least one feed apparatus including a metering element, the metering element having at least one discharge nozzle projecting into at least one pocket and at least one application chamber designed into the metering element, at least one discharge nozzle discharging the application medium onto the web in a first direction and proximate to at least one application chamber, the first direction approximately orthogonal to the running direction.
[0010] The applicator device according to the present invention is particularly suitable for the treatment of a board web.
[0011] The provision of an application chamber that projects into the pocket between roll and moving product web and from which the application medium strikes the web in an approximately orthogonal direction, that is to say transversely with respect to the running direction of the web, has a plurality of advantages. Some of the advantages of the present invention as compared with the solution cited in the description of the related art are:
[0012] 1. Improvement of the flow conditions in pond operation.
[0013] 2. The introduction of the application medium can be carried out with a precisely defined quantity and an appropriately defined pressure.
[0014] 3. Less mist formation and less spray.
[0015] 4. Reduction of the quantity of application medium etc. to be provided.
[0016] In this connection, it is very advantageous to arrange the application chamber, in which a medium pressure is built up, to be very close, that is to say at only the minimum distance from the product web to which the application medium is to be applied. As a result, there is the possibility of reducing the compressive penetration in the roll nip, as a result of which the product web is stressed less.
[0017] The applicator device according to the present invention can be operated both with normal pond operation and with a low pond level in the pocket.
[0018] One advantage of the present invention is the application possibilities for an extremely wide range of paper grades, running properties and application medium types are increased by a multiple.
[0019] With the applicator device according to the present invention, it is also possible to set only a low nip load, as a result of which, for example, the volume of a board web is preserved. The fact that only a low nip load (compressive force) is needed between board web and the roll or in the nip between two rolls implies that the rolls do not have to be highly dimensioned, which results in considerable savings in material and costs for the applicator device.
[0020] A further advantageous achievement of the present invention is that the nozzle element, that is to say the application chamber, can be equipped with discharge nozzles, which can be in the form of spray nozzles.
[0021] The spray nozzles, which can be arranged within the pressure application chamber in one or more planes, firstly ensure particularly gentle application. As a result, optimum surface consolidation of the fibers of board, when starch is used, and also keeping it free from dust is made possible, especially when processing board.
[0022] Secondly, the same applicator device permits use even in the case of graphic papers to which pigment-containing coating color is to be applied. In this case, a pond level is generally dispensed with and, in addition, the operating speeds are in this case generally significantly higher. Even a 1:1 application would be possible in this case without subsequent equalization of the applied coating color.
[0023] However, the applicator device according to the present invention is also further suitable for “normal” pond operation. Such an operation is advantageous when fluting medium or liner is to be treated with starch or size and, for this purpose, a higher penetration than in the case of board is required.
[0024] In the case of board, on the other hand, a lower penetration is adequate, since as a rule the intention here is only to bond the raw material particles at the surface of the web.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0026] [0026]FIG. 1 is a partially schematic side view of an embodiment of the application device according to the present invention with pond operation; and
[0027] [0027]FIG. 2 is a partially schematic side view detailed illustration of the application location of an embodiment of the present invention with a low pond.
[0028] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate one preferred embodiment of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, an embodiment of an applicator device shown generally at 20 is preferably used for simultaneous application to both sides of product web 3 , product web 3 having a running direction shown by the arrow. Quite often, only single-sided application to only one of the two sides of web 3 is also provided.
[0030] In order to distinguish between the components, which are basically of identical construction, on the right-hand half of the picture the components are named with the note “a”. In the case of single-sided application, all the components on the left-hand or the right-hand half of the picture can either be left out completely or merely pivoted away.
[0031] [0031]FIGS. 1 and 2 show two rolls 1 and 1 a, which form with each other a nip 4 (press nip) through which board web 3 runs. Web 3 runs through the nip substantially from top to bottom.
[0032] In the embodiment according to FIG. 1, which is primarily envisaged for the treatment of liner or fluting medium, there is in each case an application medium feed apparatus 5 and 5 a on both sides of web 3 .
[0033] Between the respective web side and each of rolls 1 and 1 a there are pockets Z and Z a , which during the operation of devices 20 are in each case filled with pond 6 and 6 a , respectively. As a result, depending on medium M used, web 3 is impregnated, sized or, in the example, the surface of web 3 is consolidated. Pockets Z and Z a each have a size and a shape determined, in part, by the diameter of rolls 1 and 1 a , respectively.
[0034] As FIG. 1 shows, feed apparatus 5 and 5 a includes a main distribution pipe 7 and 7 a , respectively. Like all the other components, main distribution pipe 7 and 7 a is likewise designed to be of machine width and receives the application medium M at its ends.
[0035] In each case a large number of individual distribution pipes 8 and 8 a open into main distribution pipe 7 and 7 a and are arranged uniformly over the length of main distribution pipe 7 and 7 a . Via the plurality of pipes 8 and 8 a , quite specific quantities of application medium M can be fed into metering gaps 9 and 9 a , respectively, so that a uniform feed over the entire web width, and therefore a uniform pressure distribution over a specific chamber 14 or 14 a (which will be explained further below) is possible. Metering gaps 9 and 9 a are located in the interspace between parallel walls 10 and 11 , and 10 a and 11 a , respectively, which reach over the entire width of device 20 and of which metering elements 12 and 12 a are composed.
[0036] The lower part of the metering element, that is that part which projects into the pocket Z or Z a , includes specially shaped attachments 13 or 13 a . Attachments 13 and 13 a are produced as an individual part in various sizes. Its outer surfaces are arranged to converge toward each other. In the outer surface pointing toward the product web 3 , a machine-width depression with edge beads 18 and 18 a (or similar limiting elements such as walls) is made which, as a result, forms application chambers 14 or 14 a mentioned previously.
[0037] By changing the position of chambers 14 or 14 a in relation to product web 3 , or varying the distance of beads 18 and 18 a , or else by replacing nozzle element attachments 13 or 13 a with an attachment of another size, or varying the size of application chambers 14 or 14 a and therefore the pressure to be applied, the quantity of application medium can be adjusted. Application chambers 14 and 14 a are in each case arranged at the minimum distance from the moving web.
[0038] As a result of application medium M flowing in from metering gaps 9 or 9 a via discharge nozzles 15 or 15 a (which can alternatively be discharge openings or spray nozzles), a pressure is built up with which, firstly, web 3 can have medium M applied to it very uniformly, and, secondly, undesired eddy formation in ponds 6 and 6 a , and misting and spray are avoided, or at least reduced.
[0039] [0039]FIG. 1 also reveals that metering element 12 or 12 a , that is to say walls 10 , 11 or 10 a , 11 a , respectively, are designed in two parts. Upper part O and lower part U (lower part U being that part to which attachment 13 or 13 a is fitted and projects into ponds 6 or 6 a ) are connected to each other detachably, for example by way of a screw fitting or a hinge arrangement.
[0040] This two-part design has advantages in production and in assembly, dismantling or when cleaning the applicator device 20 . Furthermore, kits of different lengths can be provided for upper part O and lower part U, by which elements device 20 according to the present invention can easily be adapted to different roll 1 , 1 a diameters.
[0041] By using the pivoting device 17 or 17 a , firstly the position of application chambers 14 or 14 a , respectively, can be adjusted.
[0042] Secondly, the entire feed apparatus 5 and 5 a can be lifted out of rolls 1 and 1 a or, put in a better way, can be lifted out of pockets Z and Z a or nip 4 within pond 6 or 6 a . This is necessary in particular when only one side of the web is to be treated, when rolls are to be cleaned or replaced or when a web break has to be dealt with.
[0043] Application devices shown generally at 20 in FIG. 2 are basically the same construction as device 20 in FIG. 1 and is therefore also provided with the same reference symbols. However, in the alternative embodiment according to FIG. 2, only a weak or low pond 6 or 6 a is built up, for which reason the application area is only illustrated as a detail.
[0044] This alternative embodiment is primarily suitable for the surface consolidation of board, where the volume is not to be compressed in nip 4 . In addition, in this case no complete through penetration is necessary.
[0045] The application chamber 14 or 14 a , in which a plurality of discharge nozzles in the form of spray nozzles 15 and 15 a are advantageously incorporated, for example in a plurality of planes, permit this gentle mode of operation at only a low nip load Pmin to be set. Spray nozzles 15 and 15 a impinge application medium M directly onto web 3 .
[0046] It is even possible for applicator rolls 1 and 1 a to be used with significantly smaller diameters than hitherto, since here no large circumferential surfaces of the rolls are needed in order to build up a voluminous pond level 9 . Accordingly, this variant is very economical. In addition, the expenditure on roll drive power is substantially reduced. Likewise, the expenditure for application medium M and for pump circulation is considerably reduced, because of the possible use of spray nozzles 15 and 15 a.
[0047] It should further be mentioned that, when spray nozzles 15 and 15 a are used, even graphic paper can be treated with pigment-containing coating color, and in this case an application without excess is possible, since by using the spray nozzles, it is possible to perform very fine distribution of the application medium.
[0048] In the cases of pond 6 , 6 a operation, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, excess application is carried. out, however, which can generally be followed by a board coating device arranged physically downstream of applicator device 20 but not illustrated.
[0049] While this invention has been described as having a preferred design, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.
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An application device for applying an application medium to at least one side of a moving product web, the web having a running direction. The application device includes at least one roll supporting the web, at least one pocket between at least one roll and at least one side, at least one pocket having a size and a shape, at least one feed apparatus including a metering element, the metering element having at least one discharge nozzle projecting into at least one pocket and at least one application chamber designed into the metering element, at least one discharge nozzle discharging the application medium onto the web in a first direction and proximate to at least one application chamber, the first direction approximately orthogonal to the running direction.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a process for operating an open ring-type furnace, with firing shafts partly grouped together in the fire reversal unit, for manufacturing shaped carbonaceous bodies, mainly electrodes for the aluminum fused salt electrolytic process, by regulating at least the temperature and the negative pressure, and relates too to a device for carrying out the process.
The open ring-type furnace comprises a number of stationary baking chambers or pits aligned in rows next to each other and divided off by walls running transverse to the direction of progress of the fire, and by firing shafts arranged in cassettes and running in the direction of progress of the fire. A ring arrangement of the firing shafts is achieved by parallel arrangement of two rows or baking chambers, one on each side of the furnace, and by connecting up the two fire shaft systems at the ends of these rows via fire reversal units. The fire shaft systems are either connected up in such a manner that all firing shafts join up to a common duct, or are partly grouped together at the ends of the two rows in the fire reversal unit. In the case of eight firing shafts, for example, the three inner firing shafts and the two outer firing shafts are grouped together and connected to the corresponding groups on the other side of the furnace. It is of course also possible to connect up the fire shafts individually. This is, however, not advantageous as it would involve a very complicated construction requiring a great deal of space as well as yielding a low degree of firing efficiency.
The mode of operation of such baking furnaces has an extremely important influence on the quality of anode produced. Both the rate of heating to the baking temperature and the average baking temperature have a decisive influence on anode quality, in particular with regard to strength, electrical conductivity and reactivity. If temperature changes occur too quickly, the anodes may develop cracks or, if the average baking temperature is too low their reactivity may be poor.
In view of this there has been no lack of attempts to automate, at least in part, the operation of baking furnaces by means of process control. For this one needs an appropriate operating plan or model in order that the temperature change during the progress of a fire can be kept under control.
The operating model is itself influenced by the starting parameters, the planned temperature sequences and gradients, and by the correction plan on which the model is based. The correction plan indicates where a particular parameter is to be left unaffected or how it is to be changed in order to prevent over or undershooting the intended temperature or to make correction. Microprocessors are employed to regulate the appropriate parameter-mainly the temperature in the fire shaft and the negative pressure in the suction unit. These register the data and issue the commands for correction to the appropriate adjustment means-valves on the burners and slides on the suction unit. By starting parameters is to be understood the external conditions which are of fundamental importance e.g. the type of furnace construction and the condition of the furnace. Of great importance in this respect is the construction of the fire reversal unit.
When establishing the operating plan or model one usually obtains empirically determined relationships between the temperature change in the furnace and the properties of the anodes which experienced that change. Those conditions which lead to above average anode quality are then regarded as optimal. In subsequent runs with the furnace the aim is then to approach as closely as possible the advantageous sequence of baking temperatures using the adjustment means on the furnace.
When the fire is wholly on one side of the furnace it is possible, without any difficulty using the present day operating model, to regulate each firing shaft individually such that the planned sequence of baking temperatures is followed.
For reasons concerned with furnace design, however, the ring-type furnace can not be regulated by the same principle during the complete traverse of a fire round the furnace i.e. during the progress of a fire through all chambers. If a fire is at a stage where it is particularly on one side of the furnace and partly on the other side i.e. in the phase when the fire reverses its direction by moving round the end of one row of chambers to the next row on the other side, and the fire reversal unit is included in the fire then, due to the combination or termination of the fire shafts on the downstream side and the allocation of the fire shafts on the upstream side, it is no longer possible to achieve satisfactory individual adjustment of the fire shaft temperatures by regulating the negative pressure in the individual fire shafts on the side of the furnace where the leading end of the fire i.e. the first pre-heating chamber is situated. The result in such a case is a drop in anode quality.
The object of the present invention is therefore to operate a ring-type furnace of the kind described above-both without but in particular with process control-in such a manner that the quality of the anodes does not depend on the position of the anodes in the furnace. A particular object of the invention is to employ a means of process control which overcomes the diadvantages suffered during the operation of the furnace at the phase where fire reversal takes place.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
These objects are achieved by way of the invention in that during the fire reversal phase the negative pressure is regulated at the transverse wall where the reversal is taking place.
According to a preferred version of the invention, when much the greater part of the pre-heating zone and the baking zone is on one side of the furnace, the regulation can take place at constant negative pressure on the suction unit on the baking side of the furnace.
When the pre-heating zone is equally distributed on both sides of the furnace, it has been found favourable for the regulation of the leading part of the pre-heating zone to be performed via the negative pressure setting on the suction unit, and the trailing part of the pre-heating zone via regulating facilities on the baking side of the furnace.
When much the greater part of the pre-heating zone is on the suction unit side of the furnace it has been found particularly favourable to regulate that part of the fire on the baking side of the furnace via regulating facilities on that side of the furnace and to regulate the part of the fire on the suction unit side of the furnace by the negative pressure setting on the suction unit.
The proposed process has the advantage that the individual control of the fire shafts-such as is possible via the standard programme when the fire is only on one side of the furnace-is extended at least in part to the fire reversal phase; this makes it much easier to approach the desired heating cycle and thus produce a better anode quality.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further advantages and details are revealed with the help of the drawings viz.,
FIG. 1: A schematic representation of a ring-type baking furnace.
FIG. 2: A schamatic plan view of a ring-type baking furnace.
FIG. 3: A schematic representation of a fire at various positions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The operating model or plan for regulating a ring-type furnace is divided into a standard part and a part concerning the reversal of the fire i.e. turning the fire round the ends of the furnace. The standard part relates to the situation where the individual fire shafts can be regulated independent of each other; such a situation is not affected by the invention. Instead only the situations where the fire is in the reversal phase are affected, by which is to be understood all those transition phases where the pre-heating zone-including any sealing chambers-are moved from one side of the furnace to the other.
FIG. 1 shows by way of example a ring-type baking furnace having two sides or rows A and B each of which features 15 chambers 1-15 and 16-30. The fire shafts are not shown here for reasons of simplicity. Both rows of chambers are connected at the ends by reversal units U1 and U2 so that the whole forms a ring with units U1 and U2 each connecting a plurality of fire shafts from one side to the other. Affected by the process according to the invention are-in terms of the direction of fire movement shown by arrow P-the last chambers, depending on the arrangement of the fires viz. chambers 12, 13, 14, 15 on side A and the first chambers 16, 17, 18, 19 on side B at reversal unit U1 and, at reversal unit U2, the last chambers 27, 28, 29, 30 on side B and the first chambers 1, 2, 3 and 4 on side A. If the direction of fire movement is in the opposite direction then the equivalent applies for that direction. The exact number of chambers affected by reversal of the firing direction, i.e. from one side of the furnace to the other, depends on the actual number of chambers employed in the pre-heating zone, and is numerically the same for each side, A and B, of the furnace. The chambers affected in the case of a fire with a four-chamber preheating zone are shown shaded here.
FIG. 2 shows by way of example the suction unit 60 and three pre-heating chambers 61, 62, 63 on side A and a fourth pre-heating chamber 64 on side B, which is followed directly by three baking chambers 65, 66, 67. The fire shafts 6, 7, 8 on side B are grouped in reversal unit U2 to a common channel U22 and continue on side A further as individual fire shafts. The transverse walls 70 to 76 divide the fire shafts in the region of the chambers. The walls 73 and 74 separate the reversal unit from the chamber or pit region of the furnace and contain the regulating facilities 85-88 and 95-98 according to the invention. The chamber 59 immediately ahead of the suction unit 60 usually serves as a sealing-off chamber.
FIG. 3 illustrates the progression of the fire from side B to side A and shows the fire at all stages of direction reversal with by way of example a fire with four chambers in the pre-heating zone (indicated shaded).
FIG. 3a shows the first chamber 61 of the pre-heating zone on side A while the other chambers 62, 63, 64 of the pre-heating zone, together with the rest of the fire-shown are only the three baking chambers-are still on side B of the furnace. The changes in the amounts of gas are carried out in accordance with the standard part of the control mode. Fixed setting facilities, either with a setting device for all fire shafts or individual devices for each fire shaft, are mounted on the suction unit 60. The setting facilities are usefully fixed in advance by the plant operation system and adjusted to suit the negative pressure conditions at certain intervals of time in response to new measurements. The changes in negative pressure, which are likewise given by the process control system, are brought about via the regulating facilities 85, 86, 87, 88 (FIG. 2) e.g. slides, on side B. If the effect of these alterations is inadequate, then the setting of the suction unit must be changed.
FIG. 3b shows two chambers 61, 62 of the pre-heating zone on side A and two chambers 63, 64 of the pre-heating zone on side B along with the baking chambers. In this fire reversal situation the changes in the amount of gas are made in accordance with the standard part of the model. The changes in negative pressure are made, for the chambers on side A, via the settings on the suction unit, and for the chambers on side B via the regulating facilities 85, 86, 87, 88 in the wall 73 on side B next to the fire reversal unit.
If, as shown in FIGS. 3c and FIG. 2, the first three chambers 61, 62, 63 of the pre-heating zone are already on side A, and only the last chamber 64 of the pre-heating zone-together with the baking chambers-is on side B, then when changing the amounts of gas in a fire shaft in the chambers 63, 64 immediately adjacent to the fire reversal unit, the amounts of gas are uniformly distributed over the connected fire shafts in the pre-heating zone and conducted to the appropriate fire shaft via regulation of the negative pressure at the suction unit 60. If for example the temperature T 27 (FIG. 2) in fire shaft 7 on side A is to be corrected and the temperatures T 36 to T 38 lie within the tolerated limits of the intended temperatures, then the amount of gas in the pre-heating zone in the fire shafts 6, 7 and 8 (6, 7 and 8 are reversed together) must be reduced or increased and the setting on the suction unit for fire shaft 7 accordingly opened or closed. The individual steps at the time of reversal are combined for the actual control measures. The necessary regulation of the changes in negative pressure is distributed as follows: the chambers 61, 62 and 63 of the pre-heating zone are controlled with the aid of the settings on the suction unit and chamber 64 along with at least part of the baking zone influenced with the aid of the regulating facilities 85, 86, 87, 88 in the wall 73 (FIG. 2).
FIG. 3d shows the situation at the reversal of the fire direction where all the chambers 61, 62, 63 and 64 of the pre-heating zone are already on side A of the furnace. The changes in the amounts of gas are performed in principle in a manner analogous to that described above in connection with FIG. 3c. In this new situation the regulating facilities 85, 86, 87, 88 on the side of the furnace where the baking zone is, i.e. on side B, are removed and the regulation of the fire on side A effected by the regulating facilities 95, 96, 97, 98 in wall 74, and all chambers in the pre-heating zones regulated by the suction unit setting. If any changes in negative pressure are required in the part of the baking zone near the pre-heating zone, then an additional, specific change in the amount of gas must be effected.
The regulation of the negative pressure in the fire reversal unit by regulating facilities 85-88, 95-98 in wall 73 or 74 is effected by constricting the cross section of the passage-way in the transverse wall leading from the fire shaft to the reversal unit. The change in cross section is usefully effected by slides which can be positioned preferably by motor drives responding to correction commands from the correction programme of the operation model. The slide in its simplest form comprises a metal sheet with a rubber lip round its edges.
It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the illustrations described and shown herein, which are deemed to be merely illustrative of the best modes of carrying out the invention, and which are susceptible of modification of form, size, arrangement of parts and details of operation. The invention rather is intended to encompass all such modifications which are within its spirit and scope as defined by the claims.
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The operation of an open ring-type baking furnace for the production of shaped carbonaceous bodies and having at least partly grouped fire shafts is such that during the fire reversal phase the negative pressure is regulated in each fire shaft in the transverse walls near the fire reversal units. This regulation takes place, depending on the position of the pre-heating zone, at the transverse wall on the suction unit side or on the baking side of the furnace. In particular in combination with process control means the process leads to a uniform product quality independent of the position of the said body in the furnace.
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This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 07/804,679 filed on Dec. 11, 1991, now abandoned.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention concerns industrial fabrics and has more particular reference to such industrial fabrics as coated fusing and laminating belts and to a method for the manufacture thereof.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Endless belts for use in fusing and laminating are known which comprise a base fabric having a coating of polytetra fluoroethylene (P.T.F.E.) applied thereto. Whilst the base fabric is normally of woven open-ended form, the ends being subsequently joined, it is preferred that such fabrics are woven endless thus avoiding seam mark-off.
Smoothness of surface is an important consideration in fusing and laminating belts, particularly in the case of belts for use in the context of high quality fine fabric laminations, and undue prominence at the belt surface of the underlying weave pattern can give rise to unacceptable marking in the fabric lamination.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The primary object of the present invention is to provide a fusing or laminating belt which offers improved performance as regards marking of the end product.
According to the present invention there is proposed an industrial fabric, and particularly a fusing or laminating belt, comprising an endless woven base fabric and multiple thin layers of a synthetic plastics coating material applied thereto, at least some of the said coating layers including silicate bodies therein thereby to mask the fabric interstices and substantially avoid manifestation of the surface profile of the base fabric at the belt surface.
Preferably the silicate bodies comprise glass beads having a diameter of between 20 and 250 microns.
The invention also includes the method of producing an industrial fabric, particularly a fusing or laminating belt, which includes the steps of providing a woven base fabric, and applying multiple thin coating layers of a synthetic plastics coating material to the said base fabric, at least one of the coating layers containing silicate bodies and the or at least one of the coating layers containing silicate bodies being applied by a lick coating technique.
The lick coating step yields a thin coating which fills the inherent channels in the fabric. The lick coating step also causes air to be expelled through the opposite side of the fabric to the side which is lick coated. After lick coating to fill the recesses on one side of the belt, the belt is then dip coated, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.
A preferred coating material is PTFE, as described above. PTFE has a high shrinkage on drying. The addition of a large amount of PTFE on one side of the fabric can result in curling of the fabric. Thus a thin layer of PTFE is required. The filling of the channels while maintaining a low curl effect can be achieved by providing a thin layer using a lick coating process.
The subsequent dip coating steps apply much thicker layers of PTFE to both sides of the fabric. PTFE pick up on the non-lick coated side of the fabric is higher than on the lick coated side.
According to a preferred feature, a bonding coat is applied to the base fabric prior to application of the coating layers containing silicate bodies.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The invention will now be described further, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates the method steps of the invention as exemplified by one embodiment thereof; and
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section taken through a fabric coated in accordance with the method of FIG. 1; and
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to FIG. 1 thereof, in coating a woven base fabric to provide a laminating belt an endless woven fabric 11 is supported, under tension, on a plurality of horizontal rollers 12, 13, 14 arranged in spaced apart disposition above a supply of coating material contained in a tank 15 and is successively engaged with and withdrawn from coating material 16 present in the tank 15 to take up material therefrom.
Conveniently the tank 15 is raised or lowered so as to bring the coating material 16 into contact with the belt 17 for the time being existing on the rollers 12, 13, 14, the extent of movement being such as to cause the lower part 18 of the belt 17 to become immersed in the coating material 16 or simply to engage the surface 19 thereof according to the nature of the coating step required.
In the arrangement illustrated three rollers are provided, two such rollers 12, 13 being arranged at a common level and serving to support the fabric 11/belt 17 and the third roller 14 being at a lower level and being after the nature of a guide roller to locate the lower part of the fabric/belt. At least one of the upper rollers 12, 13 is driven so as to progress the fabric/belt about the roller arrangement.
The process steps are shown in FIG. 1 and comprise, in succession, dip coating steps, FIGS. 1b to 1e, a lick-coating step, FIGS. 1f and 1g, two dip-coating steps, FIGS. 1h to 1k, and a further lick-coating step, FIGS. 1l and 1m, each step including drying/sintering of the applied layer, FIGS. 1c, 1e, 1g, 1i, 1k and 1m.
The base fabric 21, see FIG. 2, is of plain weave construction and is woven from 1100 d.tex Kevlar or Technora multi-filament yarns 22, 23 the warp and weft densities in the loom being 11.22 and 9.45 yarns/cm. The fabric weight is 225 grams/meter 2 and the fabric thickness is 0.36 mm.
On tensioning of the base fabric the length thereof increases by approximately 1.9% whilst the width reduces by approximately 4.4%, the fabric thickness increasing to 0.43 mm.
The initial dip coating steps serve to apply a bonding coat 24 to the base fabric 21 and the mix is merely a polytetrafluoroethylene bonding material. For the initial lick coating step, which step forms coating layer 26a at the support side of the base fabric, and the remaining dip coating steps, which apply coating material to both sides of the fabric, that is to say for the weave filling steps which form coating layers 25, 26 at the respective sides of the fabric, the mix also includes silicate bodies, typically solid glass beads having a diameter of between 53 and 105 microns but preferably monosized at approximately 90 microns. Indeed, it is believed that the use of monosized beads offers improved weave filling as compared with the use of beads of a size randomly distributed with a range of diameters. Typically, the silicate bodies are present in the relevant coating layers in like amount by weight to the dried/sintered P.T.F.E. coating material. The final coating step applies a top coat 27 of P.T.F.E. having metallic particles/flake included therein. An additional weave filling coating step will ordinarily be applied, notwithstanding that such additional step is not shown in FIG. 1.
Thus, the bonding coat 24 consists of two layers at each side of the belt to give a total coating weight of 250 grams/meter 2 whilst the weave filling coats 25, 26 which respectively comprise three coating layers and two coating layers, have a total weight of 400 grams/meter 2 . The final or top coats 27, each of which comprises two layers, have a total weight of 100 grams/meter 2 . The finished thickness of the coated belt is 0.69 mm.
The fabric is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 2, it being seen that the bonding layers, which layers promote adhesion of the subsequent coating layers to the base fabric, permeate the surface of the multifilament yarns and bridge the interstices in the fabric and that the glass beads serve to fill the recesses in and defined by the bonding layers to give a substantially flat outer surface to the belt particularly at the support side thereof, the top coat being of sensibly constant thickness and thus having a surface form of similar character to that formed by the weave filling layers. It will be appreciated, of course, that, after coating, the belt will be calendered.
The invention is not restricted to the detail of the embodiment hereinbefore described, since alternatives will readily present themselves to one skilled in the art. Thus, for example, whilst the bonding coats do improve adhesion of the weaving filling layers to the base weave, the bonding coats may, in some circumstances, be omitted.
The number of weave-filling layers may be varied according to specific requirements and more than one such layer may be applied by lick coating. The solids content of the PTFE dispersion may be other than 50%, indeed an increased solids content, say to 70%, is desirable as this reduces the tendency of the coating to contour the fabric weave structure. The increased solids content also facilitates weave filling and drying/sintering of the PTFE, and has advantageous effects on the thermal characteristics of the belt in use.
Other weave structures and other yarns, for example glass yarns, may, of course, be used, and the PTFE coating material may include such additives as are appropriate to introduce requisite characteristics into the belt according to its intended end use. For example, it may be found convenient to use metallized beads, whether in the weave filling layers and/or in the top coat, and thus dispense with the need to include metallic particles/flake in the top coat.
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An industrial fabric such as a fusing or laminating belt and a method for the production thereof wherein an endless base fabric (21) is coated with successive layers (24, 25,26) of a synthetic plastics coating material, some at least of the layers including silicate bodies therein. The total coating includes at least one layer (25a) applied by lick coating and at least one layer (25, 26) applied by dip coating.
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This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 from Japanese patent application serial No. 2012-192935, filed Sep. 3, 2012, entitled “Toggle type fastener,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a toggle type fastener for fixing a closed state of two objects that are a movable object and a fixed object mutually coupled pivotally to each other like a lid and a housing. The present invention especially relates to an improvement of a toggle type fastener provided with a function for preventing looseness between the movable object and the fixed object when the movable object is fastened such that it is fixed to the fixed object.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
An example of a fastener of this type is disclosed in Patent document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-183424). The toggle type fastener 1 disclosed in this Patent document 1 includes:
a toggle lever (movable object) 20 pivotally supported by a fixed pedestal (fixed substrate) 10 that is fixed and attached to the movable object; a latching arm (catch frame) 27 pivotally supported by this toggle lever 20 ; and a hooked member (receiving tool) 30 on which the latching arm 27 is hooked at the time of fastening the movable object to the fixed object, the hooked member being fixed to the fixed object.
When the fastener 1 fastens both of the objects, with the movable object closed with respect to the fixed object, a hooking end of the latching arm 27 on the movable object side is hooked to the hooked member 30 on the fixed object side. Then, the toggle lever 20 and the latching arm 27 are pivotally moved, as if pulling the latching arm 27 towards the hooked member 30 in the hooking direction, until the toggle lever 20 and the latching arm 27 are aligned almost in a straight line, and the toggle lever 20 is folded in the fixed pedestal 10 . When the toggle lever 20 is completely folded in the fixed pedestal 10 , the latching arm 27 would not be lifted and the fastener fastens the movable object to the fixed object.
Although the fastener fastens a movable object to a fixed object in this manner, in order to prevent the movable object becoming unstable due to looseness of the sealing of the movable object with respect to the fixed object, the hooked member 30 is pivotally supported by a mounting member 31 that is to be fixed to the fixed object. When fastening the fastener 1 , the hooked member 30 will seat on the movable object when the latching arm 27 is pulled by the toggle lever 20 . Therefore, the hooked member 30 is provided with a function of hooking the latching arm 27 and a function of preventing the loosening of the movable object by pressing the movable object against the fixed object to be in a stable state.
However, with such a structure, the hooked member significantly protrudes out near the opening of the fixed object (housing) when the movable object (lid) is in an opened state. Therefore, it was necessary to perform loading/unloading of items with caution because this hooked member became an obstacle when loading/unloading items into or from the fixed object (housing). There was also a risk of damage to the items in case of accidental contact with the hooked member.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a toggle type fastener in which a looseness prevention means for stably fixing a movable object to a fixed object when the fastener is fastened is provided not on the hooked member side, but rather on the latching arm side so that when the fastener is in an opened state, there is no significant protrusion near the opening of the fixed object, and easy loading/unloading of items through the opening becomes possible.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a toggle type fastener to releaseably couple a fixed object and a movable object to each other includes:
a pedestal that is structured to be fixed to the movable object;
a toggle lever pivotally coupled to the pedestal;
a latching arm pivotally coupled to the toggle lever; and
a looseness prevention element that prevents movement of the movable object, the looseness prevention element attached to the latching arm and sized to be hooked to a hooked member that is structured to be fixed to the fixed object.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, a toggle type fastener to releaseably couple a fixed object and a movable object to each other includes:
a pedestal that is structured to be fixed to the movable object;
a toggle lever pivotally coupled to the pedestal;
a latching arm pivotally coupled to the toggle lever;
a looseness prevention element attached to the latching arm, the looseness prevention element preventing movement of the movable object; and
a hooked member that is structured to be fixed to the fixed object and hooked to the looseness prevention element.
In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, a toggle type fastener to releaseably couple a fixed object and a movable object to each other includes:
a pedestal that is structured to be fixed to the movable object;
a toggle lever pivotally coupled to the pedestal;
a latching arm pivotally coupled to the toggle lever;
a hooked member that is structured to be fixed to the fixed object and hooked to the latching arm when the movable object and the fixed object are releaseably coupled; and
a looseness prevention element that prevents movement of the movable object so that the movable object is securely fixed when the movable object and the fixed object are releaseably coupled,
wherein the looseness prevention element includes a pressing member attached to the latching arm, and
the pressing member contacts the movable object when the movable object and the fixed object are releaseably coupled.
According to the present invention, the looseness prevention means is provided not in the hooked member but in the latching arm unlike the prior art. Therefore, when the movable object is opened with the fastener open, the looseness prevention means does not project at the opening of the fixed object, and the hooked member can have a low and simple shape in which the latching arm can hook on to the hooked member. Accordingly, loading/unloading of items through the opening of the fixed object can be performed easily without obstruction, and there is also no chance of items getting damaged.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B show a housing with a toggle type fastener of the present invention attached. FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the opened state. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the housing with the movable object (door) closed and fastened.
FIG. 2 is a top view of a toggle type fastener according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a side view of the fastener of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 4 is a front view of the fastener of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 5 is a rear view of the fastener of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view along line 6 - 6 of the fastener of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view along line 7 - 7 of the fastener of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 8 shows the same cross-section as in FIG. 6 , but is a cross-sectional view showing the fastener during the fastening operation.
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the fastener of FIG. 2 without the hooked member.
FIG. 10 is a horizontal cross-sectional view showing a state that is in the middle of closing the door from the state in FIG. 1A .
FIG. 11A through FIG. 11D are horizontal cross-sectional views sequentially depicting the steps of closing the door and fastening the fastener from the state in FIG. 10 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
The use condition of a toggle type fastener 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B . This toggle type fastener 10 is employed for fastening a housing 1 to a closed state, the housing 1 being made of a housing body 2 that is a fixed object, and a door 3 that is a movable object for closing an opening 2 K of this housing body 2 with a hinge. The door 3 , as shown in FIG. 1A , FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 , is configured to close by engaging with a receiving edge 2 E formed as a recess inside the circumferential surface of the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 .
The toggle type fastener 10 of the present invention includes:
a movable object side section 10 M including: a fixed pedestal 20 that is to be fixed and attached to the outer surface of the door 3 , which is a movable object; a toggle lever 30 pivotally supported by the fixed pedestal 20 ; and a latching arm 40 that is pivotally supported by the toggle lever 30 such that it can be displaced in a longitudinal direction of the toggle lever 30 ; and
a fixed object side section 10 S including a hooked member 50 that is to be fixed near the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 that is the fixed object, and that is to be hooked to the hooking end of the latching arm 40 .
The fastener 10 further includes:
a locking means 60 for locking the toggle lever 30 to the fixed pedestal 20 when the door 3 is closed and fastened to the housing body 2 ; and a looseness prevention means 70 for preventing looseness (rattling) of the door 3 by stably fixing the door 3 by pressing the door 3 against the receiving edge 2 E of the housing body 2 when the door 3 and the housing body 2 are fastened to each other.
As shown in FIG. 8 , and FIG. 9 through FIG. 11 , the fixed pedestal 20 includes:
a substrate 22 that is fixed on the exterior surface of the door 3 with a locking screw 26 ; one set of vertical pieces 24 rising from both sides of the front end of the substrate 22 ; and a locking piece 64 rising from the rear end of the substrate 22 .
The locking piece 64 constitutes a part of a locking means 60 , which is described later (see FIG. 7 ).
As shown in FIG. 6 , FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 , especially in FIG. 9 , the toggle lever 30 includes a top plate 32 and a pair of side pieces 34 that vertically suspends from both sides of the top plate 32 excluding its rear side. The toggle lever 30 is pivotally attached to the fixed pedestal 20 by having the pair of side pieces 34 pivotally supported to a pair of vertical pieces 24 of the fixed pedestal 20 by a pivot pin 36 . The top plate section curving upwards extending from the pair of side pieces 34 of the toggle lever 30 constitutes a handle 32 K, which is used for manually pivoting the toggle lever 30 in the tightening direction.
The toggle lever 30 includes a latch member 62 disposed therein, and this latch member 62 constitutes a locking means 60 (described later) together with the locking piece 64 of the fixed pedestal 20 .
As shown in FIG. 2 , FIG. 3 , and FIG. 6 through FIG. 9 , the latching arm 40 is comprised of a pair of side pieces 44 interconnected by an upper connecting piece 42 , and the rear end of the pair of side pieces 44 of this latching arm 40 is pivotally supported to a pair of side pieces 34 of the toggle lever 30 by a pin 46 . As shown in FIG. 6 through FIG. 9 , a support hole 34 H of the pair of side pieces 34 of the toggle lever 30 supporting the pin 46 is longer in the longitudinal direction of the toggle lever 30 . Accordingly, the pivoted section of the latching arm 40 can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the toggle lever 30 . The detail of this mechanism is described later.
A tip of the latching arm 40 is provided with a hooking part in the form of a hook pin 48 that is to be hooked to a hooked member 50 of the fixed object side section 10 S and that is attached via a looseness prevention means 70 , which is described later.
While the hooked member 50 is attached in the vicinity of the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 , which is the fixed object, as shown in FIG. 6 , FIG. 8 and FIG. 11 , this hooked member 50 includes a hook part 54 to which the hook pin 48 of the latching arm 40 is to be hooked at the end part of the opening 2 K side of the receiving seat 52 fixed to the housing body 2 by a screw 56 .
The locking means 60 , as already described, is comprised of a latch member 62 disposed inside the toggle lever 30 , and a locking piece 64 provided in the fixed pedestal 20 . The latch member 62 , as shown in FIG. 9 , is comprised of a pair of side pieces 62 S connected by a top plate 62 T. As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9 , the latch member 62 is pivotally supported by the toggle lever 30 with the pivot pin 36 (a pin that pivotally supports the toggle lever 30 to the fixed pedestal) penetrating through long holes 62 SH formed in the side pieces 62 S, and includes a hook part 62 SK at a tip of the pair of side pieces 62 S. The locking piece 64 also includes a hook part 64 E that engages with the hook part 62 SK of the pair of side pieces 62 S of the latch member 62 . When the hook part 62 SK of the latch member 62 is engaged with the hook part 64 E of the locking piece 64 , the latch member 62 and the toggle lever 30 integrated therewith are locked to the fixed pedestal 20 .
The latch member 62 has a spring 66 that biases the latch member 62 toward the locking piece 64 so as to be able to retract for only the surplus clearance between the long hole 62 SH and the pivot pin 36 . This spring 66 is disposed between a first spring rest 66 U 1 that vertically suspends between the side pieces 62 S from the top plate 62 T of the latch member 62 , and a second spring rest 66 U 2 attached between the pair of side pieces 62 S of the latch member 62 by the pivot pin 36 penetrating them. A spring support screw 66 S is screwed to the second spring rest 66 U 2 and penetrates the spring 66 . Therefore, the spring 66 is held between the pair of side pieces 62 S by the spring support screw 66 S.
Accordingly, the latch member 62 is normally biased towards the locking piece 64 by the spring 66 , and an engagement between the latch member 62 and the locking piece 64 is maintained. However, for retracting the latch member 62 from the locking piece 64 while resisting the spring 66 in order to release this lock, the latch member 62 is provided with a lock release piece 62 TR extending from the top plate 62 T so as to protrude larger than the locking piece 64 .
The spring support screw 66 S is screwed into the pin 46 that penetrates the long holes 34 H of the toggle lever 30 , and the tip of the spring support screw 66 s protrudes from the pin 46 . A driver engaging groove 66 SG is provided at the protruded tip of the spring support screw 66 S. By engaging a driver to the driver engaging groove 66 SG of this spring support screw 66 S and rotating the spring support screw 66 S to left or right, it is possible to displace the position of the pin 46 . This is suitable, for example, for making an adjustment of a positional relationship if a hooking positional relationship between the latching arm 40 and the hooked member 50 is improper after attaching the movable object side section 10 M and the fixed object side section 10 S to the door 3 and the housing body 2 respectively.
The looseness prevention means 70 is comprised of a pressing member 72 attached near the latching end of the latching arm 40 . This pressing member 72 , as shown in FIG. 6 through FIG. 9 , has a pair of side pieces 72 S rising from a bottom plate 72 B. This pair of side pieces 72 S is pivoted and attached swingably to the pair of side pieces 44 of the latching arm 40 by the pivot pin 74 . The hook pin 48 , which is intended for hooking the latching arm 40 to the hooked member 50 , is fixed between the both side pieces 72 S of the pressing member 72 at a position lower than the pivot pin 74 and at a position opposite to the seating surface with respect to the pressing member 72 .
The pressing member 72 has an elastic engaging piece 72 R that presses the door 3 , which is a movable object, against the receiving edge 2 E of the housing body 2 , which is a fixed object, on the seating surface.
A spring 76 is wound around the pivot pin 74 , and the respective ends of the spring 76 engage with the seating surface side of the pressing member 72 and the top plate 42 of the latching arm 40 respectively. Therefore, this spring 76 is angularly biased around the pivot pin 74 so as to bias the pressing member 72 towards the inner surface of the top plate 42 of the latching arm 40 in a normal state. Accordingly, the pressing member 72 is biased towards a position away from the seating surface by the spring 76 .
When the hook pin 48 of the pressing member 72 is hooked to the hooked member 50 (see FIG. 8 ), and the handle 32 K of the toggle lever 30 is pushed down and fastened in order to fasten the fastener 10 , the hook pin 48 is pushed towards the opposite side relative to the seating side. Therefore, the pressing member 72 pivots around the pivot pin 74 in a direction away from the hooked member 50 together with the latching arm 40 and the elastic engaging piece 72 R is seated on the outer surface of the door 3 , and the door 3 is pressed against the receiving edge 2 E of the housing body 2 .
The operation steps of the toggle type fastener of the present invention are shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 . As shown in FIG. 1A , after fully opening the door 3 and loading/unloading items through the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 , the state just before the door 3 is closed from the state shown in FIG. 1A is illustrated in FIG. 10 , and the state where the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 is fully closed with the door 3 is shown in FIG. 11A .
From the state of FIG. 11A , by operating the toggle type fastener 10 of the present invention in the order of FIG. 11B through FIG. 11D , the door 3 is fastened to the housing 2 . When the door 3 is closed, as shown in FIG. 11A , the hooking end of the latching arm 40 of the movable object side section 10 M of the fastener 10 can go over the top of the hook part 54 of the hooked member 50 of the fixed object side section 10 S and move up to the position of FIG. 11B where it can hook onto the hook part 54 .
By pushing down the handle 32 K of the toggle lever 30 from the position of FIG. 11B to pivotally move the toggle lever 30 around the pivot pin 36 in a clockwise direction of FIG. 11 , and the toggle lever 30 is folded so as to stack on the fixed pedestal 20 as shown in FIG. 11D . Thus, as shown in FIG. 11D , the latching arm 40 and the toggle lever 30 become almost a straight line, and this latching arm 40 and the toggle lever 30 have a toggle function between the hooked member 50 and the fixed pedestal 20 to fasten the door 3 and housing body 2 to each other.
When the toggle lever 30 is folded onto the fixed pedestal 20 , the pair of hook parts 62 SK of the latch member 62 of the locking means 60 follows the curved surface 62 SKC below and gets hooked to the pair of hook parts 64 E of the locking piece 64 that is integral with the fixed pedestal 20 , and the toggle lever 30 is locked to the fixed pedestal 20 .
Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 10 , FIG. 11A through FIG. 11C , as for the pressing member 72 of the looseness prevention means 70 , until the hook pin 48 is hooked to the hook part 54 of the hooked member 50 , the elastic engaging piece 72 R is in a raised position by being biased by the spring 76 in an anticlockwise direction in FIG. 11 around the pivot pin 74 till it abuts against the top plate 42 of the latching arm 40 . However, as shown in FIG. 11D , when the hook pin 48 of the latching arm 40 is hooked to the hook part 54 of the hooked member 50 and fastened until the toggle lever 30 and the latching arm 40 reach a fastened position, the latching arm 40 is pulled to the right direction in FIG. 11 , and therefore, the pressing member 72 pivots relatively in the clockwise direction of FIG. 11 around the pivot pin 74 in a direction opposite to the hook part 54 of the hook pin 48 while resisting the spring-bias, and the elastic engaging piece 72 R of the pressing member 72 presses the door 3 against the receiving edge 2 E of the housing body 2 to prevent a loosening of the door 3 and fixes the door 3 in a stable state with respect to the housing body 2 as shown in FIG. 11D .
When opening the door 3 , at the position of the FIG. 11D , the lock release piece 62 TR of the locking means 60 is pushed in the direction of the latching arm 40 side. When the lock release piece 62 TR is pushed, the latch member 62 retracts towards the latching arm 40 while compressing the spring 66 , and the hook part 62 SK comes off of the pair of hook part 64 E of the locking piece 64 , and therefore, the toggle lever 30 is released from the fixed pedestal 20 . Consequently, by operating the handle 32 K of the toggle lever 30 to displace the toggle lever 30 and the latching arm 40 in the order of FIG. 11C , FIG. 11B and FIG. 11A , the hook pin 48 can be released from the hooked member 50 . In this way, it is possible to release the toggle type fastener and to open the door 3 from the housing body 2 .
In the toggle type fastener 10 of the present invention, the looseness prevention means 70 is provided in the latching arm 40 instead of in the hooked member 50 unlike the prior art. Thus, as shown in FIG. 10 , when the door 3 is opened with the fastener 10 in a released state, the looseness prevention means 70 does not project into the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 , and the hooked member 50 can also be of a low and simple design such that the hook pin 48 of the latching arm 40 hooks to the hooked member 50 . Accordingly, loading/unloading of items through the opening 2 K of the housing body 2 can be performed easily without any obstruction, and the items will not be damaged.
According to the present invention, as described above, the looseness prevention means is provided in the latching arm rather than in the hooked member unlike the prior art. Therefore, when the movable object is opened with the fastener in a released state, the looseness prevention means does not project into the opening of the fixed object. Further, the hooked member can also be of a small and simple design, and accordingly, loading/unloading of items through the opening of the fixed object can be performed easily without any obstruction, and there is also no chance of items getting damaged. Consequently, the industrial applicability improves.
While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the invention.
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A toggle type fastener to releaseably couple a fixed object and a movable object to each other includes a pedestal that is structured to be fixed to the movable object, a toggle lever pivotally coupled to the pedestal, a latching arm pivotally coupled to the toggle lever, a looseness prevention element that prevents movement of the movable object. The looseness prevention element is attached to the latching arm and sized to be hooked to a hooked member that is structured to be fixed to the fixed object.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS PRIORITY
Specific reference is hereby made to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/495,304, entitled POINT SET MATCHING FOR PRONE-SUPINE REGISTRATION IN VIRTUAL ENDOSCOPY, filed Aug. 14, 2003 in the name of Christophe Chefd'hotel and Bernhard Geiger, the inventors in the present application, and of which the benefit of priority is claimed and whereof the disclosure is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of virtual endoscopy and, more particularly, to a method for automatically synchronizing views of volumetric images in virtual endoscopy, such as in virtual colonoscopy.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Virtual colonoscopy (VC) refers to a method of diagnosis based on computer simulation of standard, minimally invasive endoscopic procedures using patient specific three-dimensional (3D) anatomic data sets. Examples of current endoscopic procedures include bronchoscopy, sinusoscopy, upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, cystoscopy, cardioscopy, and urethroscopy. VC visualization of non-invasively obtained patient specific anatomic structures avoids risks, such as perforation, infection, hemorrhage, and so forth, associated with real endoscopy, and provides the endoscopist with important information prior to performing an actual endoscopic examination. Such information and understanding can minimize procedural difficulties, decrease patient morbidity, enhance training and foster a better understanding of therapeutic results.
In virtual endoscopy, 3D images are created from two-dimensional (2D) computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) data, for example, by volume rendering. Present-day CT and MRI scanners typically produce a set of cross-sectional images which, in combination, produce a set of volume data. These 3D images are created to simulate images coming from an actual endoscope, such as a fiber optic endoscope.
In the field of virtual endoscopy and, more particularly, in the field of virtual colonoscopy, it is desirable to provide for synchronization of different endoscopic views, such as views acquired in prone and supine positions of a patient. This facilitates the identification of features in the different views and facilitates, for example, the parallel study of prone and supine acquisitions in colon cancer screening.
Existing methods for synchronizing such views typically assume that a colon centerline is formed of a single connected component. See, for example, B. Acar, S. Napel, D. S. Paik, P. Li, J. Yee, C. F. Beaulieu, R. B. Jeffrey, Registration of supine and prone ct colonography data: Method and evaluation , Radiological Society of North America 87th Scientific Sessions, 2001; B. Acar, S. Napel, D. S. Paik, P. Li, J. Yee, R. B. Jeffrey, C. F. Beaulieu, Medial axis registration of supine and prone CT colonography data , Proceedings of 23rd Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC 2001), Istanbul, Turkey, 25-28 Oct. 2001; and D. Nain, S. Haker, W. E. L. Grimson, E. Cosman Jr, W. Wells, H. Ji, R. Kikinis, C.-F. Westin, Intra - Patient Prone to Supine Colon Registration for Synchronized Virtual Colonoscopy , In Proceedings of MICCAI 2002, Tokyo, Japan, September 2002.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is herein recognized that the assumption that a colon centerline is formed of a single connected component may not be an entirely valid assumption in various situations including, for example, the occurrence of partial occlusions which may result in cases of incomplete air insufflation and, for example, due to imperfect data segmentation.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method facilitating parallel study of prone and supine acquisitions in applications such as colon cancer screening.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for automatically synchronizing endoscopic views of two volumetric images in virtual colonoscopy. In one aspect, the method utilizes optimal matching of two point sets, one for each volume of the respective volumetric images. These sets correspond to uniform samples of the colon centerline. Point correspondences are spatially extended to the entire data using a regularized radial basis function approximation.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the method does not require an assumption that a colon centerline is formed of a single connected component. The method allows coping with partial occlusions, a situation often encountered in case of incomplete air insufflation or imperfect data segmentation.
In accordance with another embodiment, points are directly sampled on the colon surface.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, two volumetric images are obtained using a colonoscopy protocol, including procedures such as bowel preparation and air insufflation. For each volume, a set of polygonal lines representing connected pieces of the colon centerline is made available. The distance from each point of the centerline to its closest point on the colon surface, otherwise herein also referred to as the colon radius, is considered to be known.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a method for registration of, or between, virtual endoscopic images comprises deriving first and second volumetric images by an endoscopic protocol and representing the images by respective first and second volumetric image data sets; deriving respective centerline representations by connected line components; resampling the connected components to provide respective first and second sample sets; computing a descriptor for each sample; computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; and determining an optimal set of point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of deriving first and second volumetric images comprises a step of deriving the first and second volumetric images by a colonoscopy protocol.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of deriving respective centerline representations comprises a step of deriving the respective centerline representations by connected polygonal line components; identifying a colon surface in each of the volumetric images; deriving respective colon radius information by determining the distance from each point of the centerline representation to a respectively closest point on the colon surface.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method comprises the steps of extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3-dimensional/3-dimensional (3D/3D) transformation between the first and second volumetric images; and applying the 3D/3D transformation to transform a virtual endoscope position between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for prone-supine registration of first and second volumetric images obtained by virtual colonoscopy and including respective centerline representations by connected polygonal line components and including respective colon radius information, comprises: resampling of the connected components to provide respective first and second centerline sample sets; computing a descriptor for each sample; computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; determining an optimal set of centerline point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix; extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second volumetric images; and applying the 3D/3D transformation to transform a virtual endoscope position between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for prone-supine registration of first and second volumetric images obtained by virtual colonoscopy represent by respective first and second volumetric datasets, including respective centerline representations by connected polygonal lines and including colon radius information, comprises resampling of the connected polygonal lines to provide respective first and second sample sets; computing a descriptor for each sample; computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; and determining an optimal set of point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, method comprises the step of extrapolating the optimal set of centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method comprises the step of applying the 3D/3D transformation to transform a virtual endoscope position between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for registration between virtual endoscopy images in first and second patient positions, comprises performing colon segmentation and feature extraction, including centerline and colon surface data for each of the images; resampling the centerline and colon surface data; computing respective local descriptors; pairing point correspondences on the centerlines between the first and second images by minimal cost matching; extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for prone-supine registration of first and second volumetric images, obtained by virtual colonoscopy and represented by first and second volumetric image data sets, including respective centerline representations by connected polygonal line components, and including respective colon radius data, comprises resampling of the connected line components to provide respective first and second sample sets; computing, for each sample, a descriptor comprising a vector of geometric features and an estimated value of the colon radius data; computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; applying a minimization procedure to the similarity matrix to determine an optimal set of correspondences between points of the first and second sample sets by applying an algorithm to the similarity matrix for minimizing the sum of distances between all corresponding points; extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second volumetric images; selecting a position for a virtual endoscope in one of the volumetric images; associating an orthogonal reference frame with the virtual endoscope; and applying the 3D/3D transformation to the orthogonal reference frame so as to derive a corresponding transformed reference frame for the virtual endoscope in the other of the volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for registration of virtual endoscopic images, the method comprises deriving first and second volumetric images by a colonoscopy protocol and representing the images by respective first and second volumetric image data sets; deriving respective centerline representations by connected polygonal line components; identifying a colon surface in each of the volumetric images; deriving respective colon radius information by determining the distance from each point of the centerline representation to a respectively closest point on the colon surface; resampling the connected components to provide respective first and second sample sets; computing a descriptor for each sample; computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; determining an optimal set of point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method comprises extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method comprises applying the 3D/3D transformation to transform a virtual endoscope position between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, apparatus for prone-supine registration of first and second volumetric images obtained by virtual colonoscopy and including respective centerline representations by connected polygonal line components and including respective colon radius information, comprises apparatus for resampling of the connected components to provide respective first and second centerline sample sets; apparatus for computing a descriptor for each sample; apparatus for computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; apparatus for determining an optimal set of centerline point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix; apparatus for extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second volumetric images; and apparatus for applying the 3D/3D transformation to transform a virtual endoscope position between the first and second volumetric images.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, apparatus for registration of virtual endoscopic images, the apparatus comprises apparatus for deriving first and second volumetric images by an endoscopic protocol and representing the images by respective first and second volumetric image data sets; apparatus for deriving respective centerline representations by connected line components; apparatus for resampling the connected components to provide respective first and second sample sets; apparatus for computing a descriptor for each sample; apparatus for computing a similarity matrix using distances between the descriptors; and apparatus for determining an optimal set of point correspondences between the first and second sample sets by application of a minimization algorithm to the similarity matrix.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for registration of virtual endoscopy images in first and second patient positions comprises performing colon segmentation and feature extraction, including centerline and colon surface data for each of the images; resampling the centerline and colon surface data; computing respective local descriptors; pairing point correspondences on the centerlines between the first and second images by minimal cost matching; extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between the first and second images. The method also includes selecting a position for a virtual endoscope in one of the images; associating an orthogonal reference frame with the virtual endoscope; and applying the 3D/3D transformation to the orthogonal reference frame so as to derive a corresponding transformed reference frame for the virtual endoscope in the other of the images.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other aspects of the invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description which follows, in conjunction with the drawings in which
FIG. 1 shows a representation of a colon surface and its centerline, helpful to an understanding of the present invention;
FIG. 2 shows a flow chart showing steps of an embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 3 shows uniform resampling of the centerline connected component in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 4 shows surface uniform sampling in accordance with the present invention; and
FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of apparatus suitable for practicing the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a representation of the colon surface and its centerline. The centerline is indicated as a lighter colored thread within the image of the colon.
In outline, an embodiment of the method in accordance with the present invention comprises a first step of computation of local shape descriptors. The computation comprises a uniform resampling of all connected centerline components and, for each sample, a computation of a multi-valued descriptor, using local shape properties.
The method comprises a further step of optimal point set matching, comprising computing of a similarity matrix using distances between descriptors and determining of optimal point correspondences using a matching algorithm for weighted bipartite graphs (optimal assignment problem).
Further steps in accordance with the invention comprise performing registration and synchronization of the endoscopic views, a radial basis function approximation being used to extrapolate centerline correspondences to a 3D/3D transformation between volumes and, in the virtual endoscopy user interface, the endoscope's position and orientation being updated using the resulting transformation.
FIG. 2 , shows in relation to first and second subject positions, for example, prone and supine data, the steps of colon segmentation and feature extraction 2 (Centerline/Surface); Centerline/surface resampling and computation of local descriptors 4 ; Point pairing using minimal cost matching 6 ; Extrapolation to 3D/3D transformation and endoscope synchronization (position/orientation); and Synchronized (Prone/Supine) navigation and workflow. FIG. 2 also shows a corresponding parallel graphical representation with juxtaposed prone and supine illustrations 2 A- 8 A.
In further detail, the step of data resampling comprises selecting a fixed number N of sampling points. For each dataset, the total length of its centerline components is computed, that is, added up, and divided by N−1. Each connected component is then resampled such that the arc-length between points corresponds to the previously computed value (Total Length/(N−1)). The position of new sample points is computed by linear interpolation.
FIG. 3 shows uniform resampling of the centerline connected components: the original sampling is the solid line of FIG. 3( b ) while the darkest line of FIG. 3( d ) indicates the result after uniform resampling.
The step of descriptor computation is detailed next. A multi-valued descriptor is then computed for each sample point. This descriptor can be formed of the following attributes:
a vector of scalar geometric features (curvature, torsion, distance to centroid) as well as the estimated distance to the colon surface (colon radius); and a list of vectors containing the Euclidean distances and orientations from the current point to all the other samples (of the same dataset). Orientations can be computed in a local (Frenet) frame or using a global coordinate system.
For explanatory material on Frenet formulas, curvature, torsion and related matters, see for example, a mathematical textbook such Chapter 15 of “Advanced Engineering Mathematics,” second edition, by Michael D. Greenberg; Prentice-Hall, Upper Saddle River, N.J.; 1998.
For the similarity matrix computation, an N×N_similarity matrix is built. It gives for each element of the first set a “distance” between its descriptor and the descriptors of all the elements of the second set. This distance between two descriptors is taken as the mean of distances between their corresponding attributes. It is noted that since distances between attributes may not have the same range, they are normalized before the mean is taken. Distances between scalar attributes are given by half of their squared differences and for vectors of Euclidean distances and orientations, the distance is evaluated using a statistical similarity measures, taking its opposite value and applying an offset if necessary. In order to compute statistical similarity measures between two vectors their elements are assumed to be samples of two random variables X and Y.
In accordance with aspects of the present invention, three possible strategies are described next.
(a) The vectors are rank ordered and Spearman's rank correlation is computed. For a detailed description of this technique see, for example, the publication by W. H. Press, S. A. Teukolsky, W. T. Vetterling, B. P. Flannery, Numerical Recipes in C , Second Edition, Cambridge University Press, 1992. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient is defined by
r ′ ≡ 1 - 6 ∑ d 2 N ( N 2 - 1 ) ( 1 )
where d i is the difference in rank of the vectors' i-th element. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient provides a measure of the strength of the associations between two variables. For the Spearman rank correlation coefficient, see for example, CRC Concise Encyclopedia of Mathematics, Second Edition, Eric W. Weisstein; Chapman and Hall/CRC, New York, 2002; p. 2762 et seq.
(b) Histograms of the vector elements are computed and can be compared using the Kullback-Leibler divergence or the Chi-square measure. The Kullback-Leibler distance is defined as
D ( f X f Y ) = ∑ x f X ( x ) log f X ( x ) f Y ( x ) ( 2 )
where f X and f Y represent the probabilities (normalized histograms) of the corresponding variables X and Y, respectively.
For the Kullback-Leibler divergence or distance, see for example, Mathematics Handbook for Science and Engineering, R{dot over (a)}de and Westergren, Studentlitteratur Birkhäuser, Sweden, 1995; page 410.
The Chi-square measure is treated in mathematical texts; see for example, Applied Statistics for Engineers by William Volk, McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc., New York, 1958; Chapter 5.
(c) The joint histogram of the two sets of vector elements is computed, and their similarity given by their Mutual Information. The Mutual Information is defined as
I ( X , Y ) = ∑ x ∑ y f X , Y ( x , y ) log f X , Y ( x , y ) f X ( x ) f Y ( y ) ( 3 )
Here, f X,Y (x,y) and f X (x), f Y (y) represent the joint and marginal probabilities of the pair of random variables (X,Y), respectively.
For the Mutual Information see, for example, the above-cited Mathematics Handbook for Science and Engineering, by R{dot over (a)}de and Westergren, page 410 and the above-cited CRC Concise Encyclopedia of Mathematics by Weisstein.
With regard to bipartite graph matching, given the two sets of N points and the N×N similarity matrix, we try to find an optimal pairing (optimal assignment) which minimizes the sum of the distances between all corresponding points. This can be computed exactly using a weighted bipartite matching algorithm. A fast Augmenting Path technique can be applied to the similarity matrix previously obtained above, as described in the publication by R. Jonker, A. Volgenant, A Shortest Augmenting Path Algorithm for Dense and Sparse Linear Assignment Problems , Computing, 38:325-340, 1987.
Considering next the computation of the transformation, once a one-to-one correspondence is established between the two point sets, it is then used as a set of corresponding geometric landmarks. Landmark correspondences can be propagated to the entire space by computing two transformations (3D/3D mapping from the first volume to the second, and reciprocally) using a regularized radial basis function approximation. The regularization parameter is chosen empirically.
It is noted that the whole process: Descriptor computation, matching, computation of the transformation, can be iterated several times on updated version of the initial point sets.
The transformations can then be used to synchronize a prone and a supine view in the standard virtual colonoscopy workflow. The virtual endoscope is synchronized both in position and orientation using the following technique:
An infinitesimal orthogonal frame described by 4 points (one point for the origin and three for the basis vector extremities) is attached to the selected virtual endoscope. The transformation is applied to each point. The resulting frame, after orthogonalization, gives the corresponding endoscope position and orientation in the second dataset.
In another embodiment in accordance with the principles of the present invention, rather than using points on the centerline, one can also sample points uniformly on the surface of the colon. FIG. 4 shows surface uniform sampling in accordance with this approach.
The descriptor can be updated accordingly to include surface specific features (such as the Gaussian and Mean curvature of the colon surface at this point). The rest of the registration procedure would remain the same. The centerline is not needed in this case.
The shape context framework for the realignment of 2D curves as discussed in the publication by S. Belongie, J. Malik, J. Puzicha, Shape Matching and Object Recognition Using Shape Context , IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence, (24) 24:509-522, 2002 is of interest relative to an aspect of the present invention. However, it differs significantly for the 1D matching approaches (warping based on dynamic programming, linear stretching/shrinking along the centerline path) previously used to perform intra-patient registration of prone and supine data in virtual colonoscopy. See also the two above-cited publications by Acar et al., Registration of supine and prone ct colonography data: Method and evaluation, and Medial axis registration of supine and prone CT colonography data ; and the above-cited publication by Nain et al.
It will be understood that the present invention is intended to be practiced in conjunction with a programmable computer. FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of apparatus suitable for practicing the present invention. Images are acquired by apparatus for image acquisition 50 , as known in the art, in accordance with a protocol as earlier described. Such images, conveniently in digitized form, are stored and processed by a computer 52 , in accordance with principles of the present invention. Processed images are viewable on image display apparatus 54 , as known in the art, and may be further stored, processed, and/or transmitted by known communications techniques.
The invention has been described by way of exemplary embodiments. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains that various changes and substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
These and like changes and substitutions are intended to be within the scope of the claims following.
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A method for registration of virtual endoscopy images in first and second patient positions comprises performing colon segmentation and feature extraction, including centerline and colon surface data for each of the images; resampling the centerline and colon surface data; computing respective local descriptors; pairing point correspondences on the centerlines between the first and second images by minimal cost matching; extrapolating the centerline point correspondences to a 3-dimensional/3-dimensional (3D/3D) transformation between the first and second images. The method also includes selecting a position for a virtual endoscope in one of the images; associating an orthogonal reference frame with the virtual endoscope; and applying the 3D/3D transformation to the orthogonal reference frame so as to derive a corresponding transformed reference frame for the virtual endoscope in the other of the images.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority 35 U.S.C. §119 to European Patent Publication No. EP 14195241.6 (filed on Nov. 27, 2014), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Embodiments relate to a device for protection against incorrect refuelling, in particular, of a motor vehicle powered by diesel fuel.
BACKGROUND
Depending on engine type, motor vehicles require different fuels, wherein refuelling the motor vehicle with an unsuitable fuel can cause enormous damage to the motor vehicle.
Conventional motor vehicles are normally refuelled at filling stations. The pumps at modern filling stations usually offer several types of fuel, normally diesel and petrol with different octane ratings.
A first step for preventing incorrect refuelling was the introduction of pump valves with different diameters now, for example, diesel pump valves have a diameter of ≧23.6 mm, petrol pump valves however have a diameter of less than 21.3 mm.
Pump valves are colloquially called filler nozzles and are connected to the fuel filler pump via a hose.
By adapting the diameter of the motor vehicle tank connection (tank filler pipe), at least on petrol-powered motor vehicles, incorrect refuelling with diesel can be prevented in a simple manner.
The risk of accidentally introducing petrol, which is delivered through a petrol filler nozzle smaller than a diesel filler nozzle, into a diesel-powered vehicle however persists.
The general prior art describes for this problem a number of different solutions for preventing incorrect refuelling of a diesel-powered motor vehicle with petrol.
German Patent Publication No. DE 103 20 992 A1, for example, describes a device wherein an additional device is introduced into the tank connector of a vehicle. The annular additional device reduces the diameter of the tank connector by way of a plurality of radial elements arranged around the periphery. In the region of the radial elements, the diameter is smaller than the diameter of the suitable filler nozzle. The additional device is designed tapering upward towards the opening so that the suitable filler nozzle can be introduced easily and simply. On further insertion of the suitable filler nozzle, the radial elements are deformed, tipped or moved such that the opening expands and the filler nozzle can be pushed fully into the tank pipe. The elastic or articulated movement of the radial elements causes a tilting or rotational movement of counterhooks on the device. An unsuitable filler nozzle remains attached to the counterhooks and cannot be introduced further into the filler pipe.
German Patent Publication No. DE 101 57 090 C1 also describes an arrangement for preventing refuelling of a diesel vehicle with lead-free petrol. A blocking lever is provided in the tank connector which is movable to and fro between a rest position and a refuelling position. At its end facing away from the tank opening, the blocking lever is provided with a blocking tab which in the rest position protrudes into the cross section of the tank connector and prevents insertion of an unsuitable filler nozzle into the tank. At its end facing the tank opening, the blocking lever may have an actuation extension which can be actuated by a suitable filler nozzle and moves the blocking lever into a refuelling position.
Further devices concerned with this topic are disclosed amongst others in German Patent Publication No. DE 20200502 1965 and European Patent Publication No. EP 1790517.
SUMMARY
Embodiments relate to a device for protection against incorrect refuelling, in particular of a diesel-powered motor vehicle.
In accordance with embodiments, a device for protection against incorrect refuelling, comprises a housing and a closing element arranged in the housing, wherein the closing element may have at least one closing tab on its periphery and the housing may have at least one housing tab assigned to the closing tab, wherein the closing tab with the assigned housing tab forms a catch connection, wherein the closing tab and assigned housing tab are configured so that the catch connection is reversibly released by insertion of a suitable filler nozzle, so that the closing element is moveable axially relative to the housing, whereby a separating element can be opened and refuelling is possible.
In accordance with embodiments, the suitable filler nozzle may be, in particular, a filler nozzle for a diesel fuel of conventional design.
In accordance with embodiments, an unsuitable filler nozzle is a filler nozzle of smaller diameter than the diesel filler nozzle, as is the case, for example, for filler nozzles for petrol fuels.
The device in accordance with embodiments may also be conceivable in tank systems and/or tank types not used primarily for automotive purposes, such as, for example, heating oil tanks.
The device in accordance with embodiments comprises a housing, wherein the housing may have a tank-side housing end, a filler-side housing end, and a housing interior. The housing may be made of plastic. A housing made of a metallic material may also be used.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing element is arranged inside the housing, i.e., in the housing interior, ensuring inter alia a compact construction of the device. The closing element may be made of plastic. A closing element made of a metallic material may also be used.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing element may have at least one closing tab on its periphery, wherein the closing tab is arranged on the periphery of the closing element. The closing tab may be made of the same material as the closing element.
In accordance with embodiments, the housing may have at least one housing tab on its periphery, wherein a housing tab is assigned to a closing tab. The housing tab may be made of the same material as the housing.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing tab with the assigned housing tab forms the catch connection. The closing tab and the assigned housing tab are configured such that introduction of the suitable filler nozzle releases the catch connection between the closing tab and the assigned housing tab. On further insertion of the suitable filler nozzle in the direction of the tank-side housing end, the closing element moves axially relative to the housing in the direction of the tank-side housing end. Through this movement, the suitable filler nozzle can be inserted in the device so far that it opens the separating element and refilling of a tank is possible.
In accordance with embodiments, “axial” means in the direction of or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing. “Radial” means in the direction of or parallel to the transverse axis of the cylindrical housing.
In accordance with embodiments, the catch connection between the closing tab and the assigned housing tab is reversibly released by insertion of the suitable filler nozzle, i.e. when the suitable filler nozzle is removed from the device, the closing tab with the assigned housing tab again forms the catch connection.
In accordance with embodiments, refinements are described in the dependent claims, the description and the enclosed drawings.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing element may have at least three closing tabs, wherein the three closing tabs are evenly distributed about the periphery of the closing element.
In accordance with embodiments, the housing may have at least three housing tabs on its periphery (evenly distributed), wherein each housing tab is assigned to closing tab.
In accordance with embodiments, the housing and the closing element arranged in the housing are arranged coaxially.
In accordance with embodiments, the housing is configured substantially cylindrical and the closing element substantially conical, in particular hopper-like.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing element tapers in the direction of the tank-side housing end.
In accordance with embodiments, “transverse” designations below always relate to the position of the transverse axis of the cylindrical housing. “Longitudinal” designations correspondingly relate to the position of the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing.
In accordance with embodiments, the hopper-like form of the closing element allows a reduction in the diameter of the device in a constructionally simple manner. A substantially cylindrical form of the closing element is equally advantageous, wherein structurally ribs are provided on the inner periphery of the closing element which taper in the direction of the housing end.
In accordance with embodiments, the separating element is arranged on the tank-side housing end and is configured such that in a separating element starting position, the housing interior and a tank can be separated so that filling the tank via a filler nozzle is not possible.
The separating element starting position thus describes a closed position of the separating element. The separating element may be arranged transversely (normal to the longitudinal axis of the housing).
In accordance with embodiments, the reduction in the diameter of the device, by way of, for example, the hopper-like closing element, prevents incorrect refuelling via an unsuitable filler nozzle since the diameter of the device is configured smaller than the diameter of the unsuitable filler nozzle. The unsuitable filler nozzle, depending on diameter, is blocked at one point of the hopper-like closing element and prevented from further insertion in the direction of the separating element (in the direction of the tank-side housing end) and thus does not reach the separating element. The separating element remains in the separating element starting position.
Because the separating element remains in the separating element starting position, on an attempt to refill the tank via an unsuitable filler nozzle, the filler nozzle immediately shuts off because of the automatic pump valve system integrated as standard in the pump valve (filler nozzle). The separating element can, however, be moved into an open position, out of the separating element starting position, by a suitable filler nozzle.
In accordance with embodiments, the separating element is designed as a flap.
In accordance with embodiments, the separating element is made of an electrically conductive material, in particular a metallic material such as for example spring steel, whereby the separating element serves as a metallic contact point for a suitable filler nozzle and hence acts as an earth.
Advantageously, the closing element is designed at least partially elastic.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing element comprises several notches, in particular in the region of the tank-side housing end, whereby the closing element is subdivided at least partly into several closing element segments. Because of the elastic form of the closing element and the formation of several closing element segments, a radial movement of the closing element and/or closing element segments is possible.
Advantageously, the closing tab and housing tab are configured elastically.
In accordance with embodiments, an elastic clamping element is arranged on an outer periphery of the housing, wherein the clamping element applies a radial return force to the housing tab, whereby in the absence of a suitable filler nozzle, the housing tab is held in a housing tab starting position. The housing tab starting position thus describes a position in which the closing tabs with the assigned housing tabs form the respective catch connections.
Advantageously, the housing tab assigned to the closing tab may have a catch device, wherein in the absence of a suitable filler nozzle, the closing tab engages preferably at a closing tab end in the catch device of the assigned housing tab and thus the catch connection is formed.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing tab is configured such that it may have a radially inward protrusion in the axial direction, wherein the protrusion is configured such that on insertion of the suitable filler nozzle, the closing tab and its assigned housing tab are moved radially outward and thus achieve a release of the catch connection between the closing tab and assigned housing tab.
In accordance with embodiments, “inward” means in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing, while “outward” describes the opposite direction.
In accordance with embodiments, the closing tab comprises a plurality of slip elements, wherein the slip elements are configured on an outer periphery of the closing element in the direction of the housing.
In accordance with embodiments, an axial sliding block guide on an inner periphery of the housing is assigned to each slip element, wherein the respective slip element can be guided axially in the respective sliding block guide of the housing. The slip elements may be particularly arranged on the closing element in the region of the tank-side housing end. The sliding block guide is advantageously configured such that the slip elements can be moved radially outward in particular only in the region of the tank-side housing end.
In accordance with embodiments, the device may have at least one spring element in the region of the tank-side housing end, wherein the spring element applies an axial return force to the closing element, whereby in the absence of the suitable filler nozzle, the closing element is pressed into a closing element starting position. In the closing element starting position, the closing tab of the closing element with its assigned housing tab forms the catch connection.
In accordance with embodiments, the spring element is formed integrally with the separating element, whereby a reduction in the number of components is achieved together with a more compact construction of the device.
Due to the overall compact and simple construction, the device can advantageously be installed and removed through a refuelling pedestal of a tank connection of the tank. Fixing in the tank connection takes place preferably by way of a bayonet connection between the housing of the device and the tank connector, wherein any type of tank connector can be used.
DRAWINGS
Embodiments will be illustrated by way of example in the drawings and explained in the description below.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a device, in accordance with embodiments.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section view (A-A) of the device of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 3 illustrates a longitudinal depiction of the device of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 4 illustrates a tank-side cross section depiction of the device of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 5 illustrates a filling-side cross section depiction of the device of FIG. 1 .
DESCRIPTION
With reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 , embodiments of a device 1 are described below. FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of the device 1 for protection against incorrect refuelling, and serves for a brief description of the basic components of the device 1 . Details are illustrated more closely in FIGS. 2 to 5 .
The device 1 comprises a housing 2 with a closing element 9 , a clamping element 19 and a spring element 21 , wherein the spring element 21 is designed integrally with the separating element 20 . The housing 2 may have a tank-side housing end 3 , a filling-side housing end 4 and a housing interior 5 . The housing 2 may be designed substantially cylindrical. The housing 2 may have a plurality of housing tabs 8 on its periphery. The housing tabs 8 are evenly distributed over the periphery of the housing 8 .
The closing element 9 may have a plurality of closing tabs 14 on its periphery, wherein the closing tabs 14 are evenly distributed over the periphery of the closing element 9 . The closing element 9 may be substantially conical, in particular hopper-like. The closing element 9 tapers in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 . The closing element 9 comprises a plurality of notches 11 , whereby the closing element 9 is subdivided at least partially into several closing element segments 13 . A plurality of slip elements 10 is arranged in the region of the closing element segments 13 .
The separating element/spring element assembly 22 is designed as a circular ring and may have a flap-like separating element 20 and a plurality of tab-like spring elements 21 . The spring elements 21 are distributed substantially evenly over the circular separating element/spring element assembly 22 . The separating element/spring element assembly 22 may be connected via one and/or a plurality of clip connections to the tank-side housing end 3 . The spring elements 21 apply an axial return force to the closing element 9 , whereby in the absence of the suitable filler nozzle, the closing element 9 is pressed into a closing element starting position.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section view (section A-A) of the device 1 of FIG. 1 . The closing element 9 is arranged coaxially in the housing 2 (in the housing interior 5 ). FIG. 2 illustrates the hopper-like formation of the closing element 9 .
A housing tab 8 is assigned to each closing tab 14 , wherein a respective closing tab 14 with its assigned housing tab 8 in the region of a closing tab end 15 forms the respective catch connection 17 . The housing tab 8 assigned to the respective locking tab 14 comprises a catch device 18 , wherein in the absence of a suitable filler nozzle, the respective closing tab 14 is engaged preferably at the closing tab end 15 in the catch device 18 of the assigned housing tab 8 , and thus, the respective catch connection 17 is formed.
The closing tabs 14 and assigned housing tabs 8 are configured such that introduction of the suitable filler nozzle releases all catch connections 17 between the respective closing tabs 14 and the assigned housing tabs 8 . On further insertion of the suitable filler nozzle in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 , the closing element 9 moves axially relative to the housing 2 in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 . The movement described is indicated in FIG. 2 by way of an arrow. This movement allows the suitable filler nozzle to be inserted so far in the device 1 that it opens the separating element 20 (folds it aside in the tank-side direction), allowing refilling of a tank.
The closing tabs 14 are configured such that they each have a radially inward protrusion 16 in the axial direction, wherein the protrusion 16 is configured such that on insertion of the suitable filler nozzle, the closing tabs 14 and the assigned housing tabs 8 are moved radially outward, releasing the respective catch connections 17 between the closing tabs 14 and assigned housing tabs 8 .
The catch connections 17 between the respective closing tabs 14 and the assigned housing tabs 8 are released reversibly by insertion of the suitable filler nozzle, i.e. when the suitable filler nozzle is removed from the device 1 , all closing tabs 14 together with the assigned housing tabs 8 form the catch connections 17 again (catch).
The closing element 9 comprises a plurality of slip elements 10 , wherein the slip elements 10 are arranged on the outer periphery of the closing elements 12 in the direction of the housing 2 . An axial sliding block guide on an inner periphery of the housing 7 is assigned to each slip element 10 , wherein the respective slip element 10 can be guided axially in the respective sliding block guide of the housing 2 .
The slip elements 10 are arranged on the closing element 9 (on the closing element segments 13 ) in the region of the tank-side housing end 3 . The sliding block guide is configured such that the slip elements 10 can be moved radially outward in particular only in the region of the tank-side housing end 3 .
In the device 1 , stop elements 23 are arranged on the closing element 9 in the region of the tank-side housing end 3 and, on axial movement of the closing element 9 in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 (arrow direction in FIG. 2 ), cooperate with the spring elements 21 and serve as an application point for the axial return force of the spring elements 21 .
The reduction in diameter of the device 1 by way of the hopper-like closing element 9 prevents incorrect refuelling with an unsuitable filler nozzle, since the diameter of the device 1 is less than than the diameter of the unsuitable filler nozzle. The unsuitable filler nozzle, depending on diameter, is blocked at a point of the hopper-like closing element 9 , preventing further insertion in the direction of the separating element 20 (in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 ), and thus, does not reach the separating element 20 . The separating element remains in the separating element starting position.
In the device 1 , the flap-like separating element 20 can be moved by a suitable filler nozzle into an open position, folded aside in the tank-side direction. The elastic clamping element 19 is arranged on an outer periphery of the housing 6 , wherein the clamping element 19 applies a radial return force to the housing tab 8 , whereby in the absence of the suitable filler nozzle, the housing tabs 8 are held in a housing tab starting position.
FIG. 3 illustrates a longitudinal depiction of the device 1 , showing in particular a part of the outer periphery of the housing 6 , the arrangement of the clamping element 19 and the arrangement of one of the housing tabs 8 .
FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate cross-section views of the device 1 , FIG. 4 illustrating a tank-side view, while FIG. 5 illustrating a filling-side view.
FIG. 4 illustrates, in particular, the separating element/spring element assembly 22 . The spring elements 21 and the flap-like separating element 20 are evenly distributed over the periphery of the circular separating element/spring element assembly 22 . The tab-like spring elements 21 and the flap-like separating element 20 extend radially inward.
FIG. 5 illustrates, in particular the housing 2 and the coaxially arranged closing element 9 together with the separating element 20 . The closing element segments 13 of the closing element 9 taper in the direction of the tank-side housing end 3 .
The term “coupled” or “connected” may be used herein to refer to any type of relationship, direct or indirect, between the components in question, and may apply to electrical, mechanical, fluid, optical, electromagnetic, electromechanical or other connections. In addition, the terms “first,” “second, etc. are used herein only to facilitate discussion, and carry no particular temporal or chronological significance unless otherwise indicated.
This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the preferred embodiments, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of embodiments is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. Aspects from the various embodiments described, as well as other known equivalents for each such aspects, may be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to construct additional embodiments and techniques in accordance with principles of this application.
LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS
1 Device
2 Housing
3 Tank-side housing end
4 Filling-side housing end
5 Housing interior
6 Outer periphery of housing
7 Inner periphery of housing
8 Housing tab
9 Closing element
10 Slip element
11 Notch
12 Outer periphery of closing element
13 Closing element segment
14 Closing element tab
15 Closing element tab end
16 Protrusion
17 Catch connection
18 Catch device
19 Clamping element
20 Separating element
21 Spring element
22 Separating element/spring element assembly
23 Stop element
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A device for protection against incorrect refuelling, the device including a housing having housing tabs, a separating element to be opened to permit refuelling, and a closing element arranged in, and axially moveable axially relative to the housing. The closing element has at a periphery thereof closing tabs assigned to the housing tabs to form a catch connection which is reversibly released by insertion of a suitable filler nozzle to open the separating element.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to playing cards. More particularly, the invention relates to luminescent playing cards which project one image under lighted conditions and an alternate image when no light is present.
2. Description of the Prior Art
A conventional deck of playing cards includes fifty-two cards divided into four suits of thirteen cards each. In use, the cards are commonly distributed amongst a plurality of players, who then take some action in accordance with the rules for the game.
As is certainly well appreciated, most card games require that the players study their cards before taking action during the course of the game. Viewing the cards is generally not a problem, but may become a problem when players are required to play under non-ideal lighting conditions. For example, where players wish to play cards while camping or during a power failure, adequate light may not be available and the playing cards are not readily viewable by those playing the game. Similarly, players may wish to play card games in the dark as a novelty or change of pace.
No satisfactory remedy has yet been developed which allows individuals to play cards without light. The present invention provides such a remedy.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards including a plurality of cards, wherein each card includes distinct indicia printed thereon such that a first image is revealed under lighted conditions and a second image is revealed under non-lighted conditions.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein the first image is imprinted with conventional ink.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein the second image is imprinted with luminescent ink.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein the second image is imprinted with phosporescent ink.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein the set of playing cards includes fifty-two cards.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein the second image is the inverse of the first image.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a set of playing cards wherein each card includes a front face imprinted with a standard design found upon each of the cards found in the set and a second face upon which the first image and the second image are imprinted.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which set forth certain embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a deck of cards in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2a is a top view of the six of spades under lighted conditions.
FIG. 2b is a top view of the six of spades under non-lighted conditions.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The detailed embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiment is merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limited, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to make and/or use the invention.
With reference to FIG. 1, a set of playing cards 10 is disclosed. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the playing cards 10 resemble a traditional fifty-two card deck of playing cards used in playing poker, bridge and other card games. Those of ordinary skill in the art will certainly appreciate that aesthetic variations may be made in the design of cards without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the present invention may be applied to sets of playing cards used in other card games without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
The term "luminescent ink" is used throughout the body of this specification to denote inks which will provide an image under dark conditions. As such, the term "luminescent ink" is considered to include all traditional luminscent inks, phosphorescent inks and similar inks which display an image under dark conditions.
The playing cards 10 will now be described with reference to an exemplary card, the six of spades 12 (see FIGS. 2a and 2b). The card 12 is provided with a front face 14 imprinted with a standard design found upon each of the cards in the set. The front face 14 may be printed with traditional ink or the front face 14 may be printed with luminescent ink that may, or may not, utilize the dual imaging discussed below in greater detail below.
The card 12 also includes a back face 16 imprinted with the designation of a specific card. For example, the card 12 shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b designates the six of spades. The back face 16 of the card is imprinted with both traditional ink 18 and luminescent ink 20 to respectively produce a first image 22 when the card 12 is viewed under lighted conditions and a second image 24 when the card 12 is viewed in the dark. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the luminescent ink 20 is applied to produce an inverse image of the first image 22 revealed under lighted conditions. Although the second image 24 is an inverse of the first image 22 in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second image may take a variety of forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
The luminescent ink 20 is preferably a phosphorescent ink, for example, LumiNova™, Nightlight-20™, or Picariko™. However, any ink which projects an image under non-lighted conditions may be used in accordance with the present invention.
The dual image cards add a new variation to traditional card games by allowing the players to play either under traditional light or in the dark. The cards will also be useful when sufficient light is not available to readily view playing cards, for example, while camping or during a power outage.
While the preferred embodiment has been shown and described, it will be understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by such disclosure, but rather, is intended to cover all modifications and alternate constructions falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
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A set of playing cards is disclosed including a plurality of cards, wherein each card includes distinct indicia printed thereon such that a first image is revealed under lighted conditions and a second image is revealed under non-lighted conditions.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a continuation of copending International Application No. PCT/DE00/01867, filed Jun. 6, 2000, which designated the United States.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a fuse for a semiconductor configuration having a semiconductor body with two main surfaces running essentially parallel to one another.
As is known, the use of fuses in semiconductor configurations and, in particular, in semiconductor memories is becoming increasingly important. They are used to connect appropriate substitute elements or redundant elements, such as memory cells or word lines, when individual elements fail. If, for example, a word line is found to be faulty when testing a semiconductor memory, then a redundant word line is activated instead of the faulty word line, by disconnecting or blowing fuses. Chip options can also be connected via fuses, for example.
There are now two different ways to disconnect fuses: in the first way, the disconnection is carried out by the action of a laser beam, and this is what is referred to as a laser fuse. In the second way, the disconnection is carried out by electrical destruction resulting from the production of heat; this is an electrical fuse, or E-fuse.
Both fuse types have the common feature that they are produced only in planar form (see, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,663,590 and 5,731,624). Therefore the contacts of a fuse lie in a plane, which runs essentially parallel to a main surface of the semiconductor body of a semiconductor configuration, that is to say, for example, of a semiconductor memory. Such a structure has first contacts and second contacts, which are each disposed on conductive areas, which are composed, for example, of highly doped silicon. The areas are electrically connected to one another by a fuse, which represents a conductive connection between the areas. The fuse may, for example, be composed of doped polycrystalline silicon, or else of metal. The fuse itself has a fine form, and has a width in the order of magnitude of a few μm down to less than 1 μm.
If a current which is greater than a certain limit value now flows between the contacts, then the fuse is destroyed by the resistive heat produced by the current flow. Therefore, the fuse is blown. The programming voltage is in this case greater than the operating voltage of the chip. The magnitude of the programming voltage is dependent, inter alia, on the width of the fuses.
The process of blowing a fuse can also, of course, be carried out by the influence of a laser beam, and this is particularly expedient when the fuse is located on the surface of a semiconductor configuration.
The fuse together with the associated contacts requires an area that is not negligible on a semiconductor chip. The area required for fuses is a disadvantageous factor in terms of the continuous aim to miniaturize semiconductor configurations. This applies in particular to semiconductor memories, since a large number of fuses are required in them.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a fuse for a semiconductor configuration and a method for its production which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices and methods of this general type, which is distinguished by a minimal area requirement; and in order to keep the programming voltage low, it should be possible to set the diameter of the fuse to values which are significantly less than 1 μm.
With the foregoing and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a semiconductor configuration. The semiconductor configuration includes a semiconductor body having a main surface and an insulator layer disposed on the main surface of the semiconductor body and has an upper surface. The insulator layer has a cavity formed therein extending to the main surface of the semiconductor body. A fuse having a fusible part extends from the main surface of the semiconductor body toward the upper surface of the insulator layer at right angles to the main surface of the semiconductor body, and the fuse is embedded in the cavity.
In the case of the fuse for the semiconductor configuration having the semiconductor body with two main surfaces running essentially parallel to one another, the object is achieved, according to the invention, by the fuse extending in the direction between the two main surfaces and being embedded in the cavity in the semiconductor body.
The fuse according to the invention is thus not, like all the existing fuses, disposed in a planar structure. In fact, it is provided in the “vertical” direction between the two main surfaces of the semiconductor configuration. This factor on its own achieves a considerable reduction in area, so that it is possible to achieve a considerably improved packing density for semiconductor configurations with fuses. In addition, the diameter of the fuses can be set without any problems to values of considerably less than 1 μm, and this results in low programming voltages.
The enclosure of the fuses in the cavity has a further advantageous effect, which can be achieved only with major complexity and a large space requirement with the previous planar fuses. When the fuses are destroyed, the melt that is produced cannot produce any undesirable short circuits due to vapor-deposited material, since the vapors are reliably enclosed in the cavity. There is therefore no need for any special measures in order to avoid short circuits, which can occur when planar fuses are destroyed. Such measures with existing fuses contain the maintenance of specific minimum distances to adjacent elements or other fuses, or the provision of protective ring structures around the fuses.
A method for producing the fuse according to the invention is distinguished, by method steps which includes applying an insulator layer, which is etched selectively with respect to a semiconductor substrate and is composed, for example, of silicon nitride, is applied to the semiconductor substrate, which is composed, for example, of silicon. The insulator layer and the semiconductor substrate are then anisotropically structured, so that a semiconductor area in the form of a column remains under the remaining insulator layer after structuring. The column-shaped semiconductor layer is then isotropically etched over, in which case the width and electrical characteristics of the fuse can be set without any problems in this step. A dielectric composed, for example, of silicon dioxide is anisotropically applied to the remaining structure, which can be done by vapor deposition, and as a result of which a cavity is formed.
Contact is then made with the fuse that has been produced in the normal way, once again, as well as with its metallization, with subsequent passivation. A buried layer contact may be used if required for making contact, and this contributes to a further improvement in the packing density.
The fuse itself is advantageously composed of doped or undoped silicon. In this case, it may have a length of up to a few μm and a diameter of about 0.1 to 0.5 μm.
At its end facing the semiconductor body, the fuse makes contact, for example, with a buried layer, as has already been explained above, while, at its opposite end, which is located in the vicinity of one main surface of the semiconductor body, a metallic contact can be provided, composed, for example, of tungsten with appropriate contact diffusion. Such a tungsten contact can then be connected to an interconnect composed, for example, of aluminum, tungsten or polycrystalline silicon.
Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims.
Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a fuse for a semiconductor configuration and a method for its production, 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.
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
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic, sectional view through a fuse according to the invention;
FIGS. 2 to 4 are section views explaining a method for producing the fuse;
FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram of the fuse with an MOS transistor; and
FIG. 6 is a plan view of a prior art planar fuse.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
In all the figures of the drawing, sub-features and integral parts that correspond to one another bear the same reference symbol in each case. Referring now to the figures of the drawing in detail and first, particularly, to FIG. 6 thereof, there is shown a structure having first contacts 1 and second contacts 2 , which are each disposed on conductive areas 3 , which are composed, for example, of highly doped silicon. The areas 3 are electrically connected to one another by a fuse 4 , which represents a conductive connection between the areas 3 . The fuse 4 may, for example, be composed of doped polycrystalline silicon, or else of metal. The fuse 4 itself has a fine form, and has a width in the order of magnitude of a few μm down to less than 1 μm.
If a current which is greater than a certain limit value now flows between the contacts 1 and 2 , then the fuse 4 is destroyed by the resistive heat produced by the current flow. Therefore, the fuse is blown. The programming voltage is in this case greater than the operating voltage of the chip. The magnitude of the programming voltage is dependent, inter alia, on the width of the fuse 4 .
The process of blowing the fuse 4 can also, of course, be carried out by the influence of a laser beam, and this is particularly expedient when the fuse 4 is located on the surface of a semiconductor configuration.
As is now immediately evident from FIG. 6, the fuse 4 together with the associated contacts 1 , 2 requires an area that is not negligible on a semiconductor chip. The area required for fuses is a disadvantageous factor in terms of the continuous aim to miniaturize semiconductor configurations. This applies in particular to semiconductor memories, since a large number of fuses are required in them.
FIG. 1 shows the fuse 4 composed of silicon according to the invention. The fuse 4 has a length of about 1 to 2 μm and, at its narrowest point, a diameter of about 0.1 to 0.2 μm, and which extends between a contact 5 composed, for example, of tungsten, and a buried layer 6 in a semiconductor body 7 . The fuse 4 is in this case disposed in a cavity 8 , which is surrounded by an insulator layer 9 composed, for example, of silicon dioxide, in which an interconnect 10 composed of aluminum, tungsten or polycrystalline silicon runs to the tungsten contact 5 .
Other suitable materials or combinations of such materials may, of course, also be used instead of the stated materials. Thus, for example, the insulator layer 9 may also be composed of silicon nitride or of individual films of silicon dioxide and silicon nitride.
The production of the fuse 4 shown in FIG. 1 starts from a semiconductor substrate which is composed, for example, of silicon, onto which a layer, which can be etched selectively with respect to the substrate and is composed, for example, of silicon nitride, is applied. The silicon nitride layer is structured such that a structured silicon nitride layer 11 remains only on parts of the silicon substrate on which the fuse 4 is intended to be later produced. This is then followed by an etching step, in which the silicon substrate that is not covered by the structured silicon nitride layer 11 is removed down to a specific depth. This results in the structure shown in FIG. 2, in which the structured silicon nitride layer 11 (which is round, for example, in a plan view) covers the semiconductor substrate, which in this case is in the form of a column and, with the designation as in FIG. 1, is composed of the actual semiconductor body 7 and a semiconductor area 12 in the form of a column. The semiconductor area 12 in the form of a column forms the basic structure for the subsequent fuse 4 .
The semiconductor configuration shown in FIG. 2 is preferably formed by anisotropic structuring of the silicon nitride layer 11 and of the semiconductor substrate. The silicon nitride layer can in this case be used for marking.
This is then followed by isotropic etching over, in which the semiconductor area 12 is selectively made “thinner”. Therefore, in the step, the cross-sectional area of a remaining semiconductor area 13 is set. In other words, the isotropic etching-over process makes it possible to define, in a simple manner, the desired electrical characteristics of the fuse 4 which will finally be produced in this way.
This is then followed by anisotropic filling with a dielectric composed, for example, of a silicon dioxide layer 9 . The anisotropic filling with the dielectric 9 results in a cavity 8 being produced around the fuse 4 .
This is followed, in the normal way, by planarization by chemical/mechanical polishing and preparation of the tungsten contact 5 and of the interconnect 10 , which are likewise embedded in the insulator layer 9 , composed of silicon dioxide. In this case, the semiconductor body 7 can be provided with a further contact 15 and with a further interconnect 14 , which are composed of appropriate materials, like the contact 5 and the interconnect 10 . The contact 15 together with the interconnect 14 can in this case be connected with a low impedance through a diffusion zone 19 to a projection 18 on the buried layer 6 , so that contact is made with both ends of the fuse 4 .
If required, such contact at both ends can be dispensed with if the fuse 4 , as is shown schematically in FIG. 5, is connected directly to one electrode of, for example, a transistor 16 .
By vertical structuring of the fuse 4 , the invention allows a considerable amount of space to be saved in semiconductor configurations. This is especially important in semiconductor memories, since high packing densities are particularly desirable here. In this case, the invention differs completely from the previous structures, which all provide fuses in planar form. The invention provides a capability to produce fuses in a vertical configuration with little effort.
The fuse according to the invention is preferably blown “electrically”. However, if required, the fuse may also be blown by the influence of a laser beam. This is particularly appropriate if the fuse 4 is provided somewhat “obliquely” with respect to a main surface 17 of the semiconductor configuration. The main surface 17 runs essentially parallel to an opposite main surface of the semiconductor body 7 .
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A semiconductor configuration is described which includes a semiconductor body having a main surface and an insulator layer disposed on the main surface of the semiconductor body. The insulator layer has a cavity formed therein extending to the main surface of the semiconductor body. A fuse having a fusible part extends from the main surface of the semiconductor body toward an upper surface of the insulator layer at right angles to the main surface of the semiconductor body, and the fuse is embedded in the cavity. A method for producing the semiconductor configuration having the fuse is also described.
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This is a Continuation-in-Part Application for No. 09/166,471 filed Oct. 5, 1998, which is now requested to be abandoned. This CIP incorporates the two preliminary amendments to the parent application. They were filed Dec. 29 and 31, 1998. Other new material, in addition to that of the preliminary amendments, is included.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This is the invention of a cruise control adaptation for trucks to improve their delivery performance. Such performance for a truck is derived from its speed of delivery and its fuel mileage. The performance is optimized by this invention in automatically making the appropriate cruise control throttle setting changes as road slope changes. An increase in slope (going into a climb) results in a prompt fuel rate increase. With a decrease in positive slope, approaching the crest of a hill, speed stays constant, i.e., fuel decrease. With progressing negative slope requires there is fuel decrease even below set speed. Throttle settings arranged simply for maximum fuel mileage can sacrifice speed too much for good delivery performance.
The economic factors of speed and fuel mileage come into play especially in a large part of the U.S. where trucks encounter roads with consistently undulating hills. For hill climbing this invention operates under cruise control to maintain speed at the transition from level control to climbing. It also saves fuel (1) in downhill travel (2) in travel with variable winds (3) in slope changes from climbing to descending (4) in various road slope changes during a climb (5) in the changing from climbing to level transit, and (6) in acceleration from stop or slow speed to cruise speed.
The optimum truck speed for best fuel mileage in hill climbing can be too slow for best overall motor freight economics because a trip shortened in time by speed obviously has economic advantages. If fuel consumption were the only consideration in truck speed, trucks would travel at forty miles per hour and would climb hills in the fashion of the Japanese patent 8-295154.
This invention addresses both economic factors, speed and fuel consumption. In this regard it works better than the conventional speed control which has no fuel conserving features involving road slope changes and the Japanese approach which operates during uphill travel only for fuel conservation.
There are at least three distinctly different types of cruise control for vehicles including this invention. First, the most common (state-of-the-art or "SOA") is in use with many vehicles of the road. The SOA cruise control adjusts the engine power to hold a set speed as the vehicle goes through various road slopes. It makes no attempt to anticipate a hill climb; in fact, it has a delay in responding to the increased fuel demand of a hill. Another cruise control is described in Japanese patent 9-295154. It reduces the speed to allow a vehicle to climb a given hill with minimum use of fuel. The hill climb can be quite slow at the speed of best fuel economy. The third type, this invention, operates to hold speed as a hill is begun. It does not interfere with the driver's goal of speedy delivery, while it provides a degree of fuel conservation. It does this in the transition of slope as a hill is entered. Also, the system of the invention operates differently from that of the Japanese in downhill travel. The present system allows a degree of speed droop in descending by keeping the fuel flow stopped if the hill is steep enough. The Japanese concept operates to maintain the set speed or a higher speed using automatic braking
The controller of Japanese patent 8-295154 uses measurement of road slope ahead to define the hill being climbed by the truck. The following aspects of the Japanese patent are different from our concept: (1) a goal of minimum fuel usage in the climb of a hill and (2) the use of the truck power train operating characteristics in combination with the road slope to determine the speed of climb on the hill and (3) measurement of the road slope ahead of the truck. It does not respond to the positive transition of slope at the beginning of a hill in the manner of our invention. In fact, the Japanese concept reduces speed as soon as it detects an increased slope ahead. Immediately, it changes the speed toward a lower value to be held during the climb.
The technique of this invention for hill climbing begins at the very start of the hill. Slope is measured at the truck, not ahead. Power is advanced the moment the slope increases. The SOA cruise control systems normally have a built in lag of about 200 engine revolutions. This is too long for a good start on a hill. Consequently, there tends to be a speed droop as the truck goes into a climb. Actually, a surge in power is the better procedure as the hill is entered. The present invention supplies that. If the climb gets steeper, the control will respond sooner than that of an SOA control in calling for more fuel flow. As the crest of the hill is approached with declining slope, the climb having been steep enough that set speed could not be held, the present control will hold off speed increase through the crest of the hill and on until the slope stops decreasing when set speed will be resumed.
If a downhill is steep enough to allow adequate speed with fuel flow off, this allows fuel conservation. With an SOA cruise control, as a truck proceeds downhill on a slope where set speed cannot be reached without fuel, the controller will call for fuel. This invention allows a pre-determined speed droop of 5 mph, for example, before fuel is called for. This opens up opportunities for fuel to be saved without a great sacrifice in speed.
This invention can be set to preclude a fuel flow change when the slope data indicates no slope change, yet a speed change occurs, i.e., the change in speed is caused by a wind speed change. At the same time, the controller is quick to respond to a slope change in synchronization with whatever the changing road slope is. Any tendency for the controller to call for excessive power when an increase in slope is detected, can be avoided by the programming of the reaction to the slope change.
The present invention uses computer-type programming to allow fuel flow, under a given target speed, to be changed with the changing of road slopes in Hilly Country. An optimum balance between fuel economy and good speed is programmed. A cruise control designed for maximum fuel mileage, only, on a hill climb, such as the Japanese patent, would not result in optimum economics for the motor freight mission.
The slope measured by a dangleometer or other type of sensor of road slope can be adjusted by acceleration data input for the effect of acceleration on the perceived slope. The acceleration sensor could be of the inertial type or the signal could be derived from the monitoring portion of an automatic braking system or it could be derived from the part of an SOA controller which monitors speed and its changes.
There is a maximum RPM for each engine above which fuel mileage becomes especially degraded. Therefore, among the features of control under this invention to be programmed, a limit on engine RPM can be included, especially in acceleration to cruise speed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system in which the conventional cruise control signal for fuel flow is modified by a measurement of road slope change after it is adjusted for acceleration's effect on slope measurement.
FIG. 2 is a diagram of a system much like that of FIG. 1, except with a different arrangement of the data input and with engine RPM an added input. Also, acceleration, itself, is used as a factor in the control's establishment of fuel flow rate. Actually, acceleration is directly or indirectly accounted for in every case.
FIG. 3 is a diagram of a system in which the conventional cruise control signal for fuel flow is modified in one central computation involving acceleration, slope and engine RPM.
FIG. 4 is a diagram of a system with even more of a centralized computer unit that processes inputs to adjust the SOA fuel signal.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the case of having the slope measurement alter the fuel flow signal from an SOA cruise control unit.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the most straightforward case of having the slope measurement alter the set speed on an SOA cruise control unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In FIG. 1 automatic cruise control 1 is turned on at 3 and instant speed becomes the speed setting. There is a conventional "increase speed" button 27. A conventional cruise control computer 25 develops a signal for fuel flow rate 2. This is one of many possible arrangements for using slope measurement and its change 4 to adjust the cruise control signal 18 to the fuel flow 2. The slope sensor, itself 4, or the software processing its signal within 20 would be dampened to discount jiggling due to bumps in the road. Acceleration, computed at 25 from the rate of change of speed, is imposed at 20 on the slope to adjust for the effect of acceleration on perceived slope. Both the slope change from 20 and the fuel setting from 25 combine at 18 to determine the fuel signal that is then transmitted to the fuel flow controller 2. As in SOA controls, there is a foot feed 9 always available to the driver to control fuel feed over the computer control. Acceleration measurement is a part of most speed controllers because the controller looks at rate of approach (rate of speed change) to the set speed in developing its fuel flow signal. This controller has the conventional "increase speed" button 27 and the "controller off" 28 activated by the brake pedal.
Slope change alone in this invention can control a change in fuel flow. However, the relationship of slope to fuel flow requirement is complicated by concomitant changes in rolling friction and wind friction. Nevertheless, the embodiment of FIG. 1 would utilize only slope as a new input to cruise control.
In FIG. 2 another version of the control is shown in which RPM 7 can have an effect on the fuel flow signal. Acceleration also is used in the fuel flow calculation of the controller. In the diagram, acceleration 6 is shown apart from the speed set/speed sensing 8 comparison of the computer because it is a separate acceleration sensor such as a liner accelerometer mounted on the frame of the truck. The computer 1 uses the measurement of speed 5 and the speed setting 3 to develop a signal of fuel demand at 8. It then modifies that signal at 11 based on the measurement of acceleration 6. Again, the fuel flow signal is modified at 12 based on the measurement of changing slope 14. The primary measurement of changing slope 4 is corrected at 14 for the effect of acceleration on the slope measurement. The RPM sensor 7 is programmed to reduce the fuel signal developed at 12 if a pre-set RPM limit is otherwise exceeded. Finally at 10 a signal is sent to the fuel feed regulator 2. Driver override by foot feed 9 can determine fuel flow. Slope change is the major element affecting a change in fuel rate by the controller, although speed differential, actual Vs setting, is always a factor, too. The controller also has an "increase speed" button 27 and an "off" signal 28 with the brake pedal. The fuel signal from 10 also goes back to 11 in order that acceleration due to fuel flow change can be accounted for.
In FIG. 3 the speed setting 3 is modified by the computer 17 based on acceleration and changing slope measurements. The modified signal from the processor 15 is combined with speed 5 to develop at 16 the signal for fuel flow. The speed 5 and signal from processor 15 combine much like in a conventional cruise control. The acceleration that is beyond what the instant fuel flow is causing could be caused by wind. Therefore, fuel flow rate is fed back 22 to the computer's calculations which use the acceleration measurement. The acceleration measurement 6 can be separate from the controllers 17 or it can come from the computer's reading of change in speed. In this diagram it is shown as a separate measurement.
In FIG. 4 the modification of the cruise control signal 8 takes place in one central processor 9 within the computer 1. At 9 is generated the fuel signal 10, based upon the measurements of acceleration 6, slope 4, speed 5, RPM 7 and fuel flow signal 22.
FIG. 5 shows an SOA cruise controller 30; a slope change signal 33 leading from a measurement of slope change 34; the signal adjust 32 where speed setting 3, speed data 5, and fuel signal 31 from the SOA controller 30 are used to create an adjusted fuel rate signal 28 which leads to the fuel pumping system 35. The signal adjust 32 is programmed based on road testing development to optimize its performance. Through road testing the algorithms and constants used in programming are derived to produce fuel saving results and to provide against excessive fuel rate changes as the slope changes. This makes signal adjust 32 operate like an expert driver who gets superior fuel mileage.
FIG. 6 shows an SOA cruise controller 30; a changing slope measurement signal 33, leading from a slope measurer 34, and the speed set 3 leading to the speed set adjust 36 where the normal speed set 3 for the cruise controller 30 is adjusted for the effect of slope change. The rationale 29 of speed set adjust is based upon algorithms founded with road testing and evolved with self-teaching 37 to result in an optimum set speed adjust rationale. The SOA controller 30 then develops its throttle signal 28 to the fuel pumping system 35.
An SOA computer, with the necessary added hardware for additional programming, can be programmed by those expert in the art to process the input data of this invention to modify the SOA cruise control signal. Testing for a given engine with an actual truck could be used to establish the best algorithms and constants for the programmed relationships and derived signals. Also, by state-of art programming the controller might be designed to teach itself the best way to control fuel flow for best economy in the combination of speed and fuel mileage. This self teaching could be developed under actual truck travel during which the techniques of override of the cruise control for improved fuel mileage would be carried out by the driver and imposed on the programming of this invention.
Once the computer programming approach is taken to modify the workings of an SOA cruise control by adapting it to incorporate slope change and acceleration, an unlimited number of computer and computer programming means can be developed for this invention by those skilled in the art of computer control. The diagrams presented in the figures are only samples of what might be done. After choosing a computer design and programming it for the functions of this patent, the programmer would take into account the practical needs for changes in fuel flow under actual operating conditions. Examples of these are as follows:
(1 ) As a climbing truck approaches the crest of a hill and the positive slope of the road starts to taper off, good fuel economy requires that the fuel flow be reduced more than a conventional speed control would do. The hill is best finished at the climbing speed achieved before slope reduction. Changing slope combined with changing acceleration allows the computer to anticipate leveling off of the road or change to a negative slope better than would an SOA speed control. By measuring the acceleration of speeding up and at the same time detecting decreasing slope, the control of this invention can effect more efficient climbing as it calls for a lower fuel flow.
(2) When a truck is moving down a steep enough grade that the speed setting is almost reached without the use of fuel, addition of fuel at a low flow rate is an inefficient use of fuel. This would commonly happen with SOA speed controls. For good fuel economy it would be better to use no fuel and proceed down the hill at slightly less than the desired speed. This can be accomplished by the invented system. For example, in FIG. 1, if the computer 1 sees a signal 20 of an appreciable negative slope and a speed 5 no lower than, say, 5% below the set speed 3, the computer 1 shuts off fuel for the sake of better fuel mileage. If the computer sees a signal of a speed 5 of no more than, say, 5% above the set speed 3 and a positive slope 14, for better fuel mileage the computer 1 would set at 18 a fuel rate 2 higher than that set if the slope signal 20 indicated level ground. Such a setting would be especially helpful if slope were to be steadily increasing.
(3) Without having a measurement of the wind, the computer will "see" the wind effect as a changed speed in the absence of a change in fuel flow or slope. An SOA cruise control tends to surge engine power as variable winds cycle the truck speed up and down. This results in reduced fuel mileage compared to steady fuel flow. Under wind surges, changes in fuel rate can be delayed by this invention such that the range of variable fuel rates under surging winds is minimized.
(4) Fuel economy can be helped if the tuck is held to accelerate, even if the truck is lightly loaded, as if the truck were heavily loaded. The computer can be programmed to achieve this by limiting fuel flow to hold acceleration within a given range. With startup on an uphill or downhill path the best acceleration can be programmed via fuel flow rate taking slope into consideration.
(5) It is best to try to maintain momentum going into a hill. If the truck were to receive a gust of tail wind just as a hill climb were started, an SOA cruise control would reduce fuel flow in reaction to the ensuing speed increase, while the present invention would not because it would sense the positive slope as well as the speed increase.
Table I summarizes the control measures of this invention which override the SOA cruise control.
TABLE I______________________________________Road Condition Programmed Action______________________________________Perceived slope increase An increase in fuel flow is imposed on the cruise control in some proportion to the slope increase.Perceived slope decrease Velocity is held constantNegative slope and speed no Fuel cutoffless than a specified fractionof set speedSpeed change with no slope Fuel flow constant for a pre-setchange intervalAcceleration from speed under Fuel flow restrictiona pre-set velocity______________________________________
The relationship between slope and the best fuel flow signal at any one time can be developed with a truck equipped with a recorder of slope, speed, acceleration and fuel flow setting. The truck is then driven in a manner for improved fuel mileage as well as at expeditious speed and with override of the cruise control at the points in travel singled out by this invention for fuel mileage improvement. Once the recording has been made under every possible road slope condition and even with both a light load and with a heavy load, the data are then processed into "look-up" tables for a computer program to be used in computerized cruise control involving slope. The same approach can be used to develop a program in which truck acceleration or deceleration is used as well as slope. As to the programming which provides steady speed for cruise control under conditions of gusting winds, recordings of speed changes under such winds could help establish criteria for appropriate dampening of the fuel flow setting, or a cut-and-try approach could be used by programming logically the dampening and then testing on the road for effectiveness--then making changes for perfection of the approach. The program for fuel shut-off during descent where adequate speed would still be maintained could be, again, programmed using simple calculations and then be adjusted after testing on the road.
The present embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrations and not restrictive and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalency range are intended to be embraced herein. The depictions in the figures are not intended to limit the invention to the indicated steps in computer handling of the prescribed input data to manage fuel flow rate in maintaining or approaching a set speed. Any number of computer hardware sets and any number of computer programming methods can be used to implement the concept. The goal of incorporating slope change and acceleration into the control would be to establish the possible fuel mileage gains over operation under SOA cruise control alone.
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An automatic control of speed for a vehicle is based on using speed setting, actual speed, acceleration and the change of the slope of the road to set fuel flow for improved fuel mileage. The proposed system of sensors and a programmed computer automatically manages fuel flow to the engine as the truck moves in gusting winds and through transitions from one slope of the road to another. As the conventional cruise control operates to maintain or change speed according to a speed setting Vs the actual speed, the added control of this invention results in a modification of the signal to fuel flow depending upon what road slope change and acceleration is detected. The result is an improvement in fuel mileage.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention generally relates to a merchandising system that includes as a part of the system an improved gravity feed tray, which can be used for the storage, and gravity feed dispensing of bottles, cans, and other merchandise.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Supermarkets and other retail settings typically utilize displays to store and dispense merchandise. Most of the display racks used in supermarkets and other retail stores are self-service displays. A common example of a self-service displays are found in supermarkets, convenience stores, and many other stores selling bottles or cans of soft drinks. Typically, the customer will select a bottle or can from the self-service display rack and then proceed to the checkout line without the help of store employees.
[0003] Self-service display racks frequently implement a gravity feed configuration for the convenience of both the customer and store personnel. In typical gravity feed display racks, a shelf is tilted such that the rear edge of the shelf is above the front edge of the shelf thereby advancing items supported on the shelf toward the front edge due to gravity. In such a gravity feed configuration, the merchandise is readily accessible in a self-service manner to a customer in that it is positioned along the front edge of the shelf. This avoids the problem that it may be difficult for customers to reach bottles or merchandise on the rear or back of the shelf, particularly if the shelves are of significant depth or if several shelves are closely spaced together.
[0004] Furthermore, typical gravity feed display racks are designed to automatically advance merchandise toward a front edge of the shelf after a customer has selected a product. This prevents the problem of having merchandise at the rear of the displays from being hidden from customers.
[0005] Additionally, gravity feed display racks have proven to be advantageous when restocking merchandise. Gravity feed display racks allow store employees to readily ascertain whether the gravity feed tray needs to be restocked because if it was stocked the retail merchandise would be readily visible at the front edge of the gravity feed tray. Furthermore, if the merchandise on the gravity feed display rack needs to be restocked, the store employees can replenish the merchandise from the front edge or the rear edge because as the merchandise is added to the gravity feed display rack it will automatically advance toward the front edge of the shelf, which provides the additional advantage the employee restocking the merchandise will not need to keep rearranging the shelves as merchandise is added.
[0006] One example of a conventional gravity feed tray includes a downwardly tilted planar support surface over which a feeder belt is arranged to slide. Such a gravity feed display shelf is disclosed and claimed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,128,177, which is herein incorporated by reference, issued Dec. 5, 1978. Another example of a conventional gravity feed tray is represented by U.S. Pat. No. 2,218,444, which is herein incorporated by reference, issued Oct. 15, 1940 which discloses a metal channel intended primarily for use in conjunction with milk bottles in refrigerators. This patent discloses alternative procedures for achieving the desired degree of tilt of the chute.
[0007] Although, the conventional gravity feed trays described above have many advantages they are not without their faults. There are certain retail environments, such as commercial refrigerated cabinets or freezers, which have not been able to realistically incorporate conventional gravity feed trays. One reason for this is that conventional gravity feed trays fail to optimize the finite amount of space available in commercial refrigerators or freezer. As such, many retailers choose not to install conventional gravity feed trays in their freezers and refrigerators because they are unwilling to sacrifice valuable retail display space.
[0008] Additionally, conventional gravity feed trays typically mount to shelving that is common in commercial refrigerated cabinets or freezers. The mounts of the conventional gravity feed systems typical couple with the retail shelving and the weight of the retail merchandise exerts a downward force on the mounts, which provides some prevention from having the mounts slide along the retail shelving. This design makes conventional gravity feed trays susceptible to dislodging. This is especially true when the conventional gravity feed trays are not fully stocked with retail merchandise and therefore there is little downward force being applied by the weight of the retail merchandise to keep the mounts of the gravity feed tray from dislodging from the retail shelving. A problem can occur if a mount dislodges before loading because it can cause the immediate collapse of the gravity feed tray. Likewise, if a conventional gravity feed system uses multiple mounts if one of them becomes dislodged or partially dislodged the weight of the retail merchandise will be applied to the non-dislodged mount which will cause excess strain on the non-dislodged mount. Over time, the strain on the non-dislodged mount can cause the non-dislodged mount to deform, in which case the retailor has to incur the cost of replacing the non-dislodged mount or the entire conventional gravity feed tray. In addition, the deformation of the mounts raises safety concerns for retailors due to the fact customers and employees routinely place their hands and arms below loaded gravity feed trays to restock or select retail merchandise. As a result, many retailers have not incorporated conventional gravity feed trays into their stores due to the financial and safety concerns raised above.
[0009] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a gravity feed tray that can be readily incorporated into a refrigerated cabinet or a freezer and maximize the limited amount of space available; is prevented from inadvertently dislodging from mount shelving; and remains in a cantilevered position even while holding heavy loads of retail merchandise for extended periods of time.
[0010] The invention provides such a gravity feed tray. These and other advantages of the invention, as well as additional inventive features, will be apparent from the description of the invention provided herein.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In one aspect, the invention provides a gravity feed tray. An embodiment of the gravity feed tray according to this aspect includes a first support and a second support structure in an opposed spaced relationship. The first support and the second support are coupled to a u-bracket. The first and second support structures having inwardly extending flanges and the first support structure having a first mount and the second support structure having a second mount. The first and second mounts being capable of coupling to a retail display bar to support the first and second support structures as cantilevered extensions. The gravity feed tray may include a bar lock located on the second support structure that prevents the inadvertent dislodging of the gravity feed tray from the retail display bar. The first support structure and the second support structure may act to define a merchandise channel where the inwardly extending flanges project into the merchandise channel. The bar lock on the first support structure may also be adjusted to accommodate for retail display bars of varying dimensions. The first mount and the second mount on the first and second support structures may take the form of hooks.
[0012] In another aspect, the invention provides gravity feed tray. The gravity feed tray having a first support structure and a second support structure that can mount to a retail display. The first support and the second support act to define a merchandise channel and the first support having a first flange and the second support having a second flange that project inwardly into the merchandise channel and provide a retail display surface. The first support structure may have a first mount and the second support structure may have a second mount that couple to a retail display bar and support the first and second support structure as cantilevered extensions. In addition, the width of the merchandise channel may be adjustable. Furthermore, the gravity feed tray may have half of the volume of the retail merchandise displayed on the retail display surface be located below the retail display surface. The gravity feed tray may also include a bar lock that acts to prevent the inadvertent dislodging of the gravity feed tray from the retail display bar. In addition, the first and second mounts may include an adjustable aperture for receiving retail display bars of varying dimensions. The gravity feed tray may also have first and second mounts that have an aperture that is adjustable to accommodate for retail display bars having different height or width dimensions.
[0013] In yet another aspect, the invention provides a gravity feed tray having a first support and a second support structure where the first support structure has a first mount and the second support structure has a second mount. The first support structure and the second support structure having inwardly extending flanges that project into a merchandise channel and provide a retail merchandise display surface. The gravity feed tray may have a bar lock having a first position and a second position where the first position allows the first and second mount to couple with a retail display bar and the second position prevents the first and second mount from decoupling with a retail display bar. The first and second support structures can have a first and second bar lock aperture where the first bar lock aperture is located above the second bar lock aperture on the first and second support structures. The bar lock being removable from the first bar lock aperture and capable of being inserted into the second bar lock aperture on the first and second support structures. The gravity feed tray having a contact surface area between the retail merchandise and the retail display surface is less than ten percent of the total surface area of the outside of the retail merchandise being displayed. The gravity feed tray capable of displaying retail merchandise having top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion where the top portion and bottom portion have a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the middle portion and only the middle portion of the retail merchandise has a contact surface area with the retail display surface.
[0014] Other aspects, objectives and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
[0016] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of the gravity feed tray displaying merchandise in a retail setting according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 1 B is a side view of the gravity feed tray displaying merchandise in a retailing setting illustrated in FIG. 1 A;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional perspective view of a gravity feed tray according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional perspective view of the gravity feed tray shown in FIG. 2 ;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a gravity feed tray according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a top view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a side-view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a side-view of the opposing side of the gravity feed tray illustrated in FIG. 8 ;
[0026] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a gravity feed tray according to one embodiment of the present application;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a front view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a rear view of the gravity feed tray of FIG. 4 ; and
[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a gravity feed tray according to one aspect of this invention in a retail environment illustrating a first piece of retail merchandise being selected from the gravity feed tray.
[0030] While the invention will be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments, there is no intent to limit it to those embodiments. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] FIG. 1A illustrate a gravity feed tray 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The first support structure 100 has a first support mount 114 and the second support structure 200 has a second support mount 214 , as best illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 . In use, a retail display bar 900 can be inserted into an aperture 116 of the first support mount 114 and an aperture 216 of second support mount 214 . The first and second support structures 100 and 200 then support the gravity feed tray 10 as it hangs as a cantilevered extension from the retail display bar 900 . The movement of the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 is from the rear edge 250 of the gravity feed tray 10 to the front edge 150 of the gravity feed tray is generally indicated at 20 .
[0032] As the gravity feed tray 10 hangs as a cantilevered extension from the retail display bar 900 it can be loaded with retail merchandise, 930 , 940 , and 950 . In FIG. 1 A, the retail merchandise is represented by a first, second, and third soda bottle, 930 , 940 , and 950 respectively. Typically, soda bottles and other retail merchandise have a bottom portion 980 having a large diameter, a middle or neck portion 975 having a smaller diameter, and a top portion 970 having a diameter that is typically less than the bottom portion 980 , but larger than the middle or neck portion 975 diameter. This allows the gravity feed tray 10 to display soda bottles, water bottles, etc. while not taking up a great deal of space because the gravity feed tray 10 does not need to have a large contact area 955 (See FIG. 1B ) with the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 . In this manner the gravity feed tray 10 can display the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 while taking up a minimal amount of retail space until a self-service customer selects one of the pieces of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 for purchase.
[0033] FIG. 1 B is a side view of the gravity feed tray 10 displaying retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 in a retail environment. As illustrated, the gravity feed tray 10 is forwardly and downwardly inclined when couple with retail display bar 900 . The amount that the first and second support structures 100 and 200 (See FIG. 4 ) are forwardly and downwardly inclined is generally represented as θ.
[0034] As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art the angle θ required by the first and second support structure 100 and 200 will depend on a number of factors, such as but not limited to, the weight of the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 , the contact area 955 between the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 , and the coarseness of the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 as well as the coarseness of the surface of the retail merchandise being displayed by the gravity feed tray 10 , etc. In one embodiment, the angle θ could be in the range between 5° and 45°. However, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art the angle θ that the first and second support structures 100 and 200 extend from the retail display bar 900 are not limited to the range between the range of 5° and 45° and may be any angle θ selected by the user.
[0035] Turning to FIG. 3 , which generally illustrates the first support structure 100 of the gravity feed tray 10 . As illustrated, the first support structure 100 has an inwardly extending flange 104 . The inwardly extending flange 104 runs the length of the first support structure 100 and has a rear upturned end 106 and a front upturned end 108 .
[0036] Turning back to FIG. 2 , which generally illustrates the second support structure 200 of the gravity feed tray 10 . As illustrated, the second support structure 200 also has an inwardly extending flange indicated by 204 . The inwardly extending flange 204 runs the length of the second support structure 200 and has a rear upturned end 206 and front upturned end 208 .
[0037] As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art the coarseness of the material selected for the first and second support structures 100 and 200 and in particular the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 is important because the gravity feed tray 10 relies on the force of gravity to shift the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 to the front edge 150 of the merchandise channel 30 when the first piece of retail merchandise 930 is selected by a customer. Therefore, if the material selected for the first and second support structures 100 and 200 and in particular the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 is too course the force of gravity may be unable to overcome the force of friction created between the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 and the contact surface area of the retail merchandise 970 . Therefore, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, one embodiment of the gravity feed tray 10 according to the application may incorporate a brushed metal for the first and second support structures 100 and 200 and the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 , such as, but not limited to brushed stainless steel, brushed aluminum, or brushed nickel. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art brushed metals provide many advantages such as providing a surface that is relatively course, is mechanically strong, and is easy to clean and maintain.
[0038] FIG. 2 also illustrates the bar lock 600 . In the illustrated embodiment the bar lock 600 is coupled to the second support structure 200 . However, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in art other embodiments may have the bar lock 600 on the first support structure 100 or any other suitable component of the gravity feed tray 10 . For example, as best illustrated in FIG. 10 , the first support structure 100 has a bottom bar lock aperture 801 and top bar lock aperture 802 and the second support structure 200 also has a bottom bar lock aperture 803 and a top bar lock aperture 804 . As will be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art the bar lock 600 can be decoupled from any one of the bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , or 804 and be then be coupled to any one of the other bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , or 804 of the users choosing. As will readily be recognized by one of skill in the art the ability to couple and decouple the bar lock 600 from bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , and 804 that have different locations or positions on the gravity feed tray 10 allows the bar lock 600 to lock retail display bars 900 with varying dimensions. Furthermore, as will also be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art the bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , and 804 are not limited to their position or placement in the illustrated embodiment and those of skill in the art will readily recognize that bar lock apertures may be positioned on any suitable place of the gravity feed tray 10 that allows for the bar lock 600 to prevent the gravity feed tray 10 from inadvertently dislodging from the retail display bar 900 .
[0039] As illustrated, a user will position the retail display bar 900 within the mount 214 of the second support structure 200 and the bracket 300 . Once the retail display bar 900 is positioned within the mount 214 and the bracket 300 the user can rotate the bar lock 600 until the triangular projection 602 of the bar lock is aligned flush with the bottom of the retail display bar 900 . After the bar lock 600 is rotated to have the triangular projection 602 aligned flush with the bottom edge 902 of the retail display bar 900 the user can tighten the fastener 700 , which will prevent further rotation of the bar lock 600 . Once the fastener 700 is tightened with the triangular projection 602 of the bar lock 600 flush with the bottom of the retail display bar 902 the mount 214 and the bracket 300 will not be able to be dislodged from the retail display bar 900 . As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art the user can remove the gravity feed tray 10 from the retail display bar 900 by untightening fastener 700 and rotating the bar lock 600 until it is no longer flush with the bottom edge 902 of the retail display bar 900 , which will provide clearance for the user to lift the mount 214 and bracket 300 from the retail display bar 900 .
[0040] Turning to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 , which respectively illustrate a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of the gravity feed tray 10 according to the invention. As illustrated, the first and second support structures 100 and 200 are coupled to bracket 300 . As those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize bracket 300 performs the function of acting as an additional support to the first and second support structures 100 and 200 as well as acting as a spacer between the first and second support structure 100 and 200 to define the merchandise channel 30 .
[0041] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 also illustrate the flip scan and plate label holder 400 , where merchants can place information about the retail merchandise being displayed by the gravity feed tray 10 such as, but not limited to, the product name, price, bar code, QR code, etc., as best illustrated in FIG. 13 . The illustrated embodiment also shows label support 500 , which acts to secure the label holder 400 to the gravity feed tray 10 and supports the label holder 400 so that it faces towards potential customers, which allows the customers to easily view the information contained on the label holder 400 . Furthermore, as best illustrated in FIG. 12 , the flip scan and plate label holder 400 is movable in a vertical direction, such that when a customer selects a piece of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 from the merchandise channel 30 the flip scan and plate label holder can swing up vertically so that it does not interfere with the removal of the first piece of retail merchandise 930 and then swing back down to its original position to front face the next customer and provide that customer with the information the retailor has displayed on the flip scan and plate label holder 400 .
[0042] FIG. 2 also illustrates the bar lock 600 . In the illustrated embodiment the bar lock 600 is coupled to the second support structure 200 . However, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in art other embodiments may have the bar lock 600 on the first support structure 100 or any other suitable component of the gravity feed tray 10 . For example, as best illustrated in FIG. 10 , the first support structure 100 has a bottom bar lock aperture 801 and top bar lock aperture 802 and the second support structure 200 also has a bottom bar lock aperture 803 and a top bar lock aperture 804 . As will be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art the bar lock 600 can be decoupled from any one of the bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , or 804 and be then be coupled to any one of the other bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , or 804 of the users choosing. As will readily be recognized by one of skill in the art the ability to couple and decouple the bar lock 600 from bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , and 804 that have different locations or positions on the gravity feed tray 10 allows the bar lock 600 to lock retail display bars 900 with varying dimensions. Furthermore, as will also be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art the bar lock apertures 801 , 802 , 803 , and 804 are not limited to their position or placement in the illustrated embodiment and those of skill in the art will readily recognize that bar lock apertures may be positioned on any suitable place of the gravity feed tray 10 that allows for the bar lock 600 to prevent the gravity feed tray 10 from inadvertently dislodging from the retail display bar 900 .
[0043] As illustrated, a user will position the retail display bar 900 within the mount 214 of the second support structure 200 and the bracket 300 . Once the retail display bar 900 is positioned within the mount 214 and the bracket 300 the user can rotate the bar lock 600 until the triangular projection 602 of the bar lock is aligned flush with the bottom of the retail display bar 900 . After the bar lock 600 is rotated to have the triangular projection 602 aligned flush with the bottom edge 902 of the retail display bar 900 the user can tighten the fastener 700 , which will prevent further rotation of the bar lock 600 . Once the fastener 700 is tightened with the triangular projection 602 of the bar lock 600 flush with the bottom of the retail display bar 902 the mount 214 and the bracket 300 will not be able to be dislodged from the retail display bar 900 . As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art the user can remove the gravity feed tray 10 from the retail display bar 900 by untightening fastener 700 and rotating the bar lock 600 until it is no longer flush with the bottom edge 902 of the retail display bar 900 , which will provide clearance for the user to lift the mount 214 and bracket 300 from the retail display bar 900 .
[0044] Turning to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 , which respectively illustrate a top-down and bottom-up view of the gravity feed tray 10 according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the merchandise channel 30 has a width 921 defined by the first and second support structures 100 and 200 . In one embodiment the merchandise channel 30 may have a width 921 between 3.40 and 5.75 cm. However, as will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art the merchandise channel 30 is not limited to this range and may be smaller than 3.40 cm or larger than 5.75 cm depending on the type of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , 950 , being displayed within the gravity feed tray 10 .
[0045] Next, the inwardly extending flanged 104 and 204 form a support and display surface for the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 . In the illustrated embodiment the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 have a width 923 between 0.85 cm and 1.70 cm. However, as will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art the widths 923 of the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 are not limited to the range between 0.85 cm and 1.70 cm and can readily be made smaller than 0.85 cm or larger than 1.70 cm depending on the type of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 being displayed within the gravity feed tray 10 . Further, although the widths 923 of the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 are represented as being the same size in the illustrated embodiment the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 are not limited to being the same size and flange 104 could be larger than flange 204 and vice versa.
[0046] Next, the distance between the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 defines a merchandise track gauge 922 . As illustrated, the merchandise track gauge 922 is between 1.70 cm and 3.38 cm. However, as will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art the merchandise track gauge 922 is not limited to this range and may be smaller than 1.70 cm or larger than 3.38 cm depending on the type of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 being displayed within the gravity feed tray 10 .
[0047] As best illustrated in FIG. 10 , the first support structure 100 and the second support structure 200 are coupled to a bracket 300 . In the illustrated embodiment the first and second support 100 and 200 are coupled to the bracket 300 via mig weld. As will be appreciated by those having skill in the art a mig welding will provide a mechanically strong and relatively inexpensive coupling between the first and second support structures 100 and 200 and the bracket 300 . However, as will also be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art the first and second support 100 and 200 may be coupled to the bracket 300 by any means generally known in the art. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art that the bracket 300 both provides structural support to the first and second support 100 and 200 and also acts as a spacer between the first and second support 100 and 200 and helps define the width 921 of the merchandise channel 30 .
[0048] Furthermore, as best illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 and 6 , the gravity feed tray may also have a first half u-brace 110 located on the first support structure 100 and a second half u-brace 210 located on the second support structure. In the illustrated embodiment the first half u-brace 110 is incorporated into the first support structure 100 and the second half u-brace 210 is incorporated into the second support structure 200 . In some embodiments the first u-brace 110 and the second u-brace 210 can then be coupled together via mechanical means such as, but not limited to, mig welding. Although, the illustrated embodiment show the first half u-brace 110 being a part of the first support structure 100 and the second half u-brace 210 being part of the second support structure 200 those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that a u-brace does not have to be formed from two parts and can easily be formed from a single piece or a multitude of pieces that couple to the first support structure 100 and the second support structure 200 and provide structural support and act as a spacer between the first and second support structures 100 and 200 .
[0049] Turning to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 , which respectively represent a first side view of one embodiment of the gravity feed tray 10 and a second side view of the gravity feed tray 10 opposite the first side view. As illustrated, the length 920 of the gravity feed tray 10 is generally defined by the length of the first and second support structure 100 and 200 . In one embodiment the length 920 of the first and second support structure 100 and 200 can be in the range of 35.74 cm and 70.84 cm. However, as will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art the length 920 of the first and second support structure 100 and 200 is not limited to this range and may be smaller than 35.74 cm or larger than 70.84 cm depending on the type and amount of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 the user wants to display using the gravity feed tray 10 .
[0050] FIGS. 8 and 9 also illustrate the first and second forward spacers 112 and 212 . As best illustrated in FIG. 1B . The first and second forward spacers 112 and 212 can act to support the label support 500 . In addition, as best illustrated in FIG. 13 the first and second forward spacers 112 and 212 provide front aperture 807 that allows a customer to remove a piece of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , or 950 from the gravity feed tray 10 .
[0051] Next, the retail display mounts 114 and 214 of the first and second support structures are illustrated. The mounts 114 and 214 have respective apertures 116 and 216 to insert the retail display bar 900 . In the illustrated embodiment the apertures 116 and 216 have an opening between 2.21 cm and 4.40 cm. However, as will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art the apertures 116 and 216 are not limited to the range between 2.21 cm and 4.40 cm and can readily be made smaller than 2.21 cm or larger than 4.40 cm depending on the retail display bar 900 used to mount the gravity feed tray 10 . Further, although the apertures 116 and 216 are illustrated as having the same dimensions apertures 116 and 216 are not limited to having the same dimensions and aperture 116 could be larger or smaller than aperture 216 and vice versa.
[0052] Turning to FIG. 11 , the front edge 150 of the gravity feed tray 10 is illustrated. As best illustrated in FIG. 11 , the first support structure 100 has a front upturned end 108 and the second support structure 200 has a second front upturned end 208 . In one embodiment the front upturned ends 108 and 208 can extend angularly upward from the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 at a height 928 between range of 2.55 cm and 5.07 cm. However, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art the height 928 of the front upturned ends 106 and 206 is not limited to the above range and can be below 2.55 cm or above 5.07 cm as required by the user. The front upturned ends 106 and 206 act to prevent the second and third piece of retail merchandise 940 and 950 in the retail channel 30 from inadvertently dislodging from the merchandise channel 30 when the first piece of retail merchandise 930 is removed 930 from the retail merchandise display 30 and the second and third pieces of retail merchandise are shifted toward the front edge 998 of the retail merchandise channel 30 by gravitational force (See FIG. 13 ).
[0053] Turning to FIG. 12 , the rear edge 250 of the gravity feed tray 10 is illustrated. FIG. 12 best illustrates that the first support structure 100 also has a first rear upturned end 106 and the second support structure 200 has a second rear upturned end 206 . In one embodiment the rear upturned ends 106 and 206 can extend angularly upward from the inwardly extending flanges 104 and 204 at a height 927 between the range of 0.85 cm and 1.69 cm. However, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art the height 927 of the rear upturned ends 106 and 206 is not limited to the above range and can be below 0.85 cm or above 1.69 cm as required by the user. As will also be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art the rear upturned ends 106 and 206 will typically have a smaller angular height than the front upturned ends 108 and 208 because the front upturned ends 108 and 208 act to prevent the dislodging of the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 under the force of gravity. However, as will also be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art the rear upturned ends 106 and 206 can act to prevent retail merchandise 930 , 940 and 950 from dislodging from the rear edge 250 of the merchandise channel 30 when the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 is being stocked from the front edge 150 of the merchandise channel 30 .
[0054] Turning to FIG. 12 , which illustrates a gravity feed tray 10 according to one aspect of this invention in a typical retail environment. As illustrated, the gravity feed tray 10 is displaying retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 that are represented as typical soda bottles. In use, the user will position the first and second mount openings 116 and 216 to receive the retail display bar 900 . With the first and second mounts 114 and 214 now in contact with the retail display bar 900 the first and second support structures 100 and 200 support the gravity feed tray 10 as a cantilevered extension. Once in position and secured to the gravity feed tray 10 the gravity feed tray 10 can be loaded with retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 . In FIG. 13 the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 is represented by soda bottles.
[0055] After the gravity feed tray 10 is secured to the retail display bar 900 can then load retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 into the merchandise channel 30 . Within the merchandise channel 30 the first and second support flanges 104 and 204 prevent the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 from falling from the merchandise channel 30 . The user may place the first piece of retail merchandise 930 into the merchandise channel 30 from the forward edge 150 or the rear edge 250 of the merchandise channel 30 . As the user releases the first piece of retail merchandise 930 into the merchandise channel 30 the downward angle of the first and second support flanges 104 and 204 cause the retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 to slide forward until the retail merchandise reaches the front edge 150 of the merchandise channel 30 .
[0056] After the gravity feed tray 10 has been loaded with retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 a customer can select the first piece of retail merchandise 930 that is located at the front edge of the merchandise channel 30 . When the customer selects the first piece of retail merchandise 930 from the merchandise channel 30 it will be removed from the merchandise channel 30 at a slightly upward direction 999 . Once the first piece of retail merchandise 930 is selected from the merchandise channel 30 the second and third piece of retail merchandise 940 and 950 will shift forward by the force of gravity 998 until the second piece of retail merchandise 940 abuts the front edge 150 of the retail merchandise channel 30 and fills the space left vacant by the first piece of retail merchandise 930 that has been selected by the customer. Therefore, as long as the gravity feed tray 10 remains stocked with retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 apiece of retail merchandise 930 , 940 , and 950 will always be at the front edge 150 of the merchandise channel 30 where it can easily be identified and selected by customers.
[0057] 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.
[0058] 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) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. 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.
[0059] Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
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A gravity feed tray is provided for use as a component of a display device for retail merchandise such as bottled soft drinks or water in a retail setting. The gravity feed tray includes a first and second support structure that are forwardly and downwardly inclined when coupled to a retail display bar. The first and second support structures having inwardly extending flanges that project into a merchandise channel formed by the first and second support structures. The inwardly extending flanges provide a surface to display retail merchandise. The support surfaces being disposed downwardly and forwardly along a straight line so that rows of retail merchandise, such as bottles, may be stocked in the merchandise channel and supported by the inwardly extending flanges, whereby removal of the bottle at the front end of the merchandise channel causes a void that the remaining bottles fill by sliding via gravitational force.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed toward a time delay circuit for controlling operation of a load and is more particularly directed toward a time delay circuit for controlling the activation of an alarm circuit in a fire protection system.
Because it is sometimes desirable to delay the application of a voltage or current to an electrical load, numerous load control circuits have been developed. Examples of such circuits are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,745,382 to Hoge et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,597,632 to Vandemore, and U.S. Pat. No. 3,764,832 to Stettner. However, these and other known load control circuits are relatively complicated and have numerous components, thus increasing manufacturing difficulty and costs. Further, these and other known load control circuits typically provide relatively lengthy time delays, on the order of five minutes, and are unreliable.
Load control circuits are used in a variety of applications including, for example, to delay activation of an alarm circuit in a fire protection system. Conventional fire suppression systems typically include a source of water or other fire-extinguishing fluid, a detector for detecting the flow of the fire extinguishing fluid through a pipe or conduit, and an alarm circuit or other load that is activated when a sufficient flow is detected.
In such systems, the alarm is preferably not activated immediately upon detection of fluid flow in the conduit, because flow may occur due to a "water hammer" or fluid backwash within the system. If the alarm were activated immediately upon detection of a water flow, a large number of false alarms would result.
In order to reduce or eliminate such false alarms, a load control circuit may be used to delay the activation of the alarm for a predetermined time following detection of an alarm condition. Early load control circuits were simple mechanical devices, such as dashpots in which air was forced into and out of a chamber. The alarm would not sound until the air was completely out of the chamber, at which time a switch would close to activate the alarm.
These and other conventional time delay mechanisms were designed to provide a delay in the range of 30 seconds to 90 seconds. However, these conventional time delay devices were unreliable and inaccurate, and were thus unsuccessful in eliminating false alarms. Accordingly, solid state electrical load control circuits were developed for fire suppression systems such as the time delay circuit known as ICM/HMKS-W 1104.
These electrical load control circuits delay activation of the alarm until a solid state electrical switch is rendered conductive. However, electrical switches require a latching voltage to maintain the conductive state. Because the switch is provided across the delay circuit, the latching voltage reduces the effective voltage supplied to the load, and thus it is difficult for the switch to remain conductive while still providing sufficient power to the load.
In particular, approximately 13 to 16 volts are required to maintain the conductive state of a typical solid state switch. This causes a 13 to 16 voltage drop across the time delay circuit and reduces the power supplied to the alarm circuit or other load to about 104-107 volts. This lower voltage may be insufficient for some loads, such as horns, lights, motors, solenoids, or other components.
Accordingly, the need exists for a simple and reliable load control circuit in which the voltage drop across the circuit is reduced.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One object of the present invention is to solve the disadvantages noted above with respect to conventional load control and fire suppression systems.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a simple load control circuit which allows time delays on the order of 10 to 90 seconds and incurs only a small voltage drop.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a simple load control circuit which maximizes the power provided to the load after expiration of the desired time delay.
A load control circuit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a supply terminal for receiving a supply voltage and a detector which detects a condition requiring the operation of a load. The detector causes a threshold voltage to be generated from the supply voltage, and a time delay controller controls the time required to generate the threshold voltage. A DIAC or equivalent element conducts to generate a first trigger signal once the threshold voltage is achieved, and a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) generates a second trigger signal in response to the first trigger signal. The circuit includes a TRIAC or similar switch which is rendered conductive by the second trigger signal to cause a voltage to be provided to the load. Due to the selection and arrangement of the circuit components, the voltage supplied to the load is substantially the same as the supply voltage. According to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, multiple electrically isolated loads can be separately controlled.
If the supply voltage is an AC (alternating current) voltage, the circuit also includes a rectifying diode or equivalent element for converting the AC voltage to a DC (direct current) voltage. The time delay controller may include a potentiometer (variable resistor) to vary the delay time required to generate the threshold voltage, and may also include a trim pot jumper to bypass the potentiometer and eliminate the delay time.
For implementation in a fire protection system, the detector may be a magnet operated reed switch for detecting a threshold fluid flow in a conduit and the load is an alarm for indicating the threshold flow in the pipe.
Thus, a load control circuit according to the present invention delays operation of a load for a predetermined time period and incurs only a minimal voltage drop, resulting in an increased voltage supply to the load. The circuit is simple and uses relatively few components. The load control circuit according to the invention may be used with a variety of switches, including a flow detector switch in the pipeline of a fire protection system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference indicia indicate like elements, and in which:
FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram illustrating a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a second embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a fire protection system in which the circuit of the present invention may be implemented.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to FIG. 1, a circuit according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown, which includes a neutral terminal 6 connected to ground and a supply terminal 8 connected to a standard A.C. power source of between 30 and 120 volts at 60 Hz. A load 12 is connected to the supply terminal 8 to receive the supply voltage. A load control circuit 10 is connected between the load 12 and the neutral terminal 6 to selectively connect the load between the supply terminal 8 and the neutral terminal 6. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the load 12 draws a maximum of 6 amps; it will be readily appreciated that the circuit may be readily modified to accommodate loads having a current draw greater than 6 amps. The load control circuit 10 includes a switch 14, a diode 16, and a first capacitance 18 connected in series between the load 12 and the neutral terminal 6. In the preferred embodiment, the diode 16 is a 1N4005 diode, and the first capacitance 18 is a 20 micro farad (MFD) capacitor rated at 200 volts D.C. (VDC). It will be appreciated that other suitable diodes and other suitable charge storing elements may be used for diode 16 and first capacitance 18, respectively.
The first capacitor 18 is connected in parallel to a resistance 20. A second capacitance 30 and a time delay setting circuit 21 are connected in series, in a circuit path that is in parallel with resistance 20 and in parallel with first capacitance 18. Resistance 20 functions to discharge capacitance 18 when operation of the load control circuit is completed. Resistance 20 may be a fixed 22 kilo ohm (kΩ) resistor rated for 1 watt (W) or other suitable resistor. The second capacitance 30 may be a 47 MFD/50 VDC capacitor or other suitable charge storing element.
Time delay circuit 21 includes three parallel circuit paths connected between capacitor 30 and neutral terminal 6. The first path includes diode 22, the second path includes potentiometer 24 connected in series to a resistance 26, and the third path includes trim pot jumper 28. Time delay circuit 21 functions to adjustably control the charging rate of capacitor 30 to delay activation of the load 12. Resistance 26 is preferably a fixed resistor, for example, a 100 kΩ resistor rated for 1 watt, which functions to provide a minimum (e.g., 10 seconds) time delay for time delay circuit 21. The trim pot jumper 28 allows potentiometer 24 and resistance 26 to be bypassed to eliminate the delay function of the load control circuit. Alternatively, resistor 26 and trim pot jumper 28 may be omitted, in which case adjustment of the potentiometer 24 may cause the time delay to vary between 0 and, e.g., 90 seconds.
The input of the time delay circuit 21 is connected to a DIAC 32. The DIAC 32 is preferably a HT-32 DIAC having a trigger voltage of 32 volts, though any suitable triggering element may be used. In particular, the circuit may be modified to operate at a lower voltage level by replacing the 32 volt DIAC with a DIAC having a lower trigger voltage (e.g., 10 volts). Such a modification would be appropriate if the supply voltage was reduced below 30 volts A.C. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a DIAC (DIode AC switch) is a bidirectional diode which may be rendered conductive when a "breakover" or "trigger" voltage is exceeded in either direction by an applied voltage or trigger spike. Suitable DIACs are available from numerous suppliers, including the Teccor Corporation of Dallas, Tex.
The DIAC 32 is connected to a gate 36a of a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) 36 through a resistance 34. The resistance 34 may be a fixed 5.6 kΩ resistor rated for 0.5 watts or other suitable resistance element. SCR 36 is preferably an EC103B SCR, available from numerous manufacturers, including the Teccor Corporation of Dallas, Tex. The anode 36b of the SCR 36 is connected to the cathode of the second capacitor 30, resistance 20, and between the cathode of first capacitance 18 and the cathode of the diode 16. The cathode 36c of the SCR 36 is connected to the gate 40g of the TRIAC 40 through resistance 38. Resistance 38 may be, for example, a 1kΩ resistor rated for 1 watt or other suitable resistance element. The M2 anode of the TRIAC 40 is connected to the ground terminal 6 and the M1 anode is connected to the supply terminal 8 through the load 12. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) is rendered conductive when a proper signal is applied to its gate. The SCR remains conductive when the gate signal is removed, and is turned off by removing the anode voltage, reducing the anode voltage below the cathode voltage, or making the anode voltage negative, as on the alternate half-cycles of an A.C. power source. A TRIAC (TRIode AC switch) is a gate-controlled bidirectional thyristor or SCR which is rendered conductive in both directions when a proper signal is applied to its gate. TRIAC 40 is preferably a Q4006L4TRIAC available from numerous suppliers including Teccor Corporation, or another suitable A.C. switch rated for approximately 6 amps. If the load 12 draws more than 6 amps, a TRIAC having a higher current rating may be used without changing any other elements in the circuit.
The load control circuit of FIG. 1 may be used, for example, in a fire suppression system. In such an arrangement, the switch 14 may be a magnet operated reed switch on a vane type water flow detector, and the load 12 may be an alarm circuit which causes bells, horns, lights, etc., to be activated in response to a threshold fluid flow in a conduit. The load control circuit components are arranged so that no voltage is applied to any component unless the reed switch that is mounted on the vane type waterflow is in the conducting state. It will be appreciated that the circuit of the present invention may be used in connection with other types of switches or detectors and/or with other types of loads. Suitable reed switches are available from numerous suppliers, including the C.P. Clare Corporation of Chicago, Ill. and the Hammlin Corporation of Lake Mills, Wis.
Using the example of a fire suppression system, the operation of the load control circuit of the present invention will now be described. When water or fire extinguishing fluid starts to flow through the pipes of a sprinkler system in a building to prevent fire damage, a small permanent magnet in one of the pipes is brought into close contact with a glass sealed reed switch 14, causing the switch 14 to close. Examples of such switches are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,791,254 to Polverari and U.S. Pat. No. 3,749,864 to Tice.
The closing of the reed switch contacts applies the supply voltage potential across at the terminals 6 and 8 and thus across rectifying diode 16. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the supply voltage is between 30 and 120 volts A.C. (alternating current).
The diode 16 rectifies the alternating current to provide a half wave rectified current equivalent to a pulsed D.C. (direct current) voltage which rapidly charges capacitance 18 to a voltage of about 170 volts D.C. (based on an input voltage of 120 volts A.C.). Diode 16 and capacitance 18 thus have the effect of converting the A.C. voltage source into a D.C. power source. It will be appreciated that if a pulsed D.C. power source is used, a rectifying function does not need to be performed, and the diode 16 is therefore unnecessary. In this case, the closing of the switch causes capacitance 18 to be rapidly charged directly by the power source.
The charge stored by capacitance 18 slowly charges the second capacitance 30 through potentiometer 24 and resistance 26, during the non-conducting half cycle of the diode 16. It will be appreciated that an RC circuit is formed by second capacitance 30, potentiometer 24, and fixed resistor 26, and that the RC time constant and thus the charge time of capacitance 30 may be adjusted by potentiometer 24. According to one embodiment of the present invention, potentiometer 24 is a trim pot and allows the delay time of time delay circuit 21 to be adjustable between about 10 seconds and about 90 seconds. A dial or other input device (such as a screw head slot, not shown) connected to the trim pot 24 may be used to adjust the resistance and thus the time delay. Diode 22 prevents the negative cycle of the AC power supply from causing the second capacitance 30 to be discharged during operation of the load 12.
If not for the presence of DIAC 32, capacitance 30 would be charged to approximately 170 volts (based on a 120 volt A.C. supply voltage). However, when the charge stored in second capacitor 30 reaches 32 volts D.C., the break over voltage of DIAC 32 is achieved, causing DIAC 32 to conduct and generate a first trigger signal. The first trigger signal is supplied to gate 36a of SCR 36 through the resistor 34 causes SCR 36 to conduct.
The TRIAC 40 is rendered conductive in response to a negative pulse generated by SCR 36. That is, the conduction of SCR 36 results in a conduction path formed by capacitor 18, neutral line 6, terminal M2 and gate 40g of TRIAC 40, resistor 38, and SCR 36. The charge stored in capacitor 18 conducts through this path to cause the gate 40g of TRIAC 40 to become negatively biased, thus causing TRIAC 40 to be rendered conductive. When the TRIAC 40 turns on, the A.C. voltage drop between terminals 6 and 8 is only about 6 volts. The signal applied to the gate of TRIAC 40 is phase controlled such that TRIAC 40 is only about 95-98% conductive. If the TRIAC were 100% conductive, the voltage drop across the TRIAC would be greater than 6 volts, and the power supplied to the load would be reduced. If the voltage drop across the TRIAC is less than about 6 volts, the TRIAC may oscillate between conductive and non-conductive states, thus impairing operation of the load control circuit. It will be appreciated that the actual voltage drop across the TRIAC is approximately 6 (1/√2)=approximately 4 volts RMS.
Because of the low voltage drop across the TRIAC, the load 12 receives a voltage substantially equal to the supply voltage potential received at terminals 6 and 8. If the supply voltage is 120 volts A.C., the load receives approximately 114 volts A.C., which is more than sufficient to operate horns, lights, motors, solenoids or any other component in the fire alarm circuit.
When the water or fire extinguishing fluid stops flowing, the reed switch opens and the capacitors 18 and 30 are discharged to ground. Capacitance 18 discharges through resistor 20 and neutral terminal 6, and capacitance 30 discharges through diode 22 and neutral terminal 6. It will be appreciated that other suitable elements may instead be used to allow the capacitances 18 and 30 to discharge. If capacitances 18 and 30 are not provided with an effective discharge path, any remaining charge stored on the capacitances will cause the delay time to be varied during a later operation of the circuit. Once capacitances 18 and 30 are discharged, the circuit is reset and ready for another load control operation.
Referring now to FIG. 2, an alternate time delay circuit according to the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, a voltage supply may be selectively applied after a time delay to a second load. The circuit includes a first circuit having substantially the same arrangement of components as in the embodiment of FIG. 1 connected between a first hot line H1 and a first neutral line N1, and also includes a second circuit 42 connected between second load 44 and second neutral line N2. Second circuit 42 includes opto-TRIAC 46, second TRIAC 48, and resistances 50 and 52, which are connected as shown. Second load 44 is connected to receive a second voltage supply via hot line H2. In operation, once SCR 36 is rendered conductive in the manner described above, the charge stored by first capacitance 18 is discharged to provide a negative pulse to gate 40g of TRIAC 40 and to pin 2 of opto-TRIAC 46. As a result of the discharge of first capacitance 18, TRIAC 40 is rendered conductive and a light-emitting diode (LED) 54, connected as shown between pins 1 and 2 of opto-TRIAC 46, is caused to emit light, thereby exciting an optical TRIAC 56, connected as shown between pins 4 and 6 of opto-TRIAC 46, and causing optical TRIAC 56 to conduct. The conduction of optical TRIAC 56 causes a trigger pulse to be provided to the gate 48g of second TRIAC 48, thereby rendering second TRIAC 48 conductive and causing power to be applied to second load 44. Resistances 50 and 52 are current-limiting resistors to limit the current flowing from first capacitance 18 to LED 54, and to limit current applied to gate 48g of second TRIAC 48, respectively. Resistance 50 is connected between pin 1 of opto-TRIAC 46 and first neutral line N1, and resistance 52 is connected between pin 6 of opto-TRIAC 46 and second neutral line N2.
It will be appreciated that the first and second circuits in the time delay circuit of FIG. 2 are electrically isolated from one another, and therefore enable the time delay circuit to reliably control the operation of two loads. Because the first and second circuits are electrically isolated, the voltage sources connected to hot lines H1 and H2 may provide the same or different supply voltages. Alternatively, first and second neutral lines N1 and N2 may be the same neutral line. Further, hot lines H1 and H2 may be connected to the same voltage source.
Preferably, the supply voltages provided on hot lines H1 and H2 are between approximately 30 and approximately 120 volts A.C., and first and second loads 12 and 44 draw a current of no more than approximately 6 amps. Opto-TRIAC 46 can be a 3047 opto-TRIAC available from numerous suppliers, and second TRIAC 48 can be a Q4006L4 TRIAC available from numerous suppliers. Resistances 50 and 52 can be implemented by a 690Ω resistor and 100Ω resistor, respectively. It will be appreciated that other suitable components can be used.
Further, it will also be appreciated that the addition of the second circuit 42 may require changes in the component values of the first circuit. In the preferred embodiment of the circuit of FIG. 2, first capacitance 18 is a 33 microfarad capacitor rated for 160 volts D.C. The increased capacitance compared to the circuit of FIG. 1 is desirable to provide a sufficient trigger pulse to render both TRIAC 40 and opto-TRIAC 46 conductive. Further, in the embodiment of FIG. 2, resistance 20 is preferably a 22 kΩ resistor rated for 2 watts, resistance 34 is preferably a 690Ω resistor rated for 0.5 watts, and resistance 38 is preferably a 1Ω resistor rated for 0.5 watts. Other component values remain the same. It will be appreciated that other suitable component values or components can be used for the time delay circuit of FIG. 2. It will further be appreciated that operation of more than two electrically isolated loads can be controlled according to a circuit of the type shown in FIG. 2.
Referring now to FIG. 3, a fire suppression system including a time delay circuit 10 according to the present invention is shown.
When sufficient water flow through pipe 100 is detected by switch 14, the switch closes the circuit 10 and causes a load, e.g., an alarm or warning light, to be turned on after a desired time delay. The time delay reduces false alarms by avoiding registration of an alarm condition which might occur due to back flow or other temporary movement of water in the pipe. The delay period is selectable by the user or manufacturer as described above to accommodate a given fire protection system.
Of course, the time delay control circuit according to the present invention may be used in other applications using household or industrial current and voltage levels. For instance, the switch 14 could detect any of a number of conditions, such as gas flow, temperature (with a thermal switch), the open or closed state of an enclosure or movement of another physical object, to name but a few.
The foregoing description, while including many specificities, is intended to be illustrative of the general nature of the invention and not limiting. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt the specific embodiments described above for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
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A circuit for controlling operation of a load, such as an alarm circuit in a fire protection system, in which operation of the load is delayed for an adjustable time period. The load control circuit includes a DIAC for generating a first trigger signal, an SCR which generates a second trigger signal, and a switch, preferably a TRIAC, which provides a supply voltage to the load upon receipt of the second trigger signal. A variable resistor is provided to adjust the time required to generate the first trigger signal.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
My invention relates to safety barriers for small children, and particularly to a safety barrier which is economical to manufacture, is readily portable, and adjustable in two dimensions, and can be applied without any special tools, and can be reused as desired.
Safety barriers specifically designed for use with children's furniture such as cribs and play pens are well known in the art. The prior art is directed to guards or barriers of fixed dimensions, designed to fit particular pieces of children's furniture. Many of these comprise rigid panels which are attached to the furniture by clamping devices. No simple means are provided to adjust the barrier to furniture or railings having different dimensions, so that the barrier can readily be applied to a large variety of supporting structures.
U.S. Pats. Nos. 633,353, 1,119,621, 2,607,931, 2,732,569, 3,044,078, 3,093,838 and 3,546,721 are exemplary of this prior art.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, it is a principal object of my invention to provide an improved barrier providing a safety guard for infants and small children which is economical to manufacture, and easy to apply to a number of different situations.
Another object of the invention is to provide a barrier which can be adjusted or varied in two dimensions to adapt the barrier to different application situations.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a barrier which includes at least one sub-panel arranged to prevent the sliding or slipping of the barrier panel, and yet permit variations in the height of the barrier.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a barrier which requires no special tools or devices to install the barrier.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a barrier for preventing the escape of small children from a safe area. The invention may be used to prevent a child from escaping from a closed area and is especially useful in preventing a child from trying to crawl through the space between the slats of a porch deck or stair railing, which could result in injury or death of the child.
A panel of suitable flexible material, such as canvas or plastic preferably in the form of netting with relatively small openings, for example on the order of one quarter of an inch, forms the basic element of the combination. A reinforcing border of flexible material is provided around the perimeter of the panel, this border being provided with a plurality of openings therethrough, spaced at predetermined intervals around the periphery of the panel. These border openings are reinforced with suitable grommets. To anchor the panel in place on the supporting structure a plurality of laces or ties are provided, which are threaded through the grommets and tied to convenient portions of the supporting structure, such as the upper and lower rails of a crib or porch railing, end posts, and the like. The laces can also be fastened to screw eyes or eyebolts in the floor.
Since the panels are flexible, they can be folded to lesser dimensons, without cutting or trimming. Also such adjustments can be made in both the width and the height of the panels. The laces will hold the folds in place.
An ancillary feature is the provision of small sub-panels of rigid or semi-rigid material such as plastic or thin wood, which are sewn or otherwise contained in the netting panel. These panels are located on the upper end corners of the panel and are of shorter dimensions than the height of the netting panel, thus not interfering with the rolling up of the netting panel. These sub-panels serve to keep the main panels from sliding or otherwise being dislodged from their proper position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing objects and other features of the invention and its advantages will become more fully understood from the following detailed description when considered with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIGS. 1 and 2 are fragmentary, elevational views of a barrier in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;
FIGS. 3 and 4 are fragmentary, perspective views showing the use of screw eyes for anchoring the lower border of the panel;
FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 are fragmentary, perspective views showing how the panel can be folded to make the effective dimensions of the panel smaller; and
FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, perspective view showing the placement of a sub-panel in conjunction with the main panel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2, show the right and left sides, respectively, of the basic configuration of a barrier in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. A panel 1, generally rectangular in shape, and of predetermined dimensions or multiples or sub-multiples of the basic dimensions, is provided, and is made of suitable flexible material, such as woven cloth, or plastic. The panel material may be in the form of netting, with relatively small openings or may be made of a solid sheet of the material. It may be transparent, translucent, or opaque, and can be of one color or multi-colored, and may have designs or patterns on either or both sides.
Preferably the panel material will comprise a net weave having 1/4 to 1/2 inch openings to permit the ready passage of fastenings therethrough, as will be subsequently described.
A border 3, of heavy duty canvas or like material is provided around the entire periphery of the panel, and is double lapped and double stitched, or otherwise securely affixed to the panel. This border is provided with openings having suitable grommets 5, spaced at regular and predetermined intervals around the perimeter of the panel. The grommets may be of metal or suitable non-metallic material, such as plastic.
To attach the panel to supporting members, a plurality of fastening devices, ties or laces 7, are provided, preferably one for each grommet and of a predetermined length, such as 18 inches, for example. The laces are passed through the associated grommet and looped around an adjacent supporting member, such as a portion of a railing with which the barrier is to be employed, as is apparent from the drawings. In the event that there is no supporting member available, for example, where there is no bottom rail present in a railing structure, the laces 7 may be attached to screw eyes or eyebolts 19 affixed to the floor, as apparent from the showings in FIGS. 3 and 4.
A novel and unique feature provided by this invention is a semi-rigid plate or sub-panel 9 which is sewn or otherwise affixed into an upper end corner of the panel 1. This plate or sub-panel may be on the order of four inches wide, and may be on the order of sixteen inches long. It can be a thin piece of metal, wood or plastic, and may be enclosed in heavy canvas or like material. The purpose of this plate of sub-panel is to keep the main panel from sliding or otherwise moving away from the end portion of the supporting structure, which would result in an escape hole or opening, thereby defeating the primary purpose of the barrier.
As seen in FIG. 2 and FIG. 8, the plate is located in the upper portion of the end of the panel 1, this location permitting the lower portion of the panel 1 to be rolled up, in a manner and for purposes to be later described. The spacing of the grommets 5 permit the lacing of laces 7 in this vicinity to be such that the plate or sub-panel is securely held in the desired position. To the degree required, extra grommets are provided to permit appropriate alignment of extra laces to allow the rolling of the panel to adjust the length and width thereof to suit individual applications of the barrier.
Having thus generally described the features of the invention, it is now intended to describe the various features of adaptibility in greater detail, as shown in the various drawings.
FIG. 1 shows the manner in which a panel 1 is secured to a railing including an end post 11, an upper rail 13, and a lower rail 15, with a plurality of slats 17 extending between the upper and lower rails in well known fashion. The upper end corner of the panel border 3 is secured to the top of end post 11, as shown, and in similar fashion lace 7 secures the lower corner of the border to the lower portion of end post 11. Other laces 7 are fastened between the grommets 5 and the top and bottom rails as shown. The panel 1 is thus retained in position with no danger of its displacement to the point where its effectiveness as a barrier is impaired.
FIG. 2 illustrates the positioning of the plate or sub-panel 9 in the upper left hand portion of a panel 1. By positioning the panel in this manner, freedom is provided to roll up the panel from the bottom to allow for a shorter height of the railing, rather than the usual height, which is nominally about 36-42 inches. The nominal length of the panels can range from five to forty feet, and the width of the panel can range from 26 to 36 inches. The primary purpose of the sub-panel is to keep the entire unit from sliding away from the end wall, thus providing a possible escape opening.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a corner of a panel 1, and the associated border 3, showing the use of screw-eyes to anchor the laces 7. This construction is used in cases where a bottom rail is eliminated in the design of the railing or the bottom rail is not conveniently located, or is located too high from the floor, so as to present a possible hazzard. Obviously, other types of anchoring devices, such as eye-bolts, staples, etc., can be used to anchor the laces.
FIG. 4 also shows the use of screw eyes to anchor laces 7 in the case of a railing structure in which the bottom rail is omitted. Note the laces tying the panel to the top and the bottom of the railing end post.
FIG. 5 is a view illustrating the manner in which a panel 1 may be foreshortened in the situation where the panel is of greater length than the railing with which it is associated. As shown, the panel is rolled upon itself starting at one end, such action being indicated by the looped broad arrow in the drawing. When shortened by the desired amount, laces 7 are used to fasten the rolled-up portion to the end post as shown, through the grommets 5. Additional laces 7 can be used at intermediate vertical points by threading the lace through the mesh openings in the panel. Thus, any excess length is neatly and unobtrusively stored, without cutting or trimming, and is preserved for possible future use.
FIG. 6 is a view showing the manner in which a panel can be rolled up from the bottom to accommodate varying height requirements for various railing heights. As shown, the panel is rolled up upon itself, starting at the bottom border, as indicated by the looped broad arrow in the drawing. After rolling to the desired height, laces 7 are passed through the grommets and the intervening mesh openings in the panel material. As in the case of adjusting the length, this feature of the invention allows the excess width of the panel to be neatly and unobtrusively stored, without cutting or trimming, and the unused portion is thus saved for possible future use.
FIG. 7 shows an alternative manner of shortening the length of a panel, without cutting or trimming. In this instance, a portion of the panel is folded and lapped back upon itself as indicated by the looped broad arrow shown in the drawing. The portions are aligned so that the grommets line up to permit the threading of appropriate laces 7 therethrough.
Lastly, FIG. 8 shows the disposition of a panel 1 on a railing that abuts a wall or partition 21. The panel is placed so that the sub-panel 9, comprising a panel of substantially rigid material, such as wood or plastic, is located adjacent the wall 21. When positioned and retained by the laces 7, the sub-panel prevents any possible hazard created by pushing, pulling or sliding the panel 1 away from the wall. Since the sub-panel is located in the upper portion of the panel, it does not interfere with the rolling up of panel 1, as previously described, to permit variations in the height of panel 1.
From all of the foregoing, it is apparent that my invention provides a novel and useful improvement in the construction of barriers which act as safety guards to prevent young children from attempting to escape through railings, crib sides and the like, with the possibility of injury or death. The novel combination of a panel of flexible material, preferably a netting, with a reinforcing border and suitable fastening means for anchoring the panel in place, provides an arrangement which is adaptable for use with railings of different heights and widths, without cutting or trimming, and may be reused at will.
Although I have herein shown and described only several specific features and preferred embodiments of my invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention appertains, that various other changes and modifications, may be made to the subject invention, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and therefore it is understood that all modifications, variations and equivalents within the spirit and scope of the subject invention are herein meant to be encompassed in the appended claims.
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A barrier or safety guard for preventing the escape of small children from a safe area, having as its basic element a panel of flexible material, preferably in the form of netting with relatively small apertures therein. A border of flexible material is provided for the periphery of the panel and has a plurality of spaced openings around the entire periphery of the panel. These openings are provided with grommets and a plurality of ties or laces by which the borders of the panel can be fastened to points on the supporting structure. The panel can be folded in either or both dimensions to adjust its size to smaller dimensions. Small sub-panels can be used to prevent the main panel from being dislodged.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to an anti-pollution apparatus and more particularly to a oil spill current activated boom that is deployable to collect floatable pollutants such as oil.
The devastating effects of liquid hydrocarbons spillage on a body of water are well known. Accidental spillages of oil are ugly, dangerous, quite damaging and can severely contaminate marine life as well as shoreline property. The legal implication of such damage is great and it is essential that means be provided to control these accidental spillages. Early techniques used oil absorbent materials such as hay or straw to absorb the pollutants and then such materials were gathered, which action was a laborious task. More recent devices included floating booms which could be located around a boat that was polluting the waters. Other polluting control devices were pushed or towed through the water to collect the pollutants. The present invention provides an alternate means for controlling pollutants in those areas where oil is loaded or unloaded by tankers, barges and the like and where accidents usually take place and can cause damage. The present invention provides an effective practical means for controlling and confining oil spills on deposits on waters to prevent their subsequent spread and damage. In addition, the present invention is particularly useful in areas where water traffic prevents the permanent type of installation because the known booms were deployed in such a manner that they interfered with the use of the channel waters. The present invention is a self-deploying boom which is so stored that it does not interfere with the channel use, yet upon deployment will position itself to effectively collect and contain the oil spill.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The oil monitoring and pollutant control apparatus comprises a flexible elongated body or boom being so folded that it can be retained in a body of water by a holding line that is secured to a boat or a dock. An oil monitoring device is mounted adjacent to the holding line so that upon detection of oil, the holding line is severed and the boom is deployed. The ends of the boom are connected to mooring lines which in turn are connected to spaced mooring blocks to deploy the boom in a pre-determined attitude and locations for most effective use of containment of the pollutant material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the invention showing the normal positions and the deployed condition in phantom lines of the oil pollutant control apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of an oil monitoring device.
FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a boom deployed in a liquid.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a control device for releasing the holding line of the pollutant control apparatus.
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a pair of flotatable sections connected with a section joiner.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the drawings wherein like characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views, there is shown in FIG. 1 an apparatus or boom 10 for controlling a spill of liquid pollutant 12 on a body of water 14, which body of water is shown as a stream or river having a current going in the general directions indicated by the arrows. A retaining means such as dock 15 is shown as projecting into the river. An oil barge or other similar vessel 16 is moored to the dock 15.
The apparatus or boom 10 for confining the oil or pollutants may be constructed of several materials and the design may be of several presently available as a series of hollow units or sections that are connected together to form a flexible elongated unit with spaced end portions 17 and 18. Depending on the length of the sections and the form of the joint connecting the sections, the confining apparatus or boom may have any desired configuration and size. As an example, a section of the boom 10 has a vertical dam 19 sandwiched between two D-shaped hollow flotation elements, generally designated 20. The overall width of each element 20 is one fourth to two-thirds the overall height of the vertical dam 19, and greater than the height of the element itself. The flotation elements 20 are substantially continuous along the full length of the barrier or boom 10 except that at the midpoint, the joint or connection 21 between the sections has greater flexibility to allow the boom 10 to form a pair of flexible elongated body portions which may be in abutting relationship for a purpose to be described. Such joint or connection 21 may have a loop 22 molded therein (FIG. 3) to receive one end of a tow or holding line 23. Suitable vertical plastic ribs 25 are located at suitable intervals along the length of the boom or barrier 10. The ribs 25 may be bonded, sealed or otherwise fastened against the dam 19 and elements 20 in order to provide a semi-rigid stiffener and body to the barrier or boom 10. The ribs 25 extend from a point at the bottom edge of one side of the dam 19 vertically upward, against the dam 19, around element 20, upward against the dam 19, over the top of dam 19 in a loop 26, downward on the opposite side of the dam 19, around element 20 and on down to the bottom edge of the dam 19 opposite the starting point. The sections of the boom may utilize boom section joiners generally designated 30 to provide a flexible quick joining and releasing method which permits the joiner of the necessary sections, however, any convenient joining means may be used. The joiner 30 utilizes a piano hinge like plastic filling which is attached to the ends of each section. There are left and right hand joiners 30 which when joined bring the sections or components closely together. A pin 41 is inserted to join closely the respective sections to prevent the oil from leaking or passing through. The sections have non-water absorbent foam pieces 32 and 33 within the outer shell which holds the foam in place. The hollow portion 34 between the foam pieces aid in the flotation, however solid foam pieces may be substituted in this construction.
The respective ends 17 and 18 of the oil confining apparatus of boom 10 are secured to one end of mooring lines 36 and 37, which lines 36 and 37 have their other ends secured to mooring blocks 38 and 39, which blocks are spaced from each other and determine in cooperation with the mooring lines 36 and 37 the configuration which the boom 10 will assume. Placement of the mooring blocks 38 and 39 closer together will permit the deployment of the boom 10 to assume a greater oval shape.
To monitor the upstream portion above the boom 10, a monitoring device 40 such as that manufactured by WRIGHT & WRIGHT, INC., Environmental Engineering of Newton Centre, Massachusetts is mounted on a suitable bracket above the water. The monitoring unit 40 includes a transmitter unit 41 which transmits a beam to the water surface to be monitored. Such beam is reflected back to a receiver unit 42 which is operative to detect a floating oil slick and provides an electrical impulse signal to a solenoid controlled valve 45.
In the normal condition, valve 45 connects pressurized tank 46 via lines 47 and 48 to the rod end of cylinder 49; however, on actuation of control valve 45 line 47 connects the pressurized tank to line 50 which is connected to the head end of cylinder 49 which extends the rod 52 to pivot the cutting arm 53 about pivot means 54 to cut the holding line 23 which passes through a notch on anvil 55, to permit the deployment of boom 10. The one end of line 23 is secured to the dock or pier 15 while the other end is secured to the middle portion 21 of the boom 10.
The control valve 45 is shown as spring biased to return it to the non-actuated position. Other suitable means may be provided to release the holding line 23 in response to a signal received from monitoring device 40. The monitoring device 40 is mounted on a bracket 55 that is suitably secured to the pier 15 to monitor the water downstream from the location where the oil barge 16 is docked.
It will be apparent that, although a specific embodiment and certain modifications of the inventions have been described in detail, the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated and described constructions since variations may be made without departing from the principles of the invention.
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A current deployable floatable boom unit for accumulating oil from the surface of water. An oil monitoring device is operative to actuate the deployment of the boom unit when oil is sensed adjacent to the boom unit, which boom unit is stored out of the way.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This patent application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/440,064 filed Jan. 16, 2003, entitled Governor Spring Bracket Assembly.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to automatic transmissions and, more particularly, to a governor spring bracket assembly, which functions to counterbalance the centrifugal force acting on the governor valve weights in order to assist in the return stroke of the governor valve weight in a shaft-mounted governor. Applications for the present governor spring bracket assembly include the Chrysler A413, A404, A470, and A670 transmissions.
Automatic transmission systems of the prior art have a hydraulic circuit sub-system which includes at least a hydraulic pump, a valve body having fluid conducting passages or circuits, input and exhaust ports formed within the fluid circuits, and a plurality of spool valves so-called because of their resemblance to sewing thread spools. Such valves are comprised of cylindrical pistons having control diameters or lands formed thereon, which alternately open and close the ports to regulate the flow and pressure of automatic transmission fluid (hereinafter “ATF”) within the fluid circuits to actuate different components of the transmission. It will be understood that in describing hydraulic circuits, ATF usually changes names when it passes through an orifice or control valve in a specific circuit.
In such an automatic transmission the governor valve assembly (hereinafter “governor”) functions to vary transmission fluid pressure based on output shaft rotational speed (i.e. road speed). When governor pressure overcomes throttle pressure, an upshift takes place. Thus, maintaining fluid pressure within the governor circuit is critical to proper shift timing in the transmission.
The governor on the Chrysler transmissions is a shaft-mounted type governor that uses centrifugal force acting on the governor valve weights or pistons (hereinafter “weights”) to vary governor output pressure. As the vehicle begins to move and the transmission output shaft turns, centrifugal force begins to act upon the weights causing them to move radially outward away from the output shaft. As this happens the line pressure inlet ports formed in the governor begin to open and the exhaust ports close. This causes the governor fluid outlet to release ATF at line pressure to other valve assemblies within the governor circuit. When output shaft speed decreases, the weights (assisted only by hydraulic pressure) move back toward the output shaft closing the inlet ports and opening the exhaust ports thereby lowering governor output pressure.
In the Chrysler transmissions a problem arises when the governor weights stick in the governor leaving the inlet ports open after output shaft speed drops to 0 rpm. Even the slightest inlet port opening will result in governor output pressure stroking the 1–2 shift valve, which causes a second gear start.
Thus, the present invention has been developed to resolve this problem and other shortcomings of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention is a governor spring bracket assembly that attaches to an exterior surface of the original equipment manufacture (hereinafter “OEM”) governor valve assembly. The present governor spring bracket assembly functions to counterbalance the effect of centrifugal force generated by rotation of the output shaft and acting on the internal governor valve weights. The present governor spring bracket assembly supports and aligns a calibrated compression spring that engages the primary governor weight, which functions to return the weight to its rest condition at low output shaft speeds and to prevent excessive governor output pressure and improper shift timing.
Other features and technical advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a study of the following description and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The novel features of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as other features and advantages thereof will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway view of the governor of a Chrysler transmission mounted on the output shaft and is labeled Prior Art;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the primary governor weight shown in FIG. 1 and is labeled Prior Art;
FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway view of the governor of FIG. 1 showing the governor spring bracket assembly of the present invention installed thereon;
FIG. 4 is a plan view of the present governor spring bracket assembly; and
FIG. 5 is an elevational view of the present spring bracket assembly taken along line 5 — 5 of FIG. 4 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Prior to describing the present invention in detail, it may be beneficial to briefly review the basic function of the governor valve assembly and its associated hydraulic circuit within the Chrysler transmissions wherein the present invention is utilized. With reference to the drawings there is shown therein a diagram of a governor valve assembly or governor, indicated generally at 100 and illustrated in FIG. 1 . The governor 100 on the Chrysler transmissions is a shaft-mounted type governor installed on the output shaft 105 . The governor 100 utilizes centrifugal force acting on governor weights 102 , 104 to vary outlet pressure. In the embodiment shown the two weights (i.e. primary weight 102 and secondary weight 104 ) reside within mating bores in the governor body 110 . The primary weight 102 (as more clearly shown in FIG. 2 ) regulates line pressure to control 1 st to 2 nd gear shift timing. The secondary weight 104 regulates line pressure to control 2 nd to 3 rd gear shift timing.
In operation as the vehicle whereon the governor 100 is installed begins to move and the transmission output shaft 105 turns, centrifugal force begins to act upon the weights 102 , 104 as will be best understood by referring back to FIG. 1 . The rotation of the governor 100 with the shaft 105 causes the weights 102 , 104 to move in a radially outward direction away from the output shaft 105 as shown by directional arrows 116 , but at different rates. This is because secondary weight 104 includes an internal compression spring (not shown) designed to resist centrifugal force. Initially, the pressure inlet port 112 associated with weight 102 begins to open and the exhaust port 114 begins to close. This causes pressurized ATF to flow through the governor outlet 118 into the governor output circuit.
As the output shaft speed increases, the weights 102 , 104 continue to move radially outward away from the shaft 105 until the inlet port 112 is fully open and the exhaust port 114 is fully closed at which point governor output pressure is the same as pump line pressure. The governor's output pressure is delivered to one side of the 1–2 shift valve (not shown) to affect the point at which an upshift takes place. The higher the governor's rotational speed, the higher the ATF pressure delivered to the 1–2 shift valve. The 1–2 shift valve balances pressure from the governor fluid outlet 118 against fluid pressure from the throttle valve output (not shown). When the speed of the output shaft 105 decreases, the weights 102 , 104 move back toward the output shaft closing the inlet port 112 and opening the exhaust port 114 thereby lowering governor output pressure.
A problem arises in the Chrysler transmissions when the primary governor weight 102 , which is not provided with an internal return spring, sticks in the governor body 110 due to mechanical wear and/or residue accumulation. When this occurs, the inlet port 112 can remain open after the rotation of the output shaft 105 is substantially reduced, which causes excessive governor outlet pressure at low engine speed and results in 2 nd gear starts and improper shift timing. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to resolve this problem and will now be described.
Referring to FIG. 3 there is shown therein a governor spring bracket assembly in accordance with the present invention, indicated generally at 10 . It can be seen that the governor spring bracket assembly 10 including a contoured bracket, indicated generally at 12 , and a compression spring 20 is mounted on the exterior of the governor body 110 such that spring 20 engages the primary governor weight 102 as shown.
Spring 20 is radially disposed about a distal end portion 102 a of the weight 102 in coaxial alignment and is seated against an adjacent shoulder portion 102 b ( FIG. 2 ) in its functional position. Spring 20 is calibrated to a predetermined spring rate that is designed to permit normal operation of the primary governor valve weight 102 in all speed ranges. Advantageously, spring 20 also functions to assist with the return stroke of the weight 102 to its rest or closed condition in relation to the outlet 118 when the output shaft 105 drops back to low speed.
In one embodiment, among others, the contoured bracket member 12 is a sheet metal component fabricated from cold rolled steel of approximately 0.050 inches thickness. As seen in FIG. 3 bracket 12 conforms closely to the exterior contour of the governor body 110 to facilitate high speed rotation of the present spring bracket assembly 10 within the confines of the transmission housing wherein it is located.
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5 bracket member 12 includes integrally formed tabs 13 , 14 formed at right angles thereto on the opposed lateral edges thereof and positioned at opposite ends of the bracket. Tabs 13 , 14 each include mounting holes 15 , 16 respectively, which receive fasteners such as machine screws 17 , 18 ( FIG. 3 ) for mechanical attachment to the governor body 110 . Bracket 12 also includes a circular spring seat, indicated generally at 25 , formed at the approximate midpoint thereof for seating the compression spring 20 and capturing the spring in its functional position intermediate the bracket member and the primary governor weight 102 . Spring seat 25 includes a central relief aperture 30 , which provides clearance for weight 102 at the furthest extent of its outward travel.
Referring again to FIG. 3 , as the vehicle begins to move and the transmission output shaft 105 rotates, centrifugal force begins to act upon the primary weight 102 causing it to move radially outward away from the output shaft 105 . As this happens the line pressure inlet port 112 formed in the governor body 110 begins to open and the exhaust port 114 closes. This causes the governor 100 to release ATF at line pressure via fluid outlet 118 to other hydraulically actuated components within the governor circuit.
When the rotational speed of the output shaft 105 decreases, the primary weight 102 moves back toward the output shaft 105 (as shown by directional arrows 117 in FIG. 3 in the reverse direction) closing the inlet port 112 and the outlet 118 and also reopening the exhaust port 114 thereby lowering governor output pressure. Spring 20 functions to urge the weight 102 back to a rest condition in this low output shaft speed to zero output shaft speed range to prevent excessive governor output pressure. Thus, accurate control of governor output pressure and 1 st to 2 nd gear upshift timing is maintained.
Although not specifically illustrated in the drawings, it should be understood that additional equipment and structural components will be provided as necessary and that all of the components described above are arranged and supported in an appropriate fashion to form a complete and operative external governor spring bracket assembly incorporating features of the present invention.
Moreover, although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, a latitude of modification, change, and substitution is intended in the foregoing disclosure, and in certain instances some features of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of invention.
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A governor spring bracket assembly that attaches to an exterior surface of a shaft-mounted governor valve assembly for an automatic transmission is disclosed. The present governor spring bracket assembly functions to counterbalance the effect of centrifugal force on the governor valve weights, which is generated by rotation of the governor with the transmission output shaft. The present governor spring bracket assembly aligns and supports a calibrated compression spring in functional engagement with the primary governor valve weight to return it to its closed position in relation to the governor output circuit at low output shaft speeds thereby preventing excessive governor output pressure, 2nd gear starts, and improper shift timing.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention pertains to a folding guide for use with cutting and sewing machines and more particularly, a guide for effecting folds in workpieces formed from knit fabric prior to their being subjected to the cutting and sewing operations.
In the knitted garment industry, it is common practice to cut knit fabric into flat straight pieces and then shape them into workpieces which will subsequently form a finished article such as sleeves having a forward portion and a rearward portion. The edges of such workpieces are subject to fraying as a result of cutting and it is necessary that such edges be folded onto themselves and then sewn so as to form an acceptable edge on the finished article of clothing. These acceptable edges are formed by sewing and cutting machines in which the folded edge is sewn and thence severed from that portion not required by the finished article.
To avoid manual folding of such edges, apparatuses are known which utilize a conveyor for supporting the articles to be folded which presents the articles to a folding guide that automatically and effectively folds the edges and then advances the latter to the sewing and cutting machine. These known apparatuses have a very definite disadvantage in that they are not capable of effecting a fold of a width greater than 2-2.5 cm. The reason for this disadvantage is that any attempt to increase the width of a fold, the known guides are not capable of maintaining parallelism between the edges itself thus causing an unacceptable sewing and cutting operation to be performed. Additionally, attempts at very wide folds induces bagging of the fabric which obviously would be responsible for defects in the finished article.
An object of the present invention is to eliminate the disadvantages described above, by providing a folding guide that is capable of effectively and satisfactorily forming folded edges of substantially greater width than has been heretofore possible with the known forms of folding guides. A further object is to provide a folding guide of simplified construction, economical to manufacture, with long life expectancy and which can be readily adapted for use with existing sewing and cutting machines.
The folding guide according to the invention includes first and second plate elements extending in parallel relationship and vertically spaced one from the other. A third plate element also extends in parallel relation to the first and second plate elements and includes an edge disposed between and at an angle oblique to the latter. The folding guide is disposed upstream of a sewing and cutting machine and slightly above a conveyor so that as the edges of the fabric to be folded are advanced by the conveyor, they are caused to pass below the first plate element and above the third plate element that is provided with a pressing device operatively associated with its upper surface to effect an increase in the frictional force with which the fabric engages this upper surface and in combination with the angularly disposed edge of the third plate element is effective in forming the desired fold in the workpiece.
These and other objects of the present invention will become more fully apparent by reference to the appended claims and as the following detailed description proceeds in reference to the figures of drawing wherein:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a top view of the workpiece folding guide according to the invention;
FIG. 2 is a sectional view as seen looking in the direction of the indicating arrows of line II--II in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 1 but showing the guide's association with the sewing and cutting machine as well as the workpieces;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the workpiece folding guide showing the manner in which the fold is formed; and
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the folded workpiece.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The folding guide according to the invention is identified generally in FIGS. 1 and 3 by numeral 10, and as shown in FIG. 3 is located upstream of a sewing and cutting machine 4. A conveyor 5 is disposed below and in operative association with the folding guide 10 and includes a plurality of driven tapes 6 which are adapted to support workpieces 7 and advance the same to said folding guide 10 and thence to the sewing and cutting machine 4.
The folding guide 10 includes a first plate element 1 and a second plate element 2 which extend in parallel relation and being disposed one above the other are separated by a spacer 8 interposed therebetween. The plate elements 1 and 2 are firmly interconnected and are fixedly positioned with respect to the conveyor 5. The plate 1 is disposed above and in close proximity with the conveyor 5 and is provided with a leading end 11 that is curved upwardly which serves to facilitate the insertion of the workpieces 7 beneath said plate 1. The folding guide 10 is also provided with a third plate element 3 which extends parallel with plates 1 and 2 and includes an edge 13 that is located between said plates 1 and 2 and which extends at an angle oblique to the direction at which the latter extend. The forward end of plate element 3 is depicted by numeral 23 and is curved downwardly to a position of operative association with one of the tapes 6 which is effective in causing the workpieces to enter the guide above said plate element 3. To effect the desired cooperation of the workpiece 7 with the plate element 3, the corner forming the connection between the end 23 and the edge 13 is disposed relative to the movement of the tapes 6, behind a notch 21 formed in the first plate element 1.
To facilitate correct sewing and cutting of the folded fabric, the trailing end of the edge 13 which is depicted by numeral 33, extends in a direction substantially parallel to the sewing axis and the direction of movement of the tapes 6. The plate element 3 is supported by telescopic members 9 which are connected to the first and second plate elements with the length thereof being adjustable in the direction of insertion of the third plate between said first and second plates whereby a means is provided for selectively locating the edge 13 at the most appropriate locational depth between the plate elements 1 and 2. The folding guide 10 also includes a pressing device disposed in operative association with the third plate element 3 and serves to increase the frictional contact with which a workpiece is caused to engage the upper surface of this plate element. The pressing device includes a pair of elongated bar members 12 that are biased in the direction of the upper surface of the plate element 3 and extend in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the tapes 6. Additionally, these bar members 12 are supported by bracket members 14 which as shown in FIG. 2 are assembled to the upper surface of the second plate element 2.
Threaded pins 15 serve to interconnect the bar members 12 with the bracket members 14 by having one end thereof fixedly attached to said bar members and extending upwardly therefrom the threaded portions extend through aligned openings in the bracket members 14 and their upper ends each have a nut 16 assembled thereon. A coil spring 17 assembles on each of the threaded pins intermediate the bar members 12 and the underside of the bracket members 14.
The combination of the threaded pins 15, nuts 16 and coil springs 17 define a regulating device whereby the biasing force which the bar members apply to the workpiece 7 located intermediate the latter and the third plate element 3, can be selectively increased or decreased as desired. Additionally, to facilitate insertion of a workpiece 7 beneath the bar members 12 and onto the third plate element 3, the forward ends of said bar members are curved upwardly.
To summarize the operation, the workpieces 7 are advanced by the tapes 6 of the conveyor 5 and as each meets the upwardly curved leading end 11 of the first plate element 1, it is caused to pass beneath the latter and when it engages the downwardly curved end 23 of the third plate element 3, it advances over the upper surface of the latter. That portion of the workpiece which engages the upper surface of the third plate element 3 is pressed into frictional contact therewith by the bar members 12.
The workpieces 7 are moved forwardly by the tapes 6 and the first plate element 1 with which they are in contact as they are advanced through the guide serves to maintain said workpieces in their correct position relative to said tapes 6.
Those portions of the workpieces which move across the upper surface of the plate element 3 are constrained by the latter's edge 13 and being angularly disposed as heretofore described provides the means for effecting the desired folding of the workpieces as they are advanced through the guide. At the exit end of the folding guide 10, that portion of the workpiece 7 which engaged the upper surface of the third plate element 3 is folded over that portion engaged by the first plate element 1 and in its folded state is presented to the sewing and cutting machine 4 where the folds are sewn and the excess material severed from said workpiece.
The width of the fold formed on a workpiece can be selectively regulated by increasing or decreasing the length of the telescopic members 9 as desired and selectively locating the position of the edge 13 of the third plate element 3 beneath the first and second plate elements 1 and 2.
When attempting to form a fold of a width greater than 2 cm. in the known types of folding guides, that portion of the workpiece in contact with the upper surface of the intermediate plate element tends to slip and fails to follow the angularly disposed edge of this plate element. Such a condition is attributed to the fact that to obtain a fold of considerable width with these guides while maintaining the length of the latter within reasonable limits, it is necessary that the edge of the intermediate plate element be disposed at a substantial angle relative to the direction of movement of the conveyor's tapes.
Unlike the known types of folding guides, the one according to the invention is provided with a pressing device in operative association with the upper surface of the third plate element 3 and is effective in preventing slippage of a workpiece that causes irregular and undesirable fold formation. The bar members 12 defining the pressing device serve to prevent a bagging condition from developing as the workpiece engages the third plate element 3 and also the notch 21 on the first plate element 1 serves to prevent the occurence of such a bagging condition. Relative to the thickness of a workpiece, when considering its roughness and consistency, it is possible by means of the nuts 16 to selectively control the closeness of the bar members 12 to the upper surface of the third plate element 3 and the pressure with which they are caused to engage the workpiece.
Although the present invention has been described in connection with a preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that modifications and variations may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as those skilled in the art will readily understand. Such modifications and variations are considered to be within the purview and scope of the invention and the appended claims.
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A folding guide for cutting and sewing machine workpieces formed from knit fabric for effecting folds therein prior to being sewn and cut having first and second plate elements disposed in vertically spaced and parallel alignment. A third plate element extending parallel to the first and second plate elements has an edge disposed intermediate the latter plate elements at an angle oblique thereto and with a pressing apparatus operatively associated with the third plate element for pressing the workpiece into contact therewith which prevents its displacement and permits folding of the workpiece that is being constrained by the edge of the third plate element as the workpiece is being advanced through the guide.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a U.S. national phase application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Application No. PCT/EP2011/067606 filed on Oct. 7, 2011 and claims benefit to German Patent Application No. DE 10 2010 047 895.4, filed on Oct. 11, 2010. The international application was published in English on Apr. 19, 2012, as WO 2012/049100 A1 under PCT Article 21(2).
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a process for the combustion of a liquid, wherein the liquid is atomized by means of a rotary atomizer and introduced into a combustion chamber, where it is evaporated and subsequently burnt, wherein the liquid is charged onto the inside of a cup and due to the rotation of the cup a liquid film is formed on its inside, and wherein parts of the liquid film are radially flung off from the cup edge into the combustion chamber.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In the production of sulfuric acid atomic sulfur is burnt, whereby sulfur dioxide is formed. This sulfur dioxide then is catalytically converted to sulfur trioxide, which by absorption with sulfuric acid itself can be converted into sulfuric acid.
[0004] To achieve a yield of sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) as complete as possible, an atomization of the sulfur as fine as possible and an intermixture with the combustion air as good as possible must be achieved in the burner, in order to achieve a combustion as complete as possible by the shortest route. Suitable burners are described for example in “Winnacker/Küchler. Chemische Technik: Prozesse and Produkte”, edited by Roland Dittmeyer, Wilhelm Keim, Gerhard Kreysa, Alfred Oberholz, Vol. 3, Weinheim, 2005, pp. 37 ff.
[0005] To produce an extremely fine distribution of the sulfur, one possibilty consists in blowing the same into the combustion chamber under pressure. Such pressure atomizers also can be designed as binary burners and include a nozzle for the sulfur with a jacket for steam and compressed air to support the atomization. The use of steam has the advantage that the sulfur is maintained at an optimum operating temperature, but at the same time involves the risk that in the case of a leakage water can enter into the system. For a complete combustion of the sulfur, the pressure atomizers (also called “Sulfur Guns”) require a relatively long combustion chamber due to a large combustion flame.
[0006] The performance of a nozzle only can be varied in a range from 70 to 100% based on the full load of this nozzle. To be able to operate the plant with different mass flows, it is not possible to feed different mass flows into the individual burner, but rather a plurality of individual burners are connected in parallel. In the case of a partial load operation (weak load operation; below the full load operation) not all burners are used. Another possibility is to provide nozzles of different sizes in a plant, which are exchanged during standstill of the plant. The size of the individual nozzles then is adapted to the respective mass flow.
[0007] Furthermore, ultrasonic sulfur burners are used, which are based on the action principle of a gas-operated acoustic oscillator. This oscillator generates a field with high-frequency acoustic waves in a range between 18,000 and 23,000 Hz. When the liquid sulfur passes this field, very small droplets with a diameter between 20 and 160 μm are formed. This process requires sulfur with a feed pressure of about 1 bar above combustion chamber pressure and in addition a very dry gas as propagation medium for the acoustic waves, which must be under a pressure of 2 to 3 bar above combustion chamber pressure. The use of the dry air makes this process very expensive, as about 1,000 Nm 3 of dried air cost EUR 120.00 and per ton of sulfur to be converted about 100 Nm 3 of air are required.
[0008] The rotary atomizer “Luro” is based on a rotating cup into which liquid sulfur is charged. Due to the centrifugal force, a uniform liquid film is formed on the inside of the cup during the rotation. At the cup edge, this liquid film is flung off radially into the combustion chamber and thus is uniformly and very finely distributed, which provides for a very fast evaporation. Due to the fine distribution a short flame of the burner is obtained with a complete combustion, which leads to gases with up to 18 to 19 vol-% SO 2 . In particular in plants with small capacity gases with about 11.5 vol-% SO 2 are employed. The furnace length can be reduced down to 50% of the length required for pressure atomizers and allows an extremely high combustion chamber load of up to 8 GJ m −3 . The short, hot flame also leads to lower NO x contents of the waste gas produced. So far, load ranges between 40 and 100% based on the full load range can be run with the Luro burner during ongoing operation.
[0009] Especially in times of greatly fluctuating raw material prices, plants often are operated for a short time with distinctly reduced utilization. As the Luro burner is distinctly more complex in its design than a simple pressure atomizer, it cannot simply be replaced by a model which is designed for smaller mass flows.
[0010] Furthermore, starting up a plant is facilitated when initially only very small mass flows can be introduced in relation to the full load.
SUMMARY
[0011] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a process for the combustion of a liquid in a combustion chamber including atomizing liquid sulfur using a rotary atomizer and introducing the liquid sulfur into the combustion chamber. The liquid sulfur is charged onto an inside of a cup. The cup is rotated so as to form a liquid film on the inside of the cup and so that parts of the liquid film are radially flung off from an edge of the cup edge into the combustion chamber. The rotational speed of the cup is varied so as to control a thickness of the liquid film in the cup to between 200 and 1000 μm. The liquid sulfur is evaporated and subsequently burnt in the combustion chamber.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The present invention will be described in even greater detail below based on the exemplary figures. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. All features described and/or illustrated herein can be used alone or combined in different combinations in embodiments of the invention. The features and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by reading the following detailed description with reference to the attached drawings which illustrate the following:
[0013] FIG. 1 schematically shows a rotary atomizer for burning liquids,
[0014] FIG. 2 shows the schematic procedure of the film formation in the cup of the rotary atomizer,
[0015] FIG. 3 shows the viscosity profile of sulfur in dependence on the temperature,
[0016] FIG. 4 shows the film thickness in dependence on the mass flow with the data of Example 1,
[0017] FIG. 5 shows the film thickness in dependence on the mass flow with the data of Example 2,
[0018] FIG. 6 shows the film thickness in dependence on the mass flow with the data of Example 3, and
[0019] FIG. 7 shows the film thickness in dependence on the mass flow with the data of Example 4.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides a process with which all load ranges between 10 and 100% based on the full load operation can be covered in a stepless manner with a single rotary atomizer.
[0021] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, it was determined that the thickness of the liquid film in the cup is decisive for a uniform tear-off at the cup edge and thus for a fast and complete extremely fine distribution in the combustion chamber. This thickness of the liquid film must therefore be adjusted to a range between 200 and 1000 μm.
[0022] Particularly advantageously, the thickness of the liquid film is adjusted to a range between 350 and 500 μm. With such a thickness of the liquid film, non-uniformities in the combustion flame can also be compensated.
[0023] This process is equally suitable for introducing liquid sulfur and/or liquid hydrocarbons into the furnace in very finely distributed form. Introducing hydrocarbons for heating up the furnace likewise must be effected in a very fine distribution, as otherwise droplets can form in the porous wall of the furnace shell. When reaching higher temperatures, these droplets can expand or ignite in an explosion-like manner, which in any case leads to a damage of the furnace wall. When using liquid hydrocarbons as liquid, it can be ensured by using the burner with the process according to an embodiment of the invention that despite the furnace radiation with a temperature of up to more than 1200° C. the hydrocarbons are not cracked. This will also prevent the risk of tar formation.
[0024] However, if sulfur is used as liquid, it is also necessary to operate in a narrow temperature range. Sulfur only becomes liquid at 115° C. In particular when using primary air in the rotary atomizer, the temperature can fall below this temperature, so that solid precipitations and agglutinations can occur. On the other hand, if the sulfur is heated to a temperature of more than 160° C., the viscosity of the sulfur changes abruptly and the liquid becomes tough, which likewise makes a fine distribution in the combustion chamber impossible.
[0025] It turned out to be particularly practical to drive the cup by means of a motor, preferably an electric motor.
[0026] For controlling the motor, which directly acts on the control of the cup speed, at least one characteristic data field can be stored in the controller of the motor, in which the thickness of the liquid film formed is stored in relation to the mass flow of the liquid and the rotational speed of the cup. A relation between mass flow of the liquid and rotational speed of the cup is generated therefrom. As the mass flow is already known as fixed quantity from the central plant controller, the required speed can directly be determined and automatically be adjusted for each mass flow by means of the characteristic data field.
[0027] The characteristic data field can either be generated in that the volume present in the cup is calculated from the introduced mass flow and related to the surface to be wetted. However, such theoretical calculation requires assumptions on the mass flow discharged and therefore is only very difficult to transfer to a dynamic process, such as the slow starting up of the plant.
[0028] Furthermore, it is possible to operate the cup with a fixed mass flow at different rotational speeds or to vary the mass flow at a certain number of revolutions and in addition each calculate the layer thickness. This results in a matrix in which it can be localized at which mass flow what speed range is possible or at which rotational speed what mass flows can be fed into the rotary atomizer, so that the layer thickness lies within the required range.
[0029] A tear-off at the cup edge in particular is effected in a uniform manner, when this cup is formed slightly conical.
[0030] In addition it turned out to be favorable to let primary air flow in through a narrow annular gap between the rotating cup and a hood of the cup, whereby it is prevented that unburnt sulfur gets at the combustion chamber wall and very fine droplets are formed there.
[0031] The main air quantity necessary for the complete combustion can favorably be introduced through a windbox preferably arranged in the combustion chamber head.
[0032] It is particularly favorable when this combustion air is at least partly introduced rotating with equal or counter-spin relative to the direction of rotation of the cup. Such movement of the air quantity can be generated e.g. by swirl vanes. It is particularly advantageous to move the introduced sulfur with counter-spin and hydrocarbons with equal spin.
[0033] The combustion chamber preferably is operated with a gas-side pressure of not more than 1 bar above combustion chamber pressure, preferably 0.3 to 0.5 bar above combustion chamber pressure. The combustion chamber temperature is at least 600° C., in normal operation between 1150 and 1750° C., which has the advantage that the combustion chamber can be operated at temperatures at which no significant NO x formation is effected yet.
[0034] FIG. 1 schematically shows a rotary atomizer 1 for burning liquid. Via the motor 2 and the shaft 3 the cup 4 is moved circularly. The cup 4 can be designed slightly conical. The motor 2 acting as drive source preferably is a three-phase AC motor, as here the control of the speed is particularly easy. So far, the atomizer cup 4 is constantly operated at about 5,000 revolutions per minute.
[0035] The liquid, preferably sulfur and/or liquid hydrocarbons, is charged to the inside of the cup via conduit 5 . Due to the centrifugal force, a uniform liquid film is formed in the cup 4 on its inner surface. In a radial movement this liquid film is flung from the cup edge into the combustion chamber, where it is very finely distributed and then evaporated. To optimize this distribution, primary air is introduced via conduit 6 and flows out from a narrow gap 8 between cup 4 and primary air hood 7 . At the same time, it can thus be prevented that unburnt sulfur gets at the combustion chamber brick lining and very fine droplets will condense there.
[0036] The main air quantity required for a complete combustion flows through a non-illustrated windbox preferably arranged in the combustion chamber head, wherein e.g. swirl vanes can put this secondary air into a rotatory movement, which is in equal or counter-spin relative to the rotary movement of the liquid stripped off from the cup edge.
[0037] Via conduit 9 , sealing air is introduced into the rotary atomizer 1 , in order to prevent the entry of process gas into the motor 2 . A magnetic clutch 10 connects the non-illustrated drive shaft of the motor 2 with the burner shaft 3 . The atomizer and the motor 2 are connected via a flange connection.
[0038] Via a port 12 . 1 heating steam can be introduced into the rotary atomizer 1 and via the port 12 . 2 the condensate resulting therefrom can again be withdrawn. The fluid inlet 5 thus can be heated, whereby in particular when using sulfur a solidification can be prevented.
[0039] FIG. 2 shows the formation of the liquid film and the extremely fine distribution achieved thereby. In image 1 of FIG. 2 it is shown how the fuel gets into the cup 4 through conduit 5 . Due to the rotation of the cup 4 , the fluid is circularly distributed on the inner surface of the cup.
[0040] Image 2 shows how a uniform liquid film thus spreads on the entire inner surface of the cup 4 .
[0041] Image 3 finally shows the rotary atomizer 1 in the continuous operation. At the edge of the cup a tear-off of the liquid film occurs, which thus is introduced into the surroundings in very finely atomized form. In the same quantity, new liquid is introduced into the cup via conduit 5 .
[0042] FIG. 3 again clearly shows why only a very narrow temperature range can be employed for sulfur. As sulfur is liquefied at 115° C., the representation of the viscosity profile starts at this temperature. It can clearly be seen that at a temperature of about 160° C. the viscosity increases abruptly and thereafter only slowly decreases again. From about 190° C. the liquid sulfur becomes tacky. By increasing the partial pressure of water this viscosity profile can be changed to the effect that the viscosity remains smaller. The combustion of sulfur can, however, be operated with dry air only and without the presence of water, as steam in the gas generated would disturb the subsequent catalysis of SO 2 to obtain SO 3 .
EXAMPLE
[0043] Tables 1 and 2 show data for the conventional operation of a rotary atomizer.
[0000]
TABLE 1
Data of the rotary atomizer for sulfur operation.
Designation
Value
Unit
Temperature (sulfur)
145
° C.
volumetric flow rate (sulfur)
4.0
mm 3 /s
Density
1788.0
kg/m −3
D_a (outside diameter of the cup)
221.6
mm
α (cone angle of the cup)
5.0
°
[0000]
TABLE 2
Operating data of two sulfur combustion plants
Designation
Plant 1
Plant 2
Unit
Type of cup
D230
D200
Mass flow
23.0
10.9
t h −1
Film thickness
338.9
303.5
μm
Energy
13
4.2
kW
consumption
[0044] In Table 3, data for three different rotational speeds are listed, namely 1600 rpm, 2000 rpm and 5200 rpm (revolutions per minute). The mass flow is varied between 3 and 23 t h −1 . The normal load of the plant is about 23 t h −1 , wherein the plant can also be operated at a reduced load of 3 t h −1 .
[0000]
TABLE 3
Exemplary data records of a characteristic data field
Sulfur
Revolution
Liquid layer thickness
[t h −1]
[rpm]
[μm]
Full load
23
5200
330 (admissible)
operation
Partial load
3
5200
141 (inadmissible)
operation
Partial load
3
2000
270 (admissible)
operation
Partial load
3
1600
315 (admissible)
operation
[0045] FIG. 4 shows the course of the thickness of the liquid film formed in dependence on the magnitude of the mass flow introduced at a rotational speed of 5200 rpm, wherein the thickness of the liquid film is indicated in the full load operation.
[0046] FIG. 5 likewise shows the liquid film thickness in dependence on the mass flow at a rotational speed of 5200 rpm, wherein the thickness of the liquid film, however, is indicated in the partial load operation (3 t h −1 ).
[0047] FIG. 6 shows the course of the thickness of the liquid film in dependence on the mass flow introduced at a rotational speed of 2000 rpm. The film thickness in partial load operation (3 t h −1 ) is indicated.
[0048] FIG. 7 shows the course of the liquid film thickness in the cup in dependence on the mass flow at a rotational speed of 1600 rpm. The layer thickness in partial load operation (3 t h −1 ) is indicated.
[0049] From a multitude of calculations, as they are shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 by way of example, a complete characteristic data field can then be generated. Again, this results in correlations between the mass flow and the rotational speed. For this multitude of data points Table 3 only shows the four data records which correlate with those from FIGS. 4 to 7 . With reference to the value of the liquid film thickness belonging to the value pair mass flow/rotational speed a simple evaluation is possible as to whether such adjustment is admissible or whether with these parameters a liquid film thickness is obtained, at which a uniform film thickness no longer can be ensured. In this case, mass flow or revolution must be corrected such that an admissible liquid film thickness again is obtained.
[0050] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. It will be understood that changes and modifications may be made by those of ordinary skill within the scope of the following claims. In particular, the present invention covers further embodiments with any combination of features from different embodiments described above and below.
[0051] List of Reference Numerals
1 rotary atomizer 2 motor 3 shaft 4 cup 5 inlet liquid 6 inlet primary air 7 primary air hood 8 primary air gap 9 inlet sealing air 10 magnetic clutch 11 flange connection 12 . 1 inlet heating steam 12 . 2 outlet condensate
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A process for the combustion of a liquid in a combustion chamber includes atomizing liquid sulfur using a rotary atomizer and introducing the liquid sulfur into the combustion chamber. The liquid sulfur is charged onto an inside of a cup. The cup is rotated so as to form a liquid film on the inside of the cup and so that parts of the liquid film arc radially flung off from an edge of the cup edge into the combustion chamber. The rotational speed of the cup is varied so as to control a thickness of the liquid film in the cup to between 200 and 1000 μm. The liquid sulfur is evaporated and subsequently burnt in the combustion chamber.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is the U.S. national phase application of PCT International Phase Application No. PCT/EP2009/055295, filed Apr. 30, 2009, which claims priority to German Patent application No. 10 2008 021 781.6, filed Apr. 30, 2008, and to German Patent application No. 10 2009 017 731.0, filed Apr. 11, 2009, the contents of such applications being incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to the creation of individually learning maps for means of transport. The invention also relates to an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport. In addition, the invention relates to a means of transport having an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map, a method, a program element and a computer-readable medium for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Driver assistance systems for assisting a driver in driving a vehicle and navigation systems for routing a driver or a vehicle from a starting point to a desired destination may use digital maps.
A driver assistance system (Advanced Driver Assistance System, ADAS) horizon created by the navigation system, for example, may be used to transmit road profile, signage, etc. in the surroundings of the vehicle to driver assistance systems. In this case, it is possible to provide necessary digital map data, wherein the digital maps may be already stored in the navigation systems in the vehicle.
The data for the digital map may be fed into the navigation system by a vehicle manufacturer, for example using a CD.
The navigation for the vehicle is then effected on the basis of the stored digital maps.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the invention may be regarded as being that of allowing safe operation of a means of transport.
The invention specifies an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map, a means of transport having such an apparatus and a method for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport in accordance with the features described herein. Developments of the invention are embodied by the dependent claims.
In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport having a sensor unit, a creation unit and a memory unit is specified. The sensor unit is designed to ascertain topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport. The creation unit is designed to create the digital map from the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport. The memory unit is designed to store the created digital map.
Such an apparatus allows the stored digital map data to be used in safety-relevant applications, such as ADAS, and is helpful since the map data are up-to-date as a result of being created from individually ascertained data for the surroundings of the vehicle. In this case, the map data may be used as a basis for the actions of the ADAS. Hence, the map data may be used not only as an index but also separately as a basis for safety-relevant applications.
The vehicle may be a car, a bus, a motorcycle, a ship, a train, etc.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus is designed for iterative creation of the digital map.
Such an apparatus in which the digital map is created iteratively allows a digital map created when a route is first traveled to be refined by virtue of the same route being traveled a plurality of times or allows the quality of the existing digital map to be improved, since whenever the same route is traveled the sensor unit reascertains topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport, from which data the creation unit may create an improved digital map.
In addition, whenever the same route is traveled it is possible for topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport to be ascertained, wherein the creation unit may create an improved digital map from the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport. In this case, the topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport which have been ascertained a plurality of times may be aligned with one another, in the same way as the digital maps created a plurality of times, which allows an improved digital map to be created with a higher level of quality. The digital maps stored in the process may be in the memory unit in the current form in each case.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus has a detection unit which is designed to detect a driving pattern for identifying a classified road situation for a digital map.
In this context, the detection unit may have a peripheral sensor system, an ESP sensor system, a radar sensor, a camera, a vehicle-to-X (C2X) communication unit and a satellite navigation receiver.
Such an apparatus having a detection unit allows the driving behavior of a user of the means of transport to be ascertained and stored by the apparatus for particular situations on the route to be traveled, for example, which allows the apparatus to recognize, by way of example, whether there is an obstacle on the route, such as roadworks or highway roadworks, since the driver is reducing his speed, or whether the reduction in the speed of the means of transport by the driver has been carried out on the basis of his specific driving behavior, for example before a bend in the road.
If an obstacle, such as roadworks or highway roadworks, occurs on the route to be traveled and the driver accordingly reduces his speed, the apparatus may use the detection unit to detect the speed reduction and may ask the driver whether the obstacle is roadworks or highway roadworks, for example, or whether there is an obstacle on the road. The driver may indicate whether there is an obstacle in front of him on the road and hence may confirm the presence of an obstacle. To the same extent, it is possible for further alterations in the route, such as sharp bends, diversions, etc., to be requested and to be confirmed by the driver.
In addition, such an apparatus with a detection unit allows the driver to be asked whether the previously recognized obstacle is a temporary change of route, for example, and when the obstacle will probably no longer be on the route, that is to say that the driver may confirm the validity period for the change. In this case, the apparatus stores in the digital map when the obstacle is removed and when the old course of the road without the obstacle and hence the old digital map is valid again.
Such an apparatus with a detection unit also allows a driver-specific driving pattern to be created, for example the driving behavior of the driver or the speed of the means of transport before an approaching bend or when there is an obstacle on the route or, in principle, the speeds outside of a locality or on a highway and also, by way of example, the speeds at particular times of day. In this case, the detection unit may ascertain the average speed in a region at a certain time of day and take this as a basis for customizing system thresholds, for example.
In addition, the apparatus with the detection unit may be designed to ascertain road type, road class, permitted direction of travel, etc., using data ascertained by the sensor and the speed of the means of transport and vehicle-to-X (C2X) data.
Such an apparatus allows the digital map to be customized relatively quickly to changes in the route.
Such an apparatus with a detection unit also allows the driver of a means of transport to assist the improvement in the quality of the created digital map, for example by being able to transmit information about obstacles or alterations in the route to the apparatus and hence being able to improve the digital map. The driver may therefore act as an additional “sensor” for ascertaining information from the surroundings of the means of transport which may be used to create the digital map.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus having a quality assessment unit is specified, wherein the quality assessment unit is designed to assess the quality of the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport and also the digital map created therefrom.
Such an apparatus with a quality assessment unit allows the digital map to be used for safety-relevant applications, such as driver assistance systems (ADAS), since individually created map-internal data may be used for the quality assessment. All data required for the quality assessment may be generated and stored by the apparatus itself, such as a time stamp. The individually ascertained data may be used as a basis for ADAS when the same route is traveled further.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the created digital map of the apparatus is designed for use by a driver assistance system or by driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Such an apparatus allows not only the digital map but also topographical data, ascertained by the apparatus, for the surroundings of the vehicle to be used for a driver assistance system.
Such an apparatus for use in safety-relevant applications allows the driver of a means of transport to be warned when the means of transport is at excessive speed, for example in a bend.
In line with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus having a communication unit is also specified, wherein the communication unit is designed to transmit the topographical data and the digital map to a suitable reception unit. By way of example, such a reception unit may be other people or means of transport, such as vehicles, which are able to take the transmitted data or the digital map as a basis for refining their own digital maps, for example. In this context, the level of trust in the data may be set lower than in the case of individually learnt data or when a digital map is created on the basis of individually ascertained data.
Such an apparatus of the communication unit for transmitting data allows warnings or instances of intervention on the basis of transmitted digital map data to be provided even when a route is first traveled by a means of transport.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is specified, wherein the sensor unit has, for the purpose of ascertaining the topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport, at least one sensor from the group comprising a satellite navigation receiver, a radar, possibly in conjunction with an adaptive cruise control (ACC) system, a radar sensor, a lidar sensor or laser scanner, a camera sensor system and a vehicle-to-X (C2X) communication unit.
Such an apparatus allows the ascertainment of the specific lane of the means of transport and hence of a basis for roads from satellite navigation (GPS) positions using the satellite navigation receiver.
In addition, it should be pointed out that, within the context of the present invention, GPS is used to represent a global navigation satellite system (GNNS), such as GPS, Galileo, GLONASS (Russia), Compass (China), IRNSS (India), as well as for positioning by means of WLAN, cellular radio, etc.
In addition, such an apparatus allows the creation of a lane estimation, for example by the adaptive cruise control system, which may likewise be used as a basis for recognizing a road.
Such an apparatus with a camera sensor system allows, by way of example, recognition of lanes and road signs, for example on the created digital map.
Such an apparatus with a vehicle-to-X communication unit allows recognition of positions of other vehicles and hence even untraveled roads and lanes by the means of transport.
In addition, all the aforementioned data ascertained by the sensor unit may be stored and hence cannot be lost.
In such an apparatus, the ascertained data are typically also supported by the vehicle sensor system (wheel speeds, yaw rate, steering wheel angle, etc.) and vehicle models based thereon.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus having a sensor unit is specified which has a first sensor, a second sensor and a data merger unit. In this embodiment, the first sensor and the second sensor are designed to ascertain topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport. The data merger unit is designed to merge the ascertained data from the first sensor and the ascertained data from the second sensor in order to improve quality for the ascertained data.
Such an apparatus having a first sensor, a second sensor and a data merger unit allows surroundings data to be merged which may take account of foibles and strengths and weaknesses of the sensors for a merger, and hence the overall result of the ascertained data and also of the digital map created from the ascertained data may be improved.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus having a validation unit is specified. The validation unit is designed to validate a stored digital map on the basis of the created digital map, so that the validated digital map may be used for a safety-critical application in the means of transport without this requiring any further data.
Such an apparatus allows an individually learnt or individually created digital map to be used, by way of example, to validate an ADAS horizon provided by a navigation system, for example, and hence to provide the necessary redundancy of information for safety applications such as driver assistance systems.
In this embodiment, the stored digital map may be fed into the means of transport and stored by the manufacturer of the means of transport, for example, using a memory unit such as a CD or a USB stick or other memory unit may be transmitted to the means of transport using a transmitter, for example.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the communication unit of the apparatus is designed to receive a digital map. In this embodiment, the digital map may be sent by a transmitter, such as a manufacturer or a means of transport with an individually created digital map.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the memory unit is designed to store the topographical data ascertained by the sensor unit.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a means of transport having an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for the means of transport according to one of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments is provided.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment, a method for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport is specified with a first step for the ascertainment of topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport by a sensor unit, a second step for the creation or improvement of the digital map from the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport by a creation unit, and a last step for the storage of the created digital map by a memory unit.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment, the method additionally involves the transmission of the topographical data and of the digital map to a suitable reception unit, such as a further means of transport or a person.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment, a program element is provided which, when executed on a processor of the apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport, instructs the apparatus to perform one or more of the steps described above and below.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a computer-readable medium is provided which stores a program element which, when executed on a processor of an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport, instructs the apparatus to perform one or more of the steps described above and below.
The communication between the individual components of the apparatus may take place in wired fashion or, if desired, wirelessly. In this case, the relevant components are equipped with communication units.
The individual features of the various exemplary embodiments may also be combined with one another, as a result of which advantageous effects may to some extent also appear which go beyond the sum of the individual effects, even if these are not described expressly.
It should be noted that the features described here and below in respect of the apparatus may also be implemented in the means of transport and the method, and vice versa.
These and other aspects of the invention are explained and illustrated by referring to the exemplary embodiments which are described hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. Included in the drawings is the following figures:
FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport based on an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and
FIG. 2 shows a flowchart for a method for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport based on an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the appended drawings.
The illustrations in the figures are schematic and not to scale. In the descriptions of the figures which follow, the same reference symbols are used for elements which are the same or similar.
FIG. 1 shows an apparatus 100 for creating and storing a digital map 101 for a means of transport 102 , such as a vehicle 102 . The apparatus 100 has a sensor unit 103 for ascertaining topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport 102 . The sensor unit 103 has a first sensor 109 , a second sensor 110 and a data merger unit 111 , wherein the first sensor 109 and the second sensor 110 are designed to ascertain topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport 102 and the data merger unit 110 is designed to merge the ascertained data from the first sensor 109 and the ascertained data from the second sensor 110 in order to improve quality for the ascertained data. In this case, topographical data may be road signs, lanes, gradients, bends, etc. It is also possible for meteorological data to be ascertained by the sensors.
The sensor unit 103 is connected to a creation unit 104 for creating a digital map 101 from the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport 102 . The digital map 101 is stored in a memory unit 105 which is connected to the creation unit 104 .
A detection unit 106 detects a driving pattern for identifying a classified road situation for the digital map 101 and is connected to the capture unit 104 and the memory unit 105 , which stores the created digital maps 101 .
The apparatus 100 also has a communication unit 108 which is designed to transmit 114 the ascertained topographical data and the digital map 101 created therefrom to a suitable reception unit 115 , such as a means of transport or a person. The communication unit 108 is connected to the creation unit 104 and the memory unit 105 and may access created digital maps 101 . The communication unit 108 is likewise designed to receive topographical data and maps from a transmitter such as a further means of transport.
The apparatus also has a validation unit 112 which validates a stored digital map 113 on the basis of the created digital map 101 , so that the validated digital map 116 may be used for a safety-critical application 117 in the means of transport 102 without this requiring further data. In this embodiment, the stored digital map 113 may be stored in the means of transport by a manufacturer using a CD, for example.
FIG. 1 also shows a quality assessment unit 107 which comprises the apparatus 100 and which is designed to assess the quality of the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport 102 and also the digital map created therefrom. The quality assessment unit 107 is connected to the creation unit 104 and the memory unit 105 , which provides stored individually created digital maps.
In addition, FIG. 1 shows a program element for instructing the apparatus 100 to create and store a digital map 101 for the means of transport 102 when it is executed on a processor 118 , and also a computer-readable medium 119 which stores a program element which, on the processor 118 of the apparatus 100 , is designed to create and store a digital map 101 for the means of transport 102 .
FIG. 2 shows a flowchart for a method 200 for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport. The method 200 has the following steps: in step 201 , topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport are ascertained by a sensor unit. In step 202 , the digital map is created from the ascertained topographical data for the surroundings of the means of transport by a creation unit. Finally, the created digital map is then stored by a memory unit in step 203 . In a further last step 204 , the topographical data and the digital map are transmitted to a suitable reception unit.
Two further exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below:
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for a means of transport is specified which may be implemented for subsequently described use for a means of transport.
A vehicle with an apparatus as described above is traveling on a previously unknown route section on which no warnings can be given and also an ADAS cannot be supplied with map data. Satellite navigation (GPS) and peripheral sensors are used for the apparatus to create and store a first version of a digital map about this route.
On the inbound journey, map data (from the outbound journey) are then already available for the means of transport. These digital map data may be used for warnings and may be provided for ADAS. In addition, the GPS data and peripheral sensor data are used to refine the map data. Since the journey home by a user of a vehicle usually takes place at a later time, for example in the evening, visibility conditions are poor, and a warning on the basis of map data is important for the inbound journey. In addition, it is conceivable for virtually absent traffic and the tiredness of a driver to provoke the driver to misjudge his own speed and to overestimate his own driving skills.
While a user is traveling on holiday, the route traveled is normally completely new for the driver and the vehicle, and therefore assistance is important. It would therefore seem appropriate for map data to be provided for these routes by a third party. These map data are incorporated into the individually learnt digital map inventory, but are accorded a relatively low trustworthiness by the apparatus. This level of trustworthiness maybe refined by the driver at the time of the import of map data from a third party, since he may specify that he considers some sources of the map material to be more reliable than others, for example. However, the level of trust may never reach the level of trust for individually learnt data for creating digital maps. The import source used may be data from friendly vehicles, as well as data provided centrally by the vehicle manufacturer or service providers.
These data may reach the vehicle either via wireless connections such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, DSRC, WLAN, WiMax, cellular radio, etc., for example from a service provider or from an Internet portal, or via data storage media (CD, USB stick).
If the data are coming from another vehicle, the driver may decide whether only data which the other vehicle has itself used are interchanged or whether data which the other vehicle has likewise only received are also forwarded. This decision may likewise be made by the apparatus itself.
In accordance with a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the data from third parties may be used to obtain warnings and to provide ADAS with map data when a route is actually first traveled by the vehicle. When the route has been traveled for the first time, individually learnt data are then available. The result is virtually no difference over the previously described case without extraneous data.
Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. The means of transport with the apparatus for creating and storing a digital map for the means of transport may be in the form of a land vehicle, in the form of an aircraft such as an airplane or a helicopter, and in the form of a water or rail vehicle.
In addition, it should be pointed out that “comprising” or “having” does not exclude other elements or steps, and “a” or “an” does not exclude a large number. The apparatus may thus have, by way of example, more than one sensor unit, more than one creation unit, more than one memory unit, more than one detection unit, more than one quality assessment unit, more than one communication unit, and the sensor unit may have more than one first sensor, more than one second sensor and more than one data merger unit.
Furthermore, it should be pointed out that features or steps which have been described with reference to one of the above exemplary embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps from other exemplary embodiments described above.
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A self-learning map or a device for creating and storing a digital map for a transport unit on the basis of environmental sensors, vehicle-to-X communication and satellite navigation systems. The self-learning map and device create and store the digital map without the use of data from navigation maps. The obtained digital map is iteratively improved and can be used for the validity check of an existing digital map for a driver assistance system.
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CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of an earlier filing date from U.S. Ser. No. 10/763,863, filed Jan. 22, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,178,603 which itself claims an earlier filing date from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/443,404 filed Jan. 29, 2003, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
During hydrocarbon exploration and production numerous different types of equipment is employed in the downhole environment. Often the particular formation or operation and parameters of the wellbore requires isolation of one or more sections of a wellbore. This is generally done with expandable tubular devices including packers which are either mechanically expanded or fluidically expanded. Fluidically expanded sealing members such as packers are known as inflatables. Traditionally, inflatables are filled with fluids that remain fluid or fluids that are chemically converted to solids such as cement or epoxy. Fluid filled inflatables although popular and effective can suffer the drawback of becoming ineffective in the event of even a small puncture or tear. Inflatables employing fluids chemically convertible to solids are also effective and popular, however, suffer the drawback that in an event of a spill significant damage can be done to the well since indeed the chemical reaction will take place, and the fluid substance will become solid regardless of where it lands. In addition, under certain circumstances during the chemical reaction between a fluid and a solid the converting material actually loses bulk volume. This must be taken into account and corrected or the inflatable element may not have sufficient pressure against the well casing or open hole formation to effectively create an annular seal. If the annular seal is not created, the inflatable element is not effective.
SUMMARY
Disclosed herein is an expandable element which includes a base pipe, a screen disposed at the base pipe and an expandable material disposed radially outwardly of the base pipe and the screen.
Further disclosed herein is an annular seal system wherein the system uses a particle laden fluid and pump for this fluid. The system pumps the fluid into an expandable element.
Further disclosed herein is a method of creating a wellbore seal which includes pumping a solid laden fluid to an expandable element to pressurize and expand that element. Dehydrating the solid laden fluid to leave substantially a solid constituent of the solid laden fluid in the expandable element.
Further disclosed herein is an expandable element that includes an expandable material which is permeable to a fluid constituent of a solid laden fluid delivered thereto while being impermeable to a solid constituent of the solid laden fluid.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Referring now to the drawings wherein like elements are numbered alike in the several figures:
FIG. 1 is a schematic quarter section view of an inflatable element;
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a device of FIG. 1 partially inflated;
FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the device of FIG. 1 fully inflated;
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment where fluid is exited into the annulus of the wellbore;
FIG. 5 illustrates a similar device for fluid from a slurry is returned to surface rather than exhausted downhole; and
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment where the inflatable element is permeable to the fluid constituent of the slurry.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In order to avoid the drawbacks of the prior art, it is disclosed herein that an inflatable or expandable element may be expanded and maintained in an expanded condition thereby creating a positive seal by employing a slurry of a fluidic material entraining particulate matter and employing the slurry to inflate/expand an element. The fluidic material component of the slurry would then be exhausted from the slurry leaving only particulate matter within the element. This can be done in such a way that the element is maintained in a seal configuration by grain-to-grain contact between the particles and areas bounded by material not permeable to the particulate matter. A large amount of pressure can be exerted against the borehole wall whether it be casing or open hole. As desired, pressure exerted may be such as to elastically or even plastically expand the borehole in which the device is installed. A plurality of embodiments are schematically illustrated by the above-identified drawings which are referenced hereunder.
Referring to FIG. 1 , the expandable device 10 is illustrated schematically within a wellbore 12 . It is important to note that the drawing is schematic and as depicted, this device is not connected to any other device by tubing or otherwise although in practice it would be connected to other tubing on at least one end thereof. The device includes a base pipe 14 on which is mounted a screen 16 spaced from the base pipe by an amount sufficient to facilitate the drainoff of a fluidic component of the slurry. A ring 20 is mounted to base pipe 14 to space screen 16 from base pipe 14 and to prevent ingress and egress of fluid to space 22 but for through screen 16 . For purposes of explanation this is illustrated at the uphole end of the depicted configuration but could exist on the downhole end thereof or could be between the uphole and downhole end if particular conditions dictated but this would require drain off in two directions and would be more complex. An exit passage 24 is also provided through base pipe 14 for the exit of fluidic material that is drained off through screen 16 toward base pipe 14 . In this embodiment, the fluid exit passage is at the downhole end of the tool. The fluid exit passage 24 could be located anywhere along base pipe 14 but may provide better packing of the downhole end of the device if it is positioned as illustrated in this embodiment. At the downhole end of screen 16 the screen is connected to end means 26 . Downhole end means 26 and uphole end means 28 support the expandable element 30 as illustrated. As can be ascertained from drawing FIG. 1 , a defined area 32 is provided between screen 16 and element 30 . The defined area 32 is provided with an entrance passageway 34 and a check valve 36 through which slurry may enter the defined area 32 . The defined area 32 to may also optionally include an exit passage check valve 37 . FIG. 4 is an alternate embodiment where the fluidic substance 38 of slurry 18 is not dumped to the I.D. of the base pipe 14 , but rather is dumped to the annulus 42 of the borehole 12 . The escape passage 44 is illustrated at the uphole end of the device however could be at the downhole end of the device as well. Other components are as they were discussed in FIG. 1 .
The slurry comprises a fluidic component comprising one or more fluid types and a particulate component comprising one or more particulate types. Particulates may include gravel, sand, beads, grit, etc. and the fluidic components may include water, drilling mud, or other fluidic substances or any other solid that may be entrained with a fluid to be transported downhole. It will be understood by those of skill in the art that the density of the particulate material versus the fluid carrying the particulate may be adjusted for different conditions such as whether the wellbore is horizontal or vertical. If a horizontal bore is to be sealed it is beneficial that the density of the particulate be less than that of the fluid and in a vertical well that the density of the particulate be more than the fluid. The specific densities of these materials may be adjusted anywhere in between the examples given as well.
In one embodiment the particulate material is coated with a material that causes bonding between the particles. The bonding may occur over time, temperature, pressure, exposure to other chemicals or combinations of parameters including at least one of the foregoing. In one example the particulate material is a resin or epoxy coated sand commercially available under the tradename SUPERSAND.
Slurry 18 is introducible to the seal device through entrance passageway 34 past check valve 36 into defined area 32 where the slurry will begin to be dehydrated through screen 16 . More particularly, screen 16 is configured to prevent through passage of the particulate component of slurry 18 but allow through passage of the fluidic component(s) of slurry 18 . As slurry 18 is pumped into defined area 32 , the particulate component thereof being left in the defined area 32 begins to expand the expandable element 30 due to pressure caused first by fluid and then by grain-to-grain contact of the particulate matter and packing of that particulate matter due to flow of the slurry. The action just described is illustrated in FIG. 2 wherein one will appreciate the flow of fluidic components through screen 16 while the particulate component is left in the defined area 32 and is in the FIG. 2 illustration, expanding expandable element 30 toward borehole wall 12 . Slurry will continue to be pumped until as is illustrated in FIG. 3 there is significant grain-to-grain loading throughout the entirety of defined area 32 of the particulate matter such that the expandable element 30 is urged against borehole wall 12 to create a seal thereagainst. Grain-to-grain loading causes a reliable sealing force against the borehole which does not change with temperature or pressure. In addition, since the slurry employed herein is not a hardening slurry there is very little chance of damage to the wellbore in the event that the slurry is spilled.
In the embodiment just discussed, the exiting fluidic component of the slurry is simply dumped into the tubing downhole of the element and allowed to dissipate into the wellbore. In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , (referring thereto) the exiting fluidic component is returned to an uphole location through the annulus in the wellbore created by the tubing string connected to the annular seal. This is schematically illustrated with FIG. 5 . Having been exposed to FIGS. 1-3 , one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the distinction of FIG. 5 and the movement of the fluidic material up through an intermediate annular configuration 40 and out into the well annulus 42 for return to the surface or other remote location. In other respects, the element considered in FIG. 5 is very similar to that considered in FIG. 1 and therefore the numerals utilized to identify components of FIG. 1 are translocated to FIG. 5 . The exiting fluid is illustrated as numeral 38 in this embodiment the tubing string is plugged below the annular seal element such as schematically illustrated at 44 . Turning now to FIG. 6 , an alternate embodiment of the seal device is illustrated which does not require a screen. In this embodiment the element 130 itself is permeable to the fluidic component of the slurry 18 . As such, slurry 18 may be pumped down base pipe 14 from a remote location and forced out slurry passageway 132 into element 130 . Upon pushing slurry into a space defined by base pipe 14 and element 130 , the fluid component(s) of slurry 18 are bled off through element 130 leaving behind the particulate component thereof. Upon sufficient introduction of slurry 18 , element 130 will be pressed into borehole wall 12 for an effective seal as is the case in the foregoing embodiments.
In each of the embodiments discussed hereinabove a method to seal a borehole includes introducing the slurry to an element which is expandable, dehydrating that slurry while leaving the particulate matter of the slurry in a defined area radially inwardly of an expandable element, in a manner sufficient to cause the element to expand against a borehole wall and seal thereagainst. The method comprises pumping sufficient slurry into the defined area to cause grain-to-grain loading of the particulate component of the slurry to prevent the movement of the expandable element away from the borehole wall which would otherwise reduce effectiveness of the seal.
It will further be appreciated by those of skill in the art that elements having a controlled varying modulus of elasticity may be employed in each of the embodiments hereof to cause the element to expand from one end to the other, from the center outward, from the ends inward or any other desirable progression of expansion.
While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, modifications and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the present invention has been described by way of illustrations and not limitation.
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An inflatable element utilizing a solid or particulate laden fluid as an expansion media. A fluid component of the solid or particulate laden fluid is exhausted from a defined area of the element to leave substantially only particulate matter therein to maintain the expanded state of the seal. A method for sealing includes pumping a solid laden or a particulate laden fluid to an expandable, pressurized element. A fluid component of the solid or particulate laden fluid is removed from the expandable element with substantially solid material comprised to maintain the expanded element in the expanded condition.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to method and apparatus for cleaning gas.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Reference is made to U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,594,991; 3,917,472; and Re. 28,396.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides apparatus for filtering a gas stream including a common manifold to which, in use, gas to be filtered is passed, a plurality of gas outlets from said manifold, a plurality of particle separators adapted to remove particles from said gas stream prior to exiting from said gas outlets and wherein said particle separators are adapted to deliver particles separated from said gas stream to said manifold, and a particle outlet from said manifold.
PREFERRED ASPECTS OF THE INVENTION
A conveyor is preferably provided to carry particles away.
The apparatus preferably includes a single screw conveyor adapted to remove particles deposited in said manifold.
Said particle separators preferably include a plurality of baffles. These baffles are preferably vertically extending. In the latter instance, the baffles are preferably located to define spaces within said particle separators in which particles will be deposited and said spaces are preferably open at their bottoms of said manifold whereby to provide an egress to the manifold for particles.
The baffles are preferably so located as to provide venturi passages through said particle separators. In a preferred instance said baffles are V-shaped in cross-section and are arranged in pairs with one V-shape adjacent the manifold having its arms received within the arms of another V-shape adjacent the respective said gas outlet.
The apparatus preferably also includes a further particle separator connected to each said gas outlet. Those further particle separators are preferably of a type able to be backwashed with gas. Backwashing gas, which will contain particles, may be passed through said gas outlets and into said manifold through the first mentioned particle separators which may serve to cause a separation of particles. However, as the first mentioned particle separators may not be as effective in particle separation in reverse gas flow conditions or because contamination of an outlet side surface may result, an alternative is to direct backwashing gas from said further particle separators into the manifold without first passing through the respective first mentioned particle separators. Such backwashing gas will have at least some of the particles carried thereby separated therefrom by passing through the first mentioned particle separators from said manifold.
Valve means may be provided to direct backwashing gas from said further particle separators to pass to said manifold without first passing through the first mentioned particle separators.
Said manifold preferably includes sloping side walls to direct particles towards said particle outlet.
Said manifold is preferably longitudinally extending and said gas outlets and the first mentioned particle separators are spaced apart along the length thereof. It is particularly preferred that the first mentioned particle separators are disposed on opposite sides of an imaginary longitudinally extending plane passing through the middle of said manifold.
Said further particle separators preferably include a support for a filter bed of particulate material.
To backwash the filter bed means may be provided to pass a gas stream through the filter bed from below which being counter-current to the direction of flow through the filter bed during filtering. Further, it is desirable to disturb at least the upper surface of the bed with a gas stream issuing from a nozzle located above the bed.
In a particularly preferred instance gas is passed through the nozzle and the nozzle is moved over the filter bed to disturb the upper surface thereof.
The gas stream which is used to disturb the filter bed is preferably directed thereat at a pressure of from 30 to 100 psig with 40 to 60 psig being most preferred.
In a particularly preferred instance a number of nozzles are mounted on an arm which is rotated above the filter bed. The nozzles may be so directed as to cause the arm to so rotate.
However, since the nozzles may produce furrows in the upper surface of the bed and, since this is undesirable, it is preferred that towards the end of the filter bed cleaning cycle the method is conducted in such a way as to smooth out the upper surface of the filter bed. This may be done by using such a gas pressure as is necessary to fluidize the upper surface of the filter bed and the rapidly discontinuing fluidizing so that the fluidized particulate material falls to make a smooth surface. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzles may be raised with respect to the upper surface and this, by producing broader air streams, will tend to smooth out furrows. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzles may be moved rapidly over the surface and this too will tend to smooth out furrows. Alternatively or additionally, the nozzles may be supplied from a chamber which is itself supplied by a compressor outputing less gas than the nozzles will output and thus, over a period of time there will be a gradual drop in pressure and flow through the nozzles.
A construction of gas cleaning apparatus in accordance with this invention will now be described with the aid of the accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEW OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a side elevation of the apparatus,
FIG. 2 is a cross-section approximately on line II--II in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a cross-section approximately on line III--III in FIG. 2,
FIG. 4 is a plan view of the apparatus,
FIG. 5 is a schematic view of part of the apparatus,
FIG. 6 is a view corresponding to FIG. 2 but of a modified apparatus, and
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of part of the apparatus showing the arrangement of the baffles.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIGS. 1-5 and 7 of the drawings show one embodiment of gas cleaning apparatus of the invention. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus comprises a dirty gas inlet 1, a clean gas outlet 2, a dirty gas manifold 3, a clean gas manifold 4, a first bank of venturi baffle dust collectors 6, a second bank of venturi baffle dust collectors 7, a first bank of gravel bed filters 8, a second bank of gravel bed filters 9 and a screw conveyor 11.
It will be observed that collectors 6 and 7 are parallel to one another, are located on opposite sides of the manifold 3 and have particle outlets 12 which feed to inclined walls 10 of the manifold 3 which in turn deliver to an outlet 13 and thence to the conveyor 11.
In consequence of the location of the collectors 6 and 7 and their outlets 12, the location of the dirty gas manifold 3 between the banks of collectors 6 and 7 and the inclination of the walls 10, only one screw conveyor is used to remove all that dust that falls in the manifold 3 per se and in the collectors 6 and 7.
The dirty gas manifold 3 has the aforesaid inlet 1 and a plurality of outlets 14 at which the collectors 6 and 7 are located. The dirty gas manifold 3 is separated from the clean gas manifold 4 by a wall 16 and it is to be observed that that wall is inclined so as to, respectively, reduce and increase the cross-section of the dirty gas and clean gas manifolds 3 and 4 along their lengths (from left to right in FIG. 1).
The dirty gas manifold 3 also has the aforesaid outlet 13 to which particles deposited in the manifold 3 fall. The conveyor 11 is provided with a non-return outlet valve 17.
The outlets 14 of the manifold 3 communicate through the collectors 6 and 7 with ducts 5 and dirty gas passes into those chambers through the collectors 6 and 7 as is shown by arrow 19.
In the collectors 6 and 7 particles are deposited and fall via the outlets 12 and walls 10 to the outlet 13 and to the conveyor 11.
Gas passes out of the collectors via outlets 21 to the gravel bed filters.
Two gravel bed filters are mounted above each collector 6 and 7 and each comprises a gas inlet. The lower gravel bed filters have inlets 22 which communicate with the outlets 21 and the upper gravel bed filters have inlets 23 which communicate with chambers 24 above the lower gravel bed filters.
Each gravel bed filter comprises a support 26, a gravel bed 27 and an outlet 28. The outlets 28 communicate with passages 29 to the clean gas manifold 4.
In use of the apparatus to clean gas, dirty gas enters the inlet 1 and passes into manifold 3. Flow of dirty gas may be achieved by blowing the dirty gas or by applying suction at the clean gas outlet 2. In manifold 3 some particles separate and pass to conveyor 11. Gas from manifold 3 passes to the collectors 6 and 7 and there more particles separate out and are passed to the conveyor 11. Gas from the collectors 6 and 7 passes to and through the gravel bed filters from above where further particles separate out and from there to the clean gas manifold 4 and out via the outlet 2. The above is, generally, the gas cleaning cycle.
The gravel bed filters also include a housing at the top thereof which contains a motor and drive (not shown) which are capable of rotating pipe 33. The pipe is supplied with compressed gas when it is desired to backwash the gravel bed filters. Extending from the pipe 33 is an arm 34 for each filter and the arms 34 terminate in manifolds 36 which have a plurality of gas exit nozzles (not shown).
Mounted on the upper surface of the clean gas manifold 4 is a number of valves 37 and operators therefor 38.
The valves 37 are each locatable in one of two positions, a first position, which is shown on the left in FIG. 2, in which passages 29 are open to the manifold 4 and are not open to chamber 39, a second position, which is shown on the right in FIG. 2, in which passages 29 are open to chamber 39 but not open to manifold 4.
When it is desired to backwash any two superimposed gravel bed filters the valve 37 in respect thereof is moved from said first position, which is the position that the valve is normally in when gas is being cleaned in those gravel bed filters, to said second position. Clean air from an outside source is then delivered by a backwash fan of power appropriate to backwashing into inlet 40 of chamber 39 and then in the direction of the arrows on the right in FIG. 2 (the opposite direction to the arrows on the left in FIG. 2), through the gravel bed filters to be backwashed, through their associated collectors 6 or 7 and then into the dirty gas manifold 3.
At the same time, the pipe 33 is rotated and compressed gas is supplied to the nozzles. The gas exiting from the nozzles will disturb the surface of the gravel beds 27 so that particles deposited thereon will be removed.
Particles which are backwashed will tend to separate out in the associated collectors 6 or 7 or in the manifold 3 but some will be collected by other of the collectors 6 and 7 and in other of the gravel bed filters.
The backwashing of each two superimposed gravel bed filters may be done at predetermined intervals, irregularly or in response to criteria (e.g., back pressure) but in a system using 12 collectors 6 and 7 and 24 gravel bed filters it will be usual for two superimposed gravel bed filters to be backwashed at any one time.
One apparatus for supplying compressed gas to the pipe 33 is shown in FIG. 5 and comprises a compressor 51 which is connected to a valve 52 by a line 52. The valve 53 has further lines 54 connected thereto (one for each pipe 33) and by selectively operating the valve 52 compressed gas may be supplied to a selected one of the pipes 33. In this instance the compressor 51 is capable of selectively delivering compressed gas at a rate which will disturb or fluidize the gravel beds.
The construction of the collectors 6 and 7 is Best seen in FIG. 7 which is a perspective view which shows collector 6 to comprise a plurality of V-shaped members 51 and 52 which together define venturi passages 53 and chambers 54. In use, dust laden gas enters as shown by the arrow 55, the passages 53 cause the gas to increase in velocity and the particles to concentrate adjacent the members 51 and 52 and pass into the chambers 54 from where they can drop by gravity to outlets 12.
The apparatus of the present invention is economical in that it uses only one screw conveyor and in that the motors (not shown) for rotating the pipes 33 do not require to be of high power. At the same time the apparatus is effective in cleaning gas and also in cleaning the gravel bed filters in backwashing.
Note also that the walls 25 defining parts of the gravel bed filter chambers are inclined so that pressure remote from the inlets 28 is kept similar to pressure adjacent the inlets 28 and thus stagnant air is reduced.
Note also the simple shape and form of chambers 5 and compare with the cyclones of Ser. No. 731,798 (Brett & Walker) and U.S. Pat. Nos. Re. 28,396, 3,594,991 and 3,917,472 of Berz. Note in particular how manifold 3 serves a multi-collection function.
The gravel beds will usually contain 6 to 8 Tyler mesh filter medium. The gas from the nozzles will usually be supplied at 30 to 100 psi. Backwashing will usually be performed for 3 to 5 minutes. The backwash gas pressure in chamber 39 will usually be 6" watergauge or less.
The apparatus of this invention is particularly useful in agglomerating dust; particularly dust at temperatures of above 500° F. Illustrative uses are for kiln exhausts such as in the cement and lime industries and for trapping fly ash from power generating stations.
The apparatus described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 5 and 7, when being backwashed, passes backwashing gas through the collectors 6 and 7 from the ducts 5. To an extent the collectors 6 and 7 will remove particles therefrom which can pass to outlets 12 but the extent of removal is not necessarily as great as is desired having regard to the necessity to supply energy to push the gas through the collectors 6 and 7 from the chambers 5. Further, in backwashing particles may be deposited on surfaces of the collectors adjacent duct 5 and in duct 5 and thus backwashing efficiency may be reduced as those particles may be immediately returned to the gravel bed filters on recommencement of the normal filter operation.
Accordingly, in a modified apparatus, means is provided to by-pass the collectors 6 and 7 during backwashing.
That modified apparatus is shown in FIG. 6 and except in respects detailed below is similar to and has similar integers as the apparatus shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 9 and it is to be noted that like reference numerals denote like parts.
The means to by-pass the collectors 6 and 7 during backwashing includes valve means comprising an operator 38', a stem 60, a valve closure 23, valve seats 61 and 62, an inlet 20 and an outlet 10.
The valve closure can be positioned as shown for example on the right in FIG. 6. In this condition, the filtering condition, dirty gas can pass from the manifold 3 through collector 7, into chamber 5, through inlet 20, through outlet 21 and through inlet 22 to the gravel bed filters. It will be realized that in this condition dirty gas passes through the collector 6 to be cleaned thereby. In this condition, the outlet 10 is closed and the closure 23 is seated on the seat 61.
Operating the operator 38', which will be linked to the associated operator 38, will cause the closure 23 to seat against seats 62 and take up the condition shown for example on the left in FIG. 6. In this condition, the backwashing condition, clean air can pass through the gravel bed filters to clean them in like manner as described with respect to FIGS. 1-5 and 9, and pass via inlet 22 (which functions as an outlet), via outlet 21 (which functions as an outlet) and into the manifold 3 via outlet 10. Thus, the collector 7 and duct 5 is by-passed.
This modification is considered preferred in a number of situations.
Modifications and adaptations may be made to the above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention which includes every novel feature and combination of features disclosed herein.
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Apparatus for filtering a gas stream including a common manifold to which, in use, gas to be filtered is passed, a plurality of gas outlets from said manifold, a plurality of particle separators adapted to remove particles from said gas stream prior to exiting from said gas outlets and wherein said particle separators are adapted to deliver particles separated from said gas stream to said manifold, and a particle outlet from said manifold.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to silicic acid (hetero)polycondensates and their application. In particular, the present invention relates to polycondensates modified with unsaturated organic groups based on hydrolytically condensable compounds of silicon and optionally other elements.
2. Discussion of the Background
A large number of silicic acid (hetero)polycondensates, which are modified with organic groups, and process for their preparation (e.g., starting from hydrolytically condensable organosilanes according to the sol-gel method) are already known (see, e.g., DE-A-38 35 968 and 40 11 045). Such condensates are used for various applications, e.g., as molding compounds, paints for coatings, etc. However, due to the manifold possible applications of this class of substances, there is a constant need to modify the already known condensates, on the one hand, to open up in this manner a new field of application and, on the other hand, to optimize even more their properties for specific purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a new class of silicic acid (hetero) polycondensates. In particular, these new condensates are to exhibit a plurality of possible variations, especially with respect to the nature of the modifying organic groups contained therein.
Another object of the present invention is to provide polycondensates modified with unsaturated organic groups on the basis of hydrolytically condensable compounds of silicon and optionally other elements from the group B, Al, P, Sn, Pb, the transition metals, the lanthanides and the actinides, in which 5 to 100 mole percent, based on the monomer compounds, of the fundamental hydrolytically condensable compounds are selected from silanes of the general formula (I):
{X.sub.a R.sub.b Si(R'(A).sub.c).sub.(4-a-b) }.sub.x B (I)
in which the groups and indices have the following meanings:
X: hydrogen, halogen, hydroxy, alkoxyl, acyloxy, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl or --NR" 2 ;
R: alkyl, alkenyl, aryl, alkaryl, or aralkyl;
R': alkylene, arylene or alkylene-arylene;
R": hydrogen, alkyl or aryl;
A: O, S, PR", POR", NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR";
B: straight chain or branched organic group, which is derived from a compound B' with at least one C═C double bond, for c=1 and A=NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR", or at least two C═C double bonds, and 5 to 50 carbon atoms;
a: 1, 2 or 3;
b: 0, 1 or 2;
c: 0 or 1;
x: whole number, whose maximum value corresponds to the number of double bonds in compound B' minus 1, or is equal to the number of double bonds in compound B', when c=1 and A stands for NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR".
Another object of the present invention is a process to prepare the above polycondensates in which one or more hydrolytically condensable compounds of silicon and optionally other elements from the group B, Al, P, Sn, Pb, the transition metals, the lanthanides and the actinides, and/or precondensates derived from the aforementioned compounds are condensed hydrolytically, optionally in the presence of a catalyst and/or a solvent through the effect of water or moisture, where 5 to 100 mole percent, based on the monomer compounds, of the hydrolytically condensable monomers are selected from silanes of the above general formula (I).
Finally the object of this invention is also a process to prepare a coating paint or a molding compound (e.g., for injection molding) from the above polycondensates and the products obtained.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The polycondensates of the invention are characterized especially by the fact that in the silanes on which they are based of the general formula (I), the distance between the silicon and the reactive double bond may be set in any arbitrary manner. These silanes (and thus also the polycondensates) may contain several reactive double bonds with the possibility of a three dimensional crosslinking and other functional groups, which allow a targeted adaptation of the polycondensates of the invention to the desired field of application. When the possible variations for the starting materials that differ from the silanes of the general formula (I) are taken into consideration, it becomes apparent that with the products of the invention a class of polycondensates is made available that can be adapted in a number of ways to specified fields of application and that can, therefore, be used in all areas in which silicic acid (hetero)polycondensates were already used before, yet also open up new possible applications, e.g., in the field of optics, electronics, medicine, etc.
The groups, specified in the above general formula (I) and in the other general formulas listed below, have in particular the following meanings. Alkyl groups are, e.g., straight chain, branched or cyclic groups having 1 to 20, preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms and preferably lower alkyl groups having 1 to 6, preferably 1 to 4 carbons atoms. Specific examples are methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, isobutyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, cyclohexyl, 2-ethylhexyl, dodecyl and octadecyl.
The alkenyl groups are, e.g., straight chain, branched or cyclic groups having 2 to 20, preferably 2 to 10 carbon atoms and preferably lower alkenyl groups having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, like vinyl, allyl, and 2-butenyl.
Preferred aryl groups are phenyl, bisphenyl and naphthyl. The alkoxy, acyloxy, alkylamino, dialkylamino, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aralkyl, alkaryl, alkylene, arylene and alkylene arylene groups are derived preferably from the aforementioned alkyl and aryl groups. Specific examples are methoxy, ethoxy, n- and i-propoxy, n-, i-, sec- and tertbutoxy, monomethylamino, dimethylamino, diethylamino, N-ethylanilino, acetyloxy, propionyloxy, methylcarbonyl, ethylcarbonyl, methoxycarbonyl, ethoxycarbonyl, benzyl, 2-phenylethyl and tolyl.
The groups cited may optionally carry one or more substituents, e.g., halogen, alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, alkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, alkylcarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, furfuryl, tetrahydrofurfuryl, amino, monoalkylamino, dialkylamino, trialkylammonium, amido, hydroxy, formyl, carboxy, mercapto, cyano, nitro, epoxy, SO 3 H or PO 4 H 2 .
Among the halogens, fluorine, chlorine and bromine and in particular chlorine are preferred.
The following applies especially to the general formula (I): For a ≧2 or b=2, the X and R groups can have the same or a different meaning.
In the preferred silanes of the general formula (I), X, R, R', A, a, b, c and x are defined as follows.
X: (C 1 -C 4 )-alkoxy, in particular methoxy and ethoxy; or halogen, in particular chlorine;
R: (C 1 -C 4 )-alkyl, in particular methyl and ethyl;
R': (C 1 -C 4 )-alkylene, in particular methylene and propylene;
A: O or S, in particular S;
a: 1, 2 or 3; (4-a-b): 0 for c=0 and 1 for c=1;
c: 0 or 1, preferably 1;
x: 1 or 2.
It is especially preferred if the structural unit with the index x is selected from triethoxysilyl, methyl-diethomysilyl, methyl-dichlorosilyl, 3-methyl-dimethoxysilyl-propylthio, 3-trimethoxysilyl-propylthio, methyl-diethoxysilyl-methylthio and ethoxy-dimethylsilyl-methylthio.
The group B is derived from a substituted or unsubstituted compound B' with at least one or at least two C═C double bonds, e.g., vinyl, allyl, acrylic and/or methacrylic groups, and 5 to 50, preferably 6 to 30 carbon atoms. Preferably B is derived from a substituted or unsubstituted compound B' with two or more acrylate and/or methacrylate groups (such compounds are called (meth)acrylates in the following).
If the compound B' is substituted, the substituents can be selected among the aforementioned substituents.
To prepare the mono(meth)acryloxysilanes used according to the invention as the starting materials, compounds B' with two C═C double bonds are added; to prepare poly(meth)acryloxysilanes, those with at least three C═C double bonds are added. Specific examples of such compounds are the following (meth)acrylates: ##STR1##
Preferred acrylates are, e.g., the acrylates Of trimethylol propane, pentaerythritol and dipentaerythritol. Examples include trimethylol propane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA), pentaerythritol tetracrylate and dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate.
Other examples for preferred (meth)acrylates are those of the formula ##STR2## where E stands for H or CH 3 and D is an organic group, as contained, e.g., in the aforementioned specific compounds and/or in the compounds described in the following examples.
Thus, D can be derived, e.g., from C 2 -C 6 -alkanediols (e.g., ethyleneglycol, propyleneglycol, butyleneglycol, 1,6-hexanediol), polyethylene glycols or polypropylene glycols (e.g., those of formula HO--(CH 2 --CHR'"--O) n H, where R'" is H or CH 3 and n=2-10) or from optionally substituted and/or alkoxylated (e.g., ethoxylated and/or propoxylated) bisphenol A.
The silanes of the general formula (I) can be prepared, for example by a process where
a) a silane of the general formula (II):
X.sub.a R.sub.b SiR'Y (II)
in which X, R, R', a and b have the aforementioned meanings, (a+b)=3 and Y denotes the group SH, PR"H or POR"H, is subjected to an addition reaction with a compound B' having at least two C═C double bonds; or
b) a silane of the general formula (III):
X.sub.a R.sub.b SiR'NCO (III)
in which X, R, R', a and b have the aforementioned meanings and (a+b)=3, is subjected to a condensation reaction with a hydroxyl or amino-substituted compound B' having at least one C═C double bond; or
c) a silane of the general formula (IV):
X.sub.a R.sub.b SiH (IV)
in which X, R, R', a and b have the aforementioned meanings and (a+b)=3, is subjected to a hydrosilylation reaction with a compound B' having at least two C═C double bonds.
The silanes of the general formulas (II) to (IV) are either commercially available or can be prepared according to known methods. W. Noll, "Chemie und Technologie der Silicone", Verlag Chemie GmbH, Weinheim/Bergstrasse (1968).
In process embodiment (a) the silanization takes place by means of one of the C═C double bonds of the compounds B', where, e.g., the mercapto group of a corresponding silane is added in a base catalyzed Michael reaction, forming a thioether unit. The phosphine is added in an analogous manner. ##STR3##
In process embodiment (b), a urethane (or urea) structure is produced through silanization of the hydroxyl or amino-substituted starting compound B' with an isocyanatosilane. ##STR4##
In process embodiment (c) the hydrosilylation takes place schematically according to the following reaction equation: ##STR5##
To prepare the polycondensates of the invention, the silanes of formula (I), prepared as above, do not have to be necessarily isolated. Rather it is even preferred to prepare these silanes first in a one-pot process and then to condense hydrolytically, optionally, following the addition of other hydrolyzable compounds.
In addition to the silanes of the general formula (I), still other hydrolytically condensable compounds of silicon and/or the aforementioned elements (preferably Al, Ti, Zr, V, B, Sn and/or Pb and especially preferred Al, Ti, Zr, and V) can be used either as such or already in precondensed form to prepare the polycondensates of the invention.
It is preferred that at least 50 mole percent, in particular at least 80 mole percent and specifically at least 90 mole percent, based on the monomer compounds, of the starting materials used to prepare the polycondensates of the invention are silicon compounds.
Similarly it is preferred that the polycondensates of the invention are based on at least 10 mole percent, e.g., 25 to 100 mole percent, in particular 50 to 100 mole percent and specifically 75 to 100 mole percent, based on the monomer compounds respectively, of one or more silanes of the general formula (I).
Among the hydrolytically condensable silicon compounds, which are different from the silanes of the general formula (I) and which can optionally be added, those of the general formula (V) are especially preferred:
X.sub.a,SiR.sub.b ' (V)
in which X and R are defined as above, a' is a whole number from 1 to 4, in particular 2 to 4, and b' stands for 0, 1, 2 or 3, preferably 0, 1 or 2.
Especially preferred compounds of the general formula (V) are those in which the X group, which can be the same or different, are selected from halogen (F, Cl, Br and I, in particular Cl and Br), alkoxy (in particular C 1-4 -alkoxy, such as methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy and butoxy), aryloxy (in particular C 6-10 -aryloxy, e.g., phenoxy), acyloxy (in particular C 1-4 -acyloxy such as acetoxy and propionyloxy) and hydroxy, the R group, which can be the same or different, are selected from alkyl, (in particular C 1-4 -alkyl such as methyl, ethyl, propyl and butyl), alkenyl (in particular C 2-4 -alkenyl such as vinyl, 1-propenyl, 2-propenyl and butenyl), alkynyl (in particular C 2-4 -alkynyl such as acetylenyl and propargyl) and aryl (in particular C 4-10 -aryl, such as phenyl and naphthyl), where the aforementioned groups (with the exception of halogen and hydroxy) can exhibit, optionally, one or more inert substituents under the reaction conditions such as halogen and alkoxy. The above alkyl groups also include the corresponding cyclic and aryl-substituted groups such as cyclohexyl and benzyl, whereas the alkenyl and alkynyl groups can also be cyclic and the cited aryl groups are also to include alkaryl groups (like tolyl and xylyl).
In addition to the aforementioned especially preferred X groups, examples of other groups that are also suitable are hydrogen and alkoxy groups having 5 to 20, in particular 5 to 10 carbon atoms, and halogen and alkoxy-substituted alkoxy groups (such as B-methoxyethoxy). Other suitable R groups are straight chain, branched or cyclic alkyl, alkenyl and alkynyl groups having 5 to 20, in particular 5 to 10 carbon atoms such as n-pentyl, n-hexyl, dodecyl and octadecyl, and groups, which contain epoxy, mercapto or amino groups.
The following applies both to compounds of the general formula (I) and to those of the general formula (V).
Since the X groups are not present in the final product but rather are lost through hydrolysis, where as a rule the hydrolysis product must also be removed sooner or later in any suitable manner, X groups are especially preferred that carry no substituent and lead to hydrolysis products having a low molecular weight such as lower alcohols, like methanol, ethanol, propanol, n-, i-, sec- and tert-butanol.
The compounds of formulas (I) and (V) can be used totally or partially in the form of precondensates, i.e., compounds, which are produced through partial hydrolysis of the compounds of the formulas (I) and (V), either alone or in mixture with other hydrolyzable compounds, as described in detail below. Such oligomers that are preferably soluble in the reaction medium, can be straight chain or cyclic, low molecular weight partial condensates (polyorganosiloxanes) having a degree of condensation that ranges, e.g., from about 2 to 100 (e.g., 2 to 20, in particular about 6 to 10).
Examples of (largely commercial) compounds of the general formula (V), which are added preferably according to the invention, are the compounds of the following formula: ##STR6##
These silanes can be prepared according to known methods. See W. Noll, loc. cit.
The ratio of silicon compounds with four, three, two or one hydrolyzable X group (or also hydrolyzable compounds that are different from the silicon compounds) to one another is based primarily on the desired properties of the resulting polycondensates or the final products prepared from them.
Especially preferred among the hydrolyzable aluminum compounds used optionally to prepare the polycondensates are those that exhibit the general formula (VI):
AlX'.sub.3 (VI)
in which the X' groups, which can be the same or different, are selected from halogen, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl and hydroxy. With respect to the more detailed (preferred) definition of these groups, reference can be made to the statements relating to the suitable hydrolyzable silicon compounds of the invention. The groups just cited can also be replaced totally or partially with chelate ligands (e.g., acetylacetone or acetoacetic ester, acetic acid).
Especially preferred aluminum compounds are the aluminum alkoxides and halides. Examples thereof are ##STR7##
At room temperature liquid compounds, such as aluminum-sec-butylate and aluminum-isopropylate, are especially preferred.
Suitable hydrolyzable titanium and zirconium compounds, which can be added according to the invention, are those of the general formula (VII):
MX.sub.a,R.sub.b ' (VII)
in which M denotes Ti or Zr and X, R, a' and b' are defined as in the case of the general formula (V). This also applies to the preferred meanings of X and R. Especially preferred are compounds of the formula (VII) in which a' is 4.
As in the case of the above Al compounds, complex Ti and Zr compounds can also be used. Here acrylic acid and methacrylic acid are additional preferred complexing agents.
Examples of the zirconium and titanium compounds that can be added according to the invention are the following: ##STR8##
Other hydrolyzable compounds, which can be added to prepare the polycondensates of the invention, are, e.g., boron trihalides and boric-acid esters (such as BCl 3 , B(OCH 3 ) 3 and B(OC 2 H 5 ) 3 ), tin tetrahalides and tin tetralkoxides (such as SnCl 4 and Sn(OCH 3 ) 4 ) and vanadyl compounds such as VOCl 3 and VO(OCH 3 ) 3 .
To synthesize the polycondensates of the invention, the silanes of the general formula (I) are hydrolyzed and polycondensed with or without the addition of other cocondensable components. Polycondensation is conducted preferably according to the sol-gel process, as described in the DE-A-27 58 414, 27 58 415, 30 11 761, 38 26 715 and 38 35 968 and is explained in more detail below.
To synthesize an organic network, the polycondensates of the invention can be polymerized with or without the addition of other copolymerizable components (see below). Polymerization can take place, e.g., thermally or photochemically using methods that are described in the DE-A 31 43 820, 38 26 715 and 38 35 968 and are also explained in more detail below.
The course of polycondensation can be examined, e.g., by means of Karl-Fischer titration (determination of water consumption during hydrolysis); the course of the curing (e.g., photochemical) can be examined by means of IR spectroscopy (intensity and relation of the C═C and C═O bands).
As already stated, the polycondensates of the invention can be prepared by a method that is conventional in this field. If silicon compounds are used almost exclusively, the hydrolytic condensation can occur in most cases by adding (preferably while stirring and in the presence of a hydrolysis or condensation catalyst) the stoichiometrically required quantity of water or optionally excess water, at room temperature or under slight cooling, directly to the silicon compounds that are to be hydrolyzed and that are present either as such or dissolved in a suitable solvent; and the resulting mixture is then stirred for a period of time (one or more hours). In the presence of reactive compounds of Al, Ti and Zr it is generally recommended that the water be added in stages. Regardless of the reactivity of the compounds present, hydrolysis generally takes place at temperatures ranging from -20° to 130° C., preferably from 0° C. to 30° C. or at the boiling point of the solvent that can be added as an option. As already stated, the best method of adding water depends primarily on the reactivity of the added starting compounds. Thus, the dissolved starting compounds can be added slowly drop-by-drop to an excess of water or water is added in a portion or in proportions to the starting compounds that are or are not dissolved. It may also be useful to add the water not as such, but rather to introduce it into the reaction system with the aid of water-containing organic or inorganic systems. In many cases it has proven to be especially suitable to introduce the quantities of water into the reaction mixture with the aid of moisture-laden adsorbents, e.g., molecular sieves, and water-containing organic solvents, e.g., 80% ethanol. Water can also be added by means of a reaction in which water is formed, e.g., during the formation of ester from acid and alcohol.
If a solvent is used, in addition to lower aliphatic alcohols (e.g., ethanol and isopropanol), ketones, preferably lower dialkyl ketones, like acetone and methyl isobutyl ketone, ethers, preferably lower dialky ethers, like diethyl ether and dibutyl ether, THF, amides, esters, in particular ethyl acetate, methyl formamide, and their mixtures are also suitable.
Hydrolysis and condensation catalysts added, according to the invention, not necessarily but still preferably, are compounds that split off protons. Examples thereof are organic and inorganic acids, like hydrochloric acid, formic acid and acetic acid, where hydrochloric acid is especially preferred as the catalyst. In the case of a basic catalyst, suitable catalysts are, e.g., NH 3 , NaOH or KOH. Even catalysis with fluoride ions is possible, e.g., adding HF, KF or NH 4 F.
The starting compounds do not all have to be necessarily already present at the start of the hydrolysis (polycondensation), but rather in specific cases it can even prove to be advantageous if only a part of these compounds is brought into contact first with water and later the remaining compounds are added.
In order to avoid as far as possible precipitations during hydrolysis and polycondensation especially when using hydrolyzable compounds that are different from the silicon compounds, in this case it is preferred to conduct the addition of water in several steps, e.g., in three steps. In so doing, one-tenth to one-twentieth of the quantity of water required stoichiometrically for hydrolysis is added in the first step. After stirring for a short period of time, one-fifth to one-tenth of the stoichiometric quantity of water is added; and after another short period of stirring, a stoichiometric quantity of water is finally added so that at the end there is a slight excess of water.
The condensation period depends on the respective starting components and their proportions, the optionally used catalyst, the reaction temperature, etc. In general polycondensation occurs at normal pressure; it can, however, also be conducted at raised or reduced pressure.
The polycondensate obtained thus, can be further processed either as such or after partial or almost total removal of the solvent used or of the solvent formed during the reaction. In some cases it can prove to be advantageous to replace, in the product obtained following polycondensation, the excess water and the solvent, which is formed and also optionally added, with another solvent, in order to stabilize the polycondensate. To this end, the reaction mixture can be thickened, e.g., in a vacuum at slightly raised temperature (up to a maximum of 80° C.) until it can still be absorbed without any problems with another solvent.
If the polycondensates of the invention are to be used as paints to coat, e.g., plastics such as PVC, polycarbonate, polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene, polystyrene, etc., glass, paper, wood, ceramic, metal, etc., conventional paint additives such as coloring agents (pigments and dyes), fillers, oxidation inhibitors, flow control agents, ultraviolet absorbers, stabilizers and the like can also be added optionally to said polycondensates at the latest prior to application. Also, additives to increase the conductivity (e.g., graphite powder, silver powder, etc.) deserve to be mentioned in this respect. If used as a molding compound, the addition of inorganic and/or organic fillers such as (glass) fibers, minerals, etc., is especially suitable.
If curing with irradiation (UV or IR radiation) and/or thermal energy is intended, a suitable initiator can be added.
As photoinitiators, commercially available initiators can be added, for example. Examples thereof are IRGACURE 184 (1-hydroxycyclohexyl-phenyl-ketone), IRGACURE 500 (1-hydroxycyclohexyl-phenyl-ketone, benzophenone) and other photoinitiators of the IRGACURE type that can be obtained from Ciba-Geigy: DAROCUR 1173, 1116, 1398, 1174 and 1020 (obtainable from Merck), benzophenone, 2-chlorothioxanthone, 2-methylthioxanthone, 2-isopropylthioxanthone, benzoin, b 4,4'-dimethoxy benzoin, benzoin ethyl ether, benzoin isopropyl ether, benzyl dimethyl ketal, 1,1,1-trichloroacetophenone, diethoxyacetophenone, dibenzosuberone and camphorquinone. The latter initiator is especially suitable for irradiation with light in the visible range.
Suitable thermal initiators are especially organic peroxides in the form of diacyl peroxides, peroxydicarbonates, alkyl peresters, dialkyl peroxides, perketals, ketone peroxides and alkyl hydroperoxides. Preferred examples of thermal initiators are dibenzoyl peroxide, tert-butyl perbenzoate and azobisisobutyronitrile.
The initiator can be added in the usual quantities. Thus, an initiator in a quantity of, e.g., 0.5 to 5 percent by weight, in particular 1 to 3 percent by weight, based on the mixture, can be added to a mixture, which contains 30 to 5 percent by weight of a solid (polycondensate).
A paint, provided optionally with a photoinitiator and based on the polycondensates of the invention, can then be applied to a suitable substrate. For this coating process the usual coating methods can be used, e.g., dipping, flow coating, pouring, centrifuging, rolling, spraying, spreading, electrostatic spraying and electronic dipping. It should also be mentioned here that the paint does not necessarily have to contain solvents. Especially when using starting substances (silanes) with two alkoxy groups on the Si atom, the process can be conducted also without the addition of solvents.
Prior to curing, the applied paint is preferably left to dry. Thereafter, depending on the kind or presence of an initiator, it can be cured by a known method thermally or by irradiation (e.g., with a UV lamp, a laser, an electron beam source, a light source, which emits radiation in the visible range, etc.). Of course, combinations of these curing methods are also possible, e.g., UV/IR or UV/thermally.
Especially preferred is the curing of applied paint through irradiation in the presence of a photoinitiator. In this case it can prove to be advantageous to conduct a thermal curing following the radiation cure, especially in order to remove solvent that is still present or to include in the curing still other reactive groups. In particular epoxy groups respond in this respect to a thermal treatment better than to an irradiation treatment.
Even though there are already unsaturated groups (at least those that are derived from the B group) in the polycondensates of the invention, it can prove to be advantageous in specific cases to add still other compounds (preferably of a purely organic nature) with unsaturated groups to the products of the invention before or during their further processing (curing). Preferred examples of such compounds are compounds B', (meth)acrylic acid and compounds derived thereof, in particular (meth)acrylates of (preferably monovalent) alcohols (e.g., C 1-4 -alkanols), methacrylonitrile, styrene and mixtures thereof. If the polycondensates of the invention are used for the preparation of a coating paint, such compounds can act simultaneously as solutions or diluents.
Molded parts on the basis of the polycondensates of the invention or molding compounds can be prepared with any of the usable methods in this field, e.g., injection molding, mold pouring, extrusion, etc. The products of the invention are also suitable to manufacture composite materials (e.g., with glass fiber reinforcement).
The polycondensates of the invention represent highly reactive systems, which cure into mechanically stable coatings, e.g., with ultraviolet irradiation within fractions of a second. Even the cure into molded parts can take place in the range of a few seconds to minutes.
They can be prepared by means of simple condensation reactions, and by suitably selecting the starting compounds (especially those of the general formula (I)) they can exhibit a variable number of reactive groups with the most variable functionality.
The mechanical (e.g., flexibility, scratch and abrasion resistance) and physical-chemical properties (adsorption, color, absorption characteristics, refractive index, adhesion, wetting characteristics etc.) of the products can be affected by means of the number of hydrolyzable groups in the starting silanes, the distance between the silicon atom and the functional organic groups, i.e., by means of the chain length, and by means of the presence of other functional groups in this chain.
Depending on the type and number of the hydrolyzable groups (e.g., alkoxy groups), silicone or glass-like properties can be obtained in the polycondensates of the invention and the final products manufactured thereof.
The polycondensates of the invention are suitable, e.g., for use as or in coating, filler or bulk materials, adhesive(s), coupling agent(s), sealants, and injection molding compounds. Coatings and molded parts made of the polycondensates of the invention have the advantage that they can be photochemically structured (see, e.g., DE-A-38 35 968). Specific fields of application are, e.g., the coating of substrates made of metal, plastic, paper, ceramic, wood, glass, textiles etc., by dipping, pouring, spreading, spraying, electrostatic spraying, electronic dipping, etc., and uses for optical, optoelectric or electronic components. Even the possible use to prepare scratch-resistant, abrasion-resistant and/or corrosion protective coatings deserves mention in this respect.
Other features of the invention will become apparent in the course of the following descriptions of exemplary embodiments which are given for illustration of the invention and are not intended to be limiting thereof.
EXAMPLES
The following starting materials are used in these preparation examples;
silane I: HS--(CH 2 ) 3 --SiCH 3 (OCH 3 ) 2
silane II: HS--CH 2 --SiCH 3 (OC 2 H 5 ) 2
silane III: HS--(CH 2 ) 3 --Si(OCH 3 ) 3
silane IV: HSiCH 3 (OC 2 H 5 ) 2
silane V: HSi(OC 2 H 5 ) 3
silane VI: HSiCH 3 Cl 2
silane VII: HS--CH 2 --Si(CH 3 ) 2 OC 2 H 5
silane VIII: OCN--(CH 2 ) 3 --Si(OC 2 H 5 ) 3
acrylate A: 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate
acrylate B: tripropylene glycol diacrylate
acrylate C: 2,2-di[4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl]propanediacrylate
acrylate D: di(trimethylolpropane)tetraacrylate
acrylate E: 1,2,3-tri(3-hydroxypropoxy)propane triacrylate
acrylate F: tris(2-hydroxyethyl)isocyanurate triacrylate
acrylate G: 2,2-di[4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl]propane dimethacrylate
acrylate H: 2,2-di[3,5-dibromo-4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl]propane dimethacrylate
acrylate I: pentaerythritol tetraacrylate
acrylate J: trimethylol propane triacrylate
acrylate K: pentaerythritol triacrylate
acrylate L: dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate
acrylate M: bisphenol-A-dimethacrylate
acrylate N: trimethylol propane trimethacrylate
acrylate O: glycerol-1,3-dimethacrylate
EXAMPLE 1
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR9##
Compound (1)
0.1 mole (29.5 g, 26.6 ml) acrylate J were reacted with 0.1 mole (16.5 g, 18.8 ml) silane V in 100 ml of solvent (e.g., ethanol, benzene, cyclohexane, diethyl ether or methyltert.-butyl ether). To this solution were added 0.3 mmol (930 mg) of the catalyst ([Rh(CO)Cl(PPh 2 CH 2 CH 2 SiO 1 .5 ]40 SiO 2 (BET surface urea=723.5 m 2 , average pore radius 1.94 nm, average pore volume 0.70 cm 3 /g) and stirred in the dark at 40°±3° C. until in the IR spectrum no more Si-H vibrations could be detected (48 to 72 hours). Following completion of the reaction, the catalyst was filtered off and the solvent was removed in vacuum.
Yield 43.5 g (94%) of the yellowish, light-sensitive oil, boiling point 202° C. (decomposition).
______________________________________C.sub.21 H.sub.36 O.sub.9 Si molecular weight: 460.60______________________________________calculated: C 54.76% H 7.88%found: C 56.02% H 7.69%______________________________________
1 H-NMR (CDCl 3 ): δ=5.6-7.1 (m;--CH═CH 2 ;6H)
3.2-4.2 (m;--OCH 2 --;12H)
2.0-2.5 (t;--CH 2 COO--;2H)
0.3-1.8 (m;--CH 3 ,--CH 2 --;16H)
29 Si-NMR (CDCl 3 ): δ=-24.1 (s)
EXAMPLE 2
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR10##
Compound (2)
0.15 mole (44.45 g) acrylate J were introduced under nitrogen protection while cooling in a water bath to 20° C. and quickly reacted with 0.15 mole (27.05 g) silane I and 0.0015 mole (0.0842 g) KOH in 6 g of ethanol. The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 minutes (iodine-mercaptan test), then taken up in 200 ml of diethyl ether, shaken, and washed repeatedly with 20 ml of H 2 O until the wash water reacted neutrally. The ether phase was dried, e.g., over Na 2 SO 4 or with a hydrophobic filter and concentrated by evaporation at 35°-40° C. under separator vacuum. Finally the residue was dried for about 1 hour in a high vacuum at 35°-40° C.
EXAMPLE 3
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR11##
Compound 3
The preparation was conducted as in preparation Example 2 using an equimolar quantity of silane III instead of silane I.
EXAMPLE 4
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR12##
Compound 4
The preparation was conducted as in preparation Example 1 using an equimolar quantity of acrylate L instead of acrylate J. A yellowish, light sensitive oil was obtained.
______________________________________C.sub.31 H.sub.47 O.sub.15 Si molecular weight: 687.80______________________________________calculated: C 54.14% H 6.89%found: C 54.47% H 7.11%______________________________________
1 H-NMR (CDCl 3 ): δ=5.8-6.9 (m;--CH═CH 2 ;12H)
3.3-4.7 (m;--OCH 2 --;22H)
2.2-2.8 (m;--CH 2 COO,--OH;3H)
1.2 (t;--OCH 2 CH 3 ;9H)
1.0 (t;--SiCH 2 , 2H)
29 Si-NMR (CDCl 3 ): δ=-26.3 (s)
EXAMPLE 5
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR13##
Compound (5)
The preparation was conducted as in preparation Example 3 using an equimolar quantity of acrylate L instead of acrylate J.
EXAMPLE 6
Alternative Preparation of the Compound 2 of Preparation Example 2
18 g (0.1 mole) silane I were added to 29.6 g (0.1 mole) acrylate J, dissolved in 50 ml of ethyl acetate, at 5° C. (ice cooling) under a nitrogen atmosphere. Again at 5° C. and under nitrogen atmosphere the resulting mixture was slowly reacted (drop-by-drop) with 0.0561 g (0.001 mole) KOH, dissolved in 5 g of ethanol. In so doing, the feed velocity was set in such a manner that the temperature of the reaction mixture remained clearly under 40° C. After a few minutes of stirring at 5° C., the reaction was checked (with the absence of free mercaptosilane; the iodine-mercaptan test is negative). Following completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was reacted with 50 ml of ethyl acetate and washed with 30 ml portions of water until the eluate reacted neutrally. The organic phase was then dried over Na 2 SO 4 or filtered over a hydrophobic filter, subsequently concentrated by evaporation at 30° C. by rotary evaporator and subsequently dried at 20°-30° in the high vacuum. Yield 44 g=93% (solid content 99%).
According to the process described in the above examples, the following silanes of the invention of the general formula (I) (1:1 adducts) were obtained. The silanes are characterized by a Roman numeral (starting silane) and a letter (starting acrylate).
______________________________________II-A (compound 6)I-A (compound 7)II-B (compound 8)I-B (compound 9)II-C (compound 10)I-C (compound 11)II-J (compound 12)I-E (compound 13)II-E (compound 14)I-F (compound 15)II-F (compound 16)IV-A (compound 17)V-A (compound 18)VI-J (compound 19)IV-J (compound 20)V-L (2:1 adduct) (compound 21)VII-J (compound 22)I-M (compound 23)I-H (compound 24)I-D (compound 25)III-K (compound 26)I-I (compound 27)I-L (compound 28)I-G (compound 29)I-N (compound 30)______________________________________
Typical IR vibration bands of some of the above compounds are compiled in the following tables (absorbed as film between KBr sheets).
EXAMPLE 7
Preparation of the Compound of the Formula ##STR14##
Compound (31)
Under a moisture-free atmosphere 12.4 g (0.05 mole) silane VIII were slowly added drop-by-drop to 11.4 g (0.05 mole) acrylate O and 1.6 g (0.0025 mole) dibutyl tin didodecanoate (or a equivalent quantity of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane). In so doing, a heating of the reaction mixture was observed. The reaction ended after about 1 hour (IR check, absence of free NCO groups). The desired compound was isolated in known manner. IR (film): 3,380 (broad ν N-H ), 1,725 (ν C ═O) and 1,640 (ν C ═C)cm -1 .
EXAMPLE 8
While cooling to 5° C. (ice bath) and under a nitrogen atmosphere, 0.1 mole (18 g) of silane I were added to a solution of 0.1 mole (29.6 g) of acrylate L in 50 ml ethyl acetate, whereupon the mixture was reacted so slowly (dropwise) with 0.001 mole (0.056) KOH, dissolved in 5 g of ethanol that the temperature of the reaction mixture remained clearly under 40° C. After completion of the addition, the mixture was stirred for a few minutes more at 5° C. until the iodine-mercaptan test indicated the absence of free silane I. Then with ice cooling 0.1 mole (1.8 g) of water were added in the form of a 1 N HCl solution and subsequently the mixture was stirred for another 2 hours at 25° C. Subsequently the reaction mixture was diluted with ethyl acetate (50 ml) and washed with 30 ml portions of H 2 O until the wash water reacted neutrally. The washed organic phase was then dried over Na 2 SO 4 or with the aid of a hydrophobic filter, whereupon the preparation was worked up according to different variants.
(a) An almost solvent-free polycondensate was obtained by evaporating the solution on a rotary evaporator at approximately 30° C. and subsequent treatment in a high vacuum at approximately 20° to 30° C. (approximately 1 hour). Solid content 95%; viscosity 17,200 mpa.s (25° C., rotational viscometer).
(b) Any arbitrary solid in the range of 30 to 80% and any arbitrary viscosity of the polycondensate solution, depending on the intended purpose, was set by evaporating the ethyl acetate solution on the rotary evaporator at approximately 30° C.
(c) The ethyl acetate solvent was replaced with another solvent by removing as far as possible the ethyl acetate on the rotary evaporator at approximately 30° C. and thereupon adding another solvent (e.g., ethanol, acetone, toluene, diethyl ether, THF, etc.) in such quantities that the desired solid content or the desired viscosity of the solution was reached.
EXAMPLE 9
The procedure was the same as in Example 8, but acrylate J was replaced with an equivalent quantity (42.4 g) of acrylate C. During preparation according to variant (a), a polycondensate with a solid content of 95% and a viscosity of 115,000 mpa.s (25° C., rotational viscometer) was obtained.
EXAMPLE 10
Under a nitrogen atmosphere 100 mmol (16.4 g) of silane V and 0.15 mmol (0.59 g) of catalyst of the formula (Rh(CO)ClP(C 6 H 5 ) 2 CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 SiO 3 / 2 .sup.. SiO 2 ) were added to a solution of 50 mmol (26.5 g) of acrylate L in 100 ml of ethanol. The reaction mixture was stirred at 30° C. for 7 hours, whereupon the band in the IR spectrum had disappeared at 2,240 cm -1 (Si--H). Subsequently the catalyst was filtered off and the filtrate was slowly reacted (dropwise) with 150 mmol (2.7 g) H 2 O in the form of a 1 N HCl solution. The reaction mixture was stirred at approximately 25° C. for 3 hours, then filtered and evaporated on a rotary evaporator at approximately 30° C. until a solid content of 43% was obtained.
EXAMPLE 11
Under a nitrogen atmosphere 0.1 mole (18.03 g) of silane I were added dropwise to 0.1 mole (33.9 g) of acrylate N, dissolved in 100 ml of ethyl acetate, followed by the slow addition (dropwise) of a solution of 0.01 mole (0.56 g) KOH in ethanol while cooling (ice bath). After about 5 minutes the reaction (thiol addition) was terminated. For the purpose of hydrolysis and condensation, 1.8 g of 5.7 N HCl were subsequently added drop-by-drop, whereupon the mixture was stirred at room temperature for 20 hours. Then the reaction mixture was washed first with diluted aqueous NaOH and then with distilled H 2 O. Following filtration, the mixture was evaporated at approximately 30° C. on the rotary evaporator and the remaining volatile components were removed under oil pump vacuum at room temperature. A colorless, transparent product having a viscosity of 1,760 mpa.s (25° C., rotational Viscometer) remained.
EXAMPLE 12
The procedure was the same as in Example 11, but using 0.4 mole (118.5 g) of acrylate J in 400 mol of ethyl acetate, 0.4 mole (72.14 g) of silane I, 0.004 mole (0.224 g) KOH in ethanol and 7.2 g of 0.7 N HCl. A light-yellowish, transparent resin having a viscosity of 9,500 to 13,000 mpa.s at 25° C. (depending on the precise synthesis conditions) remained.
EXAMPLE 13
Other polycondensates were prepared analogously to Example 11 and the viscosities of the resins obtained were measured. They are compiled in the following tables.
______________________________________Polycondensate from Viscosity at 25° C.,Compound no. Rotational Viscometer(See Preparation Examples) (Mpa.s)______________________________________12 12,30022 7,20013 4,700-6,600 (depending on the precise synthesis conditions)29 3,200______________________________________
EXAMPLE 14
The polycondensate solution obtained in Example 10 was reacted with 3 percent by weight, based on the polycondensate, of a UV initiator (IRGACURE® 907) and then applied with a film draw carriage on a sheet made of polymethyl methacrylate. Thereupon curing of the resulting coating was accomplished by UV irradiation (lamp output 2,000 W). The curing periods, the layer thicknesses of the cured coatings and the abrasion after cycles with the Taber abraser are shown in the following Table 1.
TABLE 1______________________________________ Abrasion AfterIrradiation Period Layer Thickness 100 Cycles(s) (μm) (%)______________________________________0.1 13 6.70.5 17 4.55 18 3.0______________________________________
As apparent from the results, the polycondensates of the invention can be cured into protective coatings with significant abrasion resistance by irradiation in fractions of a second. Of course, even better coatings can be obtained by longer irradiation periods and/or other suitable measures (increase in the quantity of initiator or the radiator output).
EXAMPLE 15
The almost solvent-free polycondensate of Example 9 was applied with a split knife on a glass plate after the addition of a UV initiator and cured with UV irradiation (radiator output 2,000 W). In the following Table 2, the kind and quantity of the UV initiator, the irradiation periods, the resulting layer thicknesses and the abrasion values after 100 cycles (Taber abraser) are compiled.
TABLE 2______________________________________ Quantity Irradia- Layer Abrasion of tion Thick- AfterUV Initiator Period ness 100 cyclesInitiator (wt. %) (s) (μM) (%)______________________________________IRGACURE ® 907 5 0.5 20 5IRGACURE ® 369 3 0.5 30 7IRGACURE ® 369 3 0.1 30 10______________________________________ modulus of elasticity of the coatings: approximately 70 Mpa
In addition to the aforementioned satisfactory abrasion values at extremely short periods of irradiation, the added polycondensate is also characterized in particular by the fact that it is highly elastic and shows a "self-healing" effect (i.e., tears flow shut again).
EXAMPLE 16
The procedure was analogous to that of Example 15, but the almost solvent-free polycondensate of Example 8 was added. The obtained measurement results are compiled in the following Table 3.
TABLE 3______________________________________ Quantity Irradia- Layer Abrasion of tion Thick- AfterUV Initiator Period ness 100 CyclesInitiator (wt. %) (s) (μM) (%)______________________________________IRGACURE ® 907 5 0.5 20 10IRGACURE ® 367 1 60 20 4.5______________________________________ modulus of elasticity of the coatings: approximately 2,150 Mpa
For comparison purposes it should be noted that the abrasion after 100 cycles was determined with the Taber abraser for polycarbonate and PVC at 28 or 37%.
EXAMPLE 17
Other compounds were processed into polycondensates of the invention according to the process described in the above examples. The refractive indices (η D ) and Abbe numbers (ν D ) of some of the polycondensates obtained are compiled in Table 4.
TABLE 4______________________________________Polycondensate fromCompound No.(See PreparationExamples) η.sub.D ν.sub.D______________________________________ 2 1.49 42-4723 1.549 35-3624 (1.25:1 adduct) 1.587 3211 1.547 38.529 1.533 38______________________________________
EXAMPLE 18
A polycondensate prepared according to the process described in the above examples in almost solvent-free form was converted with 0.5 percent by weight IRGACURE® 184 (UV initiator), put into a curing mold (diameter 4 cm) and irradiated slowly from the front and the back for approximately 1 minute with an output of 500 or 1,000 W (medium pressure mercury lamp Loctite Uvaloc® 1000). A cured, transparent molded part (d=5 mm) was obtained. Similar results are obtained with approximately one hour of thermal curing at 60° to 70° C. after the addition of 0.5 to 1.0 percent by weight of t-butyl perneodecanoate.
The following Table 5 shows the refractive indices (η D ) and the Abbe numbers (ν D ) of some of the molded parts prepared (UV cure).
TABLE 5______________________________________Polycondensate fromCompound No.(See PreparationExamples) η.sub.D ν.sub.D______________________________________ 2 1.52 47-5223 1.556 3524 (1.25:1 adduct) 1.599 33______________________________________
EXAMPLE 19
UV-cured, square-shaped rods were prepared from some of the polycondensates described in the above examples following the addition of 1 percent by weight of IRGACURE® 184 as the UV initiator. The modulus of elasticity was determined on these rods by the 3-point bending test (universal testing machine UTS-100). The values obtained are compiled in the following Table 6. Occasionally a range of values is given. The exact value depends then on the precise curing conditions.
TABLE 6______________________________________Rods Made of Polycondensate Modulus of Elasticityfrom Compound No. (Mpa)______________________________________25 1,400-19,70013 65-75 2 1,200-1,30022 1,100-19,20030 48012 2,030______________________________________
Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.
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Polycondensates modified with unsaturated organic groups on the basis of rolytically condensable compounds of silicon and optionally other elements from the group B, Al, P, Sn, Pb, the transition metals, the lanthanides and the actinides, in which 5 to 100 mole %, based on the monomer compounds, of the fundamental hydrolytically condensable compounds are selected from silanes of the general formula (I):
{X.sub.a R.sub.b Si(R'(A.sub.c).sub.(4-a-b) }.sub.x B (I)
in which the groups and indices have the following meaning:
X: hydrogen, halogen, hydroxy, alkoxyl acyloxy, alkyl carbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl or -NR" 2 ;
R: alkyl, alkenyl, aryl, alkaryl, or aralkyl;
R': alkylene, arylene or alkylene arylene;
R": hydrogen, alkyl or aryl;
A: O, S, PR", POR", NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR";
B: straight chain or branched organic group, which is derived from a compound B' with at least one C═C double bond (for c=I and A=NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR"), or at least two C═C double bonds, and 5 to 50 carbon atoms;
a: 1, 2 or 3;
b: 0, 1 or 2;
c: 0 or 1;
x: whole number, whose maximum value corresponds to the number of double bonds in the compound B' minus 1, or is equal to the number of double bonds in compound B', when c=1 and A stands for NHC(O)O or NHC(O)NR".
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/266,495 titled “Interactive Massaging Device”, filed on Apr. 30, 2014 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/858,286 titled “Interactive Massaging Device,” filed Apr. 8, 2013 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,747,337 issued on Jun. 10, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/606,966, filed Sep. 7, 2012, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/723,426 titled “Interactive Massaging Device,” filed Mar. 12, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,667 issued on Nov. 13, 2012, all the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
The present invention relates to massaging apparatus, and more particularly to sexual stimulation devices.
Sexual stimulation devices of the prior art include dildos that have vibratory elements such as disclosed in U.S. Application Publication No 2002/1013415 and International Publication No. WO 2007/041853. It is also known to provide controls for various modes of operation. However, it is believed that none of this class of devices of the prior art has proven entirely satisfactory, for a variety of reasons. For example, manipulation of controls by the user to produce changes in operation tends to detract from desired effects to be obtained from the device.
Thus there is a need for a massaging apparatus that provides improved stimulation without requiring a user to manipulate controls for producing changes in operation.
SUMMARY
The present invention meets this need by providing a vibratory massaging device that automatically changes in operation in response to proximity and/or contact between body parts to be massaged and particular locations on the device. In one aspect of the invention, the device includes a housing; a vibrator supported in the housing; a spaced plurality of proximity sensors supported in the housing; and a control circuit connected between the proximity sensors and the vibrator for driving the vibrator at plural predetermined levels in response to particular ones of the proximity sensors coming into close proximity with user's body parts being massaged by the device. The device can further include means for receiving a battery element within the device for powering the vibrator and the control circuit, and a removable cap for enclosing the battery element within the device. The device can further include the battery element, which can itself include a battery pack. The device can also include a control button supported by the cap for activation of the control circuit.
The massaging device can be formed having a main outside surface defining a substantially cylindrical shape, being rounded at one end thereof, the proximity sensors being positioned proximate the outside surface and longitudinally disposed. The device can further include a sleeve covering the housing and defining the main outside surface. The means for receiving a battery element can include the removable cap forming a rounded end portion of the device opposite the one end, and the control button being coaxially located by the cap.
The control circuit is preferably operative for powering the vibrator at a first, low intensity when a first one of the proximity sensors is activated, and at a second, medium intensity when a second one of the proximity sensors is activated for enhanced massaging effectiveness in response to operator manipulation. More preferably, the control circuit is further operative for powering the vibrator at a third, higher intensity when a third one of the sensors is activated.
Preferably the main outside surface has a shape of an erect penis for forming vibratory dildo. Preferably the vibrator is a main vibrator, the elastic sleeve further including a laterally projecting arm portion, the dildo further having a secondary vibrator enclosed in the arm portion, the control circuit being further operative for powering the secondary vibrator. Preferably the dildo includes mode control means for operator control of plural modes of operation of the control circuit. The mode control means can include a mode actuator, the control circuit being responsive to successive operations of the mode actuator for activation in each corresponding mode. The modes can include a first mode of operation wherein both vibrators are inactive unless at least one of the proximity sensors is activated, and a second mode, at least one of the vibrators being activated otherwise; and a second mode wherein at least one of the vibrators is activated at a higher intensity than that in which it is activated in the first mode. There can be first and second ones of the proximity sensors, the first proximity sensor being located between the second proximity sensor and a head extremity of the sleeve, the second mode being activated in response to the second sensor. Preferably there can be a third one of the proximity sensors, the third proximity sensor being located beyond the second proximity sensor from the head extremity of the sleeve, a third mode being activated at an even higher intensity than that of the second mode in response to the third sensor.
DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, where:
FIG. 1 is a lateral sectional view of a massaging device according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control circuit for the dildo of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the control circuit of FIG. 2 ;
FIG. 4 is a lateral side sectional view showing an alternative configuration of the device of FIG. 1 in the form of a dildo;
FIG. 5 is a front side view of the dildo of FIG. 4 ;
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a control circuit for the dildo of FIG. 4 ;
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the control circuit of FIG. 6 ; and
FIG. 8 are graphic representations of the intensity levels generated by the different modes of operation of the massaging device of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION
The present invention is directed to a massaging device that is particularly effective in stimulating body parts such as female genitalia. With reference to FIGS. 1-3 of the drawings, a massaging device 10 includes a motorized vibrator 12 mounted in an elongate housing 13 , a screw-on cap 14 detachably connected to the housing and having a control button 15 projecting therefrom, a battery pack 16 inserted within the housing, a control module 18 and a sensor module 20 mounted in the housing and including a sensor circuit board 21 supporting a longitudinally distributed plurality of sensor elements 22 according to the present invention, the elements being individually designated 22 A, 22 B, and 22 C, the element 22 C being closest to the control button 15 , the element 22 A being closest to the opposite end of the device 10 . The housing 13 is also covered with a sleeve 24 , and the assembly is sealed with an elastic O-ring 25 interposed between the sleeve and the cap 14 . In the exemplary configuration shown in the drawings, the device 10 has a cylindrical shape with spherically rounded ends, the control button 15 projecting from one end of the device.
The control button 15 operates a “push-on/push-off” power switch 26 that is mounted on a switch structure 19 within the cap 15 for activating the device 10 . Also included is appropriate wiring or other conductors (not shown) between the vibrator 12 , the battery pack 16 , the control module 18 , the sensor module 20 , and the control switch 26 . When activated, the device assumes an idle state unless and until a user's body part comes into close proximity with one of the sensor elements 22 . As more particularly described in connection with FIGS. 2 and 3 below, proximity with the sensor element 22 A only produces a first or low level of activation of the vibrator 12 ; proximity with the sensor element 22 B (but not 22 C) produces a second or medium level of activation; and proximity with the sensor element 22 C produces a third or high level of activation of the vibrator 12 .
With further reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 , an alternative configuration of the massaging device, designated dildo 30 , includes counterparts of the motorized vibrator 12 , the housing, designated 13 ′, control button, designated power button 15 ′, the battery pack, designated 16 ′, the control module, designated 18 ′ and the control circuit board, designated 19 ′, the sensor module, designated 20 ′ and the sensor circuit board, designated 21 ′ with counterparts of the sensor elements, designated 22 ′ (individually 22 ′A, 22 ′B, and 22 ′C), and a momentary counterpart of the power switch, designated 26 ′. The battery pack 16 ′ is supported within a handle 32 and retained in place by a screw-in cap 34 . The power button 15 ′ projects through the handle 32 , the control module 18 ′ being located within the handle.
An elastic counterpart of the sleeve, designated 36 has a main portion 37 covering the housing 13 ′ and having the form of an erect penis with a head portion 38 , and an arm portion 39 projecting to one side in a shape and dimension preferably facilitating contact with the clitoris of a user of the dildo, the arm portion enclosing a motorized secondary vibrator 40 that is locatingly supported within an arm cavity 42 of the arm portion 39 . Each of the sensor elements 22 ′ is biasingly pressed against the sleeve by a sensor spring 42 , the element 22 ′A being closest to the head portion 38 of the sleeve 36 , the element 22 C being farthest therefrom. As described above in connection with the massager 10 , appropriate wiring or other conductors (not shown) connect the battery pack 16 ′, the control module 18 ′, the sensor module 20 , and the vibrators 12 and 40 .
The exemplary configuration of the dildo 30 of FIGS. 2 and 3 further includes a mode switch actuator 44 protruding the handle 32 for operation by a user and having a mode switch 46 that is mounted directly on the control circuit board 19 ′. A plurality of intensity indicators 48 also project through the handle, being supported by the control circuit board. The mode switch 46 sequentially selects a plurality of vibration modes, selectively modifying operation of the vibrators 12 and 40 in combination with response to the sensors 22 ′ as described above for the massaging device 10 .
Suitable materials for the housings 13 and 13 ′, and the handle 32 include ABS. Suitable materials for the battery packs 16 and 16 ′ include polypropylene; and suitable materials for the sleeve 36 (and the control button 15 of FIG. 1 ) include elastic plastic materials such as TPE. A suitable battery complement is four type AAA alkaline batteries.
With particular reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 , a control circuit 50 of the dildo 30 is formed by a combination of the control module 18 ′ and the sensor module 20 ′. As shown in FIG. 6 , the control circuit 50 includes a body touch detector 52 that operates in combination with a signal detector 54 that signals a microprocessor 56 , the microprocessor controlling a main driver 58 for powering the main vibrator 12 , and a secondary driver 59 for powering the secondary vibrator 40 .
The touch detector 52 includes the sensor elements 22 ′A, 22 ′B, and 22 ′C, the elements 22 ′ each having a coupling capacitor 60 connected to a common pulse output 62 of the signal detector 54 , and a grounded blocking diode 63 connected for maintaining a positive potential at the sensor element 22 ′. That potential is fed through a signal filter that includes a charging resistor 64 , a filter capacitor 65 , and a discharge resistor 66 , the resulting filtered touch signal 67 being fed to a corresponding input of the detector 54 . The touch signals are individually designated 67 A, 67 B, and 67 C in FIG. 7 , corresponding respectively to the sensor elements 22 ′A, 22 ′B, and 22 ′C. The signal detector 54 monitors each of the touch signals 67 , periodically communicating status signals to the microprocessor 56 . When any of the sensor elements comes into close proximity to a user's body part, capacitive coupling alters (increases) loading of the associated coupling capacitor, correspondingly changing (decreasing) the resulting touch signal sufficiently to change the relevant status signal.
In addition to the above-described communication with the signal detector 54 , the microprocessor is responsive to the power switch 26 ′ and the mode switch 46 for signaling the main and secondary drivers 58 and 59 as further described below, the microprocessor having separate outputs for driving each of the indicators 48 .
In an exemplary configuration of the dildo 30 , the control circuit 50 , upon activation by the power switch 26 ′, is responsive to the mode switch 46 for controlling the secondary vibrator 40 as described herein, the main vibrator 12 being responsive to proximity of the sensor elements 22 ′ as described above regarding the sensor elements 22 of the massaging device 10 . In this configuration, successive activations of the mode switch 46 produces eight intensity modes of operation of the secondary vibrator 40 as set forth below in Table 1. It will be understood that other modes of operation of the secondary vibrator 40 are within the scope of the present invention. Corresponding variations in operation intensity levels of the main vibrator 12 are possible also, an exemplary schedule being indicated below in Table 2. In table 2, “Sensor A” excludes activation of the sensor elements 22 ′B and 22 ′C; “Sensor B” excludes activation of the sensor element 22 ′C. In both tables the activation levels are relative and arbitrary as is consistent with effective levels known to those skilled in the art.
TABLE 1
Secondary Vibrator Modes
Mode
Level
Shape
1
0
—
2
1
Flat
3
2
Flat
4
3
Flat
5
3/0
Sinusoid
6
3/0
Medium Square
7
3/0
Medium/Slow Square
8
2/0
Fast Square
TABLE 2
Main Vibrator Modes
Level
Mode
No Sensor
Sensor A
Sensor B
Sensor C
Shape
1
0
1
2
3
Flat
2
0
2
3
4
Flat
3
0
1
3
5
Flat
4
1
2
4
5
Flat
5
2/0
3/0
4/0
5/0
Sinusoid
6
0
1/0
3/0
5/0
Medium Sq.
7
0
1/0
3/0
5/0
Med./Slow Sq.
8
0
1/0
3/0
5/0
Fast Square
The indicators 48 are driven by the control circuit 50 at low intensity in Modes 1 and 2, medium intensity in Mode 3, high intensity in Mode 3, variable intensity in Mode 4, and blinking in Modes 5-8 synchronously with activation of the secondary vibrator 40 . It will be understood that other and various indications in the different modes are possible.
With reference to FIG. 8 , there are shown graphical illustrations of intensity represented by a waveform, wherein the shape of the waveform represents the level of intensity generated by the different modes of operation of the massaging device, such as those corresponding to the vibrator modes of Tables 1 and 2.
A suitable device for the signal detector 54 is available as ACM3890 from Shizhenshi ACME Micro Electronics of Shenzhen, China. The device is operational with a crystal input at 16 MHz, generating the pulse output 62 at a rate of 500 Hz. A suitable device for the microprocessor 56 is available as ACM3831-3, also from ACME. A suitable 3.3 volt regulator 68 for providing VCC to the detector 54 is available as HT7133 from Holtek Semiconductor Inc. of Hsinshu, Taiwan. The regulator 68 is fed by a power driver 69 in response to activation of the microprocessor 56 by the power switch 26 ′ as described above. The control circuit 50 includes additional conventional circuitry for powering the signal detector 54 as well as the microprocessor 56 in a suitable manner known to those skilled in the art.
Further regarding the massaging device 10 of FIG. 1 , and with particular reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 , a simplified counterpart of control circuit, designated 50 ′ is formed by a combination of the control module 18 and the sensor module 20 . As shown in FIG. 2 , the control circuit 50 ′ includes counterparts of the body touch detector 52 and the signal detector 54 for signaling a counterpart of the microprocessor, designated 56 ′, the microprocessor controlling a counterpart of the main driver 58 for powering the vibrator 12 . A suitable device for the microprocessor 56 ′ is available as ACM3831-2, also from ACME. The power switch 26 directly powers the control circuit 50 ; accordingly, the power driver 69 is implemented as a constant conduit to the regulator 68 when the power switch 26 is activated.
The touch detector 52 includes the sensor elements 22 A, 22 B, and 22 C, the elements 22 each having the coupling capacitor 60 connected to the common pulse output 62 of the signal detector 54 , with counterparts of the blocking diode 63 , the signal filter including the charging resistor 64 , the filter capacitor 65 , and the discharge resistor 66 , for generating the touch signal 67 for feeding the detector 54 as described above in connection with FIG. 7 . The signal detector 54 monitors each of the touch signals 67 A, 67 B, and 67 C, periodically communicating status signals to the microprocessor 56 ′, also as described above. The control circuit 50 ′ also includes conventional circuitry for powering the signal detector 54 and the microprocessor 56 ′ in a suitable manner known to those skilled in the art.
Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. For example, the power switch and the mode switch can be combined, the control circuit cycling through a substantially unpowered state and the various modes in response to successive operations of the mode switch. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not necessarily be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.
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A vibratory massaging device having a spaced plurality of proximity sensors distributed on a massaging surface of the device, and a control circuit operative for controlling vibratory intensities in response to activation of particular ones of the sensors being close to a user's body parts being massaged. The device can be configured as a dildo, including both main and secondary vibrators, the secondary vibrator being within an arm portion that is configured for clitoral stimulation. At least one of the vibrators is automatically driven at increased intensity as penetration increases.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to windows and, more specifically, to window insulation comprising a frame having a track fixedly attached thereto and flexible impermeable sheeting, such as plastic or other material, having a rail member peripherally positioned and releasably mounted to said track member therein forming a window thermally insulative device.
The window insulation can be mounted to the wall over the window opening or mounted to the window jamb.
2. Description of the Prior Art
There are other covering devices designed for windows. Typical of these is U.S. Pat. No. 1,045,132 issued to Dorsey on Nov. 26, 1912.
Another patent was issued to Kaplan on Oct. 15, 1935 as U.S. Pat. No. 2,017,539. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 4,103,728 was issued to Burdette on Aug. 1, 1978 and still yet another was issued on Sep. 12, 1978 to D'Aragon as U.S. Pat. No. 4,112,642.
Another patent was issued to Loeb on Feb. 10, 1981 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,249,589. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 4,419,982 was issued to Eckels on Dec. 13, 1983. Another was issued to Roberts on Nov. 27, 1990 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,972,896 and still yet another was issued on Feb. 19, 1991 to Golden as U.S. Pat. No. 4,993,471.
Another patent was issued to Westby on Jul. 19, 2005 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,918,426 and still yet another was issued on Nov. 22, 1967 to Jaster as U.K. Patent No. GB1,092,452.
In a device of the class described, a tent wall formed of a number of vertically arranged strips of material connected by seams, a number of strips being formed with an opening, a reinforcing strip surrounding said opening, fastening members on the interior of such reinforcing strip, screens of flexible material, each provided with a flexible reinforcing frame and with coacting fastening members at its top, sides and bottom, for detachably securing the screens to the inner surface of the strips of material, whereby the operator may, by detaching the upper fastening member, obtain access to the outside flap and the fastening members above the opening on the outside, and whereby the screen, when in position, will support the wall against movement tending to stretch the sides or the top and bottom of the openings apart, the fastening members for securing the flap on the outside in its closed position, being designed to reinforce and support the wall against upward and downward stretching.
In an attachment longitudinally extendible means for supporting a ventilating or similar device arranged on the inside of a window and secured to the window frame and means for removably fastening said device to said supporting means, said supporting means being longitudinally extendible to fit different sixes of windows.
A system for mounting thin transparent membrane material over the interior of a window to provide an insulating effect. An elongate narrow retainer molding is positioned along the peripheral frame portion of the window. This molding includes a narrow base portion having a flat surface intended for adhesive and permanent attachment to the frame. Integrally formed with the base portion are two side components which extend upwardly to a top surface which is shaped concavely to define a receiving region. Detents are formed in these side portions which extend over a centrally disposed groove. A beading of circular cross-section is urged with the peripheral portion of the membrane into the centrally disposed groove to provide a non-adhesive form of fixation of the membrane to the retainer molding. By selection of relative dimensions of the molding, the centrally disposed groove remains continuous about the entire window mounting even though the orientation of retainer molding components across corners may be transverse.
A temporary transparent insulating installation is disclosed for mounting on the inside of a window frame. This installation provides for increased insulation of buildings without necessitating an increased number of glazings in a window. The installation comprises a clear plastic sheet with a length greater than the height of the window frame, having a first connecting strip along a top edge. The sheet has side edges with sealing means adapted to seal with two side surfaces of the window frame. The second connecting strip is permanently attached to the top surface of the window frame and is adapted to mate with the first connecting strip along the top edge of the plastic sheet. At least one weight is provided to hold down the plastic sheet on the bottom surface of the window frame. In another installation two or more clear plastic sheets can be hung in a window frame.
Apparatus for mounting an environment controlling screen, sheet or membrane, is provided comprising separate frame sections secured in mutually abutting relation to the inner periphery of an opening, mutually abutting strip of Velcro hook material are affixed to each frame section, and a flexible sheet, dimensioned to fit the frame section, is affixed to the frame section by means of a strip of Velcro pile material attached to the margins of the sheet. A mosquito-proof joint is provided by the abutting Velcro material even though the frame sections are not joined directly one to the other. Quick installation and removal of the sheet material is feasible. Storage of the sheets is convenient, simple, and takes up little space.
An edge seal for a solar collector type flexible film material is provided for forming a generally air-tight heat insulating reusable seal around the edge of an opening in the surface of a building structure. The edge seal is formed around the film material which is sized to cover the window opening and overlap the edges of the opening. A band of magnetically permeable particles is adhered along the edge of the substrate forming the film material by a suitable adhesive. A strip of magnetic material is adhered around the edge of the opening. The permeable particles are attracted to the magnetic strip to form an effective air-tight seal between the flexible film material and the opening to essentially form a dead air space between the flexible material and the window opening. The flexible film material can be mounted similar to a window shade adjacent to the upper edge of the opening. The film material can also have a monolayer of transparent spheres adhered to one side which provide a means for concentrating solar energy striking the outer surface of the sheet material. The solar energy will be converted to heat energy and conducted through the sheet material to the interior surface so that the heat will be transferred to the interior of the building.
A covering apparatus is set forth to overlie an existing covered opening such as found in window and door environments. The apparatus includes a continuous elongate strip secured to a window or door frame opening with a companion strip receivable therein integrally secured and formed as a perimeter of a flexible transparent covering membrane for the window or door opening.
A self-attaching screen for vehicle openings comprising a flexible screen material having mounting means along its periphery, whereby the mounting means are resilient projections which temporarily entangle with the fabric surrounding the vehicle opening to form a detachable seal. The screen may be detached and reattached repeatedly without damage to said fabric and no secondary mounting means are required to be permanently attached to the vehicle.
The window insulating system comprises a mesh scrim sized to fit substantially completely within a window frame and substantially over all of an inside surface of a window pane and positioning and holding means for positioning and holding said mesh scrim closely adjacent the inside surface of the window pane without adhesively fixing said mesh scrim to the window pane or to the window frame with the distance between the mesh scrim and the inside surface of the window pane being between approximately 0.005 inch and approximately 0.050 inch.
A strip fastener comprises two separable strips 1 , 2 of plastics material of which one is formed with at least one longitudinally extending recess and of which the other is formed with at least one longitudinally extending rib 5 comprising a head portion and neck portion, the head being adapted to enter the recess of the other strip or one of the recesses, to interlock with it when the strips are forced together face to face and in which the or each rib or at least one of the ribs has in the outer surface of its head a longitudinally extending groove 6 dividing the head into two lobes and in which the inner surface of the recess which is opposite to the groove 6 when the rib is seated in the recess lies completely outside the groove to permit the two lobes to move freely towards each other as the head is inserted in or removed from its associated recess. In other arrangements FIGS. 2 and 3 (not shown) the head portion is rounded, FIG. 2 , and in FIG. 3 slotted head portions ( 31 )-( 33 ) on both strips interengage, the head portions ( 31 ) and ( 33 ) also engaging dissimilar recess wall portions ( 37 ) and ( 38 ) respectively. In a similar arrangement FIG. 4 (not shown), the head portions and complementary portions are rounded.
While these window devices may be suitable for the purposes for which they were designed, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention, as hereinafter described.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
A primary object of the present invention is to provide a window insulation device having a releasable and reattachable flexible impermeable sheet, such as plastic or other material, forming an air and vapor barrier.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a window insulation device comprising a frame that can be mounted to the wall over a window opening or mounted to the window jamb.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a window insulation device wherein said frame has a peripherally mounted track whereby an insulative flexible impermeable sheeting can be mounted thereto.
Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a window insulation device having flexible impermeable sheeting with a rail peripherally mounted thereto whereby said rail is mated to said track therein forming an insulative device for a window.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a window insulation device having a roll up housing wherein said flexible impermeable sheeting is spring biased and selectively deployable from said roll up housing.
Additional objects of the present invention will appear as the description proceeds.
The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a window insulation having a frame with a track fixedly attached thereto and flexible impermeable sheeting having a rail member peripherally positioned and releasably mountable to said track member therein forming a window thermally insulative device that can be mounted to the wall over the window opening or mounted to the window jamb.
The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying drawing, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawing, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.
The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
In order that the invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing in which:
FIG. 1 is assembled views of the wall mount and window jamb mount of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front exploded view of the wall mountable window energy saver frame.
FIG. 3 is a front assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver frame.
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the wall mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 5 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 6 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 7 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 8 is a front exploded view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 9 is a front assembled view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 11 is an assembled view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver.
FIG. 12 are various means of attaching the flexible impermeable sheet insulation of the present invention to its frame.
DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCED NUMERALS
Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, the figures illustrate the Window Insulation Energy Saver of the present invention. With regard to the reference numerals used, the following numbering is used throughout the various drawing figures.
10 Window Insulation Energy Saver of the present invention 12 wall mount energy saver 14 window jamb mount energy saver 16 wall 18 window jamb 20 frame 22 building interior 24 building exterior 26 window unit 28 top portion of 20 30 bottom portion of 20 32 left side portion of 20 34 right side portion of 20 36 threaded recess 38 recess of 28 , 30 40 screw 42 countersunk aperture 43 mounting fasteners 44 compressible foam-like sealant 46 double faced adhesive gasket 48 attachable detachable mating fasteners 50 flexible impermeable sheeting air and vapor barrier 52 window trim 54 insulating air gap 56 roller housing 60 track 62 rail 64 adhesive 66 adhesive tape 68 zipper fastener 70 sealer 72 alignment pins
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The following discussion describes in detail one embodiment of the invention (and several variations of that embodiment). This discussion should not be construed, however, as limiting the invention to those particular embodiments, practitioners skilled in the art will recognize numerous other embodiments as well. For definition of the complete scope of the invention, the reader is directed to appended claims.
FIG. 1 is assembled views of the wall mount 12 and window jamb mount 14 of the present invention. The present invention is a window insulation energy saver 10 having frames 20 adapted to be mounted to the wall 16 over a window opening or mounted to the window jamb 18 . The window insulation energy saver 10 is mounted in the interior 22 of the building while the window 26 faces the exterior 24 .
FIG. 2 is a front exploded view of the wall mountable window energy saver frame 10 of the present invention 10 . The wall mountable window insulation energy saver 12 has a frame 20 with a top portion 28 , a bottom portion 30 , a right side portion 34 and a left side portion 32 . The top and bottom ends of the left side portion 32 and the right side portion 34 have threaded recesses 36 and the top and bottom portions have mating recesses 38 for receiving a screw 40 that threads into the threaded recesses 36 to hold the frame portions together and sealer 70 to prevent air leakage between the frame's abutting members. The frame portions all include countersunk apertures 42 running from the front to the back. Once installed the window insulation energy saver prevents air movement and reduces thermal transference between the interior room and the window unit covered by said window energy saver.
FIG. 3 is a front assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver frame 10 . The wall mountable window insulation energy saver 12 has a frame 20 with a top portion 28 , a bottom portion 30 , a right side portion 34 and a left side portion 32 . The top and bottom ends of the left side portion 32 and the right side portion 34 have threaded recesses 36 and the top and bottom portions have mating recesses 38 for receiving a screw 40 that threads into the threaded recesses 36 to hold the frame portions together. The frame portions all include countersunk apertures 42 running from the front to the back. Once installed the window insulation energy saver prevents air movement and reduces thermal transference between the interior room and the window unit covered by said window energy saver thereby eliminating the transfer of cold exterior air and warm interior air that also prevents moisture and ice build up on the window's components thus extending the life expectancy of the window unit.
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the wall mountable window energy saver 12 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the wall mountable window insulation energy saver 12 comprising a compressible foam-like sealant 44 that is used to create an air tight seal with the wall 16 . A double faced adhesive gasket 46 for mounting the frame 20 to the compressible foam-like sealant 44 and the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 that is selectively attachable and detachable from the frame 20 by means of mating peripherally positioned fasteners 48 on the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 and frame 20 . Alignment pins 72 are provided to align the components which are then removed and mounting fasteners 43 are used to secure the frame 20 and related components to the wall 16 .
FIG. 5 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver 12 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the wall mountable window insulation energy saver 12 comprising a compressible foam-like sealant 44 that is used to create an air tight seal with the wall 16 . A double faced adhesive gasket 46 for mounting the frame 20 to the compressible foam-like sealant 44 and the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 that is selectively attachable and detachable from the frame 20 by means of mating peripherally positioned fasteners 48 on the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 and frame 20 . The wall mounted window insulation energy saver 12 has mounting fasteners 43 to secure it to the interior wall 16 surface to prevent air movement and water vapor movement between the interior room and the window unit 26 covered by said window energy saver.
FIG. 6 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver 12 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the assembled window insulation energy saver mounted to a wall over a window opening having window trim 52 around said window jamb 18 providing an insulative air gap once installed by means of a plurality of predrilled apertures 42 and provided screws 40 for mounting the window insulation energy saver to the interior wall 16 surface to prevent air movement and water vapor movement between the interior room and the window unit covered by said window energy saver. Countersunk apertures 42 are disposed in the frame 20 to receive mounting fasteners 43 for attachment to the wall 16 .
FIG. 7 is an assembled view of the wall mountable window energy saver 12 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the assembled window insulation energy saver having the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 extendable and retractable from a roller housing 56 and secured to the frame 20 with attachable detachable mating fasteners 48 . Once extended the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 provides an insulative air gap to prevent air movement and water vapor movement between the interior room and the window unit 26 covered by said window energy saver.
FIG. 8 is a front exploded view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver frame 14 of the present invention 10 . The jamb mountable window insulation energy saver 14 has a frame 20 with a top portion 28 , a bottom portion 30 , a right side portion 34 and a left side portion 32 . The top and bottom ends of the left side portion 32 and the right side portion 34 have threaded recesses 36 and the top and bottom portions have mating recesses 38 for receiving a screw 40 that threads into the threaded recesses 36 to hold the frame portions together and sealer 70 to prevent air leakage between the frame's abutting members. The frame portions all include countersunk apertures 42 running from the inside to the outside. Once installed the window insulation energy saver prevents air movement and reduces thermal transference between the interior room and the window unit covered by said window energy saver.
FIG. 9 is a front assembled view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver frame 14 of the present invention 10 . The jamb mountable window insulation energy saver 14 has a frame 20 with a top portion 28 , a bottom portion 30 , a right side portion 34 and a left side portion 32 . The top and bottom ends of the left side portion 32 and the right side portion 34 have threaded recesses 36 and the top and bottom portions have mating recesses 38 for receiving a screw 40 that threads into the threaded recesses 36 to hold the frame portions together. The frame portions all include countersunk apertures 42 running from the inside to the outside.
FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver 14 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the window jamb mountable window insulation energy saver 14 comprising a compressible foam-like sealant 44 that is used to create an air tight seal with the window jamb 18 . A double faced adhesive gasket 46 for mounting the frame 20 to the compressible foam-like sealant 44 and alignment pins, as shown and described in FIG. 4 , and the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 that is selectively attachable and detachable from the frame 20 by means of mating peripherally positioned fasteners 48 comprising a track 60 and a rail 62 on the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 and frame 20 respectively. Alignment pins 72 are provided to align the components which are then removed and mounting fasteners 43 are used to secure the frame 20 and related components to the window jamb 18 .
FIG. 11 is an assembled view of the window jamb mountable window energy saver 14 of the present invention 10 . Shown is the frame 20 of the assembled window insulation energy saver mounted to a window jamb 18 of a window unit opening 26 providing an insulative air gap once installed by means of a plurality of predrilled apertures 42 and provided mounting fasteners 43 for mounting the window insulation energy saver to the window jamb 18 surface to prevent air movement and water vapor movement between the interior room and the window unit covered by the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 of said window energy saver. The double faced adhesive gasket 46 and compressible foam-like sealant 44 form a seal between the frame 20 and the window jamb 18 .
FIG. 12 are various means of attaching the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 of the present invention to its frame. Shown is a track 60 and mating rail 62 having a multiple tongue and groove configuration and secured to the frame 20 with an adhesive 64 to secure the flexible impermeable sheet air and vapor barrier 50 to the frame 20 . Other attachable detachable mating fasteners 48 include adhesive tape 66 and a zipper fastener 68 .
It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above.
While certain novel features of this invention have been shown and described and are pointed out in the annexed claims, it is not intended to be limited to the details above, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention.
Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.
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A window insulation having a frame with a track fixedly attached thereto and flexible impermeable sheeting having a rail member peripherally positioned and releasably mountable to said track member therein forming a window thermally insulative device that can be mounted to the wall over the window opening or mounted to the window jamb.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] (1) Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention pertains to a portable drill apparatus that combines an air motor that drives a drill chuck in rotation, a linear actuator that drives the air motor and the drill chuck in linear reciprocating movements, and an electric motor that operates the linear actuator. The drill chuck, air motor, linear actuator, and electric motor are connected together, end to end, enabling the apparatus to be easily manually transported and positioned. A separate programmable controller communicates with the electro-pneumatic drill apparatus and controls the operation of the apparatus to perform a peck feed drilling process on layers of different materials, or a power feed drilling process to drill and countersink holes into layers of materials to controlled depths.
[0003] (2) Description of the Related Art
[0004] In the manufacturing of large structural bodies that are required to have a large degree of structural strength, for example in the manufacturing of aircraft, it is often necessary to drill precisely dimensioned fastener holes through multiple layers of materials having different degrees of hardness. For example, it is often necessary to drill through multiple layers of materials that include a combination of hard and soft materials, such as a composite material and titanium, or a composite material and aluminum. In order to prevent the chips of the harder materials produced by the drilling from eroding the softer materials and causing an oversized hole condition, a peck feed drilling process is often employed.
[0005] The peck feed drilling process through multiple layers of different types of materials involves controlling incremental movements of the drill bit. The drill bit movement is controlled to drill into a small amount of the material at a time (typically about 0.033 inches), and then to react the drill bit from the drilled hole. The drill bit is retracted back to its starting position to remove the chips of the material drilled from the hole. This “peck” cycle is repeated numerous times, each time drilling the hole a small amount deeper and removing the drilled chips, until the hole is produced completely through the layers of material. This gives a very consistent and precise hole diameter through the multiple layers of material.
[0006] Peck feed drilling is a very useful process when drilling multiple layers of different materials. However, prior art apparatus that are available for performing the peck feed drilling process have been a source of numerous problems. Prior art peck feed drilling equipment typically employs a pneumatic air motor that drives a spindle which, in turn, drives the drill bit in rotation. In addition to the first air motor that drives the spindle, a second air motor in the form of an air cylinder and piston is attached to the rear of the first air motor. The second air motor is operative to move the first air motor and the drill bit spindle forwardly in pecking away portions of the drilled hole, and to retract the air motor and drill bit spindle rearwardly after each pecking movement.
[0007] An extensive network of pneumatic couplings and hoses is needed to control the rotation of the first air motor and the linear reciprocating movements of the second air motor during the peck feed drilling process. The pneumatic couplings and hoses are a part of an extensive air logic circuit that includes numerous valves, couplings, and air lines that control the drilling rotation of the first air motor and the pecking reciprocating movements of the second air motor. A substantial framework is needed to support the drilling apparatus and the pneumatic air logic circuit that controls the operations of the two air motors.
[0008] The complexity of operating the two air motors and controlling the movements of the two air motors through the operation of the numerous valves of the extensive air logic circuit makes it very difficult to adjust the operation of the two air motors to the desired drill process parameters (i.e., the feed rate of the drill bit, the peck rate of the drill bit, the setback for retracting the drill bit, etc.). The complex nature of the two drill motors and their extensive air logic circuit also makes it difficult to repair the motors and air logic circuit, and also contributes to a frequency of malfunctioning of the motors and the air logic circuit during use. Consequently, this type of manufacturing equipment is very expensive to purchase, is very expensive to maintain, and is very expensive to use.
[0009] The same problems exist in power feed drilling equipment that is used in drilling holes and producing countersinks in multiple layers of different materials. This type of drilling process requires precise controlling of the feed rate of the drill bit and the countersink cutter to a controlled depth in the different layers of material, controlling the dwelling of the drill and countersink cutter at the controlled depth for a fixed amount of time, and controlling the retraction of the drill and countersink cutter from the drilled hole and countersink. The prior art equipment of this type has also required a complex air logic circuit to control the movements of the drill bit and the countersink cutter and their dwell times. Consequently, this type of prior art pneumatic power feed drilling equipment is also prone to the same types of problems associated with the prior art pneumatic peck feed drilling equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The apparatus of the invention overcomes the problems associated with the complex air logic circuits employed in prior art peck feed drilling and power feed drilling equipment by providing a portable electro-pneumatic drill apparatus that uses a programmable linear motion actuator to electronically control the travel of the drill bit spindle and the pneumatic air motor that rotates the spindle.
[0011] The portable electro-pneumatic drill apparatus of the invention employs the combination of an air motor and an electric motor in controlling the rotation of a drill bit chuck, and the reciprocating movements of the drill bit chuck. The combination of the air motor and the electric motor provides the apparatus of the invention with a compact construction that is portable and can be easily manually positioned for drilling operations. In addition, the combination of the air motor and the electric motor in the apparatus significantly simplifies the control system required for the apparatus.
[0012] The entire construction of the apparatus is made up of known components arranged in the novel combination and configuration. The components of the apparatus are assembled together, end to end, along a center axis of the apparatus, which facilitates the manual portability of the apparatus.
[0013] The apparatus is provided with an adjustable drill bit chuck at one end. The chuck is conventional, and is adjustable to securely and removably hold a variety of different size drill bits.
[0014] The chuck is supported in the interior of a nosepiece housing. The nosepiece housing basically supports the chuck for rotary movement, and for axial reciprocating movements of the chuck through the nosepiece housing interior.
[0015] An air motor housing is connected to the nosepiece housing. The air motor housing has a hollow interior bore that extends axially through the housing.
[0016] An air motor is mounted in the air motor housing for axial reciprocating movement of the air motor through the air motor housing interior bore. The air motor is operatively connected to the drill bit chuck and moves in axial reciprocating movements with the drill bit chuck. The air motor has a coupling for connecting the air motor to a separate source of pneumatic pressure. The pneumatic pressure supplied to the air motor controls the operation of the air motor in rotating the drill bit chuck.
[0017] A linear actuator housing is connected to the air motor housing. The actuator housing contains a ball and lead screw actuator that is connected to the air motor in the air motor housing. Operation of the linear actuator moves the air motor axially through the interior bore of the air motor housing, and thereby moves the drill bit chuck axially through the interior bore of the nosepiece housing.
[0018] An electric motor is connected to the linear actuator housing. The electric motor is operatively connected to the ball and lead screw actuator in the actuator housing. In the preferred embodiment, the electric motor is a hybrid stepper motor. Selective operation of the electric motor controls the linear actuator to move the air motor axially in the air motor housing interior bore, which results in movements of the drill bit chuck axially in the nosepiece housing interior bore.
[0019] An optical encoder is connected to the electric motor for monitoring the rotary output of the electric motor. The optical encoder is designed to produce signals representative of degrees of rotation of the electric motor, which are also representative of movements of the linear actuator in the actuator housing, movements of the air motor in the air motor housing, and movements of the drill bit chuck in the nosepiece housing.
[0020] A sensor is mounted on the linear actuator housing. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor is a magnetic reed switch. The sensor senses the position of the linear actuator screw in the actuator housing. In particular, the sensor provides signals that are representative of the position of the lead screw in the actuator housing, and thereby determines movement of the lead screw to its fully set back position.
[0021] A separate programmable controller communicates with the electric motor, the optical encoder, and the sensor on the actuator housing. The controller is operative to control the operation of the electric motor based on information previously programmed into the controller and information provided by the signals produced by the optical encoder and the sensor. The programmable controller is designed so that a motion profile for the drilling operation to be performed by the apparatus can be programmed on a desk top computer and downloaded to the controller. The controller can then be activated by a push button operated by an individual monitoring the drilling operation of the apparatus. With the apparatus secured at a work station adjacent the object to be drilled, the operator activates the apparatus to execute a peck feed drill cycle or a drill/countersink cycle, according to the preprogrammed motion profile. The controller executes the motion profile by controlling the rotation of the air motor and electric motor, and the resulting rotation of the drill bit chuck and the linear movements of the linear actuator. The controller can execute the motion profile without being connected to an external computer, and the motion profile can be repeated any number of times desired as programmed. Exact feed rates, peck rates, set back distances, stroke lengths, and dwell times can be programmed into the motion profile programmed in the controller, and the controller will control the drilling cycle to repeat itself exactly time after time. The programmed motion profile cannot be changed by the operator, and crib setup personnel simply download the motion profile provided to them into the controller to control the operation of the apparatus. Thus, the apparatus of the invention provides very little chance for human or mechanical errors to occur in the drilling procedures.
[0022] The present invention greatly simplifies and improves the reliability of existing peck feed drilling and drill/countersink processes, and makes these processes more practical at manufacturing sights. The present invention provides significant improvements in the cost of manufacturing, the quality of the manufactured product, and the cycle time required for the manufacturing process. Thus, the apparatus of the invention represents an important evolutionary development in the field of portable power feed drilling.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] Further features of the invention are set forth in the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and in the drawing figure wherein:
[0024] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of the portable electro-pneumatic drill apparatus of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0025] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of the portable electrode-pneumatic drill apparatus 12 of the present invention. As stated earlier, the construction of the apparatus 12 is made up of known components arranged in a novel combination and configuration. Because the components are known, they are shown only schematically in FIG. 1 . As shown in FIG. 1 and as will be explained, the components of the apparatus 12 are assembled together, end to end, along a center axis 14 of the apparatus 12 , which facilitates the manual portability of the apparatus.
[0026] The apparatus 12 includes an adjustable drill bit chuck 16 of conventional construction. In the preferred embodiment, the chuck 16 is a 3-jaw chuck that is adjustable to securely hold a variety of different size drill bits. The chuck 16 removably holds the drill bits, allowing replacement of various different size drill bits in the chuck.
[0027] A nose piece housing 18 surrounds and protects the chuck 16 . The nose piece housing 18 is generally cylindrical, and has a hollow interior bore 22 that extends through the length of the housing. The bore 22 has a cylindrical interior surface that is coaxial with the apparatus center axis 14 . The interior surface of the bore 22 provides support to the drill bit chuck 16 for rotation of the chuck in the bore, and for axial movement of the chuck through the bore. The nose piece housing 18 is opened at its distal end 24 to enable insertion of a drill bit (not shown) into the opening and into the drill bit chuck 16 when removably securing the drill bit to the chuck.
[0028] The proximal end 26 of the nose piece housing 18 is connected to an air motor housing 28 . The air motor housing 28 has a hollow interior bore 32 that extends through the air motor housing and is coaxial with the apparatus center axis 14 . The air motor housing bore 32 communicates with the nose piece housing bore 22 through the connection between the air motor housing 28 and the nose piece housing 18 . A slot (not shown) is provided through the side of the air motor housing 28 to the interior bore 32 . The slot (not shown) extends axially along a portion of the length of the air motor housing bore 32 .
[0029] An air motor 34 is mounted in the air motor housing bore 32 for axial reciprocating movement of the air motor through the bore. The air motor 34 is operatively connected with the drill bit chuck 16 by a shaft 36 of the motor, represented schematically in FIG. 1 . The operative connection between the air motor 34 and the drill bit chuck 16 rotates the drill bit chuck in the nose piece housing bore 22 on operation of the air motor 34 . The operative connection between the air motor 34 and the drill bit chuck 16 also causes the drill bit chuck 16 to reciprocate axially through the nose piece housing bore 22 on axial reciprocation of the air motor 34 in the air motor housing bore 32 . The air motor 34 has an air pressure inlet 38 that extends through the air motor housing slot (not shown). The air pressure inlet 38 is connectable to a separate source of pneumatic pressure that is supplied to the air motor 34 to rotate the air motor shaft 36 , as is conventional.
[0030] A linear actuator housing 42 is connected to the air motor housing 28 . In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the linear actuator is a ball and lead screw linear actuator having a lead screw 44 that is operatively connected to the air motor 34 , represented schematically in FIG. 1 . The lead screw 44 and the linear actuator housing 42 are positioned coaxially with the apparatus center axis 14 . Operation of the linear actuator lead screw 44 moves the air motor 34 axially through the air motor housing bore 32 , and there moves the drill bit chuck 16 axially through the nose piece housing bore 22 .
[0031] An electric motor 46 is connected to the linear actuator housing 42 to operate the lead screw 44 of the linear actuator. In the preferred embodiment, the electric motor 46 is a hybrid stepper motor having a rotational axis that is coaxial with the apparatus center axis 14 . Selective operation of the electric motor 46 causes the lead screw 44 to move axially through the linear actuator housing 42 , which in turn cause the air motor 34 to move axially through the air motor housing 28 , which in turn causes the drill bit chuck 16 to move axially through the nose piece housing 18 .
[0032] An encoder 52 is connected to the housing of the electric motor 46 . In the preferred embodiment, the encoder 52 is an optical encoder. The encoder 52 monitors the rotary output of the electric motor 46 and produces signals representative of the degrees of rotation of the electric motor. The signals produced by the encoder 52 are also representative of the movements of the linear actuator 44 in the actuator housing 42 , the movements of the air motor 34 in the air motor housing 28 , and the movements of the drill bit chuck 16 in the nose piece housing 18 . Thus, the encoder produces signals that are also representative of the axial position of a tip of a drill bit mounted in the drill bit chuck 16 .
[0033] A sensor 54 is mounted on the side of the linear actuator housing 52 at a pre-determined position along the housing axial length. The sensor 52 is preferably a magnetic read switch. The lead screw 44 inside the linear actuator housing 42 is modified with a magnet (not shown), the position of which in the linear actuator housing 42 is sensed by the magnetic read switch sensor 54 . Thereby, the sensor 54 senses the position of the linear actuator lead screw 44 in the actuator housing 42 . In particular, the sensor 54 provides signals that are representative of the position of the lead screw 44 in the actuator housing 42 , and thereby provides an indication of the movement of the lead screw 44 to its fully set back position in the linear actuator housing 42 .
[0034] The stepper electric motor 46 , the optical encoder 52 , and the magnetic read switch 54 are all wired through flexible electrical conductors 56 to a programmable controller 58 . The programmable controller 58 is wired to a separate power source 62 . In the preferred embodiment, the power source 62 is a 30-volt, 4 amp power supply.
[0035] The controller 58 is programmable by connecting the controller to the serial port on a desktop computer (not shown). In the preferred embodiment the desktop computer would be running Si programmer software. A user of the apparatus writes a program using the desktop computer for the required motion profile of the apparatus, downloads the program to the controller 58 , tests the program, and then removes the power and disconnects the controller from the desktop computer. Activating the controller 58 will then automatically run the downloaded motion profile. The program for the motion profile can be written so that the controller 58 requires only the press of an activation button to start the motion profile. This would allow the operator of the apparatus to lock the apparatus into a drilling fixture prior to starting the drilling cycle. The controller 58 could also be programmed to stop at any point when an “interrupt” button is pressed. This gives the production operator full control over when the motion profile starts, and also provides the operator with the ability to stop the drilling cycle if something goes wrong.
[0036] The controller 58 is also programmed to go to the start position should the linear motion of the actuator 42 encounter more than a predetermined rated load. This is very useful for situations where a drill bit becomes broken during the process, and accumulation of material chips hinders the rotation of the drill bit, or the air motor 34 is not rotating as the drill bit chuck 16 is fed forward by the linear actuator 42 . As a result, even though the linear actuator 42 uses a mechanical lead screw, it is very difficult for anything to occur that would cause permanent damage to the actuator.
[0037] A separate programmable controller communicates with the electric motor, the optical encoder, and the sensor on the actuator housing. The controller is operative to control the operation of the electric motor based on information previously programmed into the controller and information provided by the signals produced by the optical encoder and the sensor. The programmable controller is designed so that a motion profile for the drilling operation to be performed by the apparatus can be programmed on a desk top computer and downloaded to the controller. The controller can then be activated by a push button operated by an individual monitoring the drilling operation of the apparatus. With the apparatus secured at a work station adjacent the object to be drilled, the operator activates the apparatus to execute a peck feed drill cycle or a drill/countersink cycle, according to the preprogrammed motion profile. The controller executes the motion profile by controlling the rotation of the air motor and electric motor, and the resulting rotation of the drill bit chuck and the linear movements of the linear actuator. The controller can execute the motion profile without being connected to an external computer, and the motion profile can be repeated any number of times desired as programmed. Exact feed rates, peck rates, set back distances, stroke lengths, and dwell times can be programmed into the motion profile programmed in the controller, and the controller will control the drilling cycle to repeat itself exactly time after time. The programmed motion profile cannot be changed by the operator, and crib setup personnel simply download the motion profile provided to them into the controller to control the operation of the apparatus. Thus, the apparatus of the invention provides very little chance for human or mechanical errors to occur in the drilling procedures.
[0038] The present invention greatly simplifies and improves the reliability of existing peck feed drilling and drill/countersink processes, and makes these processes more practical at manufacturing sights. The present invention provides significant improvements in the cost of manufacturing, the quality of the manufactured product, and the cycle time required for the manufacturing process. Thus, the apparatus of the invention represents an important evolutionary development in the field of portable power feed drilling.
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A portable drill apparatus combines an air motor that drives a drill chuck in rotation, a linear actuator that drives the air motor and the drill chuck in linear reciprocating movements, and an electric motor that operates the linear actuator. The drill chuck, air motor, linear actuator, and electric motor are all connected together, end to end, enabling the apparatus to be easily manually transported and positioned. A separate programmable controller communicates with the electro-pneumatic drill apparatus and controls the operation of the apparatus to perform peck feed drilling on layers of different materials, and power feed drilling to drill and countersink to controlled depths.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention pertains to an apparatus for managing heat in a computer environment or the like. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a method and apparatus for managing heat generated by electronic circuitry using a base plate and/or input/output plate with an integrated heat pipe.
2. Background Information
Electronic circuits, particularly integrated circuit (IC) chips, tend to generate an appreciable amount of heat during operation. If the heat is not sufficiently removed from the ambient area surrounding the IC chip, the electronic circuit therein may not operate properly. For example, specifications for a Pentium® processor (Intel Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif.) operating at 66 Megahertz (MHZ) provide a maximum temperature of 70° C. for the ambient air surrounding the processor. Thus, if the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the processor exceeds this maximum temperature, there exists a possibility that the processor will not operate correctly.
Referring to FIG. 1, a view of a laptop computer 10 is shown. Laptop computer 10 includes a screen 11 and a main chassis 12 . As is known in the art, the main chassis includes a keyboard component 13 having a support plate onto which is mounted a printed circuit board (PCB) and a plurality of keys. Under keyboard component 13 is another PCB 15 (sometimes referred to as a motherboard) which may include components such as one or more processors (e.g., a Pentium® processor), memory modules, and a variety of other electronic components. PCB 15 may be mounted to a base plate 17 extending over an area of a base 18 of laptop computer 10 . Laptop computer 10 also includes an Input/Output (I/O) plate 19 which is at a back end 20 of the computer 10 in this example. The I/O plate 19 includes a number of openings that house connections that may be coupled to any of a variety of peripheral devices (e.g., an external floppy drive, a docking station, etc.).
Certain components on PCB 15 (e.g., the processor) generate more heat than others. Some known methods for dissipating heat from the Pentium® processor set forth above are described in Application Note APA480 “Pentium® Processor Thermal Design Guidelines Rev. 2.0,” Nov. 1995 (see, e.g., Pentium® and Pentium® Pro Processors and Related Products, 1996, pp. 2-1337 to 2-1363 obtainable from McGraw-Hill Book Company). These methods include the placement of a heat sink on top of the processor and increasing air flow over the processor so that the ambient air (heated by the processor) may be removed. In a personal computer environment, the processor is typically coupled electrically to other devices on a PCB. These other devices also generate heat and employ the above identified heat removing methods to operate correctly.
Another device for removing heat from a component, such as a processor, is a heat pipe. A heat pipe typically has a round cross-section including two paths extending the length of the pipe. The heat pipe (e.g., an end of the heat pipe) is placed proximately to a component, such as a processor. Working fluid in the heat pipe (e.g., water) is heated at the component and vaporized. The vapor travels away from the component in a hollow, first path of the heat pipe (this first path typically has a relatively large cross-sectional area). Eventually, the vapor is cooled at another location in the heat pipe. For example, the vapor may be cooled over a heat sink device mentioned above. The vapor condenses to form working fluid and the working fluid travels back to the processor through a second path, sometimes referred to as a wick structure, via capillary action. Thus, the heat pipe continuously circulates working fluid and vapor to remove heat from the processor. Further details on the operation of heat pipes can be found in Handbook of Applied Thermal Design (1989, ed., Eric C. Guyer, pp. 7-50 to 7-58).
The use of devices for managing heat becomes very important in mobile computer systems, such as laptop computer 10 shown in FIG. 1 . Because of their small size, especially in height, there is generally insufficient space for air flow past components in a laptop computer. Base plate 17 is made of a metal such as steel or aluminum which tends to conduct the heat generated by components on PCB 15 to all areas of base plate 17 . Also, base plate 17 and I/O plate 19 may be combined into a single L-shaped plate 25 shown in FIG. 2 . Doing so expands the area for spreading the heat generated by PCB components. Due to the relatively poor thermal conductivity of these metals, thermal gradients do occur in the base plate, which in turn causes some sections of base plate 17 and/or I/O plate 19 to be warmer than others thus limiting the thermal capabilities.
Heat pipes, as described above, may be used to improve heat management in laptop computers having a base plate 17 and I/O plate 19 . The heat pipe is typically used to couple the heat of the processor to the base plate 17 . Doing so has at least two significant drawbacks. First, incorporating heat pipes into the computer structure increases manufacturing costs and complexity in that it is desirable for the heat-pipe to be precisely placed and attached to the PCB adding a number of manufacturing steps to laptop computer fabrication. Also, the heat pipe is attached to the PCB in different locations creating a situation where some areas on the PCB are hotter than others. These differences in temperature may be perceived by a user, and the efficiency of the heat removal system is reduced. Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus for improving heat management for electronic circuits, especially for laptop and notebook computers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One embodiment of an apparatus of the present invention provides a base plate in a computer system having an integrated heat pipe. Alternatively, in another embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention provides an I/O plate in a computer system having an integrated heat pipe. With a base plate or I/O plate constructed according to embodiments of the present invention, the thermal management of a computer system or the like is improved, allowing for a better distribution of heat over the areas of the base plate or I/O plate.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a view of a laptop computer as is known in the art.
FIG. 2 is a side view of a combined base plate and I/O plate as is known in the art
FIG. 3 is a view of a base plate constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a view of an I/O plate constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a view of a base plate and an I/O plate constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a side view of the base plate of FIG. 6 adjacent to a PCB.
FIG. 7 is a view of base plate constructed according to an another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the base plate of FIG. 7 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As described in further detail, herein, a base plate and an I/O plate with an integrated heat pipe are described for cooling components in a laptop computer environment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the base plate heat pipe and I/O base plate heat pipe may be used in a variety of other environments involving electronic circuits such as in personal computers, testing equipment, etc.
Referring to FIG. 3, a base plate 31 constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The base plate 31 includes one or more integrated heat pipes 33 . In this embodiment, a plurality of heat pipes 33 are provided, arranged in a parallel configuration, although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect. Heat pipes 33 are separated by sidewalls 35 and each heat pipe 33 is sealed so as to contain a vaporizable liquid which serves as the working fluid for the heat pipe. In operation in this embodiment, a heat pipe draws vaporized fluid away from a heat source (the evaporator region of the heat pipe) to a condenser region of the heat pipe. Each heat pipe 33 includes a wick structure (not shown), which by means of capillary flow, transports the condensed liquid from the condenser region back into the evaporator region of the heat pipe. The wick structure may include a wire mesh or grooves along the heat pipe walls, or any other porous member. Each heat pipe 33 can be made from a thermally conductive and rigid material such as aluminum or copper, although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect. Base plate 31 may be placed adjacent to a PCB (as described below with reference to FIG. 6) and may include a hole 37 for insertion of one or more IC chips into the PCB.
Referring to FIG. 4, an I/O plate 41 constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As with base plate 31 of FIG. 3, the I/O plate is formed with an integrated heat pipe. I/O plate 41 includes a number of openings 43 for the appropriate connector structure (not specifically shown in FIG. 4) that connects components in the laptop computer 10 (see FIG. 1) with any of a variety of peripheral devices. In this embodiment, a single heat pipe structure 45 is provided that extends around the periphery of I/O plate 41 and extends between connectors 43 . One skilled in the art will appreciate that heat pipe structure 45 may be modified so as to be customized to meet laptop computer design features.
In FIGS. 3 and 4, base plate heat pipe 31 and I/O plate heat pipe 41 are shown as separate components. These components may be thermally coupled together (e.g., using a standard heat pipe as is known in the art). Referring to FIG. 5, a combined base plate-I/O plate heat pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Combined base plate-I/O plate heat pipe 51 comprises a unitary structure and extends adjacent to and under the PCB. This unitary structure 51 may include a hole 53 for the insertion of ICs into the PCB (the PCB is discussed below with reference to FIG. 6 ). Combined base plate-I/O plate heat pipe 51 comprises an integrated heat pipe structure 55 . In this embodiment, structure 55 includes more than one heat pipe (e.g., element 55 a ) that extends in parallel along the base plate portion of combined structure 51 and extends up a face of the I/O plate portion of the combined structure 51 . Structure 55 may also include element 55 b in the I/O plate portion of the combined structure 51 (as described above with respect to FIG. 4 ). All of the heat pipes of structure 55 may be coupled together so that heat from one portion of the structure may be effectively distributed throughout the base plate and I/O plates of structure 55 , although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect.
Referring to FIG. 6, a side view of the combined base plate-I/O plate heat pipe 51 of FIG. 5 is shown. The combined plate heat pipe is shown coupled adjacent to and beneath a PCB 62 , which encompasses an electronic circuit including IC chips 63 , 64 . In this embodiment, IC chip 63 is a processor, although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect. Referring back to FIGS. 3 and 5, the hole 37 , 53 in the base plate portion of the heat pipe plate may be placed in the location of a processor to allow easy insertion thereof on PCB 62 . Heat pipe plate 51 may be coupled to the PCB 62 or to the chassis of a laptop computer 100 by any of a variety of fastening techniques such as screws. The design of heat pipe plate 51 may be modified by providing a projection portion 65 which extends toward a heat producing component, such as processor 63 . Such a projection portion 65 reduces the possibility of a warm spot appearing in the chassis 100 in the area near processor 63 . The projection portion 65 may be thermally coupled to processor 63 via a standard heat pipe as is known in the art or through conductive grease or the like (not shown).
Using a base plate or I/O plate with an integrated heat pipe results in improved thermal conductivity for these components. For example, a steel or aluminum base plate that is not made with an integrated heat pipe has a thermal conductivity of 16-50 and 80-200 W/m-K, respectively. A base plate constructed according to an embodiment of the present invention has a thermal conductivity over 10,000 W/m-K. This improved thermal conductivity allows a base plate and/or I/O plate of an embodiment of the present invention to effectively distribute heat generated in a laptop computer or the like. In an embodiment of the present invention, heat tends to be evenly distributed (e.g., isothermal), thus reducing areas of the base plate and/or I/O plate that are excessively warm.
In addition to thermal efficiency, the base and I/O plates of an embodiment of the present invention have a low weight, are mechanically rigid, and are cost efficient. As described above, the base plate or I/O plate may be integrated with a plurality of parallel, round heat pipes as shown in FIG. 3 . An alternative structure for the base and I/O plates is shown in FIGS. 4, 5 , and 7 . Referring to FIG. 7, a base plate 71 is shown including two thin metal plates 72 and 73 that are joined by a roll pressing process. The base plate 71 may be made by first stamping, milling or otherwise forming one or more heat pipe channels 74 within one, or both, of metal plates 72 and 73 . Channels 74 may include a wicking structure such as grooves within the channel that are formed during the stamping or milling process. Alternatively, a metal mesh or other porous member may be attached to the walls of channels 74 . Once plates 72 and 73 have been joined and sealed, channels 74 are evacuated and then charged with a working fluid. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, channels 74 radiate from area 76 . Placing area 76 close to an IC chip (e.g., a processor) may result in an improved distribution of heat generated by the IC chip.
Referring to FIG. 8, a cross-sectional view of the base plate 71 of FIG. 7 along line A—A is shown. In this example, each channel 74 includes grooves 75 that extend along a channel's length although the invention is not limited in scope in this respect. As described above, the grooves 75 may serve as a wicking structure in the channel 74 .
Although several embodiments are specifically illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that modifications and variations of the present invention are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention. For example, the base plate and/or I/O plates described herein with integrated heat pipes may be substantially planar or may have other shapes as needed to improve heat management in conjunction with electronic circuitry or the like.
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To manage heat in a computer environment or the like, a base plate and/or a input/output (I/O) plate includes an integrated heat pipe. For example, the base plate, located between a bottom surface of a laptop computer chassis and a printed circuit board (PCB) or motherboard would include a heat-pipe network that draws heat away from the heat generating components of the PCB (e.g., a processor) and distributes the heat over the base plate. The I/O plate may also serve the same purpose, located at an end of the PCB. The base plate heat pipe and I/O plate heat pipe are thermally coupled together or are of a unitary design so as to distribute the heat generated in the laptop computer over a larger area achieving a relatively low-temperature isothermal design.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is related to co-pending applications entitled “ELECTRON DENSITY MEASUREMENT AND PLASMA PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEM USING A MICROWAVE OSCILLATOR LOCKED TO AN OPEN RESONATOR CONTAINING THE PLASMA,” Ser. No. 60/144,878 and “ELECTRON DENSITY MEASUREMENT AND PLASMA PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEM USING A MICROWAVE OSCILLATOR LOCKED TO AN OPEN RESONATOR CONTAINING THE PLASMA,” Ser. No. 60/144,880 both of which have been filed concurrently herewith. Both of those applications are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention provides a method and system for measuring and controlling electron densities in a plasma processing system, such as is used in semiconductor processing systems.
2. Description of the Background
Known microwave-based techniques for determining plasma electron densities include: (1) microwave interferometry, (2) measurement of reflection and absorption, and (3) perturbation of cavity resonant frequencies. Microwave interferometry involves the determination of the phase difference between two microwave beams. The first beam provides a reference signal, and the second beam passes through a reactive environment and undergoes a phase shift relative to the first beam. The index of refraction is calculated from the measured change in the phase difference between the two beams. The interferometric technique has been document by Professor L. Goldstein of the University of Illinois at Urbana. Interferometry is described in the following U.S. Pat. Nos.: 2,971,153; 3,265,967; 3,388,327; 3,416,077; 3,439,266; 3,474,336; 3,490,037; 3,509,452; and 3,956,695, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Examples of other non-patent literature describing interferometry techniques include: (1) “A Microwave Interferometer for Density Measurement Stabilization in Process Plasmas,” by Pearson et al., Materials Research Society Symposium Proceedings, Vol. 117 (Eds. Hays et al.), 1988, pgs. 311-317, and (2) “1-millimeter wave interferometer for the measurement of line integral electron density on TFTR,” by Efthimion et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 56 (5), May 1985, pgs. 908-910. Some plasma properties may be indirectly determined from measurements of the absorption of a microwave beam as it traverses a region in which a plasma is present. Signal reflections in plasmas are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,599,089 and 3,383,509.
Plasma electron densities have also been measured using a technique which measures the perturbations of cavity resonant frequencies. The presence of a plasma within a resonator affects the frequency of each resonant mode because the plasma has an effective dielectric constant that depends on plasma electron density. This technique has been documented by Professor S. C. Brown of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Portions of this technique are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,952,246 and in the following non-patent articles: (1) Haverlag, M., et al., J. Appl Phys 70 (7) 3472-80 (1991): Measurements of negative ion densities in 13.56 MHZ RF plasma of CF 4 , C 2 F 6 . CHF 3 , and C 3 F 8 using microwave resonance and the photodetachment effect; and (2) Haverlag, M., et al., Materials Science Forum, vol. 140-142, 235-54 (1993): Negatively charged particles in fluorocarbon RF etch plasma: Density measurements using microwave resonance and the photodetachment effect.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a more accurate plasma measuring system than the prior art.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved plasma measuring system using plasma induced changes in the frequencies of an open resonator.
These and other objects of the present invention are achieved using a voltage-controlled programmable frequency source that sequentially excites a number of the resonant modes of an open resonator placed within the plasma processing apparatus. The resonant frequencies of the resonant modes depend on the plasma electron density in the space between the reflectors of the open resonator. The apparatus automatically determines the increase in the resonant frequency of an arbitrarily chosen resonant mode of the open resonator due to the introduction of a plasma and compares that measured frequency to data previously entered. The comparison is by any one of (1) dedicated circuitry, (2) a digital signal processor, and (3) a specially programmed general purpose computer. The comparator calculates a control signal which is used to modify the power output of the plasma generator as necessary to achieve the desired plasma electron density.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will become readily apparent with reference to the following detailed description, particularly when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a computer system for implementing the measurement and control of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a graph of the sequential excitation of the modes of an open resonator by the sweep of the frequency of the programmable frequency source while the resonant frequencies of the modes are being shifted due to the formation of the plasma;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a circuit for measuring and controlling plasma electron density according to the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a graph that is similar to FIG. 2 , but without the presence of the plasma shifting the resonances to higher frequencies;
FIGS. 5A and 5B are graphs that illustrate the problems with a non-monotonic change in the plasma electron density; and
FIG. 6 is a graph of the sequential excitation of the modes of an open resonator by sweeping the frequency of the programmable frequency source a number of times in series while the resonant frequencies of the modes are being shifted due to the formation of the plasma.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a measurement and control system, according to the present invention, for a plasma processing system. In this embodiment, a computer 100 implements the method of the present invention, wherein the computer housing 102 houses a motherboard 104 which contains a CPU 106 , memory 108 (e.g., DRAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, SRAM and Flash RAM), and other optional special purpose logic devices (e.g., ASICs) or configurable logic devices (e.g., GAL and reprogrammable FPGA). The computer 100 also includes plural input devices, (e.g., a keyboard 122 and mouse 124 ), and a display card 110 for controlling monitor 120 . In addition, the computer system 100 further includes a floppy disk drive 114 ; other removable media devices (e.g., compact disc 119 , tape, and removable magneto-optical media (not shown)); and a hard disk 112 , or other fixed, high density media drives, connected using an appropriate device bus (e.g., a SCSI bus, an Enhanced IDE bus, or an Ultra DMA bus). Also connected to the same device bus or another device bus, the computer 100 may additionally include a compact disc reader 118 , a compact disc reader/writer unit (not shown) or a compact disc jukebox (not shown). Although compact disc 119 is shown in a CD caddy, the compact disc 119 can be inserted directly into CD-ROM drives which do not require caddies. In addition, a printer (not shown) also provides printed listings of frequency graphs showing resonant frequencies of the open resonator.
As stated above, the system includes at least one computer readable medium. Examples of computer readable media are compact discs 119 , hard disks 112 , floppy disks, tape, magneto-optical disks, PROMs (EPROM, EEPROM, Flash EPROM), DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc. Stored on any one or on a combination of computer readable media, the present invention includes software for controlling both the hardware of the computer 100 and for enabling the computer 100 to interact with a human user. Such software may include, but is not limited to, device drivers, operating systems and user applications, such as development tools. Such computer readable media further include the computer program product of the present invention for controlling a plasma processing system. The computer code devices of the present invention can be any interpreted or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpreters, dynamic link libraries, Java classes, and complete executable programs.
In an alternate embodiment, the computer 100 includes a digital signal processor (not shown) for performing signal processing on received inputs. In yet another alternate embodiment, the CPU 106 is programmed with software to perform digital signal processing routines analogous to the Internal operation of a DSP. In a further embodiment, the computer 100 is replaced by a DSP and memory (e.g., on a printed circuit board) for performing the operations of the computer described herein. Likewise, the functions of the DSP may be replaced by dedicated analog and/or digital circuitry for performing the operations described herein.
As shown in FIG. 3 , the computer 100 is programmed to measure a plasma electron density and control a programmable frequency source (PFS) 201 . One embodiment of a programmable frequency source includes a D/A converter coupled to a voltage-controlled frequency modulated microwave oscillator. However, the frequencies applied by the programmable frequency source 201 depend on the behavior of the resonant frequencies of the open resonator modes as the plasma is established by the plasma generator 320 . For purposes of the description of FIG. 2 , it is assumed that the plasma electron density increases monotonically from its initial value to its final value (e.g., 2×10 12 cm −3 ). As a non-limiting example, it is also assumed that the mode spacing in the empty (i.e., evacuated) resonator 305 is approximately c/2d=500 MHZ, where c is the speed of light in vacuum and d is the reflector spacing, i.e., the spacing between the reflectors. As shown in FIG. 2 , the mode spacing with the plasma present is c/(2nd), where n is the index of refraction. If the index of refraction is not uniform as a function of position, n may be replaced by <n>, its mean value along an appropriate path between the reflectors. The spacing is not quite uniform because the index of refraction depends very slightly on the frequency as well as on the plasma electron density and spurious sources of phase shift associated with the coupling apertures.
To control the plasma processing system, the system determines a final operating frequency at which the system is to operate to establish and maintain a desired plasma electron density. The final operating frequency is determined as follows. At the time T 0 , just as the plasma begins to form, the computer 100 sets the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 to a predetermined maximum frequency, f max (e.g., 38.75 GHz). The computer 100 then decreases the frequency with respect to time (e.g., by changing a digital control signal output by the computer 100 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the decrease is linear, but in practice, the decrease can be either linear or non-linear, but in either case, it should be repeatable and thus predicatable. The frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is decreased until it reaches a minimum frequency, f min , (e.g., 36.75 GHz) at the time T 1 , which is just after the plasma has essentially attained its steady-state density 2×10 12 cm −3 . The selection of the frequencies f max and f min are somewhat arbitrary. They are chosen in the microwave spectrum and about a nominal frequency convenient for microwave apparatus, i.e., ˜35 GHz. If the maximum frequency has been arbitrarily chosen to be 38.75 Ghz, then choosing f min to be 36.75 Ghz is such that eight resonant modes are observed over the frequency range f min <f<f max in the resonant cavity without a plasma. The minimum number of modes scanned is determined by (1) the method of sweeping the frequency (with linear or non-linear changes) with time and (2) the time over which the frequency is swept. Furthermore, the microwave apparatus can have a range within which it may be varied (limited by hardware constraints). The time over which the frequency is swept should be greater than the plasma adjustment period (formation time T 1 −T 0 ) to give meaningful results. The sweep time scale includes the decreasing and increasing sweeps. In a first embodiment, R is assumed that the plasma electron density between times T 0 and T 1 is monotonically increasing so that number of modes passed while increasing or decreasing the sweeping frequency is counted property.
Generally, the resonances are indicated by a greatly enhanced value of the transmitted microwave energy and are counted as the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is decreased over the defined range. Likewise, when increasing the frequency from the programmable frequency source 201 over the defined range, the modes are counted and correlated with the modes counted during the decrease. During the decrease in frequency, the system detects the appearance of resonant frequencies in the open resonator and records the frequencies of the oscillator which produced the resonant frequencies. FIG. 2 is a graph of the sequential excitation of the modes of an open resonator by the sweep of the frequency of the programmable frequency source while the resonant frequencies of the modes are being shifted due to the formation of the plasma. In the example of FIG. 2 , eight resonances of the open resonator are excited as the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 decreases from its maximum frequency, f max , to its minimum frequency, f min .
Having decreased the programmable frequency source 201 to its minimum frequency, the system then increases the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 with respect to time until, at the time T 2 , the frequency again reaches the maximum frequency, f max . As during the decrease, resonant frequencies are detected and recorded, and the increase may either be linear, as shown in FIG. 2 , or non-linear with respect to time. The time between T 1 and T 2 is called the retrace time. During the retrace time of FIG. 2 , four resonant frequencies of the open resonator are excited. The system determines the difference between the number of resonant frequencies during the decrease and the increase. This difference is the integer part of a characteristic called the fringe order. In the example of FIG. 2 , the difference is four.
The fractional part of the fringe order is obtained in part from the difference between (a) the frequency, f final , of the final resonant frequency excited (e.g., f final =38.644 GHz in FIG. 2 ) and (b) the highest resonant frequency of the empty open resonator that is also less than f final . In this case, that frequency, f open , is 38.500 GHz, and is determined by performing a calibration, run apriori to determine the mode spacing and the frequencies of the resonant modes. Calibration is done when no plasma is present within the chamber. This is an accurate measurement and check of the mode spacing given by c/2d and the resonant frequencies present when there exists no plasma (i.e., f(q)=(c/2d)(q+½)). The difference is divided by the mode spacing of the empty open resonator (e.g., 0.5 GHz). Thus, the fractional part of the fringe order is given by:
f final - f open mode spacing = 38.644 - 38.5 0.5 = 0.288
The entire fringe order is then 4.288, and the frequency shift of the mode is 4.288×(mode spacing)=4.288×0.500 GHz =2.144 GHz.
Just as the system calculates the open resonant frequency, f open , below the final frequency, f final , the system also determines the open resonator frequency, f omin , just below the minimum frequency, f min . The value of the index of refraction in the steady-state condition is then calculated according to:
f omin f final = 36.5 38.644 = 0.945 .
A more concrete example is explained hereafter with reference to FIG. 2 . Starting from a point on the mode characteristic for which the resonant frequency is 38.644 GHz (near the right side of FIG. 2 ) an imaginary line is drawn down to the dashed horizontal line at 38.500 GHz. This drop corresponds to a frequency change of 0.144 GHz. Then, when moving to the left to the axis of ordinates along the 38.500 GHz line, there is a drop of four mode spaces of the empty open resonator, i.e., 4×0.500 GHz =2.000 GHz, to reach 36.500 GHz. Note that 36.500 GHz is the starting resonant frequency of the mode characteristic that ends with a resonant frequency of 38.644 GHz. It should be noted that a one-to-one correspondence exists between the frequency vs. time plot of FIG. 2 and a plot of the voltage controlling the programmable frequency source 201 vs. time. Thus, it is quite reasonable to interpolate between the several curves in the manner described herein.
In an alternate embodiment, if the plasma electron density does not increase monotonically during the period when the plasma forms, the procedure described above is modified. The decrease in the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 during the time period between T 0 and T 1 must be controlled in such a way that no mode of the open resonator is excited more than once. Likewise, during the retrace time between T 1 and T 2 , the increase in the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is controlled so that no mode of the open resonator is excited more than once. FIGS. 5A and 5B Illustrate non-monotonically changing curves which are analyzed differently than the monotonically changing curves. FIG. 5A illustrates that it is improper to count the same mode more than once. Likewise, FIG. 5B shows it is improper to count a mode during the increase of the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 that was not counted during the decrease of the swept frequency.
A first technique to assure that no mode is counted more than once while the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is decreasing or more than once while the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is increasing depends on the relationship between the slope of the open resonator mode frequency characteristics, df orm /dt, and the slope of the frequency characteristic, df PFS /dt, where t is the time, of the programmable frequency source 201 . FIG. 2 illustrates the significance of the times to which references are made below.
T 0 <t<T. The slope of the PFS frequency characteristic, df PFS /dt is to be more negative than the most negative value of the slope of any open resonator mode frequency characteristic, df orm /dt, which it intersects.
T 1 <t<T 2 . The slope of the PFS frequency characteristic, df PFS /dt, is to be more positive than the most positive value of the slope of any open resonator mode frequency characteristic, df orm /dt, which it intersects.
As indicated in FIG. 2 , ft is presumed that the steady-state condition has been attained by the time T 1 .
It is well known that the index of refraction n and the plasma electron density N may be related to one another by the following approximate formula:
n = 1 - Ne 2 ɛ 0 m ( 2 π f ) 2 = 1 - ( f p f ) 2 ,
where e is the magnitude of the charge of an electron, m is the mass of an electron, ε o , is the permittivity of free space, and f p is the plasma frequency. If the equation:
( f p f ) 2 ∈ 1
also is true, which it is in the example, it follows that:
n = 1 - e 2 8 π 2 ɛ 0 mf 2 N
and
N = 8 π 2 ɛ 0 mf 2 e 2 ( 1 - n ) .
As discussed above, if the index of refraction is not uniform as a function of position, n may be replaced by <n>, its mean value along an appropriate path between the reflectors, and N becomes <N>, its corresponding mean value.
Returning now to the description of FIG. 3 , FIG. 3 shows the computer of FIG. 1 as part of the overall plasma processing system. The frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is controlled by the computer 100 by varying a digital output signal applied to the programmable frequency source 201 . (In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the programmable frequency source 201 receives an analog input, in which case the computer 100 includes or is connected to a digital-to-analog convertor for providing the analog signal to the programmable frequency source 201 .) The PFS 201 is connected to an isolator 210 a which isolates the programmable frequency source 201 from the plasma chamber 300 . The isolator 210 a couples an output signal through an iris 310 b of an open resonator 305 contained with the plasma chamber 300 . The signal reflected back through the iris 310 a is coupled to a peak detector 260 .
During operation of one embodiment, the computer 100 samples time-dependent inputs from the plasma chamber 300 , the plasma generator 320 , and a counter 250 . (In an alternate embodiment, the counter 250 is moved internal to the computer 100 and the computer uses the output of the peak detector 260 to detect peaks directly—e.g., using interrupts.) Between time T 0 and time T 1 , each time a resonance frequency of the open resonator 305 is excited, a peak in the reflected microwave signal of the open resonator 305 is detected. This peak increases a count of the counter 250 which counts a number of peaks since the last reset signal. Thus, as the frequency of the PFS 201 decreases, the number of modes excited is counted and stored, either in the counter 250 or in the computer 100 . For the graph shown in FIG. 2 , the count would be eight. After the time T 1 , when the PFS frequency begins to Increase, the count of the number of resonances as the frequency of the PFS increases is made. For the graph shown in FIG. 2 , the count would be four. When the PFS has returned to its maximum frequency, f max (e.g., 38.75 GHz In FIG. 2 ), the computer 100 begins a search procedure with the aid of the peak detector 280 to return to the final resonance detected. The computer 100 then locks on to f final with the aid of the peak detector 260 and appropriate software. The frequency f final is measured and stored.
Having determined the number of detected resonance frequencies detected between T 0 and T 1 and between T 1 and T 2 , the computer 100 calculates the fringe order (e.g., 4.288). In order to calculate the corresponding frequency shift, however, the computer 100 also needs the frequency difference between adjacent modes for the empty open resonator, i.e., the mode spacing.
The mode spacing is obtained in advance during a calibration process that is similar to the procedure by which the fringe order was obtained. FIG. 4 , which is similar to FIG. 2 , depicts, for the resonance frequencies in an empty open resonator, the modal characteristics which are horizontal and spaced 500 MHz apart for the example considered herein. At the time T 0 , the frequency of the PFS 201 is decreased and then, at the time T 1 , the frequency begins to return to its steady-state value. In this case, however, the computer 100 (1) counts the number of modes excited as the frequency decreases, (2) locks on to the first mode detected, and (3) records the locked frequency. After the frequency has started to increase, the computer 100 searches for and locks on to the final resonance frequency detected with the aid of the peak detector 260 and appropriate software. The computer 100 also measures and stores the final resonance frequency detected.
Based on the data collected during the calibration process and the data sampled during operation, the computer 100 calculates the mode spacings for the empty open resonator 305 and the frequency associated with each resonance for frequencies of interest here.
A more detailed description of the sequence of operations of the apparatus is described below.
(1) As on optional preliminary step, an equipment operator may elect to monitor that the programmable frequency source is operating within specifications. However, if the operator is confident that the system is operating correctly, this step can be omitted.
(2) The equipment operator then selects the operating parameters under which the plasma chamber 300 is to operate. The parameter and the sequence of operation are selected via a data input device (e.g., keyboard 122 , mouse 124 , or other control panel). The parameters include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a desired plasma electron density, a desired index of refraction, the process duration, and the gas to be used.
(3) After having entered all required data, the operator initiates the process through a data input device.
(4) The computer 100 controls the calibration of the empty open resonator as described above.
(5) The computer 100 controls ignition of a plasma in the open resonator 305 . As the plasma forms, the computer 100 evaluates (1) inputs (e.g., reflected power) sent to it from the plasma generator 320 and (2) Inputs (e.g., optical emissions) sent to it from the plasma chamber 300 . The computer 100 controls the frequency of the PFS 201 as described above with reference to FIG. 2 .
(6) The computer 100 calculates the fringe order.
(7) The computer 100 calculates the index of refraction n or <n>.
(8) The computer 100 calculates the plasma electron density N or <N>.
(9) The computer 100 compares the measured/calculated plasma electron density with the value previously entered by the operator at the operator entry port.
(10) The computer 100 sends a control signal to the plasma generator 320 to change its output as necessary to maintain the desired plasma electron density.
(11) The computer 100 repeats steps (6)-(10) throughout the process to keep the plasma electron density at the desired level.
In addition to the above uses, the system must also accommodate an operators desire to return the system to another state at an arbitrary time. For example, the equipment operator may determine that the electron (plasma) concentration is not optimum for the intended purpose and may want to adjust the concentration. The procedure to be followed will depend on the technique used to track open resonator modes during start-up. The operator enters, by means of a control console (either local or remote), the value of the desired end parameter (mean index of refraction, electron density, etc., depending on the design of the control console) to be modified.
Although the above description was given assuming a simplified frequency response during plasma initiation, such a response may not occur. A second technique assures that no mode is counted more than once while the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is decreasing or more than once while the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is increasing. The second technique is similar to the first technique described above but uses a different sweeping technique. The frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 is decreased and increased sequentially a number of times during the time from T 0 to T 2 , as shown in FIG. 6 . The sweep can be either periodic or aperiodic. The dependence of the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 on time is such that the slope of the frequency characteristic satisfies criteria analogous to those enumerated above for the first technique. That is, when the slope of the frequency characteristic, df PFS /dt, is negative, it is to be more negative than the most negative value of the slope of any open resonator mode frequency characteristic, df orm /dt, which it intersects. Likewise, when the slope of the frequency characteristic, df PFS ,/dt, is positive, it is to be more positive than the most positive value of the slope of any open resonator mode frequency characteristic, df orm /dt, which it intersects. These slope conditions are, in general, more easily satisfied in this second technique than in the first, because the time increments during which the frequency of the programmable frequency source 201 decreases or increases are only a small fraction of the time interval between T 0 and T 2 .
In this second technique the modes are counted as in the first technique but for the entire sequence of frequency sweeps. After the steady-state plasma electron density has been attained, the fractional part of the fringe order is determined as described previously for a monotonically increasing plasma electron density.
A third technique employs a frequency-time characteristic of the programmable frequency source 201 such that during start-up no mode is excited in the open resonator in the time interval between T 0 and T 2 , as shown in FIG. 2 . Such a frequency-time characteristic corresponds to no mode shift; i.e., the integer part of the fringe order is zero and need not be considered further. The fractional part of the fringe order can be determined as described previously for a monotonically increasing plasma electron density.
The implementation of this technique requires that the computer 100 be programmed to provide a suitable frequency-time characteristic. An appropriate program can be determined empirically by examining the mode excitations during start-up and changing the program to eliminate them one-by-one, starting with the one first excited after start-up begins.
If the equipment uses the first or second technique to identify mode changes as described above, the PFS sweep is reinitiated and the calibration data and start-up mode data stored in the computer from the immediately preceding start-up are used by the computer to calculate the consequent end parameter change. Such an end parameter may, for example, correspond to an plasma electron density. The computer starts the PFS sweep immediately before it begins to respond to the changed input data. The amount of lead time depends on the various response times of the equipment
Using the techniques described above, the system can track mode changes generally using a PFS sweep. The system thus determines both the integer and fractional part of any consequent fringe change.
The accuracy of this procedure is limited by the accuracy with which the frequencies involved in the calculations can be measured. The system essentially calculates the index of refraction n or <n> from the differences of measured frequencies, and these may be difficult to measure with an accuracy better than 0.05%. If this is the case, the index of refraction may be accurate only to about 0.10%, because it is calculated from the ratio of two measured frequencies. Assuming that the index of refraction for a particular case is actually 0.93 (which corresponds to a plasma electron density on the order of 1×10 12 cm −3 ), the measured value might be expected to lie between 0.929 and 0.931. The plasma electron density is proportional to (1−n) which lies between 0.069 and 0.071 for the example of FIG. 2 . Thus, the accuracy with which the plasma electron density may be determined is on the order of 0.001/0.070=1.4%.
As would be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art, the greater the number of modes swept without a plasma, the better the resolution and robustness of the system.
Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.
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A system for measuring plasma electron densities (e.g., in the range of 1010 to 1012 cm−3) and for controlling a plasma generator. Measurement of the plasma electron density is used as part of a feedback control in plasma-assisted processes, such as depositions or etches. Both the plasma measurement method and system generate a control voltage that in turn controls the plasma generator. A programmable frequency source sequentially excites a number of the resonant modes of an open resonator placed within the plasma processing apparatus. The resonant frequencies of the resonant modes depend on the plasma electron density in the space between the reflectors of the open resonator. The apparatus automatically determines the increase in the resonant frequency of an arbitrarily chosen resonant mode of the open resonator due to the introduction of a plasma and compares that measured frequency to data previously entered. The comparison is by any one of (1) dedicated circuitry, (2) a digital signal processor, and (3) a specially programmed general purpose computer. The comparator calculates a control signal which is used to modify the power output of the plasma generator as necessary to achieve the desired plasma electron density.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a panel-shaped building element.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A composite element is known from DE 1 484 322 A1 which is composed of a folded-plate structure and heat insulation located on either side in the form of a plastic foam foamed into the corrugations between the legs of the folded-plate structure. The two large surfaces of the known building element are covered with a lining of cover foils.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The object of the invention is to make available, proceeding from DE 1 484 322 A1, a simplified structure of a building element, which can be used as a ceiling, wall, floor or roof element.
It is advantageous in the building element as claimed in the invention that by the corresponding selection of the shape of the folded-plate structure and optionally by the attachment of planks on one or both sides it can be matched easily and without abandoning the principle as claimed in the invention to the respective application.
The plastic foams which can be used within the framework of the invention are not limited to polyurethane or polystyrene plastics, but other foam plastics can be used to advantage, for example, those based on vegetable (rapeseed) oil.
It is especially advantageous that the folded-plate structure provided in the building component as claimed in the invention is provided with openings (holes of any shape), since then the plastic foam provided on either side of the folded-plate structure is integral over its parts which extend through the openings so that the support function of the plastic foam is increased. For openings in the folded-plate structure there is also the advantage that the plastic to be foamed in the production of the building element as claimed in the invention need be located only on one side of the folded-plate structure, and still completely fills the other side of the folded-plate structure under the action of the foaming pressure.
Other details and advantages of the panel-shaped building element as claimed in the invention follow from the description below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1 through 4 show different embodiments of the building panel in cross section.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
In the embodiment of panel-shaped building element 1 as claimed in the invention (building panel), folded-plate structure 2 of wood fiber or particle material are provided with corrugations 6 and with planks 4 located on both sides. The cavities between planks 4 and branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2 which proceed from corrugations 6 are completely filled with plastic foam.
In this case plastic foam 7 which for example is a polyurethane or a polystyrene foam, is foamed into the cavities so that it not only fills the cavities, but also acts as an adhesive which fixes planks 4 to folded-plate structure 2 so that uniform, stable building panel 1 results.
Openings (holes) can be provided in branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2 so that plastic foam 7 can extend in one piece through folded-plate structure 2 and thus the strength of building panel 1 is increased.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 corrugations 6 of folded-plate structure 2 do not extend as far as inner surfaces 5 of planks 4.
FIG. 2 shows an embodiment in which building panel 1 is made without planks 4. This embodiment is produced in a mold and has smooth outer surfaces 9 which are provided directly with a surface treatment, for example, they can be papered, painted and/or plastered. Outer surfaces 9 can however also be made with a structure matched to the surface treatment (grooved, burled, etc.).
The embodiment of building panel 1 which is shown in FIG. 3 has a construction similar to FIGS. 1 and 2, here branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2 being made from wooden boards which are joined to one another in the area of corrugations 6.
In the embodiment of building element 1 (building panel) shown in FIG. 4, folded-plate structure 2 is a corrugated sheet (for example, raw, galvanized or otherwise surface-treated steel sheet) which has openings 15, and its corrugated shape is made trapezoidal. There is an embodiment with bilateral planks 4, an embodiment with only unilateral planks 4, or an embodiment without planks (FIG. 4).
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, sections 14 which run parallel to the plane of building panel 1 are located at a distance from outer surfaces 9 of building panel 1 so that they are covered externally by plastic foam (polyurethane or polystyrene foam).
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2 which lie on narrow sides 10 is angled to the inside and run parallel to the plane of building panel 1 so that ends 16 of the sheet are securely held in building panel 1.
The cavities between branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2 are completely filled with plastic foam.
It is common to the embodiments of building panel 1 as claimed in the invention which are shown in FIGS. 1 through 4 that narrow sides 10 of building panel 1 which extend perpendicular to the plane of the figure are profiled diametrically opposed, so that building panels 1--also with different structure--can be connected to one another without joints, for example by cementing. The design of narrow sides 10 is composed of inclined surface 11 and two sections 12 perpendicular to the plane of building panel 1. Here it is preferred that inclined surfaces 11 are formed by the outer surface of edge-side branch 8 of folded-plate structure 2. Sections 12 can be formed by the side edges of planks 4 (FIG. 1). In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, the corresponding shape of the mold in which building panel 1 is produced provides for the fact that on narrow sides 10 of building panel 1 there are sections 12 which run perpendicular thereto and which are joined to one another by inclined surface 11.
In summary one embodiment of the invention can be described as follows by way of example:
Building panel 1 has folded-plate structure 2 of perforated sheet 15 which is corrugated in a trapezoidal shape, the corrugations of sheet 15 being filled with plastic foam 7 which is foamed into the corrugations. Narrow sides 10 of building panel 1 which run parallel to the corrugations are profiled diametrically opposed and are formed by end branches 8 of folded-plate structure 2. Building panel 1 can be provided on one or two sides with planks 4, or there is building panel 1 for direct surface treatment, for example, by papering or plastering. Because foam 7 is foamed into the corrugations of perforated folded-plate structure 2, high strength of building panel 1 is achieved, and planks 4 provided at best are held stationary by the plastic foam. Foam 7 can extend through folded-plate structure 2 through openings 15 in the sheet which forms folded-plate structure 2, and an increased strength of building panel 1 is achieved. Narrow sides 10 of building panel 1 are profiled diametrically opposed so that building panels 1 can be located next to one another without joints.
It is advantageous in building panel 1 that it does not act as a (latent) heat store so that the spaces bordered by the building panels as claimed in the invention can be heated or cooled quickly with low energy cost.
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A building panel with a folded-plate structure made of perforated, trapezoidally corrugated sheet metal, plastic foam being attached into the corrugations so as to fill them, narrow sides of the building panel run parallel to the corrugations and have diametrically opposed profiles and are formed by N branches of the folded-plate structure.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a yarn feed roller assembly for a tufting machine, and also to a method of controlling the pile height of individual stitches in a tufting machine.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,182,997 discloses a yarn feed roller assembly with two longitudinally extending drive rollers, each of which is rotated at a different speed. Associated with each end of yarn is a pivotal arm having a pair of yarn feed wheels each associated with a respective drive roller. A control mechanism is arranged to move the pivotal arm to bring one or other of the feed wheels into contact with a corresponding drive roller so that the yarn is driven by one or other of the drive rollers. When the faster drive roller is used, the yarn feed speed is high thereby tufting a high pile. On the other hand, when the low speed roller is used, the yarn feed speed is reduced and a low pile is tufted. The machine allows the pile height of each individual stitch to be controlled to be either high or low. This individual control is known as a full repeat scroll.
As a development of this, to provide greater patterning flexibility, a machine referred to as a three pile height full repeat scroll has been developed by the applicant. In place of the two drive rollers, this machine uses three drive rollers each of which is driven at a different speed. In a similar way, by selecting with which of the three drive rollers an end of yarn is engaged during a stitch, three different pile heights can be formed.
In order to obtain even greater patterning flexibility, it has been proposed to replace the drive and yarn feed rollers with an individual servo motor for each end of yarn. Thus, instead of three different pile heights, this machine is capable of producing a tufted carpet, in which each stitch has a pile height which can be of any height between maximum and minimum limits. However, this greater flexibility in patterning capability is extremely costly given the number of servo motors required.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the present invention, a yarn feed roller assembly for a tufting machine comprises a first drive roller arranged to be rotatably driven, and a plurality of actuators, each being arranged to bring an end of yarn selectively into driving engagement with the first drive roller; characterized by control means containing pattern data relating to the required pile height of each stitch, the control means being arranged to calculate from this the required proportion of the stroke for which the yarn is required to be driven by the first drive roller to achieve the required pile height, and to control the movement of each actuator so that an end of yarn is driven by the first drive roller for the required proportion of the needle stroke.
This machine provides the same patterning capabilities of continuously variable pile heights that are obtainable with the machine which has a servo motor for each end of yarn. However, it has been estimated that a machine according to the present invention can be produced for significantly less than the cost of the machine with servo motors.
In the broadest sense, the yarn is driven only by the first drive roller and is engaged with this roller for as long as is necessary to generate the required pile height. In this case, the yarn has to be gripped when it is not being driven by the drive roller to prevent the yarn from being dragged into the backing cloth by the needles. However, a preferred option is to provide a second drive roller which is arranged to rotate at a slower speed than the first drive roller, wherein each actuator is arranged to switch an end of yarn such that it is driven either by the first or the second roller to obtain the required pile height. Thus, in order to produce higher pile heights, the actuator will leave the yarn in contact with the first drive roller for a longer proportion of the needle stroke, while to produce lower pile heights, the actuator will leave the yarn in contact with the second drive roller for a longer period. The twin roller arrangement allows the yarn to be fed constantly during the needle stroke, rather than the stop/start motion provided by the single drive roller arrangement. This allows full control of the yarn during the whole needle stroke.
Although the first and second rollers allow any pile height between upper and lower limits to be produced, the invention could be performed with a yarn feed roller assembly having three or more drive rollers all driven at different speeds. The presence of more than two rollers does not allow a greater variety of pile heights to be generated. However, it will have some benefit in that it can reduce the frequency with which the actuator switches between rollers. For example, a yarn feed roller assembly with three drive rollers will be able to produce three different pile heights without having to switch from one roller to another during a needle stroke, it may be that the majority of the carpet can be produced using these three pile heights. Nevertheless, when required, the actuators can switch the yarn from one roller to another during the needle stroke hence producing stitches with intermediate heights.
Each actuator may comprise a pivotable arm having a pair of yarn feed wheels one of which is arranged to selectively press the yarn into engagement with the first drive roller, and the other of which is arranged to selectively press the yarn into engagement with the second drive roller as the arm is pivotally moved. However, preferably, the actuator is provided by an arm having a yarn feed wheel about which the yarn is engaged, and an intermediate wheel which drivingly engages with the yarn feed wheel, the arm being movable such that the intermediate wheel can be selectively brought into driving engagement with either of the first and second drive rollers. Thus, as the yarn engages with the yarn feed wheel and not the intermediate wheel which selectively engages the two drive rollers, the possibility of the yarn being dragged as the intermediate wheel is moved from one drive roller to the other is minimized. As a consequence of this, the clearance between the intermediate wheel and the drive rollers can be reduced, thereby improving the response time of the machine and hence, the accuracy of the pile height.
In an alternative arrangement, the actuator is provided by an arm having a yarn feed wheel, the arm being moveable such that the yarn feed wheel can be selectively brought into driving engagement either with the first or second drive rollers, and means for guiding the yarn around a portion of the yarn feed wheel which does not contact the drive rollers, the yarn feed wheel having a surface which engages with the yarn so as to provide a frictional drive for the yarn. This also provides an arrangement in which the yarn is not fed between the yarn feed wheel and the driver roller.
The present invention also extends to a method of controlling the pile height of individual stitches in a tufting machine comprising, a drive roller arranged to be rotatably driven and a plurality of actuators each being arranged to bring an end of yarn selectively into contact with the drive roller the method comprising the steps of:
determining the required pile height of a particular stitch from pattern data;
determining the proportion of the needle stroke for which the yarn will need to be in contact with the drive roller to achieve the required pile height; and
operating the actuator to bring the yarn into contact with the drive roller for the required proportion of the needle stroke.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The particular features and advantages of the invention as well as other objects will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-section through a portion of a tufting machine showing the yarn feed roller assembly;
FIG. 2 is a number of diagrams (A)-(F) which show various pile heights that can be formed by the tufting machine;
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-section showing an alternative actuator mechanism to that shown in FIG. 1; and
FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-section showing a presently preferred actuator mechanism to replace that shown in FIG. 1 .
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
In most senses, the tufting machine to which the present invention is applicable has a conventional construction. Thus, a detailed explanation of the workings of the machine will not be provided here.
The tufting machine as shown in FIG. 1 has a pair of needle bars 1 to each of which a plurality of needle modules 2 are attached. Each module 2 has a plurality of needles 3 . Conventional reciprocating mechanisms 4 are provided to reciprocate both sets of needles.
Each needle bar 1 is fed with the yarn Y from its own separate yarn feed arrangement. In FIG. 1, only the yarn feed arrangement for the left hand needle bar 1 is shown, although it should be appreciated that there is a second identical yarn feed assembly for the right hand needle bar 1 . Yarn is fed from a creel (not shown) into the yarn feed roller assembly. Yarn for the adjacent needle 3 to that shown in FIG. 1 follows a slightly different path as indicated at Y′ in FIG. 1 as is known in the art.
The yarn feed roller assembly comprises a first drive roller 5 positioned directly above a second drive roller 6 . The drive rollers extend longitudinally of the machine and will generally extend the full width of the machine, although two or more drive rollers may be provided end to end to span the full width of the machine. The first drive roller 5 is driven by a belt 7 while the second drive roller 6 is driven by a belt 8 in a known manner. The drive rollers 5 , 6 may alternatively be directly driven. The first 5 and second 6 drive rollers are arranged to be driven at different speeds. It is unimportant with this arrangement which is the faster of the two drive rollers.
The mechanism for switching the yarn between the first 5 and second 6 drive roller comprises an arm 9 which is shown in chain lines in FIG. 1, which is pivotally mounted about a fulcrum 10 towards its center. One such arm is provided for each end of yarn to feed the yarn to an individual needle. Thus, there will be a large number of arms and associated mechanisms arranged across the machine. The arm 9 as shown in FIG. 1 is in a position in which its left hand end is in its uppermost position and the right hand end is in the lowermost position. The arm 9 is biased into this position by a spring 11 which is at its minimum length. The arm is movable into its second position by means of a pneumatic actuator 12 which contacts a contact surface 13 to force the right hand end of the arm 9 upwardly against the action of the spring 11 . It should be appreciated that the pneumatic actuator can be replaced by an alternative device and may be, for example, piezo electric, electromagnetic or hydraulic.
A yarn feed wheel 14 is provided at the left hand extremity of the arm 9 . An intermediate wheel 15 positioned between the drive rollers 5 , 6 and in close engagement with the yarn feed wheel 14 . The outer surfaces of the yarn feed wheel 14 and intermediate wheel 15 are made of polyurethane rubber. Yarn feed wheel 14 is spring loaded so that it can be moved away from the intermediate wheel 15 to allow the yarn Y to be threaded round the yard feed wheel 14 . The yarn feed wheel is then returned to its operating position to nip the yarn between the yarn feed wheel 14 and intermediate wheel 15 . Thus the yarn is driven upon the rotation of these two wheels. In the position shown in FIG. 1, the left hand end of the arm 9 is in its uppermost position, in which the intermediate wheel 15 engages with the first drive roller 5 , such that the yarn Y is driven at a speed determined by the first drive roller 5 . When the pneumatic actuator 12 is actuated, the left hand end of the arm 9 is moved downwardly bringing the intermediate wheel 15 into engagement with the lower drive roller 6 , hence driving the yarn Y at a speed determined by the second drive roller 6 .
Upon leaving the yarn feed roller assembly, the yarn Y is fed through a pair of gear-type puller rolls 16 which brush against the yarn, rather than driving it, and serve to maintain the tension in the yarn while isolating the yarn feed assembly from variations in the yarn tension caused by a reciprocation of the needles 3 . The yarn then extends through a pair of guide plates 17 , 18 and then to the needles 3 .
The way in which the machine is controlled in order to produce the various pile heights, will now be described with reference to FIG. 2 .
The tufting machine is provided with pattern data which contains information on the required height of each stitch of the pattern. A control means receives this-data and controls the timing of actuation of the pneumatic actuator 12 accordingly.
In the following explanation, the roller 5 is the high speed roller, while the roller 6 is the low speed roller.
In order to tuft a carpet at the full pile height as shown in FIG. 2 (A), the arm 9 is in engagement with the high speed roller 5 at the start of the needle stroke and remains in engagement with this roller throughout the stroke. Thus, at all times, the yarn is being fed at the fastest rate and therefore tufts at the maximum pile height (in this case 20.0 mm).
On the other hand, a carpet tufted at the lowest possible pile height is shown in FIG. 2 (F). In this case, the arm 9 is in contact with the low speed roller 6 at the start of the needle stroke and throughout the stroke. Thus, at all times, the yarn Y is fed at the lowest rate hence, tufting at the lowest possible pile height (in this case, 4.0 mm). FIGS. 2 (B), to 2 (E) show four intermediate stages between these two extremes. The height of the pile is determined by the point during the needle stroke when the yarn switches from being driven by one of the drive rollers to the other. Thus, in FIG. 2 (B), the control means operates to maintain the intermediate roller 9 in contact with the high speed roller 5 for 80% of the needle stroke, and switches for 20% of the needle stroke to the low speed roller 6 . In FIGS. 2 (C) to 2 (E), the portion of the time spent driving the yarn Y with the high speed roller 5 is decreased from 60% to 40% to 20% respectively, while the portion of the stroke spent driving the yarn Y with the low speed roller 6 is increased from 40% to 60% to 80% respectively.
In theory, it is possible to produce a pile height at any value between the two extremes as is shown towards the bottom of FIG. 2 . However, in practice, it may be sufficient to be able to produce a number of different discrete pile heights such as the six shown in FIGS. 2 (A) to 2 (F). In practice, it is believed that between 5 and 7 different pile heights will be sufficient for most purposes.
As mentioned above, the intermediate roller 15 is moved between the high speed 5 and low speed 6 rollers. Optimum performance is achieved if this movement is done only once per needle stroke. However, there is no reason why this should not be done any greater number of times. Also, the control could be set such that the intermediate wheel 15 is moved into a default position in contact with one or other of the rollers 5 , 6 at the beginning of each stroke. However, it is preferable for a stroke of each needle to begin with the intermediate wheel 15 in the position that it was in at the end of the previous needle stroke. In particular, if the pattern data requires a number of stitches at either the maximum or the minimum pile height, there is no need to move the intermediate wheel 15 at all while these stitches are being formed.
An alternative actuator mechanism for switching between the two drive rollers 5 , 6 is shown in FIG. 3 . In this example, most of the assembly is as shown in FIG. 1 including the drive rollers 5 , 6 and the spring 11 and pneumatic actuator 12 . However, in FIG. 3, the yarn feed wheel 14 and intermediate wheel 15 have been replaced by a single yarn feed wheel 20 and upper 21 and lower 22 fixed yarn guide bars. The yarn Y is fed between the upper yarn guide bar 21 and the yarn feed wheel 20 around the yarn feed wheel 20 and then between lower yarn guide bar 22 and yarn feed wheel 20 . The yarn feed wheel 20 has a grit surface which provides a frictional drive for the yarn. In common with FIG. 1, the yarn Y is not fed through the gap between the yarn feed wheel 20 and either of the driver rollers 5 , 6 . In FIG. 3, the yarn feed wheel 20 is in its uppermost position. In this position, the yarn feed wheel 20 is driven by the first drive roller 5 . In the lowermost position, the yarn feed wheel 20 is driven by the second drive roller 6 . Thus, this arrangement can be used to generate the same patterning effects as shown in FIG. 2 . However, as the movement of the arm 9 opens and closes the gap between the yarn feed wheel 20 and the two yarn guide bars 21 , 22 , there is no need to provide a spring loaded arrangement as is required of the yarn feed wheel 14 in FIG. 1 as the yarn Y can be fed through the arrangement shown in FIG. 3 simply by moving the arm 9 .
FIG. 4 shows the presently preferred mechanism for the activator used to switch the yarn Y between the first 5 and second 6 drive roller. The arm 9 is moved by electric, or servo motors 30 , about the pivot or fulcrum 10 . The servo motors 30 drive pistons 32 connected to the arm to move the arm 9 about the fulcrum 10 to move the intermediate wheel 15 to contact one of the first 5 or second 6 drive rollers. The yarn feed roll 14 is illustrated as spring loaded by spring 34 in this embodiment.
Numerous alternations of the structure herein disclosed will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure relates to the preferred embodiment of the invention which is for purposes of illustration only and not to be construed as a limitation of the invention. All such modifications which do not depart from the spirit of the invention are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.
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A tufting machine has a yarn feed roller assembly with a plurality of rotatable driver rollers driven at different speeds and a plurality of actuators in the form of a pivotable arm having in one embodiment a pair of yarn feed reels one of which is arranged to selectively press yarn into engagement with one of the drive rollers and the other arranged to selectively press yarn into engagement with another drive roller. Yarn is engaged by each actuator and a selected drive roller for a period of time determined by a pattern. The longer the actuator engages the high speed roller during the stroke of a tufting machine needle the greater will be the pile height of the tufts produced and alternatively the longer the actuator engages the lower speed roller during the needle stroke the lower will be the pile height. Pile height variations between a high pile and a low pile may be obtained by controlling the proportion of time during the stroke that the yarn engages with the high and low speed rollers.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method of selectively extracting low molecular weight solvents to concentrate higher molecular weight solutes in solution therein by the use of cross-linked ionic gels. Cross-linked ionic gels have been developed as size selective extraction solvents. Such gels absorb low molecular weight solvents, such as water, but not high molecular weight solutes, such as proteins. The high molecular weight solute is recovered as a concentrated solution. The gels are easily regenerated for reuse be a change in pH, composition and/or temperature of the surrounding liquid.
Separation processes are a key aspect of the chemical industry. In the past, these processes were dominated by distillation, reflecting the key role played by petroleum. Other important separations include gas scrubbing, liquid-liquid extraction, crystallization and filtration. However, there are an emerging group of separation problems for which current technology is expensive and energy intensive. These problems center around dilute solutions or organic or biological materials. Examples include the removal of water from dilute solutions like cheese whey, the concentration of antibiotics in fermentation beers, and the recovery of protein products of genetically-engineered microorganisms.
2. Prior Art
The basic idea of using gels as size-selective extraction solvents which can be regenerated by phase transitions seem to be new and no relevant prior art is known. However, the use of gels for separations is not new, and the study of phase transitions in gels is well established.
Separations using gels are usually based on gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The basic apparatus used in this method consists of a packed bed of gel spheres of the same size. The spheres are swollen with solvent to a constant extent. Solvent flows steadily through this bed. At time zero, a pulse of solution containing several high molecular weight solutes is injected at the top of the bed. As the pulse is swept down the column, different solutes are retained by the gel to different degrees. Basically, small solutes which can diffuse quickly into the gel are retarded the most, and large solutes which are excluded from the gel are swept along fastest. Thus the largest solutes are eluted most quickly, and the smallest solutes come out of the column last. The differential retention by any single gel sphere is very slight, but the total retention for all the spheres in the bed can effectively separate the solutes.
In the GPC separation, the separation is of very small amounts of similar high molecular weight solutes in a packed bed of gel swollen to a constant extent. Changes in swelling ruin the separation. In this invention, the separation is of potentially large amounts of a high molecular weight solute and a small solvent using a gel whose swelling is deliberately altered. Changes in swelling are central to regeneration and reuse.
Some separations using commercial gels are based on gel absorption, with resulting volume changes. These commercial gels absorb organic molecules. They are hard to regenerate.
The separation closest to producing the results of the present invention is ultrafiltration. For that process, water and small molecular weight solutes are forced under high pressure through a size selective membrane, while larger molecular weight solutes are retained as concentrates. The membranes can be used for many separations and can be cleaned by reversing the flow of solvent. However, initial membrane cost is high and the application of pressure is energy costly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Broadly stated, the invention resides in the method of selectively extracting low molecular weight solvents from solutions of higher molecular weight solutes, which invention comprises admixing the solution with a cross-linked ionic gel. The ionic gel has the capability of swelling by absorbing a portion of the solvent. After this absorption, the resulting remaining concentrated solution, called the "raffinate", is separated from the swollen gel. The gel is regenerated for reuse by lowering its pH, adding another solvent and/or altering the temperature. The swollen gel releases its absorbed solvent and returns to its normal less-swollen condition. The freed solvent is separated and the gel is prepared for absorption of further solvent by raising its pH, adding another solvent and/or by reversing the temperature change. The raffinate may be further concentrated by further treatment with the gel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The invention is illustrated by the drawing in which the FIGURE is a schematic representation in flow sheet form showing the successive steps in preferential absorption of solvent by gel and regeneration of the gel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
The invention is based on the use of cross-linked gels as size selective extraction solvents. The gels are effective because they absorb a low molecular weight solvent like water, but not high molecular weight solutes like proteins. They can be easily regenerated because their swelling is a very strong function of the pH, composition and/or temperature of the surrounding solution. As a result, these gels represent an attractive new separation process.
The way in which the gels function is shown schematically in the drawing. Small gel spheres are added to a dilute solution. The spheres swell, absorbing the low molecular weight solvent but excluding high molecular weight solutes. The raffinate, now concentrated in the high molecular weight solutes, can then be separated from the swollen gel, as by filtration.
For economic utilization, the swollen gel must now be regenerated. When using gels whose swelling is a very strong function of pH, adding acid collapses the gel volume and releases much of the absorbed solvent. The collapsed gel is separated from the released solvent by filtration and added to a small amount of base. The gel can then be added to fresh solution, where it will swell again.
The regeneration depends on large changes of gel volume with small changes in process conditions like temperature, composition and pH. At low pH, the gel volume is constant; over some intermediate pH range, it increases sharply. It has been demonstrated that the sudden increase in volume occurs at pH 5-6 for partially hydrolyzed acrylamide gel and at pH 2-3 for dextran gel. For a separation to be effective, the sudden increase in gel volume must occur at a lower pH than that of the solution being separated. However, the separations need not involve changing the pH of the solution. The gel can be added to the solution and removed from it at the solution's pH. It is only the gel regeneration which involves adding acid or base, and not the separation itself.
An advantage of the process of this invention over other concentration techniques is that during the process, both small molecular weight solutes and water are removed, in proportion to their concentrations. Therefore, the ionic environment of the medium does not change, making the method ideal for labile products, such as: proteins (including enzymes), antibiotics, high molecular weight polysaccharides, microbial cells and other fermentation products. This feature is shared with ultrafiltration, which is expensive and slow.
For economical considerations, the gel to be used for a separation will undergo the volume change at a pH close to that of the pK a of the solute to be concentrated or the pH of the initial solution. For example, polyacrylamide has a transition point of 5-6, close enough to the neutral pK a of many proteins, so that little acid is necessary to regenerate the gel. Thus, polyacrylamide is the gel of choice for these separations.
The polymerization conditions of the gel can be manipulated to change the maximum diameter for permeation, thus setting a lower size limit on excluded solutes. The lower size limit is about 10 Å.
Although the invention is described with particular reference to partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (Bio-Gel P-6) and dextran (CM-Sephadex C-50), the method works with any polymer (gel) that undergoes a rapid volume change in response to a change in pH, composition or temperature. The first would include any ionizable polymer, or any that can be treated in some way to make it ionizable. Polyacrylamide, polyethylamine, and a co-polymer of diethylacrylamide and sodium methacrylate have been used. Other exemplary materials include polymers and co-polymers of: acrylic acid; methylacrylic acid; methylacrylamine; derivatized polystyrene; derivatized cellulose, as carboxymethyl cellulose; derivatized dextrans other than carboxymethyl Sephadex; peptidoglycans; and the like.
The invention is further illustrated by the following Examples:
One gel was made by partially hydrolyzing cross-linked polyacrylamide beads produced commercially as packing for gel permeation chromatography (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Richmond, CA). This material, sold as Bio-Gel P-6 (50-100 mesh), has a particle size in water of 150-300:10 -6 m. It was hydrolyzed for 24 hours at 50° C. in 0.5M NaHCO 3 . Another gel (CM-Sephadex C-50), Pharmacia Fine Chemicals, Piscataway, N.J.), is also made as a packing for gel permeation chromatography. The material, which has a dry particle size of 60-120×10 -6 m, is already weakly ionic, and so was used as received. The solutes involved are all neutral or negatively charged.
The basic apparatus used in the measurements consists of a centrifuge tube with two compartments, separated by a hydrophobic filter (Whatman, PS). For each experiment, about 5 g of gel and 20 g of the basic solution to be separated were placed in the upper compartment. The compartment was mixed on a wrist action shaker, and then the tube was centrifuged for 5 minutes at 1000 rpm. Both the gel and the raffinate were removed and analyzed. The gel was regenerated by washing with a small volume 0.1N HCl.
Gel Selectivity. That the gel can function as a size-selective extraction solvent is shown by the experiments reported in Table I. The first three columns in the Table give the sizes of the solutes to be concentrated. Columns 4-5 give the initial and final concentrations of the solution; in other words, they give the increases in concentration achieved with the small amount of gel used. Finally, the last column in Table I gives the efficiency of the extraction, expressed as the measured concentration change compared with that expected from the altered raffinate volume. For example, if the solution volume was reduced by a factor of two, and the solute concentration was increased by a factor of 1.8, then the efficiency would be (1.8/2.0), or 90%.
The results in Table I show that solutes which are greater than 30 Å in diameter can be concentrated with an efficiency of at least 80%. These efficiencies are compromised by weak solute adsorption on the surface of the gel spheres. For example, for the 346 Å latex, some latex adhered weakly to the gel. When this latex was removed by washing, the extraction efficiency increased to 97%. This gel has also removed water from milk and from orange juice.
Gel Regeneration. To be used for separations, gels must both absorb selectively and be regenerated. It has also been shown that the gels used are easily regenerated. Regeneration depends on large changes of gel volume with small changes in process conditions. For the two gels in Table I, the gel volume is constant at low pH; over some intermediate pH range, it increases sharply.
TABLE I______________________________________Concentration of Dilute Aqueous Solutions Using PartiallyHydrolyzed Polyacrylamide Gels Feed Raffinate Per- Con- Con- cent Molecular Solute cen- cen- Effi-Solute Weight Size, Å tration.sup.a tration.sup.a ciency.sup.b______________________________________Polystyrene -- 9900.sup.c 0.21 0.35 85LatexPolystyrene -- 346.sup.c 0.91 1.40 82Latex 0.50.sup.f 1.23.sup.f 93.sup.fSilica -- 50.sup.c 1.82 3.03 80Bovine 66,000 72.sup.d .08.sub.2 .18.sub.3 93SerumAlbuminHemoglobin 64,500 62.sup.d 0.73 1.26 91Polyethy- 3000- 38.sup.e 0.56 1.09 91lene 3700GlycolSucrose 342 8.4.sup.d 1.00 1.09 6Urea 60 5.3.sup.d 3.00 3.00 0______________________________________ .sup.a As weight percent. .sup.b Defined as (measured increase in concentration) × (raffinate volume)/(initial solution volume). .sup.c Measured by electron microscopy. .sup.d Estimated from the diffusion coefficient in water using the StokesEinstein equation. .sup.e Reported by the manufacturer from light scattering. .sup.f Obtained with a dextran gel (Sephadex C50).
A sudden increase in volume occurs at pH 5-6 for the hydrolyzed acrylamide gel and at pH 2-3 for the dextran gel, showing that the gels are easily regenerated.
Gel Reuse. To test the repeated use of the gels, a dilute suspension of the 346 Å polystyrene latex described above was prepared. A fraction of the water in this latex was removed using a small amount of the dextran gel, and the raffinate concentration was then measured. The procedure was repeated through ten cycles. From a mass balance, it is expected that this raffinate concentration c after n cycles should be ##EQU1## where m is the initial mass of latex, V o is the initial volume of solution, and V is the volume removed by one cycle of gel absorption. Thus the reciprocal of concentration c should vary linearly with the number of cycles n.
The results show that this is true. These results have two important corollaries. First, there is apparently little cumulative loss due to adsorption of this gel. This adsorption, which is responsible for the inefficiencies reported in Table I, is apparently significant only for the first cycle, and is much less important as the gel is reused. The second corollary of the results is that the gel is removing the same amount of water on the tenth cycle as on the first cycle. This implies that the gel is remaining intact over all cycles, and hence can be routinely reused.
It is apparent that many modifications and variations of this invention as hereinbefore set forth may be made without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. The specific embodiments described are given by way of example only, and the invention is limited only by the terms of the appended claims.
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A separation method utilizing the ability of cross-linked ionic polymer gels to selectively extract solvent from a solution of a macromolecular material. A feed solution containing macromolecules is added to a small amount of basic or warm gel. The gel swells, absorbing the low molecular weight solvent, but cannot absorb the large macromolecules. The raffinate, which is now a concentrated macromolecular solution, is drawn off. To regenerate, a little acid is added to the filtered gel, or the gel is cooled, so its volume decreases sharply. The solvent is expelled from the shrinking gel and is then drawn off, leaving only the collapsed gel. A base is added to the gel, or the gel is warmed. More feed solution is added, and the cycle is begun again.
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BACKGROUND
1. Field of Invention
The device described herein relates generally to the production of oil and gas. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a system and method of mechanically charging hydraulics and actuating a valve using the hydraulics.
2. Description of Related Art
Valves assemblies are typically provided within wellhead production trees of both surface and subsea wellheads. The valve assemblies are used to control the flow of oil or gas from a wellhead and/or for controlling circulating fluid flow in and out of a wellhead. Most valves include a valve body with an inlet and an outlet, a passage connecting the inlet and outlet, a valve member that slides in and out of the passage for controlling flow through the valve, and a valve stem for handling the valve member. A valve handle is generally coupled to the valve stem. Gate valves and other sliding stem-type valves have a valve member or disc and operate by selectively moving the stem to insert/remove the valve member into/from the flow of fluid to stop/allow the flow when desired.
Some larger valves, or valves having a large pressure differential across the valve member, may require an increased actuating force. These valves may require that a gear train may be included between the handle and the stem. Valve assemblies having a gear or gear train coupled with the valve stem may be powered by a rotating source, where the gear train converts the rotating force into a linear force for sliding the valve stem. Opening and closing wellhead valves can be performed manually by rotating a handwheel or handle, or with an actuator. Electrical actuators may include a motor to provide a rotating source whereas a hydraulic actuator typically includes a piston associated with a pressurized hydraulic fluid for actuating a valve.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Disclosed herein is a device and method of actuating a valve, the valve may be a part of a wellhead assembly. In one embodiment, a valve actuator for actuating a valve between an open and a closed position includes a housing, a main piston for coupling to the valve and axially movable within a bore of the housing. Moving the piston to a first location in the bore configures the valve in an open position and moving the piston to a second location in the bore configures the valve in a closed position. Also included in this embodiment is a rotatable camplate having a contoured surface and a piston assembly reciprocatable within a cylinder in the housing fillable with fluid. The piston assembly is engagable with the contoured surface, so that rotating the camplate reciprocates the piston assembly within the cylinder. A hydraulic fluid cylinder discharge is provided in the cylinder, so that moving the piston assembly in one direction pushes the fluid into the cylinder discharge. A hydraulic circuit in fluid communication with the cylinder discharge is provided that is in selective communication with the bore on opposing sides of the main piston. Selectively directing hydraulic flow to a side of the main piston moves the main piston between the first and second locations in the bore.
Optionally included is a second piston assembly with a second cylinder, the second piston assembly engagable with the contoured surface. The second cylinder is fillable with fluid and includes a hydraulic fluid cylinder discharge in fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit. A fluid reservoir in fluid communication with a fluid inlet in the cylinder may be included. The assembly may have a selector valve that includes an inlet in fluid communication with the cylinder discharge and an exit in selective fluid communication with one of the bore first location or the bore second location. The selector valve can further include a second inlet selectively in fluid communication with one of the bore first location or the bore second location. The valve actuator can also include a latch coupled between the main piston and the bore wall to selectively retain the piston in one of the positions. In an embodiment, the latch comprises a piston lock housed in a cavity formed on the main piston outer periphery, the piston lock being radially extendable from within the cavity into a recess provided on the bore wall. A lock retainer can be implemented that is moveable from a passage adjacent the cavity into a space between the piston lock and a cavity wall when the piston lock is extended from within the cavity. The valve actuator can further include a seal on the lock retainer in sealing contact with the passage wall, so that the lock retainer is returnable within the passage in response to pressurizing the cavity.
In another embodiment a valve actuator for actuating a valve between an open and a closed position, the valve actuator is described herein that includes a housing having a bore within a longitudinal axis, an axially moveable stem in the bore for coupling to a valve element, an annular main piston in the bore and connected to the stem for axially moving the stem, a rotatable cam plate concentrically mounted around the axis mounted rotatably to the housing, a fluid supply cylinder in the housing offset from the bore, a fluid supply piston having a cam follower in engagement as the camplate rotates with the camplate for stroking the supply piston, and passages leading from the fluid supply cylinder to the bore for delivering hydraulic fluid to the bore to stroke the main piston. The main piston can have a forward side and a rearward side and passages that lead to a bore at opposite ends of the cylinder to stroke the piston in a forward direction and a rearward direction.
Also described herein is a method of actuating a valve. In an embodiment the method includes rotating a crank member having a contoured surface, engaging the rotating contoured surface with a reciprocatable pressurizing element to thereby reciprocatingly drive the reciprocatable pressurizing element, contacting fluid with the reciprocating pressurizing element to form a pressurized hydraulic flow, and actuating the valve by selectively directing the pressurized hydraulic flow to a hydraulic system mechanically coupled to the valve, so that the pressurized hydraulic flow applies an actuating force on the valve through the hydraulic system. Alternatively, the method may include locking and unlocking the piston. Moreover, the actuator can be included on a subsea wellhead and manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Some of the features and benefits of the present invention having been stated, others will become apparent as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a side partial sectional schematical view of a surface wellhead assembly.
FIG. 2 is a side partial sectional schematical view of a subsea wellhead assembly.
FIGS. 3A and 3B respectively are a side partial sectional view of an embodiment of a valve actuator in an open position and an associated valve member in a valve body.
FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of a portion of the valve actuator of FIG. 3 .
FIG. 5 is an overhead view of an embodiment of a portion of the valve actuator of FIG. 3 .
FIG. 6 is a side partial sectional view of an embodiment of the valve actuator of FIG. 3 in a closed position.
While the invention will be described in connection with the preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to that embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended 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 OF INVENTION
The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the illustrated 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. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
FIG. 1 is a side partial sectional view illustrating a wellbore assembly 10 provided over a wellbore 12 that intersects a formation 14 . The wellbore assembly 10 includes a wellhead housing 16 mounted in the wellbore 12 and a production tree 18 affixed on the wellhead housing 16 . An axial bore 20 is formed through the wellhead assembly 10 allowing passage through the wellhead assembly 10 and into the wellbore 12 . A swab valve 22 is provided at the bore 20 upper end. Extending from the production tree 18 is a production line 24 with an inline production valve 26 . A passage 28 , shown in dashed outline, is provided within the production tree 18 . The passage 28 provides communication between the production line 24 and the bore 20 .
An optional bypass line 30 also extends from the production tree 18 ; the bypass line includes an inline bypass valve 32 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the production line 24 and bypass line 30 extend from opposite sides of the production tree 18 . The bypass line 30 registers with a passage 34 within the production tree 18 . The passage 34 provides fluid communication from the bypass line 30 to an annulus formed between co-axial tubulars (not shown) disposed within the wellbore 12 .
FIG. 2 illustrates a side partial section view of a subsea wellbore assembly 40 for use in producing fluids from a subsea wellbore 42 . The wellbore 42 intersects a subsea formation 44 . The subsea wellbore assembly 40 includes a wellhead housing 46 with an attached production tree 48 . A bore 50 extends through the wellbore assembly 40 providing access through the wellbore assembly 40 to the wellbore 42 . A swab valve 52 in the production tree 48 controls flow through the bore 50 . A production line 54 having an inline production valve 56 connects to a side of the production tree 48 . The production line 54 communicates with a passage 50 that extends through the production tree 48 into communication with the bore 50 . A bypass line 60 extends from a side of the production tree 48 opposite the production line 56 ; the bypass line 60 includes an inline bypass valve 62 . A bypass passage 63 within the wellhead assembly 40 registers with the bypass line 60 providing communication between the bypass line 60 and an annulus (not shown) between tubulars in the wellbore 42 .
A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) 64 is schematically depicted adjacent the wellhead assembly 40 . The ROV 64 is deployed on a tether 66 and includes a control arm 68 projecting outward from the ROV 64 . Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , a valve actuator 70 is schematically depicted coupled to each valve 22 , 26 , 32 , 52 , 56 , 62 . The valve actuator may couple directly to the valve stem of each valve 22 , 26 , 32 , 52 , 56 , 62 and apply an actuating force for adjusting flow through the valves 22 , 26 , 32 , 52 , 56 , 62 . The valve actuator described herein can be powered manually or with the ROV 64 .
With reference now to FIG. 3A , a side partial sectional view of an embodiment of a valve actuator assembly 70 is provided. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A , the actuator assembly 70 includes a main body 72 having a reduced diameter thereby defining a transition 73 . An axial bore 74 is formed through the body 72 . The main body 72 includes a reduced diameter neck 75 shown along the bore 74 outer radius from the transition 73 and terminating to define the bore 74 upper terminal end. A main piston 76 is provided within the bore 74 and configured to reciprocate axially within the bore 74 . The piston 76 includes a cavity 77 shown formed along the piston 76 outer diameter and directed inward toward the bore axis Ax. A piston lock 78 is depicted disposed in the cavity 77 . Embodiments of a piston lock 78 include a C-ring pressed within the cavity 77 and biased outward against the bore 74 inner wall. Alternate embodiments include one or more segments provided within the cavity extending along a portion of the piston 76 outer circumference. The piston lock 78 includes a profiled detent 79 (discussed below in greater detail) on a lower surface and adjacent its outer radius. Engaging profiled detent 79 with a correspondingly profiled element draws the piston lock 78 from within the cavity 77 and into a locking engagement within the bore 74 .
A lock retainer 80 is shown in cross-section in the vertical portion of the cavity 77 . The lock retainer 80 includes a seal 81 on its outer periphery shown in sealing engagement with the cavity 77 wall. A spring 82 shown compressed between an end of the lock retainer 80 in the uppermost portion of the cavity 77 . An additional seal 83 is shown on the piston 76 outer periphery in sealing engagement with the bore 74 .
The piston 76 is anchored on a stem 84 having an upper end shown projecting upward outside of the housing 72 . An upper bonnet 88 is shown provided on the main body 72 upper end. The upper bonnet 88 circumscribes the stem 84 upper end and seals 89 also circumscribe the upper stem in sealing contact to provide a pressure barrier along the stem 84 . A gate 85 ( FIG. 3B ) is coupled to the stem 84 lower end. The gate is provided in a valve body 86 , where the valve body 86 includes a valve passage 87 . The gate 85 is selectively extendable in and out of the passage 87 .
An elongated hand crank 90 is provided and aligned substantially perpendicular with the bore axis A x . The hand crank 90 is attached to a planar camplate 91 . The camplate 91 coaxially circumscribes the extended neck 75 outer radius and rests on the main body 72 along the transition 73 . A thrust bearing 94 , also circumscribing the extended neck 75 outer diameter is disposed on the camplate 91 upper surface.
A top plate 96 on the extended neck 75 upper terminal end is shown secured thereto with a lock ring 100 . The lock ring 100 extends into corresponding registered recesses respectively provided on the top plate 96 inner radius in the extended neck 75 outer diameter. The top plate 96 is shown having a generally triangular cross section and includes a flange 97 inwardly depending from its upper portion towards the bore axis A x . The flange 97 is shown engaging a profile on the upper bonnet outer radius, thereby securing the upper bonnet 88 with the main body 72 .
A plurality of cylinders 102 are depicted in FIG. 3A shown aligned substantially parallel with and offset from the bore axis A x projecting into the main body 72 . The cylinders' 102 upper ends are open at the transition 73 . Piston assemblies 106 are shown disposed within the cylinders 102 . The piston assemblies 106 include piston rods 107 that are coupled with rollers 108 on their upper ends. The rollers include ridges 109 circumscribing their outer radii. Further included with the piston assemblies 106 are inner pistons 110 staged within outer pistons 111 . Springs 112 radially circumscribe the piston rods 107 spanning lengthwise between shoulders. Shoulders are respectively provided proximate the base of each piston rod 107 and the outer pistons 111 . The rollers 108 , which are shown contacting the camplate 91 lower surface, have their ridges 109 engaged within a correspondingly shaped V-notch 113 provided on the camplate 91 lower surface.
The cylinders 102 are attached to respective suction lines 126 , wherein each suction line 126 includes a check valve 128 that only allows flow in the suction lines 126 in a direction towards the cylinders 102 . The suction lines 126 each have an inlet connected with a fluid reservoir 133 (shown in dashed outline). Also attached to the cylinders 102 are discharge lines 134 , each discharge line having a discharge check valve 136 limiting flow through the discharge lines 134 in a direction away from the cylinders 102 to a selector valve 142 . A lower flow line 144 attaches to a second inlet into the selector valve 142 . The lower flow of the line 144 has an inlet connected to a port 146 , where the port 146 extends through the main body 72 into fluid communication with the bore 74 . Exiting the selector valve 142 is a return line 147 shown in partial dashed outline and terminating at the reservoir 133 . A second outlet from the selector valve 142 connects to an upper flow line 148 shown terminating at a port 150 . The port 150 is formed through the extended neck 75 and into the bore 74 above the piston 76 . A lower port 146 is formed through the body 72 and communicates with a lower portion within the bore 74 .
Interaction between the camplate 91 and the piston assemblies 106 is illustrated in a side partially exploded view in FIG. 4 . Provided on the lower surface of the camplate 91 is a camring 151 . The camring 151 is shown with an undulating contoured profile formed along a substantially circular path on the camplate 91 lower surface. In the embodiment of FIG. 4 , the piston assemblies 106 ride the camplate 91 along the camring 151 circular path. The corresponding ridges 109 and V-notch 113 maintain a desired alignment between the piston assemblies 106 and the camplate 91 . In one mode of operation, the camplate 91 is rotated about its axis, for example, by applying a lateral force to the hand crank 90 . The springs 112 provide a contacting force on the piston assemblies to maintain the rollers 108 in contact with the camring 151 undulating surface. Accordingly, rotating the camplate 91 while maintaining contact between the camring 151 and piston assemblies 106 causes the pistons to track the camring 151 surface moving the piston assemblies 106 in a reciprocating motion.
With reference again to FIG. 3A , reciprocating the piston assemblies 106 within their respective cylinders 102 reduces pressure therein when they stroke upward. The reduced pressure in the cylinders 102 draws fluid from the reservoir 133 through the suction lines 126 , across the check valves 128 , and into the cylinders 102 . Continued camplate 91 rotation engages the piston assemblies 106 with a downwardly depending section of the camring 151 causing one of the piston assemblies 106 to a downward stroke. On the downward stroke, fluid in the cylinders 102 is blocked from flowing into the suction lines 126 by the check valves 128 . Instead, the discharge flow from the cylinders 102 is directed to the discharge lines 134 , across the check valves 136 , and to the selector valve 142 . In the embodiment of FIG. 3A , the selector valve 142 directs the discharge flow from the cylinders 102 into the upper flow line 148 , which is connected on its other end to the port 150 , thereby directing flow into a portion of the bore 74 above the piston 76 . Continued pumping, by virtue of rotating the camplate 91 to operate its profiled surface on the piston assemblies 106 , continues additional hydraulic fluid flow into the portion of the bore 74 to move the piston 76 and therefore actuate a valve member 85 shown (in FIG. 3B ) connected with the valve actuator 70 . As noted above, in the embodiment of FIG. 3B , the valve member 85 is in the open position within the valve body 86 , allowing flow through the passage 87 . Continued operation of the valve actuator 70 ultimately moves the valve member 85 into the passage 87 , thereby blocking flow through the valve.
FIG. 5 illustrates in overhead view a partially exploded portion of the valve actuator 70 . Here, a cross-section of the valve body is illustrated from above, depicting the spatial relationship between the bore 74 , cylinders 102 and the reservoir 133 . Accordingly, in this embodiment, the cylinders 102 and reservoir 133 are formed in the main body portion residing below the transition 73 .
With reference now to FIG. 6 , a side partial sectional view of the valve actuator 70 is illustrated wherein the associated valve member 85 has been moved within the valve body 86 into a closed position to block flow through the passage 87 . Actuating the valve member 85 into the closed position is shown as being accomplished by moving the piston 76 to a lower portion of the bore 74 . Optionally, when in the closed position, the piston may be locked in a closed position within the bore 74 . The piston lock 78 as shown in FIG. 6 projects outward from the cavity 77 . A latch release 152 is shown mounted in the lower portion of the bore 74 , the latch release 152 is configured to launch the piston lock 78 from within the cavity 77 . The latch release 152 includes an annular peak 153 or ridge formed on the latch release 152 upper surface. The peak 153 is adapted for engagement with the profiled detent 79 on the piston lock 78 lower surface to launch the piston lock 78 from within the cavity 77 . Downward piston 76 movement to the bore 74 bottom contacts the detent 79 with the peak 153 . Opposingly formed angled surfaces on the peak 153 and the profiled detent 79 come into contact, resulting in a force on the piston lock 78 directed radially outward from the bore axis Ax. The bore wall 74 includes a recess 156 along its lower edge configured to receive the piston lock 78 therein. In embodiments where the piston lock 78 is a C-ring, inherent stress in the ring expands the ring outward so the profiled detent 79 is past the ridge 153 . Pushing the piston lock 78 radially outward from within the cavity 77 provides a space in the cavity 77 behind the piston lock 78 . The spring 82 can then push the lock retainer 80 into the space thereby securing the piston lock 78 into a locking configuration. Once engaged, the piston lock 78 can secure the piston 76 therein, even though no fluid is in the cylinder 74 to push the piston 76 downward.
In the embodiment of FIG. 6 , the selector valve 142 has been manipulated to provide a flow path therethrough as indicated by its internal arrows to open the valve passage 87 . Thus, resetting the selector valve 142 as shown in FIG. 6 , in combination with providing fluid flow through the selector valve as shown, releases the piston lock 78 and moves the piston 76 upwards within the bore 74 . Upward piston 76 movement pulls the valve member 85 into its open position allowing flow through the passage 87 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , hydraulic fluid from the reservoir 133 is again drawn into the cylinders 102 by actuating the piston assemblies 106 , such as by rotating the camplate 91 . Fluid discharged from the cylinders 102 is directed to the selector valve 142 via the discharge lines 134 . In the selector valve 142 configuration of FIG. 6 , however, the discharge fluid from the piston assemblies 106 through the selector valve 142 is directed to the lower flow line 144 ; instead of the upper flow line 148 as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3A . The fluid in the lower flow line 144 from the selector valve 142 is forced through the port 146 and into the bore 74 lower portion. The fluid circulating into the bore 74 lower portion flows into and pressurizes the cavity 77 . The seals 81 create a pressure barrier so an upward force is applied to the lock retainer 80 by the pressurized circulating fluid. The applied upward force urges the lock retainer 80 upward into the cavity 77 thereby leaving the space behind the piston lock 78 . The fluid pressure builds below the piston 76 seal 83 to push the piston 76 upward. Upward piston 76 movement engages the piston lock 78 with the recess 156 upper surface. Continued pressurized fluid flow into the bore 74 increases the upward force applied to the piston 76 and ultimately exceeds the force to press the piston lock 78 into the cavity 77 . The piston 76 is released when the piston lock 78 is pushed into the cavity 77 to allow the piston 76 to travel within the bore 74 . Accordingly, as long as a fluid pressurizing source is applied to the hydraulic circuit depicted herein, manipulating the selector switch 142 can dictate the direction of the piston 76 travel within the bore 74 and actuate motion of the valve member 85 in and out of the flow passage 87 .
Referring back to FIG. 3A , shown illustrated is an optional embodiment of the piston assemblies 106 ; this includes a staged piston having the inner piston 110 and corresponding respective outer pistons 111 . The inner pistons 110 directly connect to the piston rods 107 . The outer pistons 111 circumscribe the inner pistons' 110 outer diameter and under an applied force will disengage from the inner pistons 110 . Once disengaged, the outer pistons 111 will slide on the inner pistons' 110 outer surface. Thus, in situations when a valve member 85 may require an excessive force for movement, the valve movement force is transferred into the hydraulic fluid being pumped by the piston assemblies 106 . When the force on the piston assemblies 106 transferred from the cylinders' 102 fluid pressure exceeds the threshold sliding force, the inner pistons 110 will begin sliding with respect to the outer pistons 111 . Sliding the outer pistons 111 and only moving the inner pistons 110 reduces the piston assemblies' 106 effective cross -sectional area. This area reduction correspondingly reduces the input force necessary to reciprocate the piston assemblies 106 within the cylinders 102 . As the force necessary to motivate the valve member is reduced, the inner and outer pistons will become re-engaged, thereby returning the effective piston assembly 106 area to its original area.
Although the valve actuator 70 is illustrated as having a pair of piston assemblies 106 , single piston valve actuator embodiments exist, as well as more than two piston assemblies. Further optionally, the valve actuator can be used with any slideable valve, it is not limited to applications of valves operating in conjunction with a wellhead assembly. Optionally, a shaft or other coupling can be affixed to the camplate 91 . The camplate 91 can thus optionally be rotated by a motor (or ROV 64 ) via the shaft or coupling.
It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the exact details of construction, operation, exact materials, or embodiments shown and described, as modifications and equivalents will be apparent to one skilled in the art. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed illustrative embodiments of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation. Accordingly, the invention is therefore to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.
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A wellhead assembly includes a valve with a valve actuator. The valve actuator linearly moves a valve stem and valve member assembly to selectively open and close the valve. The valve actuator moves the valve stem by reciprocatingly moving a piston that is attached to the valve stem. The piston is moved by applying pressurized hydraulic fluid to a piston surface. Piston direction is controlled by a selector valve that selectively diverts a hydraulic flow to either side of the piston. The actuator further includes a piston assembly for pressurizing a hydraulic flow, where the piston assembly reciprocates in response to engagement by a profiled rotating cam member.
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BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
1. Field of the Disclosure
The subject disclosure relates generally to oilfield drilling, and more particularly to bottom hole assemblies and tools for orienting a bottom hole assembly (BHA).
2. Background of the Related Art
In conventional drilling, the BHA is lowered into the wellbore using jointed drill pipes or coiled tubing. Often the BHA includes a mud motor, directional drilling and measuring equipment, measurements-while-drilling tools, logging-while-drilling tools and other specialized devices. A simple BHA having a drill bit, various crossovers, and drill collars is relatively inexpensive, costing a few hundred thousand US dollars, while a complex BHA costs ten times or more than that amount.
Many drilling operations require directional control so as to position the well along a particular trajectory into a formation. Directional control, also referred to as “directional drilling,” is accomplished using special BHA configurations, instruments to measure the path of the wellbore in three-dimensional space, data links to communicate measurements taken downhole to the surface, mud motors, and special BHA components and drill bits. The directional driller can use drilling parameters such as weight-on-bit and rotary speed to deflect the bit away from the axis of the existing wellbore. In some cases, e.g. when drilling into steeply dipping formations or when experiencing an unpredictable deviation in conventional drilling operations, directional-drilling techniques may be employed to ensure that the hole is drilled vertically.
Direction control is most commonly accomplished through the use of a bend near the bit in a downhole steerable mud motor. The bend points the bit in a direction different from the axis of the wellbore when the entire drill string is not rotating. By pumping mud through the mud motor, the bit rotates though the drill string itself does not, allowing the bit alone to drill in the direction to which it points. When a particular wellbore direction is achieved, the new direction may be maintained by then rotating the entire drill string, including the bent section, so that the drill bit does not drill in a direction away from the intended wellbore axis, but instead sweeps around, bringing its direction in line with the existing wellbore. As it is well known by those skilled in the art, a drill bit has a tendency to stray from its intended drilling direction, a phenomenon known as “drill bit walk”. A device for addressing drill bit walk is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,610,970 to Sihler et al. issued Nov. 3, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference.
The use of coiled tubing with downhole mud motors to turn the drill bit to deepen a wellbore is another form of drilling, one which proceeds quickly compared to using a jointed pipe drilling rig. By using coiled tubing, the connection time required with rotary drilling is eliminated. Coiled tube drilling is economical in several applications, such as drilling narrow wells, working in areas where a small rig footprint is essential, or when reentering wells for work-over operations.
In coiled tubing drilling, a BHA with a mud motor is attached to the end of a coiled tubing string. Typically, the mud motor has a fixed or adjustable bend housing in order to drill deviated holes. Because the coiled tubing is unable to rotate from surface, a so called orienter tool is used as part of the BHA to “orient” the bend of the mud motor into the desired direction. There exists a multitude of different designs for the drive systems of such tools. Some designs support continuous rotation such as electric motor and gearbox drives, while others only permit rotation by a certain limited angle. The orienter tool is typically a high-torque, low-speed device, wherein the design of the drive system provides a torque output which can at least match the reactive torque exerted by the drilling mud motor.
For example, some orienter tools have utilized planetary gears in an effort to drive the output shaft. Basically, creating a torque on an output shaft means that a tangential force has to be exerted. By way of example, an output torque of 1,000 ft-lbs from a 2-inch diameter shaft means a tangential force of 12,000 lbs. This amount of force will quickly yield any material unless the tangential force is evenly distributed over a sufficient area to reduce the stress levels. In a conventional planetary stage with a size constraint on the order of 3 inches in diameter, the limits of how much bending force the gear teeth can take, and how much stress the planet carrier is capable of supporting will be much below 1000 ft-lbs of torque.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A system and methodology are designed to facilitate control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. A planetary gear box assembly incorporates a sun wheel which cooperates with planet wheels at a plurality of levels along the planetary gear box assembly. The sun wheel and the planet wheels cooperate to convert rotational input to rotational output through an output carrier. Torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel and the output carrier are selected to distribute torque load across the plurality of levels of the planetary gear box assembly. The distributed forces reduce the potential for component failure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed system appertains will more readily understand how to make and use the same, reference may be had to the following drawings.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a multi-level planetary gear box assembly for an orienter tool of a bottom hole assembly in accordance with the subject technology.
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the multi-level planetary gear box assembly of FIG. 1 taken along lines A-A, B-B and C-C.
FIG. 3 is a qualitative plot of a twisting angle of the components of the planetary gear box assembly of FIG. 1 .
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a drilling system having a bottom hole assembly utilizing the planetary gear box assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present disclosure overcomes many of the prior art problems associated with providing torque in bottom hole assemblies. The advantages, and other features of the planetary gear box assembly disclosed herein, will become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of certain preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings which set forth representative embodiments of the present invention and wherein like reference numerals identify similar structural elements.
All relative descriptions herein such as left, right, up, and down are with reference to the Figures, and not meant in a limiting sense. Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated embodiments can be understood as providing exemplary features of varying detail of certain embodiments, and therefore, unless otherwise specified, features, components, modules, elements, and/or aspects of the illustrations can be otherwise combined, interconnected, sequenced, separated, interchanged, positioned, and/or rearranged without materially departing from the disclosed systems or methods. Additionally, the shapes and sizes of components are also exemplary and unless otherwise specified, can be altered without materially affecting or limiting the disclosed technology.
The subject technology generally is directed to a high torque planetary gear system for a bottom hole assembly. The planetary gear system includes a geometry where the torque load, resulting in a tangential force, is better distributed inside the structure and hence the stress levels are reduced throughout the planetary stage compared to conventional systems. In one embodiment, the planetary gear system stacks several planes of planetary gears in several levels. By matching the torsional rigidity of a sun gear with that of a carrier body, taking into account the transmission ratio, even engagement of all planetary wheels can be ensured by a principle of elastic averaging, which allows the design of a very high output torque planetary gear stage. It is envisioned that a gear box design for a downhole orienter tool in accordance with the subject technology has extremely high output torque. According to one embodiment, the gear output torque at least matches the stall torque of the mud motor which is driven/oriented by the orienter.
The present technology also is directed to a high torque planetary gear box assembly for a bottom hole assembly (BHA) used in drilling. The gear box assembly comprises a housing having at least one stage with a plurality of levels, a sun wheel for connecting to an input shaft and having a gear portion within each level, at least one planet wheel coupled to the respective gear portion in each level, and a common carrier connected to the at least one planet wheel in each level. During operation, an external torque is transmitted by the sun wheel through the plurality of levels whereby tangential forces are transmitted from the gear portions to the respective at least one planet wheel, and, in turn, from the at least one planet wheel to the common carrier. The sun wheel is designed to match torsional rigidity characteristics of the common carrier to balance the tangential forces on each level.
By way of example, the plurality of levels may be three levels and the at least one planet wheel may be two planet wheels in each level, although other numbers of levels and planet wheels may be employed. Torsionally flexible elements may be incorporated into the sun wheel, and the gear box assembly may include a housing gear for engaging the gear portions. According to one embodiment, the common carrier twists by an angle α as a result of torque applied thereto and the gear box assembly has a transmission ratio i such that a twisting angle β of the sun wheel is characterized by β=i*α, and a torsional rigidity of the sun wheel is about i 2 times less than a torsional rigidity of the common carrier to accomplish even engagement in all levels of the gear box assembly.
The subject technology also may include a method for using a high torque planetary gear box in a bottom hole assembly (BHA). The method comprises providing a housing having at least one stage with a plurality of levels; and applying torque to a sun wheel, the sun wheel having a gear portion within each level that, in turn, applies torque to at least one planet wheel coupled to the respective gear portion in each level. The method also may comprise coupling a common carrier to the at least one planet wheel in each level whereby torque is transmitted from the planet wheels thereto; and matching torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel to the common carrier such that tangential forces on each level are balanced.
It should be appreciated that the present technology can be implemented and utilized in numerous ways, including without limitation as a process, an apparatus, a system, a device, a method for applications now known and later developed. These and other unique features of the system disclosed herein will become more readily apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.
In brief overview, the subject technology includes a gear box design for a downhole orienter tool having an extremely high output torque. In some embodiments, the gear output torque at least matches the stall torque of the mud motor which is driven/oriented by the orienter. For example, the output torque for a 3-inch size orienter tool can be on the order of 1,000 ft-lbs and above. Conventional planetary gear boxes are normally not capable of such a high torque in the desirable small sizes. Limiting factors include the strength of the gear teeth as well as the planet carrier. For multi-stage designs, the last planetary stage at the high-torque side typically endures the highest loads and will normally break first.
To evenly distribute the stress over a sufficient area, one embodiment of the subject technology uses a principle of elastic averaging to spread the torque imposed onto the output shaft over several levels of planet wheels. Preferably, fewer planets per level are used rather than the maximum number that could normally be fitted before the planets start overlapping. By using relatively fewer wheels per level, the number of windows cut into the carrier is reduced, and the carrier will be much stronger against twisting deformation.
Referring generally to FIG. 1 , a multi-level stage 102 of a planetary gear box assembly 100 in accordance with the present technology is shown. The planetary gear box assembly 100 may include a plurality of stages or simply be a single stage as shown within a housing 104 . The multi-level stage 102 has an input shaft 106 . The input shaft 106 may be part of a motor or even the output of a previous stage. A sun wheel 108 is connected to or an extension of the input shaft 106 and has a gear portion 110 a - c within each level 112 a - c , respectively. One or more torsionally flexible elements 114 may be incorporated in the sun wheel 108 intermediate each sun gear portion 110 a - c.
In the example illustrated, the multi-level stage 102 includes two planet wheels 116 a - c in each of the three levels 112 a - c , respectively. There could be more or less planet wheels per level, perhaps even up to as many planet wheels as can be fitted in each gear box level without overlapping, depending on the design. Further, there could be more or less levels. Each planet wheel 116 a - c connects to and is supported by a respective planet axle 118 a - c . The planet wheels 116 a - c of all levels 112 a - c are all connected to a common carrier 120 . The common carrier 120 may be an output carrier, such as an output shaft or an input shaft connected to another stage (not shown). The planet wheels 116 a - c also engage a housing gear 122 mounted within the housing 104 . As would be known to those of ordinary skill in the art, each of the sun gear portions 110 a - c , planet wheels 116 a - c , housing gear 122 , and common carrier 120 include force transfer members, e.g. teeth (not explicitly shown) that engage and interact to transmit forces therebetween.
During operation, an external torque being transmitted by the input shaft 106 through the multi-level stage 102 results in a series of tangential forces occurring between the surfaces of the gear teeth that are interacting with each other. Tangential forces are transmitted from the sun gear portions 110 a - c to the planet wheels 116 a - c , and, in turn, from the planet wheels 116 a - c to the common carrier 120 . Tangential forces are also being transmitted to the housing gear 122 .
Because the pairs of planet wheels 116 a - c are divided into several levels 112 a - c rather than all being in one level, the total torque exerted onto the common carrier 120 (e.g., output shaft) is the result of all the tangential forces acting in the different levels. The resulting tangential forces will cause the common carrier 120 to twist by a certain amount.
Referring generally to FIG. 2 , a somewhat schematic cross-sectional view of the multi-level planetary gear box assembly 100 of FIG. 1 taken along lines A-A, B-B and C-C is shown to representatively indicate operational effects in each level 112 a - c . In each level, the common carrier 120 will twist by a certain angle α as a result of the torque applied. Due to the inherent gear ratio of the planetary gear box assembly 100 , the angle α of the common carrier 120 will require a twisting angle β=i*α of the sun wheel 108 in order to satisfy geometric compatibility, where i is the transmission ratio of the planetary stage 102 . On the other hand, the torque seen by the sun wheel 108 is reduced by a factor of the transmission ratio i as compared to the torque seen by the common carrier 120 . The torque applied to the sun wheel 108 is represented by the arrow “T sun ” and is equal to T Carrier /i. These calculations assume that the housing gear 122 is substantially infinitely stiff with no appreciable twisting. In practice, the housing gear 122 may twist and such twisting should be taken into account, but to simplify for illustrative purposes, this assumption may be utilized.
Referring again to FIG. 1 , the twisting angle of the common carrier 120 with respect to itself in cross section along line A-A will be larger than in cross section along line C-C because if the sun wheel 108 was infinitely stiff in torsion, most of the output torque would be taken by the components of level 112 c only. As a result, the components of level 112 c would wear out quickly. However, in the present approach the sun wheel 108 is designed to match or otherwise address the torsional rigidity characteristics of the common carrier 120 so the principle of elastic averaging will ensure that the tangential forces on all planet levels 112 a - c are distributed, e.g. balanced. When the load distribution is balanced, the loading is taken by all planet levels 112 a - c approximately evenly. If the sun wheel 108 is inherently too stiff to support the desired flexibility, torsionally flexible elements 114 can be used to increase the flexibility.
Referring again to FIG. 2 , it is possible to quantify the required balance of torsional rigidities to ensure elastic averaging. Preferably, the sun wheel 108 twists by an angle i times larger with a torque which is i times less than that of the common carrier 120 . Hence, the torsional rigidity of the sun wheel 108 should be about i 2 times less than that of the common carrier 120 to ensure even engagement in all levels 112 a - c of the gear box assembly 100 .
Referring generally to FIG. 3 , a qualitative plot 124 of a twisting angle of the components of the planetary gear box assembly 100 is shown. The plot 124 shows the torsional displacement situation inside the gear box assembly 100 . For illustrative purposes, it is assumed that the planet carrier or common carrier 120 is fixed to ground and a torque is applied to the input shaft 106 to create the internal twisting deformations. The twist angle is then measured with respect to ground. In each section, the twisting angle of the sun wheel 108 is approximately i times that of the common carrier 120 for geometric compatibility.
It should be noted that the lines in FIG. 3 are purely qualitative. In reality, the twisting angle as a function of position of the common carrier 120 and sun wheel 108 may be more complex, and in addition, such factors as the twisting of the housing 104 can be taken into account. However, the plot 124 well illustrates that by matching the torsional rigidities of the components involved, taking into account the gear ratio, elastic averaging is accomplished which enables the design of a planetary gear stage capable of much greater torque than conventional 1-level-per-stage designs.
Referring generally to FIG. 4 , an example of a well system 126 is illustrated as deployed in a well 128 defined by at least one wellbore 130 having at least one deviated wellbore section 132 being formed. Although the planetary gear box assembly 100 may be utilized in a variety of downhole systems to provide improved control over the orienting of a variety of components, the drilling example is illustrated in FIG. 4 . In this example, the well system 126 comprises a drilling system having a bottom hole assembly 134 delivered downhole by a suitable conveyance 136 , such as coiled tubing.
In the embodiment illustrated, bottom hole assembly 134 comprises an orienting tool 138 containing the planetary gear box assembly 100 . The orienting tool 138 and its planetary gear box assembly 100 may be used to ultimately control the drilling orientation of a drill bit 140 . In some drilling operations, the drill bit 140 is powered by a motor 142 , such as a mud motor. Depending on the application, the motor 142 may work in cooperation with a bent housing 144 and the orienting tool 138 to control the desired direction of drilling. As known to those of ordinary skill in the art, bottom hole assembly 134 may comprise a variety of other components, including steering components, valve components, sensor components, measurement components, drill collars, crossovers, and/or other components. The actual selection of components depends on, for example, the specifics of the drilling application and/or the characteristics of the environment.
As would be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art, the subject technology is applicable to use in a variety of applications with significant advantages for bottom hole assembly applications. The functions of several elements may, in alternative embodiments, be carried out by fewer elements, or a single element. Similarly, in some embodiments, any functional element may perform fewer, or different, operations than those described with respect to the illustrated embodiment. Also, functional elements shown as distinct for purposes of illustration may be incorporated within other functional elements, separated in different hardware or distributed in various ways in a particular implementation. Further, relative size and location are merely somewhat schematic and it is understood that not only the same but many other embodiments could have varying depictions.
Accordingly, although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible without materially departing from the teachings of this invention. Such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims.
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A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. A planetary gearbox assembly incorporates a sun wheel which cooperates with planet wheels at a plurality of levels along the planetary gear box assembly. The sun wheel and the planet wheels cooperate to convert rotational input to rotational output through an output carrier. Torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel and the output carrier are selected to distribute torque loading across the plurality of levels of the planetary gear box assembly. The distributed forces reduce the potential for component failure.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to textile machines that use flyers to insert twist to textile fibers, such machines being commonly called "roving frames."
2. Description of the Prior Art
Knowledgeable workers in the art realize that the two legs of the flyers presently commercially used tend to deflect and separate due to centrifugal force as the flyer is rotated (by the spindle) to insert twist to the roving. This deflection causes problems limiting the speed and hence the productivity of the roving frames.
Previous workers extended the legs long enough to circumvent the roving bobbin and attached both legs together at the bottom, thus improving the situation slightly.
At the time if filing this application, we were aware of the following U.S. Pat. Nos.:
Casablancas, 2,180,792; Friesen, 3,570,234; Mackie, 3,264,998.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
New and Different Function
A light weight flyer that is free to rotate about a bearing is attached to a swing arm pivoted to the machine threadboard. The flyer is rotated by engagement to a positively driven flange which is driven by a timing belt. A presser is attached to the flange to supply tension and to guide the material to the bobbin. The flange is attached to the machine by a bearing on a base plate. The bobbin moves up and down by conventional building mechanism.
Both legs of the flyer are engaged to the rotating flange by guides in such a way as to prevent them from deflecting outward by centrifugal force. This construction allows the flyer to be manufactured of lighter material with smaller cross-section, thus reducing the centrifugal force. Therefore, with the lighter flyer and reduced forces, it becomes possible in some cases to eliminate one leg of the flyer. In other cases, it is possible to rotate the flyer by the pull of the material being twisted from the surface of the bobbin, thus eliminating the drive for the flange. The use of the presser is optional.
The swing arm allows the machine to be doffed without the need of bringing the frame to a certain doffing position; this also facilitates threading.
Objects of the Invention
An object of this invention is to insert twist to material.
Another object is to provide a simplified drive to a flyer that can be used on existing machines as well as new machines.
Other objects are to reduce power consumption, increase speed of production, reduce noise and facilitate doffing and threading.
Further objects are to achieve the above with a device that is sturdy, compact, durable, lightweight, simple, safe, efficient, versatile, and reliable, yet inexpensive and easy to manufacture, install, adjust, operate, and maintain.
Other objects are to achieve the above with a method that is versatile, rapid, efficient, and inexpensive, and does not require highly skilled people to install, adjust, operate, and maintain.
The specific nature of the invention, as well as other objects, uses, and advantages thereof, will clearly appear from the following description and from the accompanying drawing, the different views of which are not to the same scale.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a spindle with an embodiment of our invention thereof, the roving machine being shown partially and sectionally.
FIG. 2 is a top sectional view taken substantially on line 2--2 of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a partial axial sectional view taken substantially on line 3--3 of FIG. 2 with the spindle not shown.
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 1 of a modification.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to FIG. 1 of the drawing, there may be seen illustrated a conventional machine to twist material or a roving frame. I.e., the roving frame has frame 10. The top part of the frame is called threadboard 12. Delivery rolls 14 are mounted on the threadboard. Carriage 16 is mounted for vertical reciprocation upon the frame 10 and has gears 18 for rotating spindle 20. Thus it may be seen that the carriage is a means for interconnecting the spindle and the flyer for vertical reciprocation through the frame. Bobbin 22 is mounted on the spindle of a roving machine which is a machine wherein the material used is textile fibers. Roving 24 is wound on the bobbin 22. Several spindles, etc., are mounted on each frame. Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the equipment described above is conventional and commonly in commercial use today.
Swing arm 26 is attached to the frame at the threadboard 12. (FIGS. 1 and 4). The arm is attached by pin 28 through an ear on the threadboard. Heel 30 on the arm 26 stops the downward movement of the swing arm 26 so that the axis of bearing 32 in the end of the swing arm is in alignment with the axis of the spindle 20. I.e., the spindle 20 and the bearing 32 are coaxial.
Flyer 34 is biforcated and the hollow top of the flyer is journaled in bearing 32 so that the flyer is coaxial with the spindle 20. Except as being lightweight and smaller in cross section as mentioned above, basically, the flyer 34 is conventional and performs the same function as conventional flyers.
Base plate 36 is attached as by bolting to the side of the frame 10. The base plate has a circular opening therein which is concentric with the bobbin 22 and which surrounds the bobbin in the normal operating position. Main bearing 38 is located in the circular opening of the base plate 36. Flange 40 is journaled in the main bearing and, therefore, the flange 40, which is circular, is coaxial with the spindle 20 and the flyer 34. Rim 42 of the flange 40 is machined with teeth to mate with timing belt 44.
The timing belt is driven by pulley 46 attached to shaft 48. Those skilled in the art will understand that there is a plurality of delivery rolls and spindles upon the roving frame. The shaft 48 runs horizontally of the length of the machine and through a plurality of pulleys 46 which drives each of the flanges 40. The shaft 48 is geared to the same drive source as the gear 18 which drives the spindle 20; therefore, it may be seen that there is a predetermined speed ratio between the two. Idler 50, conveniently journaled to the frame 10, is used to guide the timing belt 44.
Catcher 52 is mounted upon the top surface of the flange 40. As seen, the catcher has an upward projecting back and side lip. When in use, as readily seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, leg 54 of the flyer 34 is engaged by the catcher lips. It may be seen that the outside lip prevents centrifugal forces from spreading the flyer leg while the rear portion of the catcher 52 rotates the flyer 34.
Presser pin 56 is 180° displaced from the catcher 52 on the top of th flange 40. I.e., the presser pin 56 is diametrically opposed to the catcher 52. Presser 58 is pivoted to the presser pin 56. It wil be noted that the presser, therefore, is pivoted for horizontal rotation. I.e., it rotates about the presser pin 56 which is parallel to the axis of the spindle 20.
The presser 58 has driving dog 60 on the top which has an arcuate innersurface coaxial with the presser pin 56. Like the catcher 52, it also has a drive surface and a side surface so that leg 62 may be both driven and restrained from centrifugal distortion thereby.
The presser has finger 64 which extends to presser tip 66 which presses against the roving 24 wound upon the bobbin 22. Counterweight 68 on the presser is responsive to centrifugal force to press the tip against the roving as seen in the drawing.
Operation
It will be understood that the bobbin 22 is rotated and reciprocates up and down by conventional drive means. When an end breaks, the frame stops automatically as is conventional. To piece-up, there is no need to bring the flyer 34 to a specified position as is required by present machines. It is possible to piece-up in any position because the flyer may be lifted up by the swing arm 26. The lifting operation disengages the flyer 34 from the driving dog 60 and the catcher 52. Then the broken end of the roving 24 is threaded through one leg of the flyer which is positioned at the easiest threading position by rotating it by hand while in the uptilted position. The flyer is lowered to operating or drive position. The flyer 24 is rotated back by hand to firmly engage the catcher 52 and the driving dog 60. The loose end of the roving 24 is spliced with the fibers emerging from the delivery roll 14; thereafter, the bobbin 22 is rotated by hand, forward, to take up any slack roving as is conventional. After the completion of these simple operations, the frame is ready to be started again. Those skilled in the art will recognize that piecing up procedure with our invention is simpler because is no need to position all the flyers every time one end is broken; also, they will understand that doffing is simpler with our invention.
With certain materials, such as continuous filament, a simplified version of our invention is applicable. Referring to FIG. 5, a double flange bobbin 122 mounted upon spindle 120 which is driven by conventional gearing 118. Yarn 124 is threaded through the flyer 134 which is illustrated with only one leg, although a flyer with two legs could be used. The flyer, as before, is journaled to a bearing within swing arm 126.
When running, the yarn 124, or other material to be twisted, pulls the flyer 134 as it is wound around the surface of the bobbin 122 through the driving mechanism 118.
Another variation would be to keep the bobbin and spindle in a nonreciprocating position and attach the flyer through the swing arm to a vertical reciprocating carriage. Another possible variation is to drive the flyer from the top, but still restrain the legs of the flyer from centrifugal reflection by by the rotating flange.
As an aid to correlating the terms of the claims to the exemplary drawing, the following catalog of elements is provided:
______________________________________10 frame 46 pulley12 threadboard 48 shaft14 delivery rolls 50 idler16 carriage 52 catcher18 gear 54 leg (in catcher)20 spindle 56 presser pin22 bobbin 58 presser24 roving 60 driving dog26 swing arm 62 leg (in presser)28 pin 64 finger30 heel 66 tip32 bearing 68 counterweight34 flyer 118 gear36 base plate 120 spindle38 main bearing 122 bobbin40 flange 124 roving42 rim 126 swing arm44 timing belt 134 flyer______________________________________
The embodiments shown and described above are only exemplary. We do not claim to have invented all the parts, elements or steps described. Various modifications can be made in the construction, material, arrangement, and operation, and still be within the scope of our invention. The limits of the invention and the bounds of the patent protection are measured by and defined in the following claims. The restrictive description and drawing of the specific examples above do not point out what an infringement of this patent would be, but are to enable the reader to make and use the invention.
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A free, rotating flyer is suspended from an arm hinged to the threadboard of a frame. The flyer is detachably connected to a flange which is positively driven by a timing belt. The flange coaxially surrounds the spindle.
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to wool-synthetic blend fabrics and more particularly to flame-resistant, dimensionally stable wool-synthetic blend fabrics suitable for use in aircraft and other transport interiors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Upholstery fabrics made from wool are known to have an attractive appearance and feel to the touch. Due to the tendency of wool to shrink after washing in water, however, attempts have been made to substitute wool fabrics with fabrics made from synthetic materials such as polyester. The appearance and feel of fabrics made from synthetic materials, however, has been found to be inferior to that of fabrics made from wool. Fabrics made from blends of wool fibers with certain synthetic fibers retain some of the aesthetic features of wool as well as some of the cost benefits and potential property advantages of synthetics.
[0003] In the aircraft industry, seat cover fabrics are subject to specifications provided by aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing. The relevant Airbus technical specification, for example, is TL 25/5092/83. The relevant flammability, smoke and toxicity portions of the standard are FAR 25.853 (b), appendix F, amended 32, JAR 25853 (b), appendix change 10, and ABD 0031 (previously numbered ATS 1000.001). These specifications include standards for abrasion resistance including resistance to abrasion simulated by a Martindale tester. Resistance to stains resulting from spills, and to loss of color and shrinkage due to washing, is also specified. Seat cover fabrics may be required to meet specifications after a minimum of 10 washings. An areal weight below 470 g/m 2 is specified. It is desirable that shrinkage during service life, including shrinkage due to cleaning processes, be minimized. Resistance to pilling, corrosion and color loss may also be specified.
[0004] The relevant Boeing specification is BMS 8-236, for general upholstery interior applications. The flammability standard is provided by BSS7230, a twelve second vertical burn test, in which the sample is required to self extinguish within fifteen seconds, with a burn length of less than eight inches. Drips, if any, are required to extinguish in less than five seconds. Smoke emissions of less than 200 are specified according to BSS7238. Prescribed limits for individual toxic components in toxic gas emissions are tested according to BSS 7239. Dimensional stability is evaluated after prescribed cleaning, whether dry cleaning or water washing methods are used. While zero shrinkage is ideal, shrinkage levels of less than 6%, in both warp and fill directions, are acceptable. Standards for appearance, snag resistance, pilling resistance, color fastness and strength are part of the overall specification.
[0005] Wool fabrics are typically cleaned using a dry-cleaning process, including immersion in a solvent such as perchloroethylene, in order to maintain the dimensional stability of the fabric. Due to environmental and cost considerations, it would be desirable to clean wool-based fabrics without the use of perchloroethylene or other organic solvents. Water containing surfactants or detergents is highly effective in cleaning such fabrics, however, use of water-based cleaning solutions has been limited by the tendency of wool based fabrics to shrink after being subjected to such solutions. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are typically highly resistant to shrinkage following washing in water. Synthetic fibers, however, tend to be highly flammable.
[0006] Because of the nature of the constituent parts of the above mentioned wool-synthetic blends, such blends in the prior art are typically neither flame resistant, nor shrink resistant when washed in water. There is a need for fabrics made from wool-synthetic blends that will meet the special requirements for aircraft interiors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In one embodiment of the invention, a method of producing a dimensionally stable, fire-resistant fabric suitable for use on aircraft includes the steps of providing a yarn having a blend of wool fibers and fire-resistant synthetic fibers, the wool fibers comprising approximately 30% to 70% of the blend, weaving the yarn to form a fabric, and dimensionally stabilizing the fabric to achieve a washable woven structure resistant to shrinkage. The synthetic fibers may include polyester fibers produced or treated to enhance fire resistance. The fabric may be dimensionally stabilized by heat setting or by applying a coating such as neoprene or polyurethane.
[0008] In another embodiment a method is provided for producing a dimensionally stable, fire-resistant fabric by spinning wool and fire-resistant polyester fibers to form a yarn, weaving the yarn to a form a fabric, and heat-setting the fabric to produce a finished material that passes Airbus and/or Boeing specifications.
[0009] In a further embodiment a method is provided for producing a fire-resistant wool-based yarn by spinning shortened wool fibers with fire-resistant polyester fibers in a vortex spinning apparatus. The yarn is woven into a fabric that passes aircraft manufacturer specifications. The fabric is stabilized dimensionally, to prevent or substantially reduce shrinkage during use, by heat-setting the fabric in a stenter apparatus or by applying a coating such as neoprene or polyurethane. In one embodiment, the fabric is dimensionally stabilized such that it resists shrinkage after water washing. In a further embodiment, the method includes treating the yarn or fabric with zirconium to augment the fire-resistant properties.
[0010] In yet another embodiment a method is provided for producing a dimensionally stable fabric by providing wool fibers, an effective percentage thereof cut or broken to fall within a selected length range, providing fire-resistant synthetic fibers, spinning the wool and synthetic fibers to produce a wool-synthetic blend yarn, wherein the wool fibers comprise approximately 30% to 70% of the blend, weaving the yarn to form a fabric, and providing dimensional stabilization by application of a polymer coating or by heat setting the fabric to produce a final product that passes aircraft manufacturer specifications.
[0011] Wool fibers having a typical length of no greater than approximately five centimeters may be prepared by stretch-breaking. The synthetic fibers may include polyester fibers. Fibers may be spun by delivering the fibers to a ring spinning, air-jet spinning or vortex spinning apparatus for spinning the fibers into a yarn. The fabric may be heat-set by securing and heating the fabric within a stenter. When passing the fabric through a stenter, sufficient heat is applied to set the fabric and produce a dimensionally stabilized fabric resistant to shrinkage. Further steps may include applying zirconium fire retardant to the fabric and applying a coating to bind the zirconium fire retardant to the fabric.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] In one embodiment, wool fibers are first prepared by reducing their length. Wool tops, consisting of fibers that are approximately 5.5 to 8 cm in length, are passed through a stretch-breaking machine to reduce their lengths to approximately 2 to 5 cm. It is advantageous if the fibers are approximately 3 to 4 cm in length. It is advantageous if the wool fibers have diameters in the range of 13 to 25 microns, and particularly advantageous if the wool fibers have diameters in the range of approximately 22 to 25 microns.
[0013] After stretch breaking, the wool fibers are combined with flame retardant (FR) synthetic fibers (such as polyester) having a length of approximately 2 to 5 cm and a compatible denier such as 1 to 4.5, and the resulting combined fiber bundles are passed through one or more draw frames. The drafted wool and FR fiber bundles are introduced into a spinning machine at such relative rates as to achieve wool contents in the range of approximately 30 to 70 percent. It is advantageous to the properties of the resulting fabric if the wool content is in the range of approximately 40 to 60 percent.
[0000] Spinning Technology
[0014] Typically, carding occurs prior to, or as an initial step in, the spinning process. Through carding, fibers are straightened and made relatively parallel to one another. After carding the fibers form a thin layer called a web. The web is gathered into a loose rope called a sliver. The sliver is typically wound into a large can and then moved to a draw frame. In the drawing process, multiple cans of sliver are drawn together to form a combined sliver.
[0015] Ring spinning is a relatively slow spinning technology that typically yields a high quality yarn. During ring spinning, sliver is fed into the drafting zone of the ring spinning frame. The drafting zone has one roller that turns relatively slowly and feeds the sliver and another roller that turns relatively fast. The faster roller pulls out a few fibers at a time forming a fine stream of fibers that are fed to a rotating spindle inside a ring. As the spindle rotates, it drags a slower moving traveler on the ring. The ring twists the fibers as they are wound onto a bobbin that rides on the spindle. After spinning, the yarn may then be used for weaving, perhaps after being further transferred to other holding structures. Ring spinning has been the preferred method of producing high quality wool yarns that demonstrate superior feel to the touch and abrasion resistance.
[0016] The air-jet spinning method uses air currents to twist fibers together, resulting in higher throughput and productivity than ring spinning. Air-jet spinning may be used to spin blends of wool and synthetic FR fibers, but yields yarns with reduced abrasion resistance in comparison with ring and vortex spinning.
[0017] The air vortex spinning method is a particularly efficient spinning method that is a capable of spinning yarns at very high speeds and that yields a yarn having a relatively smooth texture and increased abrasion resistance. A vortex spinning apparatus typically takes drawn sliver and drafts it to the desired yarn count via a four-roller drafting unit. The drafted fibers are then sucked into a nozzle where a high speed air vortex wraps the fibers around the outside of a hollow stationary spindle. Yarn twist is then imparted as the fibers are pulled down a shaft that runs through the middle of the spindle.
[0018] An example of a vortex spinning apparatus is described in the patent to Mori, U.S. Pat. No. 6,370,858, hereby incorporated by reference. Mori discloses a Murata vortex spinning method in which a drafted fiber bundle is supplied to a nozzle block and then to a hollow guide shaft. A core fiber is also fed to the nozzle block and then to the hollow guide shaft. Vortex air currents ejected from spinning nozzles in the nozzle block cause inversely turned fibers to wrap the fiber bundle and core fiber to create core yarn. The core fiber may be multi-filament in which case the vortex air currents balloon the multiple filaments, resulting in the filaments being partially separated from one another. The vortex air currents insert the front ends of the fibers into the clearances between the separated filaments, and cause the other ends of the fibers to wrap around the multi-filament core fiber, resulting in the creation of the core yarn.
[0019] In another embodiment, the fiber bundle, comprising a blend of shortened wool and synthetic fibers, is delivered to the vortex spinner and spun without use of core fiber. In this embodiment, vortex nozzle apertures and build pressures are optimized for spinning such that a percentage of the fibers delivered to the spinner tend to form a core. Remaining fibers are simultaneously spun or wrapped around this core thereby causing the core of the yarn to build as the yarn strand itself is formed.
[0020] The spinning speed of a vortex spinner is much faster than that provided by ring spinning with the ring method typically producing yarn at the rate of 20 meters per minute and the vortex method typically producing yarn at the rate of 400 meters per minute. The vortex method does not readily accommodate the longer fibers typically used in wool spinning, however, and it has been found to be advantageous to reduce the fiber lengths as illustrated in the various embodiments of the invention disclosed herein.
[0000] Preparation of the Fabric
[0021] In the various embodiments contained herein, the spinning process used to produce the yarn may include ring spinning, air-jet spinning, air vortex spinning or other appropriate means. It is advantageous, however, to spin the yarn using a vortex spinning method and apparatus.
[0022] After spinning, the yarn is typically dyed to a selected color and then woven into a fabric. The particular weave is typically determined by the requirements of the eventual use of the fabric. Appropriate weaves include those known for use by American Airlines and United Airlines.
[0023] After weaving, the fabric is heat-set to increase dimensional stability of the fabric. It is advantageous if the heat setting includes the step of affixing the fabric within a stenter frame so that a given dimension may be controlled during the heat-setting process. The fabric is heat set within the stenter by heating the fabric to a temperature in excess of 100° C. The actual temperature used is primarily dependent upon the chemical nature of the synthetic fiber being used. Multiple heating bays may be used, each successive bay typically providing increased heat. In the case where a polyester fiber is used, the maximum temperature is typically set between approximately 170° C. and 220° C. Dwell time, the time period in which heat is applied to the fabric in the stenter may be adjusted according to temperatures used and composition of the fabric. The fabric is typically heated by provision of dry heat using appropriate means such as a gas fired burner and heat exchanger. In one embodiment, dimensional stability results from incipient melting of polyester (or other synthetic) fibers and subsequent bonding of the fibers to form a continuous or semi-continuous polyester network or lattice within the fabric.
[0024] In an embodiment directed to vortex spun yarn, wool tops are passed through a stretch-breaking apparatus and the fiber length is thereby reduced to approximately 3 to 4 cm. The wool fibers are then combined with synthetic FR staple (such as polyester) having an approximate length of 3 cm, at a ratio of one part wool fiber to one part synthetic FR fiber, to form an intimate blend. The combined fibers (“intimate blend”) are drafted on a drawframe and then spun in a vortex spinner.
[0025] Portions of the yarn are dyed to a desired color or colors and then woven into a fabric suitable for use in aircraft such as for seat upholstery. The fabric is heat set in a stenter at an appropriate temperature (approximately 190° C. if the synthetic primarily comprises polyester) for approximately 30 seconds. As a result of this process the fabric meets airline interior fabric test specifications, including those for fire resistance, abrasion and shrinkage after water washing. By way of example, a fabric may be produced in accordance with the above embodiment to pass Airbus specification TL 25/5092/83 and Boeing specification BMS 8-236. Fabric meeting these specifications may be produced without heat setting if the fabric is to be dry-cleaned rather than subjected to water washing.
[0026] Representative passing test results include the following for flame resistance, abrasion resistance and relaxation and felting shrinkage (dimensional stability).
TABLE 1 Flame Resistance (Federal Aviation Regulation § 25.853(a)) Average Dripping Average Burn Time Average Burn Flame Time Specimen After Flame (seconds) Length (mm) (seconds) Warp 8.7 83 Nil Weft 7.3 77 Nil
[0027]
TABLE 2
Abrasion Resistance
(Martindale Method)
No. Cycles to Grey
No. Cycles to
Average No.
Scale 3
Unacceptable
Total
Cycles to Mechanical
Color Change
Appearance
Loading
End Point
End Point
Change End Point
12 Kpa
46,500
Not reached
Not reached
[0028]
TABLE 3
Dimensional Stability
(Wool/Polyester, American Airlines Weave,
No. of Cycles: 7A × 1, 5A × 2)
Width
Length
% Relaxation shrinkage
−2.1
−3.5
% Felting shrinkage
−1.5
−2.1
% Total shrinkage
−3.6
−5.5
% Area shrinkage
−3.6
[0029] As an alternative to fabric produced from a blend of wool and synthetic FR fiber, yarn may be spun from a blend of wool and non-fire resistant synthetic fiber or from wool alone. Fabric woven from such yarn may then be treated with zirconium fire retardant. Such treatment typically includes a coating to bind the zirconium fire retardant to the fabric. If woven from yarn spun from wool and without the addition of synthetic fibers, fabric would typically not be heat set but would retain dimensional stability during use through dry-cleaning rather than washing with water.
[0030] Additionally, yarn spun from a blend of wool and synthetic fibers, the wool fibers comprising between approximately 30 to 70 percent of the blend, may be treated with zirconium-based fire retardants prior to weaving to augment the fire-resistant qualities of the resulting fabric. Zirconium treatment may be applied to any of the fabrics set forth above to enhance fire-resistance.
[0031] To resist dislodging of the zirconium fire retardant from the fabric during washing, the fabric may be treated with polyurethane or other appropriate material to coat the zirconium and bind it to the fabric.
[0032] It is to be understood that while certain forms of this invention have been illustrated and described, it is not limited thereto except insofar as such limitations are included in the following claims and allowable equivalents thereof.
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A method of producing a dimensionally stable, fire-resistant fabric including the steps of spinning yarn from wool and fire-resistant synthetic fibers, weaving the yarn to form a fabric, and dimensionally stabilizing the fabric to produce a textile that passes aircraft manufacturer specifications.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This is a continuation-in-part application based upon co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/972,611 filed Nov. 6, 1992 now U.S Pat No. 5,282,065.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to facsimile machines for printing documents with ordered edges, and more particularly to a facsimile machine that selectively prints all documents with common edges aligned, or successive documents with alternating top edges first, then bottom edges first, etc. (Depending on the context, the word “document” refers to a single page or to all of the pages in a single document constituting the same fax transmission.)
Facsimile technology is highly developed, and facsimile machines enjoy widespread use. My previous invention U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/972,611 filed Nov. 6, 1992 and application Ser. No. 08/111,544 filed on Aug. 25, 1993 by Peter Crosby now U.S. Pat. No. 5,311,607 are directed to solving what is a relatively mild annoyance. The problem has to do with the fact that when transmitting documents by facsimile, there is no uniformity among users in whether the top of a document is sent first as opposed to the bottom. While most people send the top first, many do not. At the receiving site, especially if a machine has been receiving transmissions all night, a person looking through a stack of received documents in the morning (for example, in an office where the first one in scans all of the received documents to see if there are any urgent matters) has to look at documents some of which are right side up and some of which are upside down, but with no organized pattern to the alignment of the pages. Accordingly, a fax machine having the ability to provide a user with documents all in one orientation (to facilitate a review), or in alternating orientations to distinguish between successive single-page or multi-page documents would be of benefit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of my invention to provide a facsimile machine in which documents are oriented in accordance with a user's selection. For example, in my previous application I described a machine to print all documents the same way, i.e., with their corresponding edges aligned. This means that any documents which come in the “wrong” way are reoriented so that the corresponding edges of all documents are aligned—tops with tops, and bottoms with bottoms. This facilitates a quick scanning review. However, it may be desirable to have alternating documents, i.e., with corresponding edges alternating. This means having the first document (no matter how many pages) print top edge first, the second (no matter how many pages) print bottom edge first, the third (no matter how many pages) print top edge first, etc. In this way a person reviewing a stack of documents can quickly determine where one document ends and the next begins. Different people have different preferences.
The problem toward which the subject invention is directed is admittedly not a serious one, at least not serious enough to warrant a significant increase in the cost of a facsimile machine. It is therefore another object of my invention to accomplish the aforesaid reorientation at very low cost.
In accordance with the principles of my invention, document reorientation is controlled primarily through software, using known techniques (but for a totally different purpose), thus accomplishing the objective at an insignificant increased cost. Most facsimile machines are already equipped with sufficient memory to store data representative of a complete document. In my invention, the data representative of a received document is stored in memory. (The term “received document” is sometimes used herein to refer to data signals representative of the document.) Conventional image and character recognition software is then used for determining whether the document (i.e., data representing the document) came in top first or bottom first.
This is easily accomplished, for example, by using character recognition software to scan the document, as it is mapped in the memory, in two different ways—top down and left to right, and bottom up and right to left. One of the two scanning sequences will result in recognizable characters. (On the off chance that they both do, the one with more recognizable characters is the “winner.”) The stored data is then read out of the memory and used to control the printer. If a document came in top edge first, then its data is read out in the same order if it is to be printed top edge first. If the document came in bottom edge first, then the data is read out in reverse order if the top edge is to be printed first. The reverse procedure causes a document to be printed bottom edge first.
The user operates a switch to select which way documents are to be printed. To print all documents with corresponding edges aligned, the switch causes sequencing as described in my co-pending application. To print successive documents with alternating orientations, the machine still determines the received orientation of every page but now causes them to be printed in alternating orientations.
Further objects, features and advantages of my invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description.
The invention comprises the features of construction, combination of elements and arrangement of parts which will be exemplified in the constructions hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention will be identified in the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference is made to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 depicts in block diagram form the illustrative embodiment of my invention;
FIG. 2 depicts a first scanning order;
FlG. 3 depicts a second scanning order;
FIG. 4 depicts the manner in which an individual letter is mapped in memory;
FIGS. 5 and 6 depict two different orientations for the same document, along with their respective X-axis and Y-axis Image Density Functions (IDF);
FIG. 7 depicts two Probability Density Functions (PDF) for the two Y-axis Image Density Functions of FIGS. 5 and 6;
FIG. 8 depicts several letters which illustrate why Image Density Functions differ for line scans through the top and bottom regions of a line of text;
FIG. 9 is a flow chart which depicts optional preliminary processing in an illustrative embodiment of the invention, namely, the way in which the orientation of a document in memory is adjusted so that the lines of text are made horizontal;
FIG. 10 is a flow chart depicting the processing in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the subject invention by which the orientation of a document is determined without requiring the recognition of individual characters;
FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of the selective switching circuitry of the present invention; and
FIGS. 12A-12D are timing diagrams illustrating the operation of the circuit of FIG. 11 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The following detailed description includes two distinct portions. The first portion involves receiving and orienting a fax—controlling the top edge to be printed first or the bottom edge to be printed first, no matter which edge was actually received first. FIGS. 1-3 disclose a first embodiment for controlling orientation of the documents, and FIGS. 4-10 disclose a second embodiment for the same purpose. The second portion of the description involves user selection and control—printing all documents top edge first (or all documents bottom edge first), or alternating documents with top edges first, then bottom edges first, etc. This selection circuitry is shown in FIG. 11, and its timing diagram is illustrated in FIGS. 12A-D.
In the system of FIG. 1, character recognition is the basis for determining document orientation. Both transmitting and receiving functions are governed by controller 12 , typically a microprocessor. A document to be transmitted is scanned by scanner 10 , and controller 12 transmits the data over fax output line 30 . The subject embodiment does not concern the transmit mode. (One day, there may be a standard by which the transmitter tells the receiver whether a document is being sent top edge first or bottom edge first, with a receiver then perhaps reorienting documents as appropriate.) The subject embodiment concerns operations in the receive mode, with data incoming over line 32 .
Incoming data, or a representation of it, is stored in RAM memory 14 . A typical fax machine has sufficient memory available to store a full page. (For example, if the same document is to be transmitted to many other machines, then rather than to scan it repetitively, the data can be stored in memory 14 and read out repetitively.) The data stored in RAM 14 is accessed by character recognition processor 16 through controller 12 . Although shown as a separate processor, it is to be understood that the function of block 16 is accomplished by software, just as software governs the operation of controller 12 . The character recognition processor determines whether an incoming document arrived top first or bottom first. Once that determination has been made, the controller is informed over line 34 . The controller then causes the stored data to be read out of memory 14 by read control circuit 18 . A command sent over line 36 controls reading to take place either in the same order in which data was stored, or in the reverse order, as will be described in connection with FIGS. 2 and 3. The data thus read is delivered to printer 20 which prints the document in a conventional manner.
It is thus apparent that the system of FIG. 1 utilizes substantially the same hardware as is found in a present-day facsimile machine except for the addition of some software. The software, typically in the form of read only memory, can be provided at very little additional expense.
FIG. 2 shows a typical document which arrives top edge first. As shown, the document is scanned (at the transmitter which sends data to fax input line 32 ) from left to right, and top to bottom. Successive scan lines are numbered 1-N, and it is assumed that there are M pixels on each line numbered 1-M from left to right. The incoming data is processed and a representation of it is stored in memory 14 in the order in which it is received.
FIG. 3 shows an “upside down” document, with scanning taking place in the reverse direction. The scan lines are still numbered 1-N, but they now effectively scan the document from bottom to top, and right to left. The two serial data streams which result from the scan sequences of FIGS. 2 and 3 are opposites of each other (first-to-last versus last-to-first) and, as depicted by the letters ABC, provide identical data streams if the two documents have opposite orientations.
Once the data is stored in memory from scanning of the type depicted in FIG. 2, if the data is read out in the same order, then the document will be oriented in the same way it was scanned by the original transmitter. If the top edge was transmitted first, it will be printed first. On the other hand, if the document is read from memory 14 in the reverse order, as shown in FIG. 3, then the last edge received will be printed first. This means that if the bottom edge was transmitted first, the top edge will be printed first. The net result is that all documents can be made to have the same orientation in the output bin of the printer.
Let us assume that a document as shown in FIG. 2 is received over the fax input line 32 . In other words, the transmitter sent the top edge first. When the character recognition processor scans the data in memory 14 in the same order and “recognizes” the letters ABC, it knows that by reading out the data in the same order in which it was received, the top edge of the document will be printed first.
On the other hand, suppose that the bottom edge was transmitted first. The data stored in memory 14 , if mapped to the document, depicts the characters ABC upside down, as shown in FIG. 3 . If the character recognition processor now scans the data in the memory in the reverse order, it will “recognize” the letters ABC and thus determine that the document was transmitted bottom edge first. What this means is that if the data is now read out of the memory in the reverse order, using the scanning sequence shown in FIG. 3, the top edge of the document will actually be printed first.
The question is how does the character recognition software know whether the data stored in the memory represents a document oriented as shown in FIG. 2 or a document oriented as shown in FIG. 3 . That is a very simple matter. Using a brute force approach, the software can scan the data in the memory twice, once in the order shown in FIG. 2, and once in the order shown in FIG. 3 . In one case characters will be recognized and in the other they won't. In those cases where there are actually some upside down characters on a page, it is simply a question of which scanning process gives rise to more recognizable characters.
It should be apparent, however, that it is really not necessary to scan the data representative of the entire document. It is sufficient to scan a small band. For example, the software may first detect “white” bands between lines of text. Thereafter, the software may scan the same band of text—a single line of characters—in the two directions depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3. One of the scans should result in far more recognizable characters than the other, and this determines the page orientation. In what would be the fastest scheme of all, a band of text could be scanned to recognize periods. Each period, since it is at the bottom of a line of text, is closer to one of the two white bands bounding a line of text than it is to the other. This in and of itself determines the page orientation. (Looking for an isolated dot may be fast, but it is hardly accurate. However, if a mistake is made, the worst that happens is that one page gets printed wrong edge first.)
It might be thought that documents could not be received and printed as fast as they otherwise could with the page reorientation processing. The reason for this is that all of the incoming data is stored in the memory, and then it is read out for printing purposes. Because the printing does not take place simultaneously with the transmission at the other end of the line, there is necessarily a delay. Unless a pair of memories is used, with one being read while the other is being written, while the printer 20 is operating, controller 12 must send a signal to the transmitting machine to tell it to wait before transmitting another document because memory 14 is still in use.
However, this is not the case, and additional memory is not required. As soon as data is read out of any memory location for printing purposes, new data can be stored in that location. Thus the transmitter can immediately transmit another document almost as soon as it finishes transmitting the first. If the character recognition software determines that the data must be read out of memory 14 in the reverse order, as depicted in FIG. 3, then the next document simply has to have its data stored in reverse order—with the first arriving data being stored in memory at a location which maps to the lower right of the documents depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3. Once the data is stored in the memory, the character recognition software does not care whether it was originally stored in the normal or the reverse order. After recognizing a page orientation, it controls read-out of the data using one of the two scanning sequences shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
FIG. 4 shows the bit map of the letter t as it appears in memory. During the transmission process, each character is in effect applied against a grid of pixels, and any individual pixel is a 1 if more than half of its area is “covered” by part of the letter. (The pixel array might be finer than that depicted in FIG. 4, and the drawing is symbolic only.) What is stored in memory 14 of FIG. 1 is such a bit map for the entire document. It is assumed that the image whose orientation is to be determined consists of text in horizontal, parallel lines. (The method can be extended to vertical scripts such as Japanese or Chinese.) It is further assumed that the image consists of black letters on a white background.
The first step in the overall method of the second embodiment of the page alignment portion of the present invention is to reorient the image in memory so that the lines of text are horizontal. One reason for doing this is to correct skew of the document as it is represented in memory. In other words, while the received signal may represent a document such as that depicted in FIG. 5, it is desired to reorient the document and print it as shown in FIG. 6 . Another reason for reorienting the document image is that the method of the invention for determining the orientation of the document and whether it has to be rotated 180 degrees requires scanning of lines which are parallel with lines of text.
In this regard, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 5,191,438 in the name of Katsurada et al, which patent is entitled “Facsimile Device With Skew Correction And Text Line Direction Detection” and issued on Mar. 2, 1993. This patent pertains to correcting the skew of a document and even an additional rotation by 90 degrees at a facsimile transmitter, rather than at a facsimile receiver. The reason for this is that facsimile transmission is more efficient if there are horizontal lines which are blank, or clear. To maximize the number of successive scan lines through clear areas of the document, skew corrections are made. Similarly, with languages such as Japanese, even though documents may be written in vertical lines, it is more efficient to transmit them after they are rotated by 90 degrees, and for this reason the Katsurada et al system corrects for skew and even makes an additional 90 degree rotation.
The way this is done is to scan along multiple lines and, depending on the results, to “rotate” the document in memory by manipulating all of the bits in accordance with well known mathematical algorithms. The correction for skew in my invention is similar, although it should be understood that the Katsurada et al technique could be used in its place.
An Information Density Function (IDF) is simply a representation of the average density along horizontal segments of a document, or along vertical segments of a document. Referring to FIG. 5 for example, the Information Density Function along the vertical axis is identified by the letters IDFY 5 . (The subscript 5 simply refers to the Figure number so that the plots of FIGS. 5 and 6 can be distinguished from each other.) Each value of this function (as measured in the horizontal direction as the distance between the vertical Y axis and the point at which the function itself is intersected) represents the amount of “darkness” along a horizontal line scan through the document. Similarly, the Image Density Function as measured along vertical segments is represented by the curve IDFX 5 . In the case of a document represented by bit values in memory, there would be as many discrete values for each Image Density Function as there are columns or rows respectively of bits in the memory which represent the image. The function value for each row or column would simply be the number of is contained in that row or column.
The document of FIG. 6 is not skewed as is the document of FIG. 5, and the most notable difference between the two Information Density Functions for this document as compared with those for the document of FIG. 5 is that IDFY 6 has numerous peaks, and numerous regions where the Information Density Function is zero. This is because the lines are horizontal. For example, if there are ten scan lines through a line of text (corresponding to ten rows of memory pixels), then there will be ten adjacent values plotted in IDFY 6 which are large and give rise to what looks like a peak in the plot. The next ten scan lines might go through a clear band between lines of text, in which case all ten values of IDFY 6 would be zero. The plot of FIG. 6 exhibits numerous maxima and minima, as distinguished from that of the plot for FIG. 5, and it is by comparing IDFY functions that a document can be rotated in memory until its text lines are horizontal. The basic approach is to rotate the document (not physically, but by bit manipulation) until the IDFY function exhibits maximum “peakness.”
The question is how to determine when the document has been rotated so that it has the most clearly defined maxima and minima. One way to do this is shown in FIG. 7 .
The two functions IDFY 5 and IDFY 6 (representing the two orientations of the same document in FIGS. 5 and 6) are plotted side by side, and underneath each there is shown the respective probability density function, PDFY 5 or PDFY 6 . A Probability Density Function is really another Information Density Function. The function PDFY 5 is derived by scan lines in the vertical direction through the IDFY 5 plot. Similarly, the PDFY 6 function is derived by taking scan lines in the vertical direction through the plot IDFY 6 . The latter plot has numerous segments along the Y axis itself, corresponding to the clear bands between lines of text. Consequently, the PDFY 6 function exhibits a peak at a point corresponding to the Y axis itself. The peak in the PDFY 5 function is in a region corresponding to the top (on the right side) of the overall IDFY 5 plot. It is thus apparent that as a document is rotated in memory, all that is necessary to determine when the text lines have become horizontal is to determine when the PDFY function is a maximum at the far left of the curve. (In a sense, this is similar to performing a discrete Fourier transform analysis of the IDFY function as the document is rotated in memory, with the image being determined to be horizontal when there is a maximum high frequency content.)
The flow chart of FIG. 9 depicts the steps for rotating the document until the PDFY function is maximally skewed to the left (as depicted by PDFY 6 ), that is, until the leftmost value of PDFY is a maximum.
Referring to FIG. 9, the PDFY for the document stored in memory is calculated. This is represented by the symbol PDFY n , where the subscript represents the current calculation. The current value of PDFY is then stored in a memory location which represents the previous value, PDFY n−1 . The reason for doing this is so that a new PDFY value can be calculated, represented by PDFY n , so that the two of them can be compared. To do this, the image in memory is rotated one unit clockwise, for example, by using the same mathematical manipulations used in the above-identified Katsurada et al patent. After the PDFY n value for this new image position is calculated, the leftmost value of the function (represented by ( 0 )) is compared with the leftmost value for the previous PDFY function. If the new leftmost value is larger, it is an indication that the rotation is moving in the direction which is increasing the “peakness” of the Image Density Function, i.e., it is sharpening the leftmost transition in the PDFY 6 function shown in FIG. 7 . Accordingly, the program loops back, treats the new PDFY as the old one, calculates the new one after rotating the image an additional unit in the clockwise direction, and once again compares the two leftmost values. Eventually, PDFY n−1 ( 0 ) will be greater than PDFY n ( 0 ).
When this happens, as a result of PDFY( 0 ) values having increased as the image was rotated in the clockwise direction, but then having decreased after the last rotation, it means that the document was rotated one unit too far. What is now required is to rotate the image one unit in the counterclockwise direction because the previous image position was the one which had the most “perfect” horizontal lines.
It is also possible that the very first rotation in the clockwise direction is in the wrong direction, i.e., it makes the skew worse. In such a case, the very first inequality test results in an answer of “no” and the execution of the steps in the bottom half of FIG. 9 . In this case, there may be several counterclockwise rotations which are necessary until the maximum PDFY( 0 ) value is achieved.
Consider first the case in which successive clockwise rotations produced increasing PDFY( 0 ) values during successive loops around the upper half of the flow chart of FIG. 9 . When the first “no” answer results, the processing in the bottom half of the flow chart begins. The processing here is very similar to that in the upper half except that the image rotation is in the opposite direction. The very first rotation in the counterclockwise direction will now return the document to its previous position with a maximum PDFY( 0 ). Consequently, the inequality test is answered “yes”. No more looping is necessary, but in order to use the same software for all cases, a loop is taken back where one more counterclockwise rotation takes place. This time the inequality is answered “no” and the processing has concluded. Because of the additional counterclockwise rotation made at the end of the testing, which actually increased the skew, the last step of the processing is to rotate the image one unit in the clockwise direction so that the final orientation of the document is that with maximally horizontal text lines.
Consider now the case in which the first attempt at clockwise rotation results in degradation of the peakness of the IDFY function. After the first inequality test is answered “no”, an entry is made into the loop in the bottom half of the flow chart. This time, counterclockwise rotations take place, and presumably the PDFY( 0 ) value keeps increasing, with each increase causing a loop back and the rotation in the counterclockwise direction by one more unit. Eventually, the bottom inequality in FIG. 9 is answered in the negative. This only happens after the last counterclockwise rotation has caused a decrease to take place in the PDFY( 0 ) value. In order to return the document to the orientation with maximally horizontal text lines, the last step in the processing is to rotate the image one unit in the clockwise direction. (For a document which initially is aligned correctly, the upper loop causes one clockwise rotation, the bottom loop causes two counterclockwise rotations, and the last step restores everything with a clockwise rotation.)
All of this pre-processing is designed to obtain in the memory a representation of a document with maximally horizontal lines. An object of the invention, however, is to determine whether the document has to be rotated 180 degrees, and that has not yet been accomplished. This is done by the method depicted in FIG. 10 . But before considering how this is done, reference should be made to FIG. 8 which depicts several letters.
If scan lines are taken through the letters of FIG. 8 and an IDFY function is formed, the function can be divided into five regions. The risers section represents the densities along scan lines at the top of a line of text. These line scans intersect the tops of letters such as t, h, d and l, and the dots at the top of an i or a j. Similarly, the descenders part of IDFY represents line intersections through descenders such as those associated with the letters g and j.
The upper horizontal peak of the IDFY function corresponds to scan lines through the tops of letters such as e, o, m and r. Similarly, the lower horizontal peak corresponds to scan lines through the bottoms of letters such as s, d and b. Finally, the body of the IDFY function corresponds to scan lines through the central section of the line of text.
Because there are more risers than descenders, it is expected that the IDFY function associated with any line of text will have a greater area under the risers portion of the IDFY function than under the descenders portion. Thus in order to determine whether a line of text, and therefore the overall document, is represented right side up or upside down in memory, all that is necessary is to compare the area under the risers portion with the area under the descenders portion. If the former is larger, the document is oriented correctly. If the opposite is true, then the document has to be rotated 180 degrees (by reading the pixel information in reverse order, as discussed above).
The flow chart of FIG. 10 depicts the processing. Using the final rotated image, the system first determines the density for each of a selected number of successive line scans, for example, a number of lines corresponding to pixels in all of the rows required to represent two lines of text and two clear bands. From these density values, N successive values representative of a clear band are located. (N must be less than the number of scan lines through a clear band.)
After locating a clear band on the image, the system, in the third step, looks for the closest clear band. The reason it does so is that the non-clear band between the two clear bands most likely represents a line of text. As indicated in the flow chart, the closest group of N successive density values which are representative of clear lines should not be connected with the first group. That is the only way in which the system can be certain that it has isolated a line of text.
All of this is represented in the fourth step of FIG. 10 . Once the two groups of clear lines are located, the system has identified the band of successive line scans between these two groups, the density values for which correspond to the IDFY curve for FIG. 8 (the fifth step). In the last step, the areas under the risers and descenders parts of the IDFY function are compared in order to determine the image orientation.
The actual processing of FIG. 10 is straightforward, and is most conveniently implemented under microprocessor control. Once horizontal lines of text are bit mapped in the memory, the processing is relatively simple. The basic steps involve looking at the average densities of scan lines through the top region of a text line and the bottom region of a text line. Whichever group of line scans have an overall higher average density is the group of scan lines associated with the upper edge of the characters. That is all the system must know in order to determine how the page should be printed.
Referring specifically to FIG. 11, the second portion of the present invention is disclosed. Switch S 1 can assume three positions. The switch is used for controlling all pages to be printed top edge first (position S 1 A), all pages to be printed bottom edge first (S 1 B), or all pages of a first document to be printed top edge first, all pages of a second document to be printed bottom edge first, all pages of a third document to be printed top edge first, etc. (position S 1 C). The operation of this feature is described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12 A- 12 D.
Controller 12 in FIG. 1 is responsible for extending control signals to read control 18 in order to print documents. FIG. 11 depicts the document orientation preference switch, and the circuitry of FIG. 11 would be located on lead 36 between controller 12 and read control 18 . Alternatively, the circuitry could be incorporated within controller 12 . The control signal in FIG. 12A, which appears on line 111 in FIG. 11 (internal to the controller) goes high each time new document data is received on fax input line 32 . Only a single pulse is generated at the start of a new document transmission, no matter how many pages are included in the document.
With particular reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, switch S 1 can be connected to three inputs. Input S 1 A is derived from inverter 101 , input S 1 B is derived from buffer amplifier 103 , and input S 1 C is derived from the output of AND gate 105 .
When switch S 1 is in position S 1 A, potential source 107 is applied to the input of inverter 101 . The low signal at the output of inverter 101 is passed through switch S 1 and provides a low signal to latch 109 . As long as switch S 1 remains in position S 1 A, control pulses 150 a - 150 e on line 111 (see FIG. 12) maintain the latch output low. A low signal provided to read control 18 indicates that the present page being processed should be delivered top edge first.
When the switch is in position S 1 B, potential source 107 is extended through buffer amplifier 103 and switch S 1 to provide a high signal to latch 109 . Accordingly, although latch 109 is clocked upon receipt of each new document, the latch provides a continuous high output to read control 18 . In the exemplary embodiment, the high output to read control 18 indicates that the page being processed should be printed bottom edge first.
When the switch S 1 is in position S 1 C, potential source 107 is extended to input 105 a of AND gate 105 . The AND gate has a second (inverting) input 105 b connected to the output of latch 109 . If the output of the latch is initially high, then the previous document was printed bottom edge first. The high output of the latch holds the output of AND gate 105 low. Therefore, the next time the latch is clocked, the latch output goes low. Accordingly, the next document is delivered top edge first. The output of gate 105 is now high so the next clock causes the latch output to go high.
FIG. 12A depicts five clock pulses 150 a-e , each of which represents a new document receipt. FIG. 12B depicts the low output state of the latch when the switch is in position S 1 A, and FIG. 12C depicts that a high is always output when switch S 1 is in position S 1 B. FIG. 12D shows that when the switch is in position S 1 C, the leading edge of each clock pulse (new document receipt) causes the latch output to switch.
The user can thus choose whether all documents will be delivered top edges first, bottom edges first or alternating documents top and bottom edges first. The potential extended to read control 18 indicates which edge is to be printed first. The read control analyzes the data orientation in memory and controls the appropriate read-out under command of controller 12 .
Although the invention has been described with reference to a particular embodiment, it is to be understood that this embodiment is merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Numerous modifications may be made therein and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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A facsimile machine which allows the user to select whether all documents have their like edges aligned, or whether successive documents have alternate orientations. The machine determines the orientation of each received page. Reversing the order of the data allows a document orientation to be switched. Whether it is switched depends on the format selected by the user. The machine also includes a switch to print the received documents in one of three formats including top edges always first, bottom edges always first, or alternating documents such that a first has all of its pages aligned top edges first, the next has all of its pages aligned bottom edges first, etc.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field Of The Invention
The invention relates generally to automated validation of calling card calls, and more particularly to centralized hubbing of physical connections to telecommunications networks and protocol translation of automated validation messages.
2. Definitions
The following terms are used as follows:
Administration--A telecommunications service provider.
Network--The telecommunications network operated by a single administration.
Card (ITCC)--An International Telecommunications Charge Card.
Originating Network--The network of the calling party which is the network from which an ITCC service request originates.
Terminating Network--The network of the called party.
Card Acceptor--The administration that accepts the use of the card as payment for the provision of certain telecommunications services.
Card Acceptor Network (CAN)--The telecommunications network operated by the card acceptor.
Card Issuer--The administration that issues the card. The card issuer is responsible for the collection of charges from the card holder and for making the appropriate payments for the service concerned to the card acceptor.
Card Issuer Network (CIN)--The telecommunications network operated by the card issuer.
Authorization request--A message from the card acceptor to the card issuer requesting validation of a card number and authorization of the use of the card.
Request response--A message from the card issuer to the card acceptor in response to an authorization request.
Call Disposition Message (CDM)--A message from the card acceptor to the card issuer which provides a timely estimate of call duration and charges.
The information disclosed in this document is in accordance with CCITT Recommendations E.113, E.116 and E.118.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Calling cards allow telephone calls to be billed to accounts which may be unrelated to home or business telephone accounts. Before a card call is connected, the card number must be validated in order to ensure proper billing and prevent fraud. When card calls are placed within the card issuer network (CIN), the card issuer has control over the validation process. When calls are placed through other networks, validation is more difficult. In general, a card acceptor network (CAN) cannot itself validate a card issued by a CIN. Validation must be performed by the CIN. For example:
1) Card call back to the CIN--a call originated within the CAN destined for the CIN.
2) Card call within the CAN--a call originated within the CAN destined for the CAN.
3) Card call between the CAN and a third network--a call originated within the CAN destined for a terminating network which is not the CIN or the CAN.
Therefore, the card number must be communicated from the CAN to the CIN for validation and the results of the validation process must be communicated back from the CIN to the CAN.
There are two problems which must be resolved in order to achieve the inter-network communications necessary to implement this communication procedure:
1) There must be validation transport links between each CIN and each CAN for which validation is to be available. This means that a physical signal connection must be made between each CIN and each CAN. As some countries have more than one network, a physical signal connection must be made not just to each country, but to each network. While some networks have put such links in place, the expense and technical difficulty has prevented many networks from doing so.
2) The validation protocols of various networks are incompatible. There are three protocols which are currently in use around the world. Some networks use ANSI SS7, some use ITU CCS7 and some use X.25. In order for validation messages to be successfully passed, there must be translation between these protocols and any others which may be used.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of the prior art world-wide validation architecture 100. As an example, eight telecommunications networks 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114 and 116 are shown. Network 102 has validation transport links 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 130 and 132 with each other network respectively. Therefore, calling card validation may be possible with each other network. Network 104 has validation transport links with networks 102, 108, 112 and 114. Therefore, network 104 has the possibility of calling card validation services only with networks 102, 108, 112 and 114. Networks 106, 110 and 116 have validation transport links only with network 102. Therefore, these networks have the possibility of calling card validation services only with network 102. In order to have the capability for calling card validation, validation protocol compatibility or translation is required in addition to validation transport links.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example of the prior art validation architecture from the point of view of a single network 202. Nine other networks 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, 214, 216, 218 and 220 are shown. The other networks are divided into three groups 230, 232 and 234. Group 230 includes networks 204, 206 and 208 and uses ANSI SS7 as its validation protocol. Group 232 includes networks 210, 212 and 214 and uses ITU CCS7 as its validation protocol. Group 234 includes networks 216, 218 and 220 and uses X.25 as its validation protocol. Network 202 is connected to networks 204 and 206 in Group 230 by validation transport links 222 and 224, respectively. Because network 202, network 204 and network 206 each use ANSI SS7 and because network 202 has transport links with network 204 and network 206, network 202 has the capability for validation services with network 204 and network 206. Network 202 does not have a transport link to network 208. Despite the compatibility in validation protocols between network 202 and network 208, the absence of a transport link prevents network 202 from having the capability for validation services with network 208. Network 202 also has validation transport link 228 connected to network 216 of Group 234. Despite this transport link, network 202 does not have the capability for validation services with network 216 because network 216 uses an incompatible validation protocol, X.25. Network 202 has no transport links with and uses an incompatible validation protocol from networks 210, 212, 214, 218 and 220. Network 202 has no capability for validation services with these networks.
Prior art validation architectures do not provide transport links and protocol translation in an orderly and consistent manner. As a result, validation services are not provided comprehensively and such service must be established between networks on an individual basis. A need exists for a validation architecture which provides comprehensive validation service and facilitates the addition of networks to the service.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The need for comprehensive service and facilitation of the addition of networks is met by the method and system for ITCC validation hubbing. In accordance with the invention, an ITCC validation hubbing system provides centralized protocol translation for all validation messages sent between any two networks and transport links between the network and the hubbing system. Centralized protocol translation provides comprehensive validation service because any connected network can validate messages with any other connected network, regardless of the protocols each uses. In order to provide validation service to an additional network, all that is needed is to establish a transport link between the additional network and the hubbing system. Often this transport link can be provided by a physical connection between the additional network and a network already connected to the hubbing system. This facilitates the addition of networks because the establishment of one physical connection provides validation service with all other connected networks.
When a call is placed in a CAN using a card issued by a CIN, the CAN sends to the hubbing system an authorization request destined for the CIN. At the hubbing system, the authorization request is reformatted and then screened to ensure that the origination point of the call is allowed. If the screening fails, the validation process is terminated and a rejection message is sent to the CAN. If the screening succeeds, the authorization request is reformatted to the format specified by the CIN, either ANSI SS7, ITU CCS7 or X.25. The authorization request is then sent to the CIN. The authorization request is in the format specified by the CIN, so the CIN performs its normal validation process on the request. The CIN then sends to the hubbing system a request response destined for the CAN. The request response indicates whether the validation failed or was successful. The request response also may optionally include a request for a call disposition message. At the hubbing system, the request response is reformatted to the format specified by the CAN and is sent to the CAN. The CAN connects the call if validation was successful and terminates the call if validation failed. If the request response includes a request for a call disposition message, the CAN will send to the hubbing system a call disposition message destined for the CIN. At the hubbing system, the call disposition message is reformatted and sent to the CIN.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the prior art world-wide validation architecture.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the prior art validation architecture for a single telecommunications network.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a world-wide validation architecture in accordance with the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an international telecommunications charge card validation hubbing system, in accordance with the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an ANSI SS7 Gateway shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an ITU CCS7 Gateway shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a X.25 Gateway shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a validation hubbing server shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 9a is a flow diagram of process 900 which handles validation messages sent between other networks.
FIG. 9b is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 904 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9c is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 905 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9d is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 906 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9e is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 910 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9f is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 911 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9g is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 912 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9h is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 920 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9i is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 921 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 9j is a flow diagram of a subprocess of step 922 of FIG. 9a.
FIG. 10 is an assembly diagram comprising FIGS. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d which are flow diagrams of process 900 of FIG. 9a for an embodiment of the invention which is capable of handling ANSI SS7, ITU CCS7 AND X.25 protocols.
FIG. 11a is a format of an authorization request message 1100.
FIG. 11b is a format of a request response message 1120.
FIG. 11c is a format of a call disposition message 1140.
FIG. 11d is a format of an International Telecommunications Charge Card Personal Account Number 1160.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of calling card hubbing network architecture 300, in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 3 includes International Telecommunications Charge Card (ITCC) Validation Hubbing System 302. Networks 320, 322 and 324 are in Group 356 and use ANSI SS7 as their validation protocol. Networks 326, 328 and 330 are in Group 358 and use ITU CCS7 as their validation protocol. Networks 332, 334 and 336 are in Group 360 and use X.25 as their validation protocol. The networks are connected to ITCC Hub 302 by transport links 338, 340, 342, 344, 346, 348, 350, 352 and 354, respectively. In this architecture, all networks have the capability to be a CIN, a CAN or both. The particular networks which are the CIN and CAN for a particular transaction depend on the details of that transaction. Each network 320 to 336 is capable of sending and receiving validation messages using a particular protocol. At present, several protocols are in use. Examples of common protocols include ANSI SS7 TCAP, ITU CCS7 TCAP and X.25. The present invention is capable of communicating messages using these protocols, but the architecture allows additional protocols to be implemented.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an ITCC validation hubbing system 400, in accordance with the present invention. Hubbing system 400 is shown to be connected to three groups of telecommunications networks. Group 470 includes networks 471, 472 and 473 and uses ANSI SS7 as its validation protocol. Network 471 is connected to signal transfer point (STP) 474, network 472 is connected to STP 475 and network 473 is connected to STP 476. A signal transfer point (STP) is a packet switch which sends data messages between other network elements. STPs 474, 475 and 476 are connected to ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 through transport links 477, 478 and 479 respectively. Group 440 includes networks 441, 442 and 443 and uses ITU CCS7 as its validation protocol. Network 441 is connected to international signal transfer point (ISTP) 444, network 442 is connected to ISTP 445 and network 443 is connected to ISTP 446. ISTPs 444, 445 and 446 are connected to ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 through transport links 447, 448 and 449, respectively. Group 460 includes networks 461, 462 and 463 and uses X.25 as its validation protocol. Networks 461, 462 and 463 are connected through transport link 464 to X.25 network 487 which is connected to X.25 Gateway 484. ANSI SS7 Gateway 482, ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 and X.25 Gateway 484 are connected together by local area network (LAN) 481. LAN 481 is a standard local area network such as Ethernet or Token Ring. Each Gateway 482, 483, and 484 includes several capabilities. Each Gateway can distinguish between authorization requests originated by or destined for the hubbing system. Each can route authorization requests, request responses, or call disposition messages (CDMs) among networks. Each Gateway can maintain operational measurements (OMs) to monitor authorization request processing.
Also connected by network 481 is validation hubbing server 485 and OM Server/DB Server 488 which connects to mainframe computer 486. Validation hubbing server 485 performs several functions, including determining whether each authorization request is destined for a remote CIN or whether it is to be validated locally. OM Server/DB Server 488 collects OMs and billing information from ITU CCS7 Gateway 483, ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 and X.25 Gateway 484. Each Gateway ships its OMs to OM Server/DB Server 488 at configurable regular intervals. OM Server/DB Server 488 collects the OMs and forwards them to mainframe computer 486 for storage and processing.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 shown in FIG. 4. Gateway 482 includes several elements. CPU 530 executes program instructions and processes data. Disk 532 stores data to be transferred to and from memory. I/O Adapters 534 and 538 communicate with other devices and transfer data in and out of Gateway 482. Memory 536 stores program instructions executed by and data processed by CPU 530. All these elements are interconnected by bus 540, which allows data to be intercommunicated between the elements. Gateway 482 also includes LAN Interface 510 connected to I/O Adapter 538 and LAN 481 and also includes SS7 front end 502 connected to I/O Adapter 534 and transport links 477, 478 and 479.
Memory 536 is accessible by CPU 530 over bus 540 and contains operating system 514 and three subsystems 504, 506 and 508. ITCC inbound subsystem 506 processes validation messages sent from other networks to the hubbing system operator's network. ITCC outbound subsystem 504 processes validation messages sent from the hubbing system operator's network to other networks. TTCC hubbing subsystem 508 handles the processing of validation messages sent between other networks. The processing of subsystem 508 is shown in detail in FIG. 9a and 10 below.
Messages received from networks over transport links 477, 478 and 479 by Gateway 482 are in ANSI SS7 TCAP format. The card issuer identification number to validation path mapping is provided by analyzing the card issuer identification number embedded in the card number. The issuer identification number indicates to Gateway 482 whether the request should be handled by Hubbing subsystem 508 or by subsystems 504 or 506. Hubbing subsystem 508 includes processing routines 512 which implement the ANSI SS7 Gateway portions of process 900 of FIG. 9a below. Subsystem 508 includes response code mapping routine 520 which maps message formats between X.25, ANSI SS7 and ITU CCS7. Hubbing subsystem 508 also includes OM Maintenance Routine 522 which maintains operational measurements (OMs) for validation messages processed by Gateway 482. Routine 522 ships the set of OMs to OM Server/DB Server 488 on a regular basis.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 shown in FIG. 4. Gateway 483 includes several elements. CPU 630 executes program instructions and processes data. Disk 632 stores data to be transferred to and from memory. I/O Adapters 634 and 638 communicate with other devices and transfer data in and out of Gateway 483. Memory 636 stores program instructions executed by and data processed by CPU 630. All these elements are interconnected by bus 640, which allows data to be intercommunicated between the elements. Gateway 483 also includes LAN Interface 610 connected to I/O Adapter 638 and LAN 481 and also includes SS7 front end 602 connected to I/O Adapter 634 and transport links 447, 448 and 449.
Memory 636 is accessible by CPU 630 over bus 640 and contains operating system 614 and three subsystems 604, 606 and 608. ITCC inbound subsystem 606 processes validation messages sent from other networks to the hubbing system operator's network. ITCC outbound subsystem 604 processes validation messages sent from the hubbing system operator's network to other networks. ITCC hubbing subsystem 608 handles the processing of validation messages sent between other networks. The processing of subsystem 608 is shown in detail in FIG. 9a and 10 below.
Messages received from networks over transport links 447, 448 and 449 are in ITU CCS7 TCAP format. The card issuer identification number to validation path mapping is provided by analyzing the card issuer identification number embedded in the card number. The issuer identification number indicates to Gateway 483 whether the request should be handled by hubbing subsystem 608 or by subsystems 604 or 606. Hubbing subsystem 608 includes processing routines 612 which implement the ITU CCS7 Gateway portion of process 900 of FIG. 9a below. Subsystem 608 includes response code mapping routine 620 which is required for mapping message formats between X.25, ANSI SS7 and ITU CCS7. Hubbing subsystem 608 also includes OM Maintenance Routine 622 which maintains operational measurements (OMs) for validation messages processed by Gateway 483. Routine 622 ships the set of OMs to OM Server/DB Server 488 on a regular basis.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a X.25 Gateway 484 shown in FIG. 4. Gateway 484 includes several elements. CPU 730 executes program instructions and processes data. Disk 732 stores data to be transferred to and from memory. I/O Adapters 734 and 738 communicate with other devices and transfer data in and out of Gateway 484. Memory 736 stores program instructions executed by and data processed by CPU 730. All these elements are interconnected by bus 740, which allows data to be intercommunicated between the elements. Gateway 484 also includes LAN Interface 710 connected to I/O Adapter 738 and LAN 481 and also includes SS7 front end 702 connected to I/O Adapter 734 and transport link 464.
Memory 736 is accessible by CPU 730 over bus 740 and contains operating system 714 and three subsystems 704, 706 and 708. ITCC inbound subsystem 706 processes validation messages sent from other networks to the hubbing system operator's network. ITCC outbound subsystem 704 processes validation messages sent from the hubbing system operator's network to other networks. ITCC hubbing subsystem 708 handles the processing of validation messages sent between other networks. The processing of subsystem 708 is shown in detail in FIG. 9a and 10 below.
Messages received from networks over transport link 464 are in X.25 format. The card issuer identification number to validation path mapping is provided by analyzing the card issuer identification number embedded in the card number. The issuer identification number indicates to Gateway 484 whether the request should be handled by hubbing subsystem 708 or by subsystems 704 or 706. Hubbing subsystem 708 includes processing routines 712 which implement the X.25 Gateway portion of process 900 of FIG. 9a below. Subsystem 708 includes response code mapping routine 720 which is required for mapping message formats between X.25, ANSI SS7 and ITU CCS7. Hubbing subsystem 708 also includes OM Maintenance Routine 722 which maintains operational measurements (OMs) for validation messages processed by Gateway 483. Routine 722 ships the set of OMs to OM Server/DB Server 488 on a regular basis.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a validation hubbing server 485 shown in FIG. 4. Validation hubbing server 485 includes several elements. CPU 802 executes program instructions and processes data. Disk 830 stores data to be transferred to and from memory. LAN interface 804 communicates with other devices and transfers data in and out of validation hubbing server 485 over local or wide area networks, such as, for example, Ethernet or Token Ring. Memory 820 stores program instructions executed by and data processed by CPU 802. Validation hubbing server 485 also may include an operator interface 806, for providing status information to and accepting commands from a system operator. All these elements are interconnected by bus 810, which allows data to be intercommunicated between the elements.
Memory 820 is accessible by CPU 802 over bus 810 and contains operating system 822, screening routine 824, OM collection routine 826, and screening database partition 828. Disk 830 includes screening database file 832.
Validation hubbing server 485 provides point of origin code screening for authorization requests originated by other networks. Authorization requests are forwarded for screening from ITU CCS7 Gateway 483, ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 and X.25 Gateway 484. Screening database 828 and 832 contains tables populated with allowable point of origin codes. Screening routine 824 compares the point of origin code of each authorization request with the allowable codes contained in the database. If all checks are successful, a success message is returned to the forwarding Gateway. If even one check fails, a reject message is issued.
FIG. 9a is a flow diagram of a process 900 which handles validation messages. The process begins with step 902, in which a CAN sends an authorization request. In step 904, the gateway connected to the CAN receives, processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to validation hubbing server 485. In step 905, validation hubbing server 485 receives the authorization request and determines its destination. If the destination is local, validation hubbing server 485 validates the authorization request locally and generates a request response. The process then continues with step 911. If the destination is a remote CIN, validation hubbing server 485 processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the gateway connected to the CIN. This may be the same gateway to which the CAN is connected, or it may be a different gateway. The authorization request is reformatted and forwarded to the appropriate gateway depending on the destination CIN of the request. In step 906, the gateway connected to the CIN receives, processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the CIN.
In step 908, the CIN receives and processes the authorization request and sends a request response indicating the success or failure of the validation. The request response may also include an optional request for a CDM from the CAN. In step 910, the gateway connected to the CIN receives, processes and forwards the request response to validation hubbing server 485. In step 911, validation hubbing server 485 receives the request response from the CIN or alternatively from the local validation process, determines its destination, processes, reformats and forwards it to the gateway connected to the CAN. In step 912, the gateway connected to the CAN receives, processes, reformats and forwards the request response to the CAN.
In step 914 the CAN receives the request response. In step 916, the CAN connects the call if the request response indicates validation was successful and terminates the call if the request response indicates validation was not successful. In step 917, the CAN determines whether the call was completed or a call attempt made and whether the request response included a request for a CDM. If either the call was not completed or no call attempt was made or if the request response did not include a request for a CDM, the process ends. If either the call was completed or a call attempt was made and if the request response included a request for a CDM, the process continues with step 918, in which the CAN sends a CDM which provides a timely estimate of call duration and charges. In step 920, the gateway connected to the CAN receives, processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to validation hubbing server 485. In step 921, validation hubbing server 485 receives the CDM, determines its destination, processes, reformats and forwards it to the gateway connected to the CIN. In step 922, the gateway connected to the CIN receives, processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to the CIN. In step 924, the CIN receives the CDM from the validation hubbing system, then processes it.
FIG. 9b is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 904 of FIG. 9a. Step 904 is entered from step 902. In step 904-1, the gateway connected to the CAN receives an authorization request from the CAN. In step 904-2, the authorization request is processed and the format screened for acceptability. If the format is not acceptable, the process goes to step 904-3, in which a reject message is sent to the CAN. The process is then terminated. If the format is acceptable, the process goes to step 904-4, in which the authorization request is screened for acceptable destination. If the destination is not acceptable, the process goes to step 904-3, in which a reject message is sent to the CAN. The process is then terminated. If the destination is acceptable, the process goes to step 904-5, in which the authorization request is processed and reformatted to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to validation hubbing server 485. In step 904-6, the reformatted authorization request is sent to validation hubbing server 485. The process then continues with step 905.
FIG. 9c is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 905 of FIG. 9a. Step 905 is entered from step 904. In step 905-1, validation hubbing server 485 receives the authorization request from the gateway connected to the CAN. In step 905-2, validation hubbing server 485 determines the destination CIN and the gateway to which it connects. In step 905-3, validation hubbing server 485 determines whether the authorization request is destined for local validation. If so, the process goes to step 905-4, in which the authorization request is validated locally and a request response generated. The process then continues with step 911. If the authorization request is not destined for local validation, the process goes to step 905-5, in which the authorization request is processed and reformatted to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to the gateway connected to the CIN. In step 905-6, the validation hubbing server forwards the authorization request to the gateway connected to the CIN. The process then continues with step 906.
FIG. 9d is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 906 of FIG. 9a. Step 906 is entered from step 905. In step 906-1, an authorization request from validation hubbing server 485 is received by the gateway connected to the CIN. In step 906-2, the gateway processes the request and reformats it to the CIN protocol format. In step 906-3, the gateway determines the CIN network address. In step 906-4, the gateway forwards the reformatted authorization request to the destination CIN. The process then continues with step 908.
FIG. 9e is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 910 of FIG. 9a. Step 910 is entered from step 908. In step 910-1, the gateway connected to the CIN receives a request response from the CIN. In step 910-2, the gateway processes and reformats the request response to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to validation hubbing server 485. In step 910-3, the gateway forwards the request response to validation hubbing server 485. The process then goes to step 911.
FIG. 9f is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 911 of FIG. 9a. Step 911 is entered from either step 905 or step 910. In step 911-1, validation hubbing server 485 receives a request response from the gateway connected to the CIN. Alternatively, in step 911-1', validation hubbing server 485 receives a local request response generated in step 905-4 of FIG. 9c above. In step 911-2, validation hubbing server 485 determines the destination CAN and the gateway to which it connects. In step 911-3, validation hubbing server 485 reformats the request response to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to the gateway connected to the CAN. In step 911-4, the validation hubbing server forwards the request response to the gateway connected to the CAN. The process then continues with step 912.
FIG. 9g is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 912 of FIG. 9a. Step 912 is entered from step 911. In step 912-1, the gateway connected to the CAN receives the request response from validation hubbing server 485. In step 912-2, the gateway processes the request response and reformats it to the CAN protocol format. In step 912-3, the gateway determines the CAN network address. In step 912-4, the gateway forwards the request response to the CAN. The process then continues with step 914.
Steps 916, 917 and 918 of FIG. 9a are performed by the CAN, which is not part of the validation hubbing system. Because of this, these steps are not described in more detail.
FIG. 9h is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 920 of FIG. 9a. Step 920 is entered from step 918. In step 920-1, the gateway connected to the CAN receives a CDM from the CAN. In step 920-2, the gateway processes and reformats the CDM to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to validation hubbing server 485. In step 920-3, the gateway forwards the CDM to validation hubbing server 485. The process then goes to step 921.
FIG. 9i is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 921 of FIG. 9a. Step 921 is entered from step 920. In step 921-1, validation hubbing server 485 receives a CDM from the gateway connected to the CAN. In step 921-2, validation hubbing server 485 determines the destination CIN and the gateway to which it connects. In step 921-3, validation hubbing server 485 reformats the CDM to the intermediate format necessary for transmission over LAN 481 to the gateway connected to the CIN. In step 921-4, the validation hubbing server forwards the request response to the gateway connected to the CIN. The process then continues with step 922.
FIG. 9j is a flow diagram of the subprocess of step 922 of FIG. 9a. Step 922 is entered from step 921. In step 922-1, the gateway connected to the CIN receives the CDM from validation hubbing server 485. In step 922-2, the gateway processes the CDM and reformats it to the CIN protocol format. In step 922-3, the gateway determines the CIN network address. In step 922-4, the gateway forwards the CDM to the CIN. The process then continues with step 924.
FIG. 10 is an assembly diagram comprising FIGS. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d which are flow diagrams of process 900 for an embodiment of the invention which is capable of handling ANSI SS7, ITU CCS7 and X.25 protocols. It is best viewed in conjunction with FIG. 4.
FIG. 10a shows steps 902 to 908 of FIG. 9a in three alternative processes according to the network protocol. In step 902', an ANSI SS7 CAN sends an authorization request to ANSI SS7 Gateway 482. In step 904', ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 receives the authorization request from the CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 902", an ITU CCS7 CAN sends an authorization request to ITU CCS7 Gateway 483. In step 904", ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 receives the authorization request from the CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 902'", an X.25 CAN sends an authorization request to X.25 Gateway 484. In step 904'", X.25 Gateway 484 receives the authorization request from the CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to validation hubbing server 485.
In step 905, validation hubbing server 485 receives the authorization request and determines its destination. If the destination is local, validation hubbing server 485 validates the authorization request locally and generates a request response. The process then continues with step 911. If the destination is a remote CIN, validation hubbing server 485 processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the appropriate gateway depending on the destination CIN of the request.
In step 906', ANSI SS7 482 Gateway receives the authorization request from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the destination ANSI SS7 CIN. In step 908', the ANSI SS7 CIN receives the authorization request, processes it and sends a request response to ANSI SS7 Gateway 482. The request response includes an indication of the success or failure of validation and may include a request for a CDM. Alternatively, in step 906", ITU CCS7 483 Gateway receives the authorization request from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the destination ITU CCS7 CIN. In step 908", the ITU CCS7 CIN receives the authorization request, processes it and sends a request response to ITU CCS7 Gateway 483. The request response includes an indication of the success or failure of validation and may include a request for a CDM. Alternatively, in step 906'", X.25 484 Gateway receives the authorization request from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the authorization request to the destination X.25 CIN. In step 908'", the X.25 CIN receives the authorization request, processes it and sends a request response to X.25 Gateway 484. The request response includes an indication of the success or failure of validation and may include a request for a CDM.
FIG. 10b shows steps 910 to 916 of FIG. 9a in three alternative processes according to the network protocol. In step 910', ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 receives the request response from the ANSI SS7 CIN, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 910", ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 receives the request response from the ITU CCS7 CIN, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 910'", X.25 Gateway 484 receives the request response from the X.25 CIN, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to validation hubbing server 485.
In step 911, validation hubbing server 485 receives the request response from the gateway connected to the CIN or alternatively from the local validation process, determines its destination, processes, reformats and forwards it to the gateway connected to the CAN.
In step 912', ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 receives the request response from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to the ANSI SS7 CAN. Alternatively, in step 912", ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 receives the request response from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to the ITU CCS7 CAN. Alternatively, in step 912'", X.25 Gateway 484 receives the request response from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the request response to the X.25 CAN.
In step 914' the ANSI SS7 CAN receives the request response. In step 916', the ANSI SS7 CAN connects the call if the request response indicates validation was successful and terminates the call if the request response indicates validation was not successful. Alternatively, in step 914", the ITU CCS7 CAN receives the request response. In step 916", the ITU CCS7 CAN connects the call if the request response indicates validation was successful and terminates the call if the request response indicates validation was not successful. Alternatively, in step 914'", the X.25 CAN receives the request response. In step 916'", the X.25 CAN connects the call if the request response indicates validation was successful and terminates the call if the request response indicates validation was not successful.
FIG. 10c shows steps 917 to 920 of FIG. 9a in three alternative processes according to the network protocol. In step 917', the ANSI SS7 CAN determines whether the call was completed or a call attempt made and whether the request response included a request for a CDM. If either the call was not completed or no call attempt was made or if the request response did not include a request for a CDM, the process ends. If either the call was completed or a call attempt was made and if the request response included a request for a CDM, the process continues with step 918', in which the ANSI SS7 CAN sends a CDM. Alternatively, In step 917", the ITU CCS7 CAN determines whether the call was completed or a call attempt made and whether the request response included a request for a CDM. If either the call was not completed or no call attempt was made or if the request response did not include a request for a CDM, the process ends. If either the call was completed or a call attempt was made and if the request response included a request for a CDM, the process continues with step 918", in which the ITU CCS7 CAN sends a CDM. Alternatively, In step 917'", the X.25 CAN determines whether the call was completed or a call attempt made and whether the request response included a request for a CDM. If either the call was not completed or no call attempt was made or if the request response did not include a request for a CDM, the process ends. If either the call was completed or a call attempt was made and if the request response included a request for a CDM, the process continues with step 918'", in which the X.25 CAN sends a CDM.
In step 920', ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 receives the CDM from the ANSI SS7 CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 920", ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 receives the CDM from the ITU CCS7 CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to validation hubbing server 485. Alternatively, in step 920'", X.25 Gateway 484 receives the CDM from the X.25 CAN, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to validation hubbing server 485.
FIG. 10d shows steps 921 to 924 of FIG. 9a in three alternative processes according to the network protocol. In step 921, validation hubbing server 485 receives the CDM from the gateway connected to the CAN, determines its destination, processes, reformats and forwards it to the gateway connected to the CIN.
In step 922', ANSI SS7 Gateway 482 receives the CDM from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to the ANSI SS7 CIN. In step 924', the ANSI SS7 CIN receives and processes the CDM. Alternatively, in step 922", ITU CCS7 Gateway 483 receives the CDM from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to the ITU CCS7 CIN. In step 924", the ITU CCS7 CIN receives and processes the CDM. Alternatively, in step 922'", X.25 Gateway 484 receives the CDM from validation hubbing server 485, then processes, reformats and forwards the CDM to the X.25 CIN. In step 924'", the X.25 CIN receives and processes the CDM.
The ITCC validation process uses three types of validation messages defined in CCITT Recommendation E.113. FIG. 11a is the format of an authorization request 1100 which is a message from the CAN to the CIN which provides details of an attempt to use a card. This message allows the CIN to perform its own internal validation process on the card number. Authorization request 1100 includes message type identifier 1101, message reference identifier 1102, primary account number 1103 and card acceptor identifier 1104. Authorization request 1100 may also include additional information 1105 as defined in CCITT Recommendation E.113. Message type identifier 1101 identifies the message as an authorization request. Message reference identifier 1102 uniquely relates the message to a specific validation transaction. Primary account number 1103 identifies the card being used and allows routing of the authorization request to the appropriate network. Card acceptor identifier 1104 identifies the CAN which sent the authorization request. It is used for origination point screening and billing.
FIG. 11b is the format of a request response 1120 which is a message from the CIN to the CAN. The request response provides a positive or negative response to the authorization request and also indicates whether the CIN requests a CDM. Request response 1120 includes message type identifier 1121, message reference identifier 1122, primary account number 1123, response code 1124 and CDM request indicator 1125. Request response 1120 may also include additional information 1126 as defined in CCITT Recommendation E.113. Message type identifier 1121 identifies the message as a request response. Message reference identifier 1122 uniquely relates the message to a specific validation transaction. Primary account number 1123 provides closure between the authorization request and the request response. Response code 1124 indicates the result of the authorization request. If the response is negative, the request response includes a specific indication as to the reason the authorization request should not be granted. Such a reason may include, for example, PIN incorrect, service discontinued or card lost or stolen. CDM request indicator 1125 indicates whether the CIN requests a CDM from the CAN.
FIG. 11c is the format of a call disposition message (CDM) 1140 which is an optional message which contains information to allow a more complete estimate of call activity. If used, the CDM should be sent from the CAN to the CIN in a timely manner after completion of a call or call attempt. A CDM does not replace actual billing information, which is typically not sent in a timely manner. Rather, the CDN provides a timely estimate of call duration and charges. CDM 1140 includes message type identifier 1141, message reference identifier 1142, primary account number 1143 and billing data 1145. Message type identifier 1141 identifies the message as a call disposition. Message reference identifier 1142 uniquely relates the message to a specific validation transaction. Primary account number 1143 provides closure between the authorization request and the CDM.
Billing data 1145 includes several components. Call originating administration identifier 1145-1 identifies the telecommunications service provider which originated the call. Call start time 1145-2 indicates the time the call started. Call duration 1145-3 indicates the time duration of the call. Estimated call charge 1145-4 is an optional field which indicates the estimated charge for the call in standard drawing rights (SDR). SDRs are a fictitious currency based upon the U.S. dollar, the Japanese Yen, the British pound and the German mark. The rate is published on a daily basis by the International Monetary Fund. It is used in international transactions to account for and protect against currency fluctuations.
FIG. 11d is the format of a primary account number (PAN) 1160. PAN 1160 is a number of 19 digits maximum as defined in CCITT Recommendation E.118. PAN 1160 includes issuer identification number 1161, which is a number of seven digits maximum which uniquely identifies each card issuing organization. Issuer identification number 1161 is used to route messages to the CIN of each transaction. Issuer identification number 1161 includes major industry identifier (MII) 1162, country code 1163 and issuer identifier number 1164. MII 1162 is a two digit number which identifies the industry group to which the card issuer belongs. For example, the number `89` is assigned for telecommunications purposes to administrations. Country code 1163 is a number of one to three digits which identifies the country in which the card issuer is located. Issuer identifier number 1164 is a number of from two to four digits which identifies a particular card issuer within an industry group and country.
PAN 1160 includes individual account number 1165, a number of from eleven to fourteen digits which identifies the individual user account. PAN 1160 also includes check digit 1166 which provides an integrity check for PAN 1160.
Although specific embodiments have been disclosed, it will be seen by those of skill in the art that there are other embodiments possible which are equivalent to those disclosed.
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Method and system for calling card validation hubbing provides a hubbed architecture for communicating validation messages relating to a calling card number to be validated between a telecommunications network which accepts a calling card call and the telecommunications network which issued the card. The hubbing system provides transport links and protocol translation between ANSI SS7, ITU CCS7 and X.25 for each telecommunications network which is attached. When an attached telecommunications network accepts a calling card call, an authorization request including calling card number is sent to the hubbing system, translated to the protocol used by the card issuing network and transported to the card issuing network for validation. Also communicated are request responses, which indicate success or failure of validation, and call disposition messages, which provide a timely estimate of call duration and charges.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] (1) Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates generally to electronic circuits within optical read-out systems and in particular to interfaces for operating light emitting diodes (LED) in conjunction with photo diodes realized with integrated-circuit technologies.
[0003] (2) Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Special interface and driver circuits in electronic applications are required, when it comes to operating LEDs and photo diodes within control systems, where a photo sensor measures the emitted radiation from a photon source and the result of this operation is further processed in subsequent control circuits. This is a noted and quite common application of such electronic components very frequently employed in many industrial systems; for example for monitoring and surveillance purposes with light barriers within a process control of plants, for distance/thickness measuring, for touch or biometric sensor systems, for position detection systems, or for remote control systems, wireless data transmission systems and so on. Therefore the reliable and cost-effective manufacturing of such circuits, at its best containing all the necessary components within one single integrated circuit is a desirable demand.
[0005] Realizations of the prior art for such systems are often implemented as specifically assembled semiconductor circuit systems, consisting of integrated control circuits combined with separate, externally adapted photo devices considering the specific operational requirements. Therefore, when photo diodes as sensor devices are used, the configuration shown in FIG. 1A prior art is commonly used. As photo sensor a discrete photo diode component, connected to its supply voltage V D (Photo diode) is used, further connected via a pad/pin to the evaluation electronics circuit (IC), containing the operational amplifier for the photo currents with its necessary stabilizing feedback resistor, eventually ameliorating its dynamic behavior with a capacitor (Amplifier), also containing the signal processing part for the particular control functions (Control) supplying the output signal of the circuit (Output). This configuration is realizing only the photo sensor input part of the abovementioned, widely used prior art control systems. As can be seen from this example, beneath specialized integrated circuits usually incorporating CMOS (Complementary MOS) devices always some additional external and discrete components are employed, which are normally realized with other semiconductor technologies. In some cases there is additional on chip AC coupling employed, using an extra band pass filter. All this leads to more complex and thus expensive solutions. It is therefore a challenge for the designer of such circuits to achieve a high quality, but lower-cost solution.
[0006] There are several efforts and labors with various patents referring to such approaches.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,822,099 (to Takamatsu) describes a light communication system employing light, such as infrared rays, in which power consumption required for light communication is diminished for prolonging the service life of portable equipments and for reducing interference or obstruction affecting other spatial light communication operations. A light emitting element in a transmission portion of a first transmission/reception device is controlled in light emission by a light emission driving control circuit and has its light emission intensity adjusted by a light emission intensity adjustment circuit in a light emission drive control circuit. The light reception intensity in a light receiving element of a receiving portion of a second transmission/reception device is detected by a reception light intensity detection circuit in a light signal reception processing circuit and sent via a transmission driving control circuit and a transmitting portion so as to be received by a reception portion of the first transmission/reception device. The reception light intensity information is taken out by a reception processing circuit and supplied to the light emission intensity adjustment circuit. The light emission intensity adjustment circuit is responsive to the reception light intensity information to adjust the light-emitting element to a light emission intensity that is of a necessary minimum value to permit stable light communication.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,236,037 (to Asada, et al.) shows finger touch sensors and virtual switch panels for detecting contact pressure applied to a finger, the finger having a fingernail illuminated by light, comprises at least one photo detector for measuring a change in light reflected by an area of the finger beneath the fingernail in response to the contact pressure applied to the finger. The photo detector provides a signal corresponding to the change in light reflected. The device also includes a processor for receiving the signal and determining whether the change corresponds to a specified condition. The photo detector may be enclosed in a housing and coupled to the fingernail.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,337,678 (to Fish) explains a force feedback computer input and output device with coordinated haptic elements, where a set of haptic elements (haptels) are arranged in a grid. Each haptel is a haptic feedback device with linear motion and a touchable surface substantially perpendicular to the direction of motion. In a preferred embodiment, each haptel has a position sensor, which measures the vertical position of the surface within its range of travel, a linear actuator that provides a controllable vertical bi-directional feedback force, and a touch location sensor on the touchable surface. All haptels have their sensors and effectors interfaced to a control processor. The touch location sensor readings are processed and sent to a computer, which returns the type of haptic response to use for each touch in progress. The control processor reads the position sensors, derives velocity, acceleration, net force and applied force measurements, and computes the desired force response for each haptel. The haptels are coordinated such that force feedback for a single touch is distributed across all haptels involved. This enables the feel of the haptic response to be independent of where touch is located and how many haptels are involved in the touch. As a touch moves across the device, haptels are added and removed from the coordination set such that the user experiences an uninterrupted haptic effect. Because the touch surface is comprised of a multiple haptels, the device can provide multiple simultaneous interactions, limited only by the size of the surface and the number of haptels. The size of the haptels determines the minimum distance between independent touches on the surface, but otherwise does not affect the properties of the device. Thus, the device is a pointing device for graphical user interfaces, which provides dynamic haptic feedback under application control for multiple simultaneous interactions.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 6,492,650 (to Imai, et al.) discloses a sensor unit for use in a multiple sensor unit array, which comprises a housing which is adapted to be mounted on a DIN rail closely one next to another as a sensor unit array, and to be connected to a sensor head via a cable. The housing accommodates a sensing circuit system for achieving a desired sensing function in cooperation with the sensor head, a first optical communication circuit system including a light emitting device and a light receiving device for conducting an optical bi-directional communication with one of the adjacent sensor units in the multiple sensor unit array, and a second optical communication circuit system including a light emitting device and a light receiving device for conducting an optical bi-directional communication with the other of the adjacent sensor units, whereby the sensor unit is enabled to conduct an optical bi-directional communication with each of the adjacent sensor units in the multiple sensor unit array.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] A principal object of the present invention is to provide an effective and very producible method and circuit for controlling the loudness of an earpiece of a mobile phone in such a way, that unpleasant and harmful loudness levels are avoided for the user by exploiting an optical proximity sensing method.
[0012] A further important object of the present invention is to account for ambient light effects disturbing the photo reflective principle used.
[0013] Another further object of the present invention is to eliminate aging and drift effects in the photo sensible and effective components.
[0014] Another still further object of the present invention is to reach a cost reduced method of manufacture.
[0015] A still further object of the present invention is to reduce the power consumption of the circuit by realizing inherent appropriate design features.
[0016] Another object of this invention is its manufacturability as a monolithic semiconductor integrated circuit.
[0017] Also an object of the present invention is to reduce the cost of manufacturing by implementing the circuit as a monolithic integrated circuit in low cost CMOS technology.
[0018] Also another object of the present invention is to reduce cost by effectively minimizing the number of expensive components.
[0019] In accordance with the objects of this invention, a method for realizing a loudness control with the circuit of the invention is given as described and explained before. Said method includes the driving of a sound generating loudspeaker system and establishing a secure threshold sound level. It then demands setting-up and driving a light emitting diode (LED) as primary photon source with pulses, following a step of establishing and driving two different photon sensing channels for accounting of temperature drift effects and ambient light effects with accordingly synchronized pulses. The method then continues with measuring the distance from a reflective surface (head and ear of user) by comparing input signals to said photo channels in periods, where the LED is ON (light) and where the LED is OFF (dark). Said method also comprises evaluating said signals accordingly taking into account said temperature and ambient light effects thus effectively compensating for all obnoxious side effects. Further includes said method comparing said measured distance to the correspondingly equivalent of the established secure sound level threshold value. As a result said method then decides according to the programmed logic with its primary goal, to reduce loudness if distance is small, i.e. the phone is close to ear. Finally the method is terminated by generating controlled sound output signals according to the result of the decision, thus avoiding unpleasant and harmful loudness levels.
[0020] Also in accordance with the objects of this invention, a circuit is described, capable of controlling the loudness of an earpiece of a mobile phone in such a way, that unpleasant and harmful loudness levels are avoided for the user by exploiting an optical proximity sensing method. Said circuit comprises means for generating photons as well as means for sensing photons. Also comprised are means for generating phonons and means for driving said phonon-generating system. Equally included in said circuit are means for common control of said means for generating photons, said means for sensing photons and said means for generating phonons.
[0021] Further in accordance with the objects of this invention, a circuit is given, capable of detecting and sensing photons and generating an appropriate output signal comprising a photo diode, a switching device, a field effect transistor, a current source driving said field effect transistor, and a control circuit for the processing of an intermediate output signal, delivered from said field effect transistor, thus generating said appropriate output signal of the circuit.
[0022] Equally in accordance with the objects of this invention, a circuit is shown, capable of detecting and sensing photons under consideration of side effects thus generating an appropriate output signal, comprising two sets of a basic photo sensitive circuit; each set comprising a photo diode, a switching device, a field effect transistor, a current source driving said field effect transistor, and a common differential amplifier for both sets, with a common control circuit for the processing of the output signals delivered from said operational amplifier, thus generating said appropriate output signal of the circuit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] In the accompanying drawings forming a material part of this description, the details of the invention are shown:
[0024] [0024]FIG. 1A prior art shows the electrical circuit schematics of a photo sensor circuit as realization of the prior art. It is emphasized here, that the photodiode is located in a second semiconductor chip.
[0025] [0025]FIG. 1B presents the electrical circuit schematics for the realization of the photo sensor of the invention, wherein the photodiode is an integrated part of a single monolithic circuit. FIG. 1B is functionally corresponding to the circuit of FIG. 1A prior art.
[0026] [0026]FIG. 2 depicts the general electrical circuit diagram of a complete optical closed loop control system, operating with visible or invisible light and realized with the photo sensor of the invention, wherein the photodiode is an integrated part of a single monolithic circuit.
[0027] [0027]FIG. 3 illustrates the functional block diagram with the components used for the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] [0028]FIG. 4 shows the electrical circuit in form of a functional block diagram for a specific preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] [0029]FIG. 5 shows the electrical circuit schematics for a photo sensor stage in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, where two photoactive channels are implemented, allowing for drift and offset compensation, and wherein the photodiodes are integrated parts of a single IC.
[0030] [0030]FIG. 6 illustrates the method how to accomplish the controlling of the loudness of an earpiece of a mobile phone in such a way, that unpleasant and harmful loudness levels are avoided for the user by exploiting an optical proximity sensing method with the circuit of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0031] The preferred embodiments disclose a novel circuit for photo sensor stages normally used in closed loop control systems, operating either with visible or invisible (e.g. infrared, IR) light, and a complete circuit including this photo sensor, also apt for manufacture as monolithic integrated semiconductor circuit (IC). Further disclosed in the preferred embodiments is the use of said new IC as an element in a telephone loudness regulation application and a method therefore.
[0032] A preferred embodiment of the invention is described now by explaining the circuit and a related method.
[0033] Referring now to FIG. 1B, a description of the photo sensor circuit according to the invention is given. The photon sensing device, named as Photo Diode—item 120 —is connected in reverse direction from ground (V ss ) via a switching device designated Reset—item 125 —to a supply voltage VD, the voltage from the connection point 122 is then fed to the gate of a field effect transistor FET—item 130 —, which connects on one side to a supply voltage V DD , and on the other side to a driving current (Current Source)—item 140 —itself connected to ground potential. This voltage signal V out is (in general: nonlinearly) proportional to the light intensity—item 110 —the photo diode is exposed to. The combination of FET 130 and current source 140 thus effectively replaces the operational amplifier used in FIG. 1A prior art together with its feedback network, thus eliminating the need for resistor R and capacitor C of FIG. 1A prior art. This results in smaller chip areas needed. Said voltage signal V out at point 135 is then fed into a circuit block designated Control—item 150 —which delivers the final output signal—item 160 . The advantages of integrating the photon sensing device into the circuit—item 100 —are manifold: no parasitic capacitances due to pads/pins are introduced, the necessary overall chip area is reduced, the die area for the photo diode/diodes itself is reduced, the compensation of temperature drift and light/dark currents can be effectively realized, which will be explained later in more detail, see description to FIG. 5.
[0034] Regarding now FIG. 2, a circuit diagram of a complete optical control system is depicted, realized with the photo sensor according to the invention, where the photon sensing input device is shown as an integrated Photo Diode 120 within a single monolithic integrated circuit (IC 1 ), connected to both a switching device named Reset 125 and a Photo Amplifier 145 with downstream data processing for temperature drift, ageing and ambient light compensation means assembled within a Control circuit 155 and an LED—Driver circuit 165 , all that formed on a single chip (IC 1 ), whose output signal is then driving as radiation source an LED (Light Emitting Diode), still separately connected via pads/pins as discrete component (IC 2 ). The function of the Reset switch is essential for the intrinsic compensation purposes. The reset switch will bring back the photon current integrating amplifier to its starting position every time it's operated. Additionally may the gain can be modified with this reset timing. The Photo Amplifier 145 contains mainly a field effect transistor and a current source, which can easily be seen when comparing to FIG. 1B. Yet other read out circuits are also possible e.g. a resistor or current feed back or the photo diode can work also as MOS diode. This will result in a system with a higher dynamic range. These components make up a complete optical closed loop control system, operating either with visible or invisible (e.g. infrared, IR) light.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 3, a preferred embodiment of the circuit of the present invention in a specific application is illustrated. Before dwelling into the details some introductory remarks shall be made. Modern telecommunication equipment demands the utmost in design and fabrication skills. Many current cellular telephones offer loud-speaking and hands-free capabilities and can provide up to 500 mWatt of output power to the loudspeaker. If the main earpiece is used as the loudspeaker for such a hands-free application or as a high power sounder—especially together with polyphonic ring tones and the required high quality sound output—there is the possibility of a high sound level emission whilst the phone is very close to the user's ear. Besides being very unpleasant to the user this may also seriously damage the ear. To overcome this difficult situation a proximity sensor can be built into the phone, located in vicinity to the earpiece and pointing towards head and ear, which detects when the phone is held close to the body. This detector is then used in a closed control loop operating together with the driver of the loudspeaker to reduce the power of the sound output to a safe level, when the user is near to the earpiece. The essential functional components of the solution according to the invention are shown in FIG. 3 in the form of a schematic block diagram. The view on this figure serves mainly for an explanation of the function of the circuit of the invention. On the left side—symbolically shown as reflecting matter with its surface (hatched), item 200 —Ear and Head of the user are shown. A loudspeaker—item 310 —directed towards the user's head, with its corresponding amplifier—item 320 —is constituting the Loudspeaker System and is depicted in the upper segment, underneath followed by the two parts forming the photo-electric guard circuit—a Light Emitting Diode—item 330 , with its control channel 340 —and a Photo Diode—item 350 , with its control channel 360 . The reflections 370 from the infrared light coming back from the surface of the user's head are evaluated in the Control System 400 , where all the control channels are gathered and also the loudness is appropriately controlled.
[0036] Regarding now FIG. 4, illustrating the assembly of a monolithic integrated circuit 500 as preferred embodiment of the present invention we find the integrated Photo Sensor 510 , connected via its control channel to a Digital Analog Converter (DAC) 540 and a Programmable Gate Array (PGA) 545 , which on its part is connected to a Programmable Filter 555 and a Threshold Setting and Offset Calibration block 560 . The latter is also wired to the DAC 540 . The Programmable Filter 555 feeds its signal into a Detector block 565 which operates together with an Interface block 575 , which is in turn delivering control signals to the LED driver circuit 570 for driving the external Light Emitting Diode 520 ,—via pad TX LED—connected also to supply voltage V DD . Interface block 575 is again connected to said Threshold Setting and Offset Calibration block 560 . The Interface block 575 is externally connected to a CLK line 590 and a DATA line 595 . The integrated circuit 500 includes furthermore an internal Oscillator and Reference circuit block 550 , which uses one external capacitor 530 , connected to ground (V SS ). Two additional pads are needed for the chip, one for the supply voltage V DD ,—item 580 —and one for ground (V SS ),—item 585 . As can be seen, very few external components are needed; the integrated circuit including the Photo Sensor—preferably consisting of infrared (IR) photo diodes—can be integrated as a complete system on one CMOS chip. The circuit transmits pulses of IR light at high frequency (e.g. 30 kHz) that are reflected off the body and detected by an on chip sensor. The sensor has a programmable calibration feature to remove electrical offsets within the system and also correct for ambient light conditions. The LED current is also programmable between appr. 5 mA and 30 mA.
[0037] [0037]FIG. 5 depicts the circuit for offset calibration and ambient light compensation in more detail as described and explained before. Basically two identical photo sensor channels are built, made-up essentially of the components already described in FIG. 1B. One channel is equipped with a Photo Diode open to light 615 and its according FET, named FET light 630 and Current Source 635 , the other channel is equipped with a Photo Diode dark or covered 625 and its according FET, named FET dark 640 and Current Source 645 . Both channels also use their respective switching devices named Reset,—items 610 and 620 —connected together respectively with the Photo Diodes and the gates of the FETs, points 612 and 622 respectively. The output signals, V Out — light (at point 632 ) and V Out — dark (at point 642 ) of these two channels are now continuously compared within a Differential Amplifier 650 , feeding its output signals into a signal processing circuit block 660 , named Control. Then the received signals are processed, comparing the background light condition when the LED is off against the reflected light condition when the LED is transmitting. Thus temperature compensation is feasible. The difference between these two signals is used to determine the distance from the phone to the user—in the above application with the mobile phone for instance, and if equal or less than a given and programmed threshold the device outputs a control signal to reduce the volume to a safe level. There are several operational variations and additions possible, when said side effects are to be considered: e.g. the first (light) diode operating as an active diode and making the photon current integration of this part only when the LED is not active, the ambient light can be compensated for by using only this one diode. This can thus be done by operating in a time multiplex mode with one diode. Using a second diode (covered with metal) we can have an idea of the temperature of the system, which can then be accounted for.
[0038] The device is configured to consume the minimum current necessary and the device may be enabled only when loud speaking or ringing is to take place to further save power. For simplicity and lowest cost the device has a simple programmable threshold level at which point a warning signal is generated. It is also possible for the detector to output either an analog signal or a digital word, corresponding to the distance, if a more sophisticated system is required. In addition to the loudspeaking application the sensor could be used to control the display backlight as a power saving function, turning off the backlight of the display, when the phone is close to the ear and the display cannot be seen—which is also a security feature. Alternatively the response of the sensor could be set to also include visible light spectra and so provide a light measurement, which could be used to modify the display backlight to save power under high ambient light conditions.
[0039] Furthermore the device can be used in various other fields of applications. Not claiming for any completeness, there shall be mentioned:
[0040] Mobile phone to computer data links
[0041] Computer to computer data links
[0042] Computer to peripheral data links
[0043] Computer to television set data links
[0044] Any data link whatsoever e.g. with additional power regulation
[0045] Radiation (light) intensity measurements e.g. in photo copiers
[0046] Any visible or invisible radiation intensity measurements
[0047] Reflection measurements in printers e.g. for paper color compensation
[0048] Position detection systems e.g. in laboratory handling equipments
[0049] Every reflection measurements with visible or invisible light spectra.
[0050] [0050]FIG. 6 illustrates a method how to realize the loudness control with the circuit of the invention, as described and explained before. As a first step 710 starts driving a sound generating loudspeaker system and establish a secure sound level threshold value. In the next step 720 setup and drive a light emitting diode (LED) as primary photon source with pulses. In the following step 730 establish and drive two different photon sensing channels for accounting of temperature drift effects and ambient light effects with accordingly synchronized pulses. Continuing with step 740 measure the distance from a reflective surface by comparing input signals to said photo channels in periods, where the LED is ON (light) and where the LED is OFF (dark). Now in step 750 , evaluate said signals accordingly taking into account said temperature and ambient light effects thus effectively compensating for all obnoxious side effects. Within step 760 , now compare said measured distance to the correspondingly equivalent of the established secure sound level threshold value. As a result in step 770 , decide according to the programmed logic with its primary goal, to reduce loudness if distance is small, i.e. phone close to ear. Finally in step 780 generate sound output signals according to the result of the decision, thus avoiding unpleasant and harmful loudness levels.
[0051] As shown in the preferred embodiments, this novel circuit provides an effective and manufacturable alternative to the prior art.
[0052] While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to the preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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A circuit and method are given, to realize a loudness control for mobile phone earpieces and speakers with the help of a proximity sensor, which is realized as an infrared photo-electric guard circuit, where only very few external parts are needed. As a novelty here, the necessary photo sensors are integrated onto a single chip. To form the photodiodes within a single IC together with the other circuit elements are much less expensive. Using the advantages of that solution the circuit of the invention is manufactured with standard CMOS technology and only very few discrete external components. This solution reduces also power consumption and manufacturing cost.
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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation and claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/886,868, entitled AUDIO SIGNAL PROCESSING, filed Jun. 21, 2001 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,164,768.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
Not applicable.
The invention relates to audio signal processing in audio systems having multiple directional channels, such as so-called “surround systems,” and more particularly to audio signal processing that can adapt multiple directional channel systems to audio systems having fewer or more loudspeaker locations than the number of directional channels.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
For background, reference is made to surround sound systems and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,809,153 and 5,870,484. It is an important object of the invention to provide an improved audio signal processing system for the processing of directional channels in a multi-channel audio system.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, an audio system has a first audio signal and a second audio signal having amplitudes. A method for processing the audio signals includes dividing the first audio signal into a first spectral band signal and a second spectral band signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a first scaling factor to create a first signal portion, wherein the first scaling factor is proportional to the amplitude of the second audio signal; and scaling the first spectral band signal by a second scaling factor to create a second signal portion.
In another aspect of the invention. An audio system has a first audio signal, a second audio signal and a directional loudspeaker unit. A method for processing the audio signals includes electroacoustically directionally transducing the first audio signal to produce a first signal radiation pattern; electroacoustically directionally transducing the second audio signal to produce a second signal radiation pattern, wherein the first signal radiation pattern and the second signal radiation pattern are alternatively and user selectively similar or different.
In another aspect of the invention. An audio system has a first audio signal, a second audio signal, and a third audio signal that is substantially limited to a frequency range having a lower limit at a frequency that has a corresponding wavelength that approximates the dimensions of a human head. The audio system further includes a directional loudspeaker unit, and a loudspeaker unit, distinct from the directional loudspeaker unit. A method for processing the audio signals, includes electroacoustically directionally transducing by the directional loudspeaker unit the first audio signal to produced a first radiation pattern; electroacoustically directionally transducing by the directional loudspeaker unit the second audio signal to produce a second radiation pattern; and electroacoustically transducing by the distinct loudspeaker unit the third audio signal.
In another aspect of the invention, an audio system has a plurality of directional channels. A method for processing audio signals respectively corresponding to each of the plurality of channels includes dividing a first audio signal into a first audio signal first spectral band signal and a first audio signal second spectral band signal; scaling the first audio signal first spectral band signal by a first scaling factor to create a first audio signal first spectral band first portion signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a second scaling factor to create a first audio signal first spectral band second portion signal; dividing a second audio signal into a second audio signal first spectral band signal and a second audio signal second spectral band signal; scaling the second audio signal first spectral band signal by a third scaling factor to create a second audio signal first spectral band first portion signal; and scaling the second audio signal first spectral band signal by a fourth scaling factor to create a second audio signal first spectral band second portion signal.
In another aspect of the invention, a method for processing an audio signal includes filtering the signal by a first filter that has a frequency response and time delay effect similar to the human head to produce a once filtered signal. The method further includes filtering the once filtered audio signal by a second filter, the second filter having a frequency response and time delay effect inverse to the frequency and time delay effect of a human head on a sound wave.
In another aspect of the invention, an audio system has a plurality of directional channels, a first audio signal and a second audio signal, the first and second audio signals representing adjacent directional channels on the same lateral side of a listener in a normal listening position. A method for processing the audio signals includes dividing the first audio signal into a first spectral band signal and a second spectral band signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a first time varying calculated scaling factor to create a first signal portion; and scaling the first spectral band signal by a second time varying calculated scaling factor to create a second signal portion.
In still another aspect of the invention, and audio system has an audio signal, a first electroacoustical transducer designed and constructed to transduce sound waves in a frequency range having a lower limit, and a second electroacoustical transducer designed and constructed to transduce sound waves in a frequency range having a second transducer lower limit that is lower than the first transducer lower limit. A method for processing audio signals, includes dividing the audio signal into a first spectral band signal and a second spectral band signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a first scaling factor to create a first portion signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a second scaling factor to create a second portion signal; transmitting the first portion to the first electroacoustical transducer for transduction; and transmitting said second portion signal to said second electroacoustical transducer for transduction.
Other features, objects, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description, which refers to the following drawing in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
FIGS. 1 a - 1 c are diagrammatic views of configurations of loudspeaker units for use with the invention;
FIG. 2 a is a block diagram of an audio signal processing system incorporating the invention;
FIGS. 2 b and 2 c are block diagrams of audio signal processing systems FIGS. 1 a - 1 c are diagrammatic views of configurations of loudspeaker units for use with the invention;
FIG. 2 a is a block diagram of an audio signal processing system incorporating the invention;
FIGS. 2 b and 2 c are block diagrams of audio signal processing systems for creating directional channels in accordance with the invention;
FIGS. 3 a - 3 d are block diagrams of alternate directional processors for use in the audio signal processing system of FIG. 2 a;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of some of the components of the directional processors of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c;
FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a configuration of loudspeakers helpful in explaining aspects of the invention;
FIG. 6 is a configuration of loudspeaker units for use with another aspect of the invention;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an audio signal processing system incorporating another aspect of the invention;
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a directional processor for use with the audio signal processing system of FIG. 7 ;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an alternate directional processor for use with the audio signal processing system of FIG. 7 ;
FIGS. 10 a - 10 c are top diagrammatic views of some of the components of an audio system for describing another feature of the invention; and
FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a component of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . for creating directional channels in accordance with the invention;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
With reference now to the drawing and more particularly to FIGS. 1 a - 1 c , there are shown top diagrammatic views of three configurations or surround sound audio loudspeaker units according to the invention. In FIG. 1 a , two directional arrays each including two full range (as defined below in the discussion of FIGS. 2 a - 2 c ) acoustical drivers are positioned in front of a listener 14 . A first array 10 including acoustical drivers 11 and 12 may be positioned to the listener's left and a second array 15 , including acoustical drivers 16 and 17 may be positioned to the listener's right. In FIG. 1 b , two directional arrays each including two full range acoustical drivers are positioned in front of a listener 14 . A first array 10 including acoustical drivers 11 and 12 may be positioned to the listener's left and a second array 15 , including acoustical drivers 16 and 17 may be positioned to the listener's right. In addition, a first limited range (as defined below in the discussion of FIGS. 2 a - 2 c ) acoustical driver 22 is positioned behind the listener, to the listener's left, and a second limited range acoustical driver 24 is positioned behind the listener to the listener's right. In FIG. 1 c , two directional arrays each including two full range acoustical drivers are positioned in front of a listener 14 . A first array 10 including acoustical drivers 11 and 12 may be positioned to the listener's left and a second array 15 , including acoustical drivers 16 and 17 may be positioned to the to the listener's right. In addition, a first full range acoustical driver 28 is positioned behind the listener, to the listener's left, and a second limited range acoustical driver 30 is positioned behind the listener to the listener's right. Other surround sound loudspeaker systems may have loudspeaker units in additional locations, such as directly in front of listener 14 . Surround sound systems may radiate sound waves in a manner that the source of the sound may be perceived by the listener to be in a direction (for example direction X) relative to the listener at which there is no loudspeaker unit. Surround sound systems may further attempt to radiate sound waves in a manner such that the source of the sound may be perceived by the listener to be moving (for example in direction Y-Y′) relative to the viewer
Referring to FIG. 2 a , there is shown a block diagram of an audio signal processing system for providing audio signals for the loudspeaker units of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c . An audio signal source 32 is coupled to a decoder 34 which decodes the audio source from the audio signal source into a plurality of channels, in this case a low frequency effects (LFE) channel, and bass channel, and a number of directional channels, including a left surround (LS) channel, a left (L) channel, a left center (LC) channel, a right center (RC) channel, a right (R) channel, and a right surround (RS) channel. Other decoding systems may output a different set of channels. In some systems, the bass channel is not broken out separately from the directional channels, but instead remains combined with the directional channels. In other systems, there may be a single center (C) channel, instead of the RC and LC channels, or there may be a single surround channel. An audio system according to the invention may be used with any combination of directional channels, either by adapting the signal processing to the channels, or by decoding the directional channels to produce additional directional channels. One method of decoding a single C channel into an RC channel and an LC channel is shown in FIG. 2 b . The C channel is split into an LC channel and an RC channel and the LC and the RC channel are scaled by a factor, such as 0.707. Similarly, a method of decoding a single S channel into an RS channel and an LS channel is shown in FIG. 2 c . The S channel is split into an RS channel and an LS channel, and the RS channel and LS channel are scaled by a factor, such as 0.707. If the audio input signal has no surround channel or channels, there are several known methods for synthesizing surround channels from existing channels, or the system may be operated without surround sound.
Some surround sound systems have a separate low frequency unit for radiating low frequency spectral components and “satellite” loudspeaker units for radiating spectral components above the frequencies radiated by the low frequency units. Low frequency units are referred to by a number of names, including “subwoofers” “bass bins” and others.
In surround sound systems having both and LFE channel and a bass channel, the LFE and bass channels may be combined and radiated by the low frequency unit, as shown in FIG. 2 a . In surround systems not having a combined bass channel, each directional channel, including the bass portion of each directional channel) may be radiated by separate directional loudspeaker units, with only the LFE radiated by the low frequency unit. Still other surround systems may have more than one low frequency unit, one for radiating bass frequencies and one for radiating the LFE channel. “Full range” as used herein, refers to audible spectral components having frequencies above those radiated by a low frequency unit. If an audio system has no low frequency unit, “full range” refers to the entire audible frequency spectrum. “Directional channel” as used herein is an audio channel that contains audio signals that are intended to be transduced to sound waves that appear to come from a specific direction. LFE channels and channels that have combined bass signals from two or more directional channels are not, for the purposes of this specification, considered directional channels.
The directional channels, LS, L, LC, RC, R, and RS are processed by directional processor 36 to produce output audio signals at output signal lines 38 a - 38 f for the acoustical drivers of the audio system. The signals output by directional processor 36 and the low frequency unit signal in signal line 40 may then be further processed by system equalization (EQ) and dynamic range control circuitry 42 . (System EQ and dynamic range control circuitry is shown to illustrate the placement of elements typical to audio processing circuitry, but does not perform a function relevant to the invention. Therefore, system EQ and dynamic range control circuitry 42 are not shown in subsequent figures and its function will not be further described. Other audio processing elements, such as amplifiers that are not germane to the present invention are not shown or described). The directional channels are then transmitted to the acoustical drivers for transduction to sound waves. The signal line 38 a designated “left front (LF) array driver A” is directed to acoustical driver 12 of array 10 (of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c ); the signal line 38 b designated “left front (LF) array driver B” is directed to acoustical driver 11 of array 10 (of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c ); the signal line 38 c designated “right front (RF) array driver A” is directed to acoustical driver 17 of array 15 (of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c ); and the signal line 38 d designated “right front (RF) array driver B” is directed to acoustical driver 16 of array 15 (of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c ). The signal line 38 e designated “left surround (LS) driver” is directed to limited range acoustical driver 22 of FIG. 1 b or acoustical driver 28 of FIG. 1 c as will be explained below, and the signal line 38 f designated “right surround (RS) driver” is directed to acoustical driver 24 of FIG. 1 b or acoustical driver 30 of FIG. 1 c , as will also be explained below. In some implementations, there is no output signal from LS output terminal 38 e or RS output terminal 38 f or both. In other implementations one or both of LS output terminal 38 e or RS output terminal 38 f may be absent entirely, as will be explained below.
Referring now to FIGS. 3 a - 3 d , there are shown four block diagrams of audio directional processor 36 for use with surround sound loudspeaker systems as shown in FIGS. 1 a - 1 c . FIGS. 3 a - 3 d show the portion of the directional processor for the LC, LS, and L channels. In each of the implementations, there is a mirror image for processing the RC, RS, and R channels. In FIGS. 3 a - 3 d , like reference numerals refer to like elements performing like functions.
FIG. 3 a shows the logical arrangement of directional processor 36 for a configuration having no rear speakers. In FIG. 3 a , the L channel is coupled to presentation mode processor 102 and to level detector 44 . One output terminal 35 of presentation mode processor 102 , designated L′, is coupled to summer 47 . The operation of presentation mode processor 102 will be described below in the discussion of FIG. 11 . LS channel is coupled to level detector 44 and frequency splitter 46 . Level detector 44 provides front/rear scaler 48 , front head related transfer function (HRTF) filters and rear HRTF filters with signal levels to facilitate the calculation of filter coefficients as will be described below. Frequency splitter 46 separates the signal into a first frequency band including signals below a threshold frequency and a second frequency band including signals above the threshold frequency. The threshold frequency is a frequency that corresponds to a wavelength that approximates dimensions of a human head. A convenient frequency is 2 kHz, which corresponds to a wavelength of about 6.8 inches. Hereinafter, the portion of the surround signal above the threshold frequency will be referred to as “high frequency surround signal” and the portion of the surround signal below the threshold frequency will be referred to as “low frequency surround signal.” The low frequency surround signal is input by signal path 43 to summer 54 , or alternatively to summer 47 as will be explained in the discussion of FIG. 3 d . The high frequency surround signal is input by signal path 45 to front/rear sealer 48 , which splits the high frequency surround signal into a “front” portion and a “rear” portion in a manner that will be described below in the discussion of FIG. 4 . The “front” portion of the high frequency surround signal is transmitted by signal line 49 to front head related transfer function (HRTF) filter 50 , where it is modified in a manner that will be described below in the discussion of FIG. 4 . Modified front high frequency surround is then optionally delayed by five ms by delay 52 and input to summer 54 . “Rear” portion of the high frequency surround signal is transmitted by signal line 51 to rear HRTF filter 56 , where it is modified in a manner that will be described below in the discussion of FIG. 4 . The modified rear portion is then optionally delayed by ten ms by delay 58 , and summed with front portion and low frequency surround signal at summer 54 . The summed front, rear, and low frequency surround portions are modified by front speaker placement compensator 60 (which will be further explained below following the discussion of FIGS. 4 and 5 ) and input to summer 47 , so that at summer 47 the L channel, the low frequency surround, and the modified high frequency surround are summed. The output signal of summer 47 may then be adjusted by a left/right balance control represented by multiplier 57 and is then input subtractively through time delay 61 to summer 62 and additively to summer 58 . LC channel is coupled to presentation mode processor 102 . Output terminal 37 , designated LC′ of presentation mode processor 102 is coupled additively to summer 62 and subtractively through time delay 64 to summer 58 . Output signal of summer 58 is transmitted to acoustical driver 11 (of FIGS. 1 and 2 ). Output signal of summer 62 is transmitted to acoustical driver 12 (of FIGS. 1 and 2 ). Time delays 61 and 64 facilitate the directional radiation of the signals combined at summer 47 . If desired, the outputs of time delay 61 and 64 can be sealed by a factor such as 0.631 to improve directional radiation performance. Directional radiation using time delays is discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,809,153 and 5,870,484 and will be further discussed below.
FIG. 3 b shows directional processor 36 for a configuration having a limited range rear speaker, that is, a speaker that is designed to radiate frequencies above the threshold frequency. In the circuitry of FIG. 3 b , summer 54 of FIG. 3 a is not present. Instead, front HRTF filters and optional five ms delay are coupled through front speaker placement compensator 60 to summer 47 and rear HRTF filters and optional ten ms delay are coupled to rear speaker placement compensator 66 , which is in turn coupled to limited range acoustical driver 22 of FIGS. 1 and 2 .
FIG. 3 c shows directional processor 36 for a configuration having a full range rear speaker, that is, a speaker that is designed to radiate the full audible spectrum of frequencies above the frequencies radiated by a low frequency unit. The circuitry of FIG. 3 c is similar to the circuitry of FIG. 3 b , but low frequency surround signal output of frequency splitter 46 is summed with output signal of rear HRTF filter and optional ten ms delay 58 at summer 70 , which is output to full-range acoustical driver 28 .
FIG. 3 d shows directional processor 36 that can be used with no rear speaker, with a limited-range rear speaker, or with a full range rear speaker. FIG. 3 d includes a switch 68 and summer 69 arranged so that with switch 68 in a closed position, the low frequency surround signal is directed to summer 70 . With switch 68 in an open position, the low frequency is directed to summer 47 for radiation from the front speaker array. FIG. 3 d further includes a switch 72 and summer 73 , arranged so that with switch 72 in an open position, the output signal from summer 70 is directed to rear speaker placement compensator 66 for radiation from a rear speaker. With switch 72 in a closed position, the output signal from summer 70 is directed to summer 54 . With switch 72 in an open position and 68 in an open position, the circuitry of FIG. 3 d becomes the circuitry of FIG. 3 b . With switch 72 in an open position and switch 68 in a closed position, the circuitry of FIG. 3 d becomes the circuitry of FIG. 3 c . With switch 72 in a closed position and switch 68 in a closed position, the circuitry of FIG. 3 d (since the effect of the signal on line 43 being coupled to summer 54 as in the embodiment of FIG. 3 d is functionally equivalent to the signal on line 43 being directly connected to summer 54 as in the embodiment of FIG. 3 a ) becomes the circuitry of FIG. 3 a . With switch 72 in a closed position and switch 68 in an open position, the circuitry of FIG. 3 d becomes the circuitry of FIG. 3 a , with the low frequency surround signal directed to summer 47 .
In operation, switch 72 is set to the open position when there is a rear speaker and to the closed position when there is no rear speaker. Switch 68 is set to the open position for a limited range rear speaker and to the closed position for a full range rear speaker. Logically if switch 72 is set to the closed position, the position of switch 68 should be irrelevant. It was stated in the preceding paragraph that that if switch 72 is in the closed position, the low frequency surround signal may be summed with the high frequency surround signal before or after the front speaker placement compensator depending on the position of switch 68 . However, as will be explained below in the discussion of FIG. 4 , the front and rear speaker placement compensators have little effect on frequencies below the threshold frequency, so it does not matter whether the low frequency surround is summed with the high frequency surround before or after the front speaker placement compensator. Alternatively, switches 68 and 72 could be linked so that if switch 72 is in the closed position, switch 68 would automatically be set to the open or closed position as desired.
In an exemplary embodiment, the directional processor 36 is implemented as digital signal processors (DSPs) executing instructions with digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters as necessary. In other embodiments, the directional processor 36 may be implemented as a combination of DSPs, analog circuit elements, and digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters as necessary.
FIG. 4 shows the frequency splitter 46 , the front/rear scaler 48 , the front HRTF filter 50 and the rear HRTF filter 56 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c in greater detail. Frequency splitter 46 is implemented as a high pass filter 74 and a summer 76 . High pass filter 74 and summer 76 are arranged so that high pass filtered LS channel is combined subtractively with the LS channel signal so that the low frequency surround is output on line 43 . The high pass filter 74 is directly coupled to signal line 45 , so that the high frequency surround is output on signal line 45 . Front/rear scaler is implemented as a summer 78 and a multiplier 80 . Multiplier 80 scales the signal by a factor that is related to the relative amplitudes of the signals in the LS channel and the L channel. In the embodiment of FIG. 4 , the factor is
LS _ LS _ + L _ .
Summer 78 and multiplier 80 are arranged so that scaled signal is combined subtractively with the unscaled signal and output on signal line 49 so that the signal on signal line 49 is the input signal scaled by
( 1 - LS _ LS _ + L _ ) .
Multiplier is directly coupled to signal line 51 so that the signal on the signal line 51 is the input signal scaled by
LS _ LS _ + L _ .
It can be seen that if | LS | approaches zero, the portion of the input signal that is directed to signal line 49 approaches one and the portion of the signal that is directed to signal line 51 approaches zero. Similarly if | LS | is much greater that | L |, the portion of the input signal that is directed to signal line 49 approaches zero and the portion of the input signal that is directed to signal line 51 approaches one. If | LS | and | L | are approximately equal, then the portion of the input signal that is directed to signal line 49 is approximately equal to the portion of the input signal that is directed to signal line 51 . The effect of the front/rear scaler is to orient the apparent source of a sound relative to the listener. If | L | is greater that | LS |, a greater portion of the high frequency surround signal will be directed to the front speaker unit, and the apparent source of the sound is toward the front. If | LS | is greater than | L |, a greater portion of the high frequency surround signal will be directed to the rear speaker unit (or in the absence of a rear speaker unit, be processed so that it will appear to come from the rear) and the apparent source of the sound is toward the rear. If | LS | and | L | are relatively equal, then an approximately equal portion of the high frequency surround signal will be directed to the front and rear loudspeaker units, and the apparent source of the sound is to the side. The values | L | and | LS | are made available to multiplier 80 by level detectors 44 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . Scaling factors
LS _ LS _ + L _ and ( 1 - LS _ LS _ + L _ )
may be calculated as often as practical. In one implementation, the scaling factors are recalculated at five millisecond intervals.
Front HRTF filter 50 may be implemented as, in order in series, a multiplier 82 , a first filter 84 representing the frequency shading effect of the head (hereinafter the head shading filter), a second filter 86 representing the diffraction path delay of the head (hereinafter the head diffraction path delay filter), a third filter 88 representing the diffraction path delay of the pinna (hereinafter the pinna diffraction path delay filter), and a summer 90 . Summer 90 sums the output signal from pinna diffraction path delay filter 88 with the output of head diffraction path delay filter 86 , the output of head frequency shading filter 84 , and the unmultiplied input signal of front HRTF filter 50 . Rear HRTF filter 56 may be implemented as, in order in series, multiplier 82 , head frequency shading filter 84 , pinna diffraction path delay filter 88 , head diffraction path delay 86 , and a fourth filter 92 representing the frequency shading effect of the rear surface of the pinna (hereinafter the pinna rear frequency shading filter), and a summer 94 . Summer 94 sums the output of pinna rear frequency shading filter 92 , output of head diffraction path delay filter 86 , pinna diffraction path delay filter 88 , and the unmultiplied input signal of the rear HRTF filter 56 . In one implementation, the signal from head diffraction path delay 86 to summer 94 is scaled by a factor of 0.5 and the signal from pinna rear frequency shading filter 92 to summer 94 is scaled by a factor of two.
Head frequency shading filter 84 is implemented as a first order high pass filter with a single real pole at −2.7 kHz; head diffraction path delay filter 86 is implemented as a fourth order all-pass network with four real poles at −3.27 kHz and four real zeros at 3.27 kHz; pinna diffraction delay filter 88 is implemented as a fourth order all-pass network with four real poles at −7.7 kHz and four real zeros at 7.7 kHz; and pinna rear frequency shading filter 92 is implemented as a first order high pass filter with a single real pole at −7.7 kHz. Multiplier 82 scales the input signal by a factor of
Y ( Y - LS _ ) + ( Y - L _ ) + Y ,
where Y is the larger of | L | and | LS |. The values | L | and | LS | are made available to multiplier 80 by level detectors 44 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . “Pinna” as used herein refers to the auricle portion of the external ear as shown on p. 1367 Gray's Anatomy, 38 th Edition, Churchill Livingston 1995. “Pinna rear” or “rear surface of the pinna” as used herein, refers to the anterior surface or the external ear, or the external ear as viewed in the direction of the arrow in Appendix 1. The pinna is an acoustic surface for sounds from all directions, while the rear pinna is an acoustic surface only for sounds from directions ranging from the side to the rear.
Filters having characteristics other than those described above (including a filter having a flat frequency response, such as a direct electrical connection) may be used in place of the filter arrangements shown in FIG. 4 and described in the accompanying portion of the disclosure.
FIG. 5 illustrates the purpose of the front speaker placement compensator 60 and the rear speaker placement compensator 66 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . Front speaker placement compensator is implemented as a filter or series of filters that has an effect that is inverse to the front HRTF filter 50 when front HRTF filter 50 acts upon a signal that radiated from a first specific angle. Similarly, the rear speaker placement compensator is implemented as a filter of series of filters that has an effect that is inverse to the rear HRTF filter 56 when rear HRTF filter 56 acts upon a signal that radiated from a second specific angle.
FIG. 5 shows for explanation purposes a sound system according to the configuration of FIG. 3 b , with desired apparent source of a sound is a point Z, which is oriented at an angle θ relative to a listener 14 . All angles in FIG. 5 lie in a horizontal plane which includes the entrances to the ear canals of listener 14 . The reference line for the angles is a line passing through the points that are equidistant from the entrances to the ear canals of listener 14 . Angles are measured counter-clockwise from the front of the listener 14 . Placement of the apparent source of the sound at point Z is accomplished in part by the front/rear scaler 48 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c and FIG. 4 . Front/rear scaler directs more of the high frequency surround signal to the front array 10 than to the rear speaker unit, so that the apparent source of the sound is somewhat forward. Placement of the apparent source of the sound at point Z is further accomplished by the front and rear HRTF filters 50 and 56 (of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d ) respectively. Front and rear HRTF filters 50 and 56 alter the audio signals so that when the signals are transduced to sound waves by front array 10 and limited range acoustical driver 22 , the sound waves will have the frequency content and phase relationships as if the sound waves had originated at point Z and had been modified by the head 96 and pinna 98 or listener 14 . However, when the sound waves are actually transduced by front array 10 and rear limited range acoustical driver 22 , the frequency content and the phase relationships of the sound waves will be modified by the physical head 96 and pinna 98 of listener 14 , so that in effect the sound waves that reach the ear canal have the frequency content and phase relationships that have been twice modified by the head and pinna of the listener over angle φ 1 . Front speaker placement compensator 60 modifies the audio signal so that when it is transduced by front array 10 , the sound waves will not have the change in frequency content and phase relationships attributable to the angle φ 1 , leaving in the audio signal the change in frequency and phase relationships attributable to the difference between angle θ and angle φ 1 . Then, when the sound waves are transduced by front array 10 and modified by the head and pinna of the listener, the sound waves that reach the ear canal will have the frequency content and phase relationships as a sound from a source at angle θ. Similarly, the rear speaker placement compensator 66 modifies the audio signal so that when it is transduced by rear limited range acoustical driver 22 , the sound waves will not have the change in frequency content and phase relationships attributable to the angle φ 2 , leaving the change in frequency and phase relationships attributable to the difference between angle θ and angle φ 2 . Then, when the sound is transduced by rear limited range acoustical driver 22 , the sound waves that reach the ear canal will have the same frequency content and phase relationships as a sound from a source at angle θ. If the speaker configuration is the configuration of FIG. 3 a the same explanation applies. However the configuration having the limited range rear speaker was chosen to illustrate that the front and rear HRTF filters 50 and 56 and the front and rear speaker placement compensators 60 and 66 , all have little effect below frequencies having corresponding wavelengths that approximate the dimensions of the head, for example 2 kHz. In one embodiment, the angles φ 1 and φ 2 are measured and input into audio system so that speaker placement compensators 60 and 66 calculate using the precise angle. One technique for measuring angles φ 1 and φ 2 is to physically measure them. In a second embodiment, speaker placement compensators are set to pre-selected typical values of angles φ 1 and φ 2 (for example 30 degrees and 150 degrees). This second embodiment gives acceptable results, but does not require actual measurement of the speaker placement angles and may require somewhat less complex computing in speaker placement compensators 60 and 66 .
Speaker placement compensators 60 and 66 may be implemented as filters having the inverse effect as front and rear HRTF filters, respectively, evaluated for the selected values of angles φ 1 and φ 2 , by using values derived from the relationships
ϕ 1 = arcsin [ 1 - [ Y - LS _ + Y - L _ Y ] ] and ϕ 2 = arcsin [ 1 - [ Y - LS _ + Y - L _ Y ] ] ,
respectively.
If some filter arrangement other than the filter arrangement of FIG. 4 is used for the front HRTF filter 50 and the rear HRTF filter 56 , the front speaker placement compensator 60 and the rear speaker placement compensator 66 may be modified accordingly. If HRTF filters 50 and 56 have a flat frequency response, the front speaker placement compensator 60 and rear speaker placement compensator 66 may be replaced by a filter having a flat frequency response (such as a direct electrical connection).
Referring now to FIG. 6 , there is shown an example of two more acoustical loudspeaker configurations for illustrating another feature of the invention. In FIG. 6 , there is an acoustical driver array 10 , similar to the acoustical driver array 10 of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c , placed at a point displaced by 30 degrees from listener 14 . In addition, there are limited range acoustical drivers, similar to the limited range acoustical drivers 22 of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c , at 60 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, and 150 degrees OR full range acoustical drivers 28 similar to the full range acoustical drivers 28 of FIGS. 1 a - 1 c . The limited range acoustical drivers are designated 22 - 60 , 22 - 90 , 22 - 120 , and 22 - 150 , respectively, to indicate the angular position of the limited range acoustical driver. The alternate full range acoustical drivers are designated 28 - 60 , 28 - 90 , 28 - 120 , and 28 - 150 , respectively, to indicate the angular position of the limited range acoustical driver. All angles in FIG. 6 lie in the horizontal plane that includes the entrances to the ear canal of listener 14 . The reference line for the angles is a line passing through the points that are equidistant from the entrances to the listener's ear canals. The angles for the acoustical driver units on the left of listener 14 are measured counterclockwise from the reference line in front of the listener. The angles for the acoustical driver units on the right of listener 14 are measured clockwise from the reference line in front of the listener. There may also be other acoustical driver units, such as a center channel acoustical driver unit or a low frequency unit, which are not shown in this view.
FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an audio signal processing system for providing audio signals for the loudspeaker units of FIG. 6 . An audio signal source 32 is coupled to a decoder 34 which decodes the audio source from the audio signal source into a plurality of channels, in this case a low frequency effects (LFE) channel, and bass channel, and a number of directional channels, including a left (L) channel, a left center (LC) channel, and further including a number of left channels, L 60 , L 90 , L 120 , and LS in which the numerical indicator corresponds to the angular displacement, in degrees, of the channel relative to the listener. There are corresponding right channels, RC, R, R 60 , R 90 , R 120 and RS. The remainder of the discussion will focus on the left channels, since the right channels can be processed in a similar manner to the left channels. The left channel signals are processed by directional processor 36 to produce output signals for low frequency (LF) array driver 12 on signal line 38 a , for LF array driver 11 on signal line 38 b , for driver 22 - 60 L or driver 28 - 60 L on signal line 39 a , for driver 22 - 90 L or driver 28 - 90 L on signal line 39 b , for driver 22 - 120 L or 28 - 120 L on signal line 39 c , and for driver 22 - 150 L or driver 28 - 150 L on signal line 39 d . As with the embodiment of FIG. 2 a , the outputs on the signal lines are processed by system EQ and dynamic range controller 42 .
In an exemplary embodiment, the directional processor 36 is implemented as digital signal processor (DSPs) executing instructions with digital to analog and analog-to-digital converters as necessary. In other embodiments, the directional processor 36 may be implemented as a combination of DSPs, analog circuit elements, and digital to analog and analog-to-digital converters as necessary.
FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of the directional processor 36 of FIG. 7 , for an implementation with limited range side and rear acoustical drivers. The directional processor has inputs for five left directional channels. The five directional channels can be created from an audio signal processing system having two channels, a left (L) channel designed, for example, to be radiated at 30 degrees) and a left surround (LS) channel, designed, for example to be radiated at 150 degrees). The L and LS channels can be decoded according the teachings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/796,285, incorporated herein by reference, to produce channel L 90 (intended to be radiated at 90 degrees). Channel L and L 90 and channels L 90 and LS can then be decoded to produce channels L 60 and L 120 , respectively. The invention will work equally well with fewer directional channels or more directional channels. The audio signal processing system of FIG. 7 has several elements that are similar to elements of the system of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and perform similar functions to the corresponding elements of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . The similar elements use similar reference numbers. Some elements of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d that are not germane to the invention (such as multiplier 57 ) are not shown in FIG. 8 . A mirror image audio processing system could be created to process right directional channels corresponding to the left directional channels.
Referring now to FIG. 8 , the input terminals for channels L 60 , L 90 , L 120 , and LS are coupled to level detector 44 for making measurements for the scalers and HRTF filters. The input terminal for channel L is coupled to presentation mode processor 102 . Output terminal 35 designated L′ of presentation mode processor 102 is coupled to summer 47 . The input terminal for channel LC is coupled to presentation mode processor 102 . Output terminal 37 of presentation mode processor 102 designated LC′ is coupled subtractively to summer 58 through time delay 58 and additively to summer 62 . The audio signal is channel L 60 is split by frequency splitter 46 a into a low frequency (LF) portion and a high frequency (HF) portion. LF portion is input to summer 47 . HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 60 is input to front/rear scaler 48 a , (similar to the front/rear scaler 48 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L | and | L 60 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 . Front/rear scaler 48 a separates the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 60 into a “front” portion and a “rear” portion. Front portion of the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 60 is processed by front HRTF filter 50 a (similar to the front HRTF filter 50 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L | and | L 60 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 , and speaker placement compensator 60 a , (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 30 degrees, and input to summer 47 . Rear portion of the audio signal in channel L 60 is processed by front HRTF filter 50 b (similar to the front HRTF filter 50 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L | and | L 60 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 ) and speaker placement compensator 60 a , similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 , calculated for 60 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 60 .
The audio signal in channel L 90 is split by frequency splitter 46 b into a low frequency (LF) portion and a high frequency (HF) portion. LF portion is input to summer 47 . HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 90 is input to front/rear scaler 48 b , similar to the front/rear scaler 48 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 , using the values | L 60 | and | L 90 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 . Front/rear scaler 48 b separates the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 90 into a “front” portion and a “rear” portion. Front portion of the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 90 is processed by front HRTF filter 50 c (similar to the front HRTF filter of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 90 | and | L 90 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 ), and speaker placement compensator 60 b , calculated for 60 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 60 . Rear portion of the audio signal in channel L 60 is processed by front HRTF filter 50 d (similar to the front HRTF filter of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 60 | and | L 90 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 , and speaker placement compensator 60 d , (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 90 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 90 .
The audio signal in channel L 120 is split by frequency splitter 46 c into a low frequency (LF) portion and a high frequency (HF) portion. LF portion is input to summer 47 . HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 120 is input to front/rear scaler 48 c , (similar to the front/rear scaler 48 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 90 | and | L 120 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 . Front/rear scaler 48 c separates the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 120 into a “front” portion and a “rear” portion. Front portion of the HF portion of the audio signal in channel L 120 is processed by front HRTF filter 50 e (similar to the front HRTF filter 50 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 , using the values | L 90 | and | L 120 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 and speaker placement compensator 60 e (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 90 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 90 . Rear portion of the audio signal in channel L 90 is processed by rear HRTF filter 56 a (similar to the rear HRTF filter 56 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 90 | and | L 120 | respectively for the values | L | and | LS |, and speaker placement compensator 60 f (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 120 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 120 .
The audio signal in channel LS is split by frequency splitter 46 d into a low frequency (LF) portion and a high frequency (HF) portion. LF portion is input to summer 47 . HF portion of the audio signal in channel LS is input to front/rear scaler 48 d , (similar to the front/rear scaler 48 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 120 | and | LS | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 . Front/rear scaler 48 d separates the HF portion of the audio signal in channel LS into a “front” portion and a “rear” portion. Front portion of the HF portion of the audio signal in channel LS is processed by rear HRTF filter 56 b (similar to the rear HRTF filter 56 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), using the values | L 120 | and | LS | respectively for the values | L | and | LS | in the discussion of FIG. 4 , and speaker placement compensator 60 fg (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 120 degrees, and input to summer 100 - 120 . Rear portion of the audio signal in channel LS is processed by rear HRTF filter 56 c (similar to the rear HRTF filter 56 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), and speaker placement compensator 60 h (similar to the speaker placement compensator 60 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and 4 ), calculated for 150 degrees.
The output signal of summer 47 is transmitted additively to summer 58 and subtractively through time delay 61 to summer 62 . The output signal of summer 58 is transmitted to full range acoustical driver 11 (of speaker array 10 ) for transduction to sound waves. The output signal of summer 62 is transmitted to full range acoustical driver 12 for transduction to sound waves. Time delay 61 facilitates the directional radiation of the signals combined at summer 47 . Output signals of summers 100 - 60 , 100 - 90 , 100 - 120 , and of speaker placement compensator 60 h are transmitted to limited range acoustical drivers 22 - 60 , 22 - 90 , 22 - 120 , and 22 - 150 , respectively, for transduction to sound waves.
FIG. 9 shows the directional processor of FIG. 7 for an implementation having full range side and rear acoustical drivers. The implementation of FIG. 9 has the same input channels as the implementation of FIG. 7 . The invention will work with fewer directional channels or more directional channels. The audio signal processing system of FIG. 7 has several elements that are similar to elements of the system of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d and perform similar functions to the corresponding elements of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . The similar elements use similar reference numerals. A mirror image audio processing system could be created to process right directional channels corresponding to the left directional channels.
FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8 , except for the following. The low frequency (LF) signal line from frequency splitter 46 a is coupled to summer 100 - 60 instead of summer 47 ; the LF signal line from frequency splitter 46 b is coupled to summer 100 - 90 instead of summer 47 ; the LF signal line from frequency splitter 46 c is coupled to summer 100 - 120 instead of summer 47 ; the LF signal line from frequency splitter 46 d is coupled to summer 100 - 150 instead of summer 47 ; and the output of speaker placement compensator 60 h is coupled to a summer 100 - 150 . Output signals of summers 100 - 60 , 100 - 90 , 100 - 120 , and 100 - 150 are transmitted to full range acoustical drivers 28 - 60 , 28 - 90 , 28 - 120 , and 28 - 150 , respectively, for transduction to sound waves.
Referring now to FIGS. 10 a - 10 c , there are shown three top diagrammatic views of some of the components of an audio system for describing another feature of the invention. As described in patents such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,809,153 and 5,870,484, arrays of acoustical drivers and signal processing techniques can be designed to radiate sound waves directionally. By radiating the same sound wave from two acoustical drivers subtractively (functionally equivalent to out of phase) and time-delayed, a radiation pattern can be created in which the acoustic output is greatest along one axis (hereinafter the primary axis) and in which the acoustic output is minimized in another direction (hereinafter the null axis). In FIGS. 10 a - 10 c , an array 10 , including acoustical drivers 11 and 12 is arranged as in an audio system shown in FIGS. 1 a - 1 c , 2 a , and FIGS. 3 a - 3 d . The parameters of time delay 64 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d are set such that a signal that is transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 12 and delayed to acoustical driver 11 and transduced results in a radiation pattern that has a primary axis in a direction 104 generally toward a listener 14 in a typical listening position, a null axis in a direction 106 generally away from listener 14 in a typical listening position, and a radiation pattern 105 as indicated in solid line. The parameters of time delay 61 of FIGS. 3 a - 3 d are set such that a signal that is transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 11 and delayed to acoustical driver 12 and transduced results in a radiation pattern that has a primary axis in direction 106 generally away from a listener 14 in a typical listening position, a null axis in direction 104 generally toward listener 14 in a typical listening position, and a radiation pattern 107 as indicated in dashed line. In FIG. 10 a , the audio signal in channel LC is processed and radiated such that the radiation pattern has a primary axis in direction 104 and a null axis in direction 106 and the audio signal in channels L and LS are processed and radiated such that they have a primary axis in direction 106 . In FIG. 10 b , the audio signal in channels L and LC are processed and radiated such that the radiation patterns have a primary axis in direction 104 and a null axis in direction 106 , and the audio signal in channel LS in processed and radiated such that it has a primary axis in direction 106 and a null axis in direction 104 . In FIG. 10 c , the audio signals in channels L, LC, and LS are processed and radiated such that they all have primary axes in direction 106 and null axes in direction 104 . Hereinafter, the combination of radiation patterns, primary axes, and null axes will referred to as “presentation modes.” Generally, the presentation mode of FIG. 10 a is preferable when the audio system is used as a part of a home theater system, in which is desirable to have a strong center acoustic image and a “spacious” feel to the directional channels. The presentation mode of FIG. 10 b may be preferable when the audio system is used to play music, when center image is not so important. The presentation mode of FIG. 10 c may be preferable if the audio system is placed in a situation in which the array 10 must be placed very close to a center line (that is when the angle φ 1 of FIG. 5 is small). As with several of the previous figures, there may be mirror image audio system for processing the right side directional channels.
Referring now to FIG. 11 , there is shown presentation mode processor 102 (of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c , 8 , and 9 ) in more detail. Channel L input is connected additively to summer 108 and to the one side of switch 110 . Other side of switch 110 is connected additively to summer 112 and subtractively to summer 108 . Channel LC is connected additively to summer 112 which is connected additively to summer 116 and to one side of switch 118 . Other side of switch 118 is connected additively to summer 114 and subtractively to summer 116 . Summer 114 is connected to terminal 35 , designated L′. Summer 116 is connected to terminal 37 , designated LC′. Depending on whether switches 110 and 118 are in the open or closed position, the signal at output terminal 35 (designated L′) may be the signal that was input from channel L, the combined input signals from channels L and LC, or no signal. Depending on whether switches 110 and 118 are in the open or closed position, the signal at output terminal 37 (designated LC′) may be the signal that was input from channel LC, the combined input signals from channels L and LC, or no signal.
Referring now to any of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c , the output signal of terminal 35 is summed with the low frequency portion of the surround channel at summer 47 , and is transmitted to summer 58 , which is coupled to acoustical driver 11 , and through time delay 61 to summer 62 , which is coupled to acoustical driver 12 . The output signal of terminal 37 is coupled to summer 62 and through time delay 64 to summer 58 . Thus the output of terminal 35 is summed with the low frequency (LF) portion of the left surround (LS) signal and transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 11 and delayed to acoustical driver 12 . The output of terminal 37 is transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 12 and delayed to acoustical driver 11 . As taught above in the discussion of FIGS. 10 a - 10 c , the parameters of time delay 64 may be set so that an audio signal that is transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 12 and delayed to acoustical driver 11 and transduced results in an radiation pattern that has a primary axis in direction 104 of FIGS. 10 a - 10 b. Similarly, the discussion of FIGS. 10 a - 10 c teaches that the parameters of time delay 61 may be set so that an audio signal that is transmitted undelayed to acoustical driver 11 and delayed to acoustical driver 12 and transduced results in radiation pattern that has a primary axis in direction 106 of FIGS. 10 a - 10 b . Therefore, by setting the switches 110 and 118 of presentation mode processor 102 to the “closed” or “open” position, it is possible for a user to achieve the presentation modes of FIGS. 10 a - 10 c . The table below the circuit of FIG. 11 shows the effect of the various combinations of “open” and “closed” positions of switches 110 and 118 . For each of the four combinations, the table shows which of channels L and LC are output on the output terminals designated L′ and LC′ (terminals 35 and 37 , respectively), which channels when radiated have a radiation pattern that has a primary axis in direction 104 and a null axis in direction 106 and which have a primary axis in direction 106 and a null axis in direction 104 , and which of FIGS. 10 a - 10 c are achieved by the combination of switch settings. In the implementation of FIGS. 3 a - 3 c , 10 , and 11 , the low frequency portion of surround channel LS is always radiated with the primary axis in direction 106 . Also, if switch 118 is in the closed position, the radiation pattern of FIG. 10 c results, regardless of the position of switch 110 .
In the implementations of FIGS. 8 and 9 , the presentation mode processor 102 has the same effect on input channels L and LC and the signals on the output terminals 35 and 37 (designated L′ and LC′, respectively).
It is evident that those skilled in the art may now make numerous modifications of and departures from the specific apparatus and techniques herein disclosed without departing from the inventive concepts. Consequently, the invention is to be construed as embracing each and every novel feature and novel combination of features herein disclosed and limited only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
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A method for processing and transducing audio signals. An audio system has a first audio signal and a second audio signal that have amplitudes. A method for processing the audio signals includes dividing the first audio signal into a first spectral band signal and a second spectral band signal; scaling the first spectral band signal by a first scaling factor proportional to the amplitude of the second audio signal; and scaling the first spectral band signal by a second scaling factor to create a second signal portion. Other portions of the disclosure include application of the signal processing method to multichannel audio systems, and to audio systems having different combinations of directional loudspeakers, full range loudspeakers, and limited range loudspeakers.
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PRIOR APPLICATION DATA
The present application is a national phase application of International Application PCT/CH2004/000664, entitled “SCREW-CENTRIFUGAL PUMP” filed on Nov. 2, 2004, which in turn claims priority from European Patent Application EP 04405214.0, filed on Apr 7, 2004, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a screw-centrifugal pump. The invention further relates to a method for the conveying of a medium with a screw-centrifugal pump.
BACKROUND OF THE INVENTION
A screw-centrifugal pump also termed a screw pump is known from the document CH 394814. A rotary pump of this kind includes a single helically extending blade which is rotatably disposed in a pump housing. This pump is in particular suitable for conveying liquids permeated with solid additions, in particular for conveying waste water with long fibrous components.
The possibility of pumping liquid with a high concentration of fibrous solid materials which tend for example to tress formation is restricted. This can lead to deposits of solid components in the pumping path or to a blockage caused thereby right up to pump stoppage.
SUMMARY
The invention is based on the object of providing a screw-centrifugal pump which has more advantageous characteristics in conveying liquids permeated with solid additions.
This object is satisfied with a screw-centrifugal pump having the features of claim 1 . The subordinate claims 2 to 8 relate to further advantageous embodiments. The object is further satisfied by a method having the features of claim 9 .
The object is in particular satisfied with a screw-centrifugal pump comprising a pump housing having an inlet opening and also an impeller arranged within the pump housing and rotatable about an axis of rotation in a direction of rotation, the impeller having a spirally extending blade entry vein edge, with a guide vane projecting into the interior space of the impeller being disposed in the region of the inlet opening.
In a particular advantageous design the guide vane of the screw-centrifugal pump has a guide vane edge which, in the direction of rotation of the impeller, increasingly projects in the direction of flow into the interior space towards the centre of the impeller. The screw-centrifugal pump in accordance with the invention is in particular advantageous when pumping high concentrations of fibrous materials which tend to tress formation. If the solid concentration of the floated in, fibrous, solid material continuously increases then this leads to ball formation in the suction line and to an increased friction in the impeller passage. If, in this connection, a certain limiting value is achieved, then the hydraulic forces alone are no longer able to pump the material which has the consequence that the screw-centrifugal pump clogs up and blocks. The screw-centrifugal pump of the invention prevents this blockage in that the spiral blade entry edge of the start of the screw section of the impeller rotates relative to the fixedly arranged projecting guide vane, with the blade entry edge and the guide vane cooperating in such a way that the solid masses located between them are engaged by the rotating blade entry edge and loosened up and/or pressed in the flow direction along the blade entry edge. Through this cooperation of the guide vane and the screw-centrifugal impeller a mechanical force acting substantially in the pump direction is exerted on the conveying medium, in addition to the hydraulic forces, which prevents an accumulation of solid components in the pump path.
In a further advantageous embodiment, the guide vane edge forms a fixed three-dimensional curve and the blade entry edge forms a rotatable three-dimensional curve as a result of the rotatable screw-centrifugal impeller, with these two three-dimensional curves preferably being designed so that they are matched to one another and extend in such a way that they move past one another on rotation of the impeller with a small mutual spacing, or mutually contacting one another. The solid materials located between the two three-dimensional curves are thereby moved mechanically in the direction of extent of the three-dimensional curves and are thereby substantially moved in the flow direction and loosened up or pressed in the flow direction.
In a further advantageous embodiment the guide vane edge and/or the blade entry edge have a cutting edge, at least in part, so that the solid materials between the mutually moving three-dimensional curves can also be additionally mechanically weakened or comminuted. With solid materials which tend to tress formation this brings about a weakening, loosening up, comminution or cutting of the tresses or fibres, which prevents an accumulation of the tresses in the pump path and thus ensures a continuous reliable operation of the screw-centrifugal pump without interruption.
The mutual shearing, parting or clamping action of the two three-dimensional curves also enables, independently of the design of the guide vane edge and/or of the blade entry edge, a cutting through, comminution or weakening of fibrous solid materials such as paper, cords, wood or solid materials such as plastic, rubber, metal or glass.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be described in more detail in the following with reference to embodiments. There are shown:
FIG. 1 an axial section through a screw-centrifugal pump;
FIG. 2 a front view of the entry opening of the screw-centrifugal pump;
FIGS. 3 and 4 two different total angles of the blade entry edge and the guide vane edge; and
FIG. 5 displaceably arranged guide vane.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The screw-centrifugal pump 1 of FIG. 1 includes a screw-centrifugal impeller 2 which is disposed in a pump housing 3 and is rotatable about an axis of rotation 2 d in a direction of rotation 4 a . The screw-centrifugal impeller 2 has a spirally extending blade entry edge 2 a and also an outer contour 2 c . The screw-centrifugal impeller 2 is fixedly connected to a pump shaft 4 . The pump housing 3 includes a conical suction housing part 3 a , a spiral housing part 3 b , an inlet opening 3 c and also an outlet opening 3 d . A projecting guide vane 5 having a guide vane edge 5 a is fixedly arranged in the region of the inlet opening 3 c and is projecting in the inner space of the pump housing 3 and also in the interior space of the screw-centrifugal impeller 2 . In the present document the term “interior space of the impeller 2 ” will be understood to mean the interior space which, when the screw-centrifugal impeller 2 is rotating, is bounded by the outer contour 2 c so that the guide vane 5 at least partly extends into this interior space and the screw-centrifugal impeller 2 surrounds the guide vane 5 outwardly, as shown in FIG. 1 , in the region of the apex of the screw-centrifugal impeller 2 or, at a maximum, within the screw section 6 a . The screw-centrifugal pump 1 also includes a screw section 6 a and a centrifugal section 6 b . The medium pumped by the pump 1 flows in the flow direction S.
FIG. 2 shows a front view of the inlet opening 3 c in the direction designated A in FIG. 1 , with the impeller 2 and also the guide vane 5 being recognizable in the interior of the pump 1 . For the impeller 2 the spirally extending blade entry edge 2 a is evident which drops off towards the axis of rotation 2 d and grows axially into the latter. The front-most section of the blade entry edge 2 a is not directly visible because of the guide vane 5 and has therefore been drawn in broken lines.
In the FIGS. 1 and 2 the guide vane 5 is designed in such a way that the guide vane edge 5 a projects, in the direction of rotation 4 a , increasingly in the direction of the axis of rotation 2 d , both in the radial direction and also in the axial direction into the interior space of the impeller 2 . The guide vane edge 5 a forms a fixed three-dimensional curve whereas the blade entry edge 3 a forms a three-dimensional curve rotatable about the impeller axis 2 d . These two three-dimensional curves 2 a , 5 a are designed in the illustrated embodiment such that they are mutually matched and extend in such a way that the guide vane edge 5 a forms a guide vane edge section 5 b and the blade entry edge 2 a has a blade edge section 2 b within which the guide vane edge 5 a and the blade entry edge 2 a have a small mutual spacing from one another, in dependence on the respective position of the impeller 2 , or mutually touch one another. The small mutual spacing can for example have a value between 0.1 and 30 mm. This position with the smallest possible spacing is illustrated by the point P 1 on the blade edge section 2 b and also by the point P 2 on the guide vane edge section 5 b . As a result of the rotation of the impeller 2 the direction of rotation 4 a the points P 1 , P 2 move, in the view shown in FIG. 1 , essentially in the direction Q 1 of the axis of rotation 2 d , and substantially in the direction Q 2 in the view shown in FIG. 2 , corresponding to the shape of the guide vane edge 5 a . In this way a solid material located between the blade edge section 2 b and the guide vane edge section 5 b is mechanically conveyed essentially in the direction Q 1 , i.e. in the flow direction S.
The guide vane 5 can be arranged in the most diverse manner in the pump housing and designed such that the fixed guide vane edge 5 a and the rotating blade entry edge 2 a cooperate in such a way that solid materials are mechanically conveyed by the mutual collaboration by the edges 2 a , 5 a , in particular in the flow direction S.
As evident from FIG. 2 the blade edge section 2 b has a tangent T 1 at the point P 1 and the guide vane edge section 5 b has a tangent T 2 at a point P 2 , with these two tangents T 1 , T 2 having an intersection angle α when considered from the entry opening 3 c , as illustrated. The angle α amounts to at least 10 degrees and lies preferably between 30 degrees and 150 degrees, in particular between 60 degrees and 120 degrees. The angle α is preferably never smaller than that angle at which a sliding of the solid material on the blade entry edge 2 a or between the blade entry edge 2 a and the guide vane edge 5 a is no longer ensured.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show in two detailed views, analogously to the illustration of FIG. 2 , two differently extending three-dimensional curves, i.e. the blade entry edge 2 a and the guide vane edge 5 a , with the enclosed angle α of the tangents T 1 , T 2 at the points P 1 , P 2 in FIG. 3 amounting to approximately 110 degrees and in FIG. 4 to approximately 90 degrees. This angle α is determined by the course of the three-dimensional curves 2 a , 5 a and can thus be correspondingly selected in the design of the screw-centrifugal pump 1 . The course of the three-dimensional curves 2 a , 5 a can be selected in such a way that the angle α remains substantially constant during the movement of the points P 1 , P 2 in the direction Q 2 . Through correspondingly extending three-dimensional curves 2 a , 5 a , the angle α can also increase and/or decrease during the movement of the points P 1 , P 2 in the direction Q 2 .
In an advantageous design at least one part of the blade edge section 2 b and/or of the guide vane edge section 5 b is formed as an edge, cutting edge or blade in order to weaken or to cut through solid material which is located between the sections 2 b , 5 b.
In general, the larger the angle α is selected to be, the more a solid material is pushed along the edge sections 2 b , 5 b or, respectively, the smaller the angle α is selected to be the more easily is a solid material parted by the edge sections 2 b , 5 b . In addition, through appropriate shaping, the length of the effective edge sections 2 b , 5 b can be determined. Thus the screw-centrifugal pump can be optimized in accordance with the solid materials and additions that are to be expected in such a way that the edge sections 2 b , 5 b and their angle α are selected in a correspondingly optimized manner in order to prevent a clogging up of the pump, and for example, to additionally achieve a good pumping efficiency.
FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of a screw-centrifugal pump 1 in the inlet opening 3 c of which a wear-resistance sleeve 7 is disposed which is fixedly connected to the guide vane 5 . The sleeve 7 can be firmly connected to the pump housing 3 by an attachment means which is not illustrated.
When the fastening means are released, the sleeve 7 and thus also the guide vane 5 is displaceable in the direction of movement R. This arrangement has, in particular, the advantage that the distance between the blade entry edge 2 a and the guide vane edge 5 a can be adjusted, in particular the spacings of the points P 1 , P 2 in the direction R or Q 1 respectively. The blade entry edge 2 a and/or the guide vane edge 5 a wear during the operation of the pump so that the distance of the points P 1 , P 2 increases in operation in the course of time. The sleeve 7 thus enables the position of the guide vane 5 to be reset anew in the direction of displacement R or Q 1 respectively after certain time intervals. The sleeve 7 can also be designed in such a way that it is also rotatable in the entry opening 3 c , i.e. is rotatable with respect to the impeller axis 2 d , in order to rotate the sleeve 7 in the released state and thus also to rotate the position of the guide vane 5 .
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A screw-centrifugal pump ( 1 ) comprises a pump housing ( 3 ) having an inlet opening ( 3 c ) and also an impeller ( 2 ) arranged within the pump housing ( 3 ) and rotatable about an axis of rotation ( 2 d ) in a direction of rotation ( 4 a ). The impeller ( 2 ) has a spirally extending blade entry edge ( 2 a ) and a guide vane ( 5 ) projects into the interior space of the impeller ( 2 ) and is disposed in the region of the inlet opening ( 3 c ). A method of conveying a liquid permeated with solid additions using such a pump is also described and claimed.
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TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to the emulation of Ethernet frame broadcasting across a provider's transport network to which Ethernet Local Area Networks (LANs) are connected. The invention is applicable in particular, though not necessarily, to Ethernet frame broadcast emulation across a transport network employing the Multi Protocol Label Switching or Provider Backbone Bridging Traffic Engineering mechanism.
BACKGROUND
The Ethernet LAN Service defined by the Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) is likely to become an important Layer 2 Virtual Private Network service, being capable of securely interconnecting selected Ethernet LANs via one or more provider transport networks. The service must emulate the legacy Ethernet LAN operation from the point of view of a customer of a transport network operator. Therefore, both unicast and broadcast forwarding of the client Ethernet frames must be supported across the transport network(s).
FIG. 1 illustrates schematically an example provider's transport network comprising a multiplicity of Provider Edge (PE) nodes and internal P routers, interconnected by trunks (e.g. optical fibres) of the transport network. A plurality of corporate Ethernet LANs are connected to the transport network via respective Customer Edge (CE) nodes that are in turn connected to corresponding PE nodes. The Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS) [1] is an Ethernet LAN service provided over IP/MPLS-based networks and applies the Pseudo-wire End-to-End (PWE) architecture. Full mesh connectivity between the provider edge nodes (PE) is established with point-to-point connections. PE nodes implement a virtual bridge emulating the MAC learning functionality. However, until a PE has received a frame from a given MAC address, it does not know over which port that particular address is reachable. Therefore, if a PE receives an Ethernet frame with a previously unseen destination address, it will send the frame to all other PEs within the appropriate customer service set (i.e. to those PEs connected to Ethernet LANs belonging to the same Wide Area Network (WAN) as the LAN from which the frame originates).
According to VPLS, the ingress PE replicates the frame and sends one copy to each remote PEs over point-to-point pseudo-wires. In order to decrease the bandwidth consumed by this ingress based frame replication, a set of multicast trees can be deployed in addition to the full mesh point-to-point connectivity as described in [2]. Consider for example a given customer WAN comprising four Ethernet LANs, with each LAN being coupled to a CE and in turn to a PE. A multicast tree is established for each of the four PEs (by appropriately configuring forwarding tables in the PEs and the intervening routers), such that a frame received at an ingress PE is forwarded up the tree towards the three other PEs. Branching of frames occurs at intervening routers. Nonetheless, duplication of frame sending is significantly reduced. Currently RSVP-TE supports the establishment of point-to-point [6], point-to-multipoint [7], and multipoint-to-point [8] connections over MPLS.
Ethernet standards are being amended to equip Ethernet with new features in support of Carrier Ethernet capabilities. Provider Bridging (PB) [3] and Provider Backbone Bridging (PBB) [4] are enhancing Ethernet scalability, and may even replace MPLS in future transport networks. With PB, a new VLAN tag, Service VLAN (S-VLAN), is introduced to allow providers to use a separate VLAN space while transparently maintaining the customer VLAN (C-VLAN) information. PBB allows for full separation of the customer and provider address spaces by encapsulating customer frames with the addition of a “backbone” MAC header. This allows both the MAC addresses and the whole VLAN space to be under the control of the provider. PBB-TE [5] decouples the Ethernet data and control planes by explicitly supporting external control/management mechanisms to configure static filtering entries in bridges and create explicitly routed connections.
Generalized Multi-protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) is a candidate control plane for PBB-TE and indeed the IETF is currently specifying GMPLS extensions for PBB-TE. GMPLS is a general control plane architecture for different Layer 1 and Layer 2 forwarding technologies. GMPLS uses specific protocols to support the dissemination of the data plane parameters (routing protocols with Traffic Engineering extension: OSPF-TE/ISIS-TE) and the establishment of connections between nodes (signaling protocols: RSVP-TE). As with MPLS, RSVP-TE will allow the establishment of multicast trees within the PBB-TE based transport network to facilitate Ethernet frame broadcast simulation.
Whether in MPLS or PBB-TE based transport networks, simulating Ethernet frame broadcasting using a set of multicast trees is an expensive function to manage. For example, for a WAN involving twenty PE nodes, as well as point-to-point connections between each and every PE, twenty multicast trees are required.
SUMMARY
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least mitigate the disadvantages noted in the preceding paragraph. It is proposed here to enable broadcast functionality between a set of Edge Nodes of a transport network by employing a single forwarding construct or “broadcast tree”, rather than by employing a set of multicast trees.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method to facilitate the broadcast of frames between a set of Edge Nodes of a transport network, where nodes of the transport network forward frames using labels added to the frames at ingress Edge Nodes. The method comprises, at each of said Edge nodes and at intermediate nodes in the paths between said Edge Nodes, installing an entry or entries into a forwarding table mapping frame labels to output forwarding ports such that said entries together form a single forwarding construct such that frames labelled by any of the Edge Nodes of said set are transmitted to all other Edge Nodes of the same set. Upon receipt of a frame at one of said Edge Nodes or intermediate nodes, the provided forwarding table is used to map the frame label of the frame to one or more forwarding ports. Frames are then sent via the identified forwarding port(s).
The forwarding construct may be defined for PBB-TE, in which case said entry in a forwarding table contains the identities of all ports of a node that transport frames to the Edge Nodes of the forwarding construct. The method comprises installing a single forwarding entry mapping a Backbone MAC address and Backbone VLAN identifier to the identities of all output ports in the forwarding paths between Edge Nodes and Intermediate nodes.
In the case of MPLS, the forwarding construct is implemented as a set of entries in the Incoming Label Mapping table and the Next Hop Label Forwarding Entry table of each node, with one entry being defined in each table for each port of the node transporting frames to the Edge Nodes of the forwarding construct, and each entry containing the identities of all ports of the node that transport frames to the Edge Nodes of the forwarding construct except the port to which the entry is assigned.
One of said Edge Nodes may be designated to manage the forwarding construct utilising the RSVP-TE signalling protocol, i.e. acting as a Master Control Node. The Master Control Node uses the RSVP-TE protocol to initiate resource reservation for links in the forwarding construct. Resources may be reserved on a link-by-link basis, based upon the contents of a protocol object contained in the RSVP-TE Path message. Alternatively, the Master Control Node may use the RSVP-TE protocol to reserve the same bandwidth for all links in the forwarding construct.
The invention may be employed in the case where frames received at an Edge Node, from an external network, are Ethernet frames.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a node for use in a transport network and configured to route received frames towards Edge Nodes belonging to a set of Edge Nodes on the basis of a label added to the frame at an ingress Edge Node. The node comprises a memory providing a forwarding table comprising an entry or entries mapping frame labels to output forwarding ports such that said entry or entries, together with entries contained within forwarding tables of other nodes of the transport network, form a single forwarding construct such that frames labelled by any of the Edge Nodes of said set are transmitted to all other Edge Nodes of the same set. The node further comprises a processing unit arranged, upon receipt of a frame, to use the provided forwarding table to map the frame label of the frame to one or more forwarding ports, and a sending unit for sending the frame via the identified forwarding port(s).
The node may be configured to handle packets according to the PBB-TE or MPLS protocol.
Where the node is an Edge Node, the node may be configured to operate as a Master Control Node to manage the forwarding construct utilising the RSVP-TE signalling protocol.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 illustrates schematically a set of Ethernet Local Area Networks interconnected via an operator's transport network;
FIG. 2 illustrates schematically a broadcast tree construct that can be implemented in the network architecture of FIG. 1 ;
FIG. 3 illustrates schematically a PBB network node configured with a forwarding table forming part of a broadcast tree construct;
FIG. 4 illustrates schematically an MPLS network node configured with a forwarding table forming part of a broadcast tree construct;
FIG. 5 illustrates schematically a control and data plane split within a transport network, with one of the leaf nodes acting as a Master Control Node;
FIG. 6 shows a proposed sender template object for broadcast trees, according to the GMPLS protocol;
FIG. 7 illustrates schematically a node of a transport network including components for implementing Ethernet-like frame broadcasting.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following abbreviations are used throughout this document:
CP
Control Plane
GMPLS
Generalized Multi-protocol Label Switching
LAN
Local Area Network
MCN
Master Control Node
MEF
Metro Ethernet Forum
MPLS
Multi-protocol Label Switching
NHLFE
Next Hop Forwarding Entry
PB
Provider Bridge
PBB
Provider Backbone Bridging
PBB-TE
Provider Backbone Bridging - Traffic Engineering
PWE
Pseudo-wire End-to-End
RSVP-TE
Resource Reservation Protocol - Traffic Engineering
VLAN ID
Virtual Local Area Network Identifier
VPLS
Virtual Private LAN Service (RFC-4762)
As has already been discussed above, in today's transport networks, either duplication of frames at edges or forwarding frames over multiple point-to-point connections is used to achieve broadcasting of customer frames. However, although the use of multicast trees avoids the need for frame duplication, it requires the construction of as many multicast trees as there are edge nodes associated with a particular customer. There is no mechanism that implements the broadcast behavior using only a single connectivity construct. The defined GMPLS control solutions that are based on RSVP-TE ([6][7][8]) consider and therefore support only their specific connectivity constructs. Consequently, there is no RSVP-TE based signaling mechanism defined to establish broadcast connectivity.
A “broadcast tree” is a multipoint connectivity construct between two or more endpoints of a network. The frames sent by any of the endpoints of a broadcast tree will be transmitted to all other endpoint of the same tree. Rather than considering the broadcast tree as a set on n multicast trees, it is proposed here to use one forwarding construct for the broadcast tree. This is illustrated schematically in FIG. 2 , which illustrates a simplified transport network architecture comprising three Edge (or leaf) Nodes, and a single intermediate node. The broadcast construct exists in the data plane and is illustrated by the thick line. The dashed line illustrates the frame forwarding path taken by a frame sent out by the Edge Node shown at the upper left side of the figure.
In the case of PBB-TE, Ethernet frames are relayed across the transport network based on the destination Backbone MAC address (B-MAC) and the Backbone VLAN (B-VLAN) identifier. PBB-TE implements standard Ethernet behaviour in so far as nodes learn mappings between GMAC and B-VLAN pairs and ports by examining incoming packets. That is, when a frame is received at in ingress port of a node, the node maps the source B-MAC and B-VLAN pair of the frame to the ingress port identity, and places this mapping into its forwarding table (referred to as a “filtering” table in the PBB-TE standard documents). When a node subsequently receives a frame containing that same B-MAC and B-VLAN pair as destination label, the node is able to determine the appropriate egress port by inspecting the forwarding table.
Again, according to standard Ethernet behaviour, when a PBB-TE node receives a frame having a destination GMAC and B-VLAN pair which cannot be found in the forwarding table, the node must copy and send the frame through all egress ports of that node that are assigned to the B-MAC and B-VLAN pair according to the broadcast tree structure. PBB-TE implements standard Ethernet behaviour in so far as the ingress port over which the frame is received is excluded from the forwarding operation if it was also listed as an outgoing port. This feature makes it possible to create the data plane forwarding configuration illustrated in FIG. 3 (where DA is the B-DMAC and VID is the B-VLAN ID). FIG. 3 shows the PBB node 1 , comprising a memory 2 storing the forwarding table, three ingress/egress ports (P1,P2,P3) one of which is identified by reference numeral 3 , and a processing unit 4 that identifies the forwarding ports for a received frame by examining the forwarding table.
To configure the tree it is enough to create one common forwarding entry within the forwarding table of a PBB node and in which all ports belonging to the tree instance are enumerated. The same label is used at each port and a single forwarding entry defines all three ports as outgoing ports.
Due to their role in the forwarding process, in the GMPLS control for PBB-TE, the labels are defined as the concatenation of the pair of the B-MAC and B-VLAN ID. The above operation introduces restriction on the available labels as will be described below.
Considering now an MPLS-based network, forwarding in the data plane at an MPLS node is carried out using so-called Next Hop Label Forwarding Entries (NHLFEs). The incoming ports are bound to label spaces and per label space Incoming Label Mapping (ILM) tables are defined. The NHLFEs are triggered through a label lookup process within the node. The ILMs describes what NHLFE must be triggered upon receipt of a frame with a certain label value [9].
According to MPLS, a label is a 20 bit value (from 15 to ˜1000000). A label space defines the scope of the labels (i.e. a label space within a given node consists of one or more ports of that node). A label must be unique in a label space but it can be re-used in different label spaces. The elements of an NHLFE are selected based on the combination of the label space and the label value. One or more interfaces in a Label Switch Router (LSR) can be assigned to a certain label space. Both per-interface label spaces and per-node (per-platform) label spaces (when all ports of a LSR are in the same label space) can be defined.
In the case of MPLS multicast, frames will be sent out on all ports that are enumerated in the NHLFE. If the incoming port is enumerated in the triggered NHLFE, a copy of the frame will be sent backwards, in the upstream direction. To avoid this effect, a separate NHLFE must be defined for each incoming port of the broadcast tree, with the NHLFE listing all broadcast tree ports except the incoming port. This is illustrated in FIG. 4 where reference numerals for features common to the node of FIG. 3 are reused, with the suffix “a”.
As label values can be changed, different label values can be accepted at different ports. For each broadcast tree, one forwarding entry is defined per incoming port and, for each forwarding entry, all ports excluding the incoming one are enumerated. Of course, it must be ensured that the NHLFEs are addressed unambiguously. Thus, for ports belonging to the same label space, different incoming labels must be specified. This restriction must be taken into account when the label selection procedures are implemented.
Considering both PBB-TE and MPLS, broadcast tree connectivity is symmetrical in the data plane, i.e., all endpoints are able to send traffic to all other endpoints within the tree. To efficiently manage a broadcast tree, one of the endpoints is designated to generate the signaling messages (RSVP-TE) in the GMPLS control plane. This endpoint is referred to here as the “Master Control Node” (MCN), while the other endpoints are referred to as “Leaf Nodes”. Using appropriate signaling, the MCN is able to manage (e.g. establish, remove, extend, prune etc.) the tree as illustrated in FIG. 5 , where nodes 5 , 6 , and 8 are Edge Nodes of which node 5 is the MCN, and node 7 is an intermediate node. More particularly, the MCN reuses the MPLS signaling framework specified for multicast trees (RFC-4875) [7]. Although the connection is symmetric in the data plane, based upon the directions of the communication of RSVP-TE signaling the port can be either upstream or downstream. The PATH messages are received through the upstream ports and forwarded through the downstream ports.
Two alternative signaling schemes for establishing broadcast trees will now be described. A first approach involves an explicit identification of the broadcast tree and is applicable to both MPLS and PBB-TE, whilst a second approach relies upon an implicit description and is applicable only to PBB-TE.
A new, explicit signaling construct may be defined for RSVP-TE for the purpose of establishing a broadcast tree. This construct defines new Session, Sender Template and the Filter Spec objects. As the broadcast tree provides symmetrical connection between the leaves of the tree, the Upstream Label [6] is a mandatory object. Considering the construct in detail:
Session Object
The format of the Session object is the same as defined in RFC-4875.
Sender Template Object
A new format of the Sender Template object is shown in FIG. 6 . In this Sender Template object, instead of an IPv4/IPv6 tunnel sender address field, a new field is introduced: namely MP2MP ID. The broadcast tree is identified by the combination of the P2MP ID of SESSION and the new MP2MP ID of the SENDER_TEMPLATE objects. The MP2MP ID is valid within the scope of a session. At the same time, fields proposed by RFC-4875 are adopted.
If changing of the MCN during the lifetime of a tree is supported, the MP2MP ID must be set to a value that is known by all endpoints that can potentially act as MCN. Otherwise, the MP2MP ID can be set to the IP address of the MCN.
In the case of IPv4 signaling, the MP2MP tunnel identifier is 32 bits in length, whereas in the case of IPv6 it is 128 bits. In the default case, the MP2MP tunnel identifier is the IP address (either IPv4 or IPv6) of the MCN.
Upstream Label Object
The format of the Upstream Label object is as previously defined [6].
A second, implicit approach to identifying a broadcast tree will now be discussed. As has already been described, in the case of PBB-TE, forwarding is carried out based upon the frame label, which is the concatenation of the Destination B-MAC address and a B-VLAN identifier. When a multicast tree is constructed, all of the downstream ports are bound to the same forwarding entry. Binding the upstream port to the forwarding entry will result in a broadcast tree. This configuration can be achieved simply by enforcing label selection: the same label should be selected in both downstream and upstream directions. RSVP-TE signaling provides a means to achieve this: the label in the upstream direction is defined by the Upstream Label object [6], while in the downstream direction the labels available to the egresses are restricted using the Label Set object [6].
Implicit definition (label value based) of the broadcast tree exploits this operation. The RFC-4875 signaling framework is used without any extensions, but the ingress node explicitly defines both the upstream and downstream labels. However, the implicit declaration limits the applicability of the signaling to PBB-TE and blurs the difference between signaling multicast and broadcast tree. Furthermore, the explicit definition results in a more general solution for PBB-TE.
Regardless of whether an explicit or implicit mechanism is used to identify the broadcast tree, the MCN maintains the control plane of the broadcast tree and records a full description of the broadcast tree. In the defined signaling solutions, no communication occurs between the leaves, only between the leaves and the MCN. Moreover, only the MCN plays an active role in managing the tree. Thus, storing the whole description of the tree at the MCN is sufficient, although some Leaf Nodes may store a copy of the Control Plane (CP) state for recovery purpose. [The CP state contains all necessary information to control a broadcast tree entity. Its content is signalled with RSVP-TE.]
In a broadcast tree, more than one end node can generate multicast traffic at the same time. Therefore, the amount of resources to be reserved at the intermediate tree links must be carefully calculated. [Note that it is assumed here that the same amount of resources are allocated in both directions over such an intermediate tree link.] If the topology of the tree is known, the amount of bandwidth to be reserved on a certain link can be determined, since each link in the tree splits the set of end nodes into two distinct sets. However, the intermediate nodes have no information about all of the branches and all of the end nodes. Therefore, only the MCN or a path calculation entity has knowledge of the whole tree. Thus, the MCN or the path calculation entity has the ability to calculate the bandwidth allocated over a certain tree link. Here, two alternative bandwidth allocation/calculation schemes are considered.
A first alternative allows for the allocation of different amounts of resources over different tree links. To signal a per link resource reservation, a new sub-object (using the same format as TSPEC [6]) is added to the ERO and SERO objects (RFC-4875) in the Path message. This new object carries the amount bandwidth to be allocated over the link identified by the ERO (or by SERO) element. The amount of allocated bandwidth on a certain link will be signaled back in the RESV message as defined by the RFCs. The amount of reserved resources might be changed hop-by-hop in the RESV message.
A second alternative is to allocate the same amount of bandwidth over every broadcast tree link. GMPLS signaling without any further extensions support this scenario. In this case of course, some links may be over-provisioned.
Regardless of the allocation schemes, when the resources to be allocated are being determined, the amount of traffic flowing between the leaves must be taken into account, since there is no direct signaling between the leaves. Because of the centralized path calculation, which is done by either the MCN or by a path computation entity, the discussed signaling solution is enough to appropriately reserve the resources. However, if the shape of the tree is not fully specified (e.g., there is no ERO/SERO object for some of the S2L LSPs), the first alternative cannot be applied.
Updating of the local procedures and signaling to allow configuration of the broadcast tree connectivity over two specific data planes, namely the PBB-TE and the MPLS, will now be considered.
The major difference between the broadcast and the multicast trees is the configuration of the forwarding entries and thus the selection of the labels. Therefore, here we focus on the label selection procedures.
Both the explicit and the implicit definition based alternatives can be used to signal a broadcast tree in a PBB-TE network. At the MCN, a common label is created by selecting a multicast B-MAC address and a B-VLAN ID pair. The LABEL_SET object will contain this label value as a single value and the Label type is set to inclusive list. Furthermore, the UPSTREAM_LABEL object will also carry this label value.
To ensure unambiguous forwarding, all paths and trees in a PBB-TE domain must use different labels. In a broadcast tree, the label contains a VLAN ID and a multicast MAC address. Since the multicast MAC addresses are dynamically assigned, it is possible to split the available multicast MAC addresses into subsets, with each subset being exclusively assigned to an Edge Node. In this way, the different MCNs will select different labels.
At the intermediate nodes, the downstream interfaces will be configured according to the LABEL_SET object, while the upstream interface is set based on the UPSTREAM_LABEL. Due to use of the same label in the upstream and downstream directions, the desired broadcast tree will be configured at all intermediate nodes.
Only the explicit declaration based alternative can be used in the MPLS data plane. The NEN node specifies the UPSTREAM_LABEL to specify the label used in the upstream direction. The downstream label is selected by the downstream neighbour node, but using the LABEL_SET object the MCN can influence the label selection, if necessary.
The branching nodes must enforce label selection to fulfill the requirements defined above. The following rules for the label selection procedure are defined:
A received PATH message includes the upstream label defining the label towards the MCN. It is sufficient to perform a Label availability check; no other processes are required. A branching node (as well as other intermediate nodes) defines the upstream labels that are used between the considered node and the downstream neighbours. Different upstream labels must be defined for the downstream ports using the same label space. When a RESV message received from a downstream neighbour, the NHFLE entries are configured according to the label values. No specific rules exist here. When the actual branching node passes the RESV message towards an upstream neighbour, the branching node selects a downstream label that must be different from the upstream labels signaled downstream through ports that are in the same label space as the upstream port.
FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating the overall procedure for handling frame broadcast emulation within a transport network. The procedure begins at step 100 . At step 101 , the broadcast construct is established using RSVP-TE. In particular, appropriate entries are created in the forwarding tables at the involved nodes. Frames are received at steps 102 and 103 . At step 104 , for a given frame, the frame label (and label space in the case of MPLS) is inspected and used to look-up the appropriate entity in the forwarding table. At step 105 the frame is duplicated if necessary and sent via the identified forwarding port or ports.
The approaches described above present novel connectivity types for MPLS and PBB to achieve the resource efficient support of Ethernet LAN services. By utilising broadcast trees, the need for frame replication at an ingress node can be eliminated. By avoiding the need for multiple multicast trees, the configuration and management of the LAN service instance is simplified. However, the proposed broadcast tree is configured based on the already existing multicast forward mechanisms in the case of the MPLS and PBB-TE data planes.
It will be appreciated by the person of skill in the art that various modifications may be made to the above described embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[1] M. Lasserre, V. Kompella, “Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS) Using Label Distribution Protocol (LDP) Signaling”, IETF/L 2 VPN RFC -4762. [2] R. Aggarwal, Y. Kamite, L. Fang, “Multicast in VPLS” IETF/L 2 VPN WG draft http://www.ietf.org/internet-drafts/draft-ietf-l2vpn-vpls-mcast-03.txt [3] “IEEE 802.1 Qad, Standard for Provider Bridging” [4] “IEEE 802.1Qah Draft Standard for Provider Backbone Bridging”, work in progress. [5] “IEEE 802.1Qay Draft Standard for Provider Backbone Bridging Traffic Engineering”, work in progress. [6] L. Berger, “Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Resource ReserVation Protocol-Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) Extensions”, IETF/MPLS RFC -3473. [7] R. Aggarwal, D. Papadimitriou, S. Yasukawa, “Extensions to Resource Reservation Protocol-Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) for Point-to-Multipoint TE Label Switched Paths (LSPs)”, IETF/CCAMP RFC -4875. [8] S. Yasukawa, “Supporting Multipoint-to-Point Label Switched Paths in Multiprotocol Label Switching Traffic Engineering” IETF/MPLS individual draft , http://tools.ietf.org/html/draft-yasukawa-mpls-mp2p-rsvpte-03 [9] E. Rosen, A. Viswanathan and R. Callon, “Multiprotocol Label Switching Architecture”, IETF/MPLS RFC -3031.
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A method to facilitate the broadcast of frames between a set of Edge Nodes of a transport network, where nodes of the transport network forward frames using labels added to the frames at ingress Edge Nodes. The method comprises, at each of said Edge nodes and at intermediate nodes in the paths between said Edge Nodes, installing an entry or entries into a forwarding table mapping frame labels to output forwarding ports such that said entries together form a single forwarding construct such that frames labelled by any of the Edge Nodes of said set are transmitted to all other Edge Nodes of the same set. Upon receipt of a frame at one of said Edge Nodes or intermediate nodes, the provided forwarding table is used to map the frame label of the frame to one or more forwarding ports. Frames are then sent via the identified forwarding port(s).
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to carburization treatment methods for carburizing steel material and a carburization treatment apparatus suitable for carrying out the carburization treatment methods.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Various methods are known for carburizing steel material, such as a gas carburization method, a vacuum carburization method, and a plasma carburization method, with each having both advantages and disadvantages.
[0005] However, one gas carburization method has a disadvantage of the generation of a large amount of CO 2 gas and a possibility of an explosion. A further problem associated with this method is that intergranular oxidation will occur on the surface of the steel material. On the other hand, another gas carburization method using an endothermic gas makes it necessary to employ a metamorphism furnace, hence suffering from a problem of high equipment cost.
[0006] A vacuum carburization method is associated with a problem in that once the carbon concentration on the surface of a steel material is increased to a predetermined solid solubility, a large amount of soot will be undesirably generated. As a result, not only does the carburization equipment need a comparatively long time and a considerably high cost for maintenance, but also such equipment does not have sufficient versatility. Moreover, another problem associated with this method is that it is difficult to perform a carbon potential control in an atmosphere within the furnace, if compared with the above-described gas carburization methods. In addition, a plasma carburization method is said to be low in productivity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide improved, new and economical carburization treatment methods which can be effectively used to replace any one of the above-described conventional carburization methods. It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved carburization treatment apparatus which is suitable for carrying out the carburization treatment methods provided according to the present invention.
[0008] In order to achieve the above objects of the present invention, a carburization treatment method according to the present invention comprises performing the carburization treatment while supplying a hydrocarbon gas and an oxidative gas into a furnace kept at a reduced pressure.
[0009] With the use of the present invention, since it is possible to dispense with an exhaust gas burning process (which was needed in the above-described conventional gas carburization method), the CO 2 gas generation amount can be reduced so as to reduce an explosion possibility. Further, since it is not necessary to employ a metamorphism furnace, the amount of gas necessary to be used in the carburization treatment can be reduced, thereby rendering the whole process of carburization treatment more economical. Moreover, different from the above-described vacuum carburization method, since the method of the invention makes it possible to supply not only the hydrocarbon gas but also an oxidative gas, and since it is possible to control the carbon potential of the atmosphere within the furnace, the generation of soot can be prevented, thereby rendering easier the maintenance of the furnace.
[0010] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carburization treatment is conducted while supplying a hydrocarbon gas and an oxidative gas, and an inert gas is further supplied during the carburization treatment. With the use of this method, it is possible to increase the gas amount within the furnace, thereby making it possible to ensure a uniform temperature rise and thus a uniform carburization treatment.
[0011] Further, as another embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable that the internal pressure within the furnace is 0.1 to 101 kPa. In other words, if the internal pressure within the furnace is lower than 0.1 kPa, it is impossible to ensure a desired carburization capability. On the other hand, if the internal pressure within the furnace is larger than 101 kPa, since such an internal pressure is generally close to atmospheric pressure, a problem will be caused which is similar to that associated with the above-described conventional gas carburization method.
[0012] Furthermore, in the above-described method according to the present invention, the hydrocarbon gas may be at least one selected from the group consisting of C 3 H 8 , C 3 H 6 , C 4 H 10 , C 2 H 2 , C 2 H 4 , C 2 H 6 and CH 4 , while the oxidative gas may be air, O 2 gas or CO 2 gas.
[0013] Moreover, in the method according to the present invention, a carbon potential of the atmosphere within the furnace is controlled by controlling the amount of at least one of the hydrocarbon gas and the oxidative gas. At this time, the amount of at least one of the hydrocarbon gas and the oxidative gas is controlled by carrying out at least one of the following measurements which include: measurement of CO gas partial pressure, measurement of CO gas concentration, measurement of CO 2 gas partial pressure, measurement of CO 2 gas concentration, measurement of O 2 gas partial pressure, measurement of O 2 gas concentration, measurement of H 2 gas partial pressure, measurement of H 2 gas concentration, measurement of CH 4 gas partial pressure, measurement of CH 4 gas concentration, measurement of H 2 O partial pressure, measurement of H 2 O concentration, and measurement of a dew point, all within the furnace.
[0014] On the other hand, a carburization treatment apparatus according to the present invention comprises a hydrocarbon gas supply unit for supplying a hydrocarbon gas into a furnace; an oxidative gas supply unit for supplying an oxidative gas into the furnace; and a vacuum pump for reducing the internal pressure within the furnace. With the use of the carburization treatment apparatus according to the present invention, it is possible to carry out the above-described method of the present invention with a high efficiency. In contrast, a conventional gas carburization furnace is not associated with the use of a vacuum pump, and a conventional vacuum carburization furnace does not contain an oxidative gas supply unit since it is not needed.
[0015] The above carburization treatment apparatus further comprises an in-furnace atmosphere analyser for analysing the atmosphere within the furnace, and a pressure gauge to control the internal pressure within the furnace. With the use of such a carburization treatment apparatus, it is possible to correctly control the atmosphere within the furnace, and also to control and thus reduce the internal pressure within the furnace, thereby rendering it possible to more effectively carry out the above-described method of the present invention.
[0016] In addition, the above-described carburization treatment apparatus further comprises a computing device for computing a carbon potential in accordance with an analysis value fed from the in-furnace atmosphere analyzer, a regulation device for regulating the amount of at least one of the hydrocarbon gas and the oxidative gas in accordance with the computed values fed from the computing device, and a thermo-couple for controlling the internal temperature within the furnace. With the use of this carburization treatment apparatus, it is possible to automatically supply the hydrocarbon gas and/or the oxidative gas into the furnace, and it is also possible to control the internal temperature of the furnace.
[0017] Moreover, in the above-described carburization treatment apparatus, the in-furnace atmosphere analyzer is at least one of the following gauges and meters including CO gas partial pressure gauge, CO gas concentration meter, CO 2 gas partial pressure gauge, CO 2 gas concentration meter, O 2 gas partial pressure gauge, O 2 gas concentration meter, H 2 gas partial pressure gauge, H 2 gas concentration meter, CH 4 gas partial pressure gauge, CH 4 gas concentration meter and dew point hygrometer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] [0018]FIG. 1 is an explanatory view showing a carburization furnace suitable for carrying out the carburization treatment method according to the present invention.
[0019] [0019]FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the structure of a carburization quenching apparatus suitable for carrying out the carburization treatment method according to the present invention.
[0020] [0020]FIG. 3 is a graph showing an average carbon concentration distribution of a steel material treated in Example 1.
[0021] [0021]FIG. 4 is a photograph showing the surface organization of the steel material treated in Example 1.
[0022] [0022]FIG. 5 is a graph showing an average carbon concentration distribution of a steel material treated in Example 2.
[0023] [0023]FIG. 6 is a photograph showing the surface organization of the steel material treated in Example 2.
[0024] [0024]FIG. 7 is also a photograph but showing the crystal particles of the steel material treated in Example 2.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 represents a furnace casing, reference numeral 2 represents a thermally insulating material, reference numeral 3 represents an atmosphere stirring fan, reference numeral 4 represents a heater, reference numeral 5 represents a thermal couple for measuring an internal temperature within the furnace, reference numeral 6 represents a pressure gauge for use in controlling and reducing an internal pressure within the furnace, reference numeral 7 represents a sampling device for sampling an atmosphere within the furnace, reference numeral 8 represents an analyzer for analyzing an atmosphere within the furnace, such an analyzer may be a CO gas partial pressure gauge or a CO gas concentration meter. Reference numeral 9 represents an analyzer for analyzing an atmosphere within the furnace, but such an analyzer may be a CO 2 gas partial pressure gauge or a CO 2 gas concentration meter. Reference numeral 30 represents a further analyzer for analyzing an atmosphere within the furnace, such an analyzer may be an O 2 gas partial pressure gauge or an O 2 gas concentration meter. Reference numeral 10 represents a mass flow controller provided in connection with a hydrocarbon gas supply unit 10 a for controlling an amount of hydrocarbon gas to be supplied to the furnace. Reference numeral 11 represents another mass flow controller provided in connection with an oxidative gas supply unit 11 a for controlling an amount of an oxidative gas to be supplied to the furnace. Reference numeral 12 represents a vacuum pump for reducing an internal pressure within the furnace. Reference numeral 13 represents a carbon potential computing device, reference numeral 14 represents a regulation device for sending regulation signals to the mass flow controllers 10 and 11 in accordance with the computed values fed from the carbon potential computing device 13 . Here, the thermally insulating material 2 is preferably made of a ceramic fiber having a low heat radiation and a low heat accumulation.
[0026] With regard to the aforementioned carburization furnace having the above-described construction, the pressure reduction adjustment within the furnace can be carried out by controlling the discharge of an atmosphere from the furnace, by virtue of the pressure gauge 6 and the vacuum pump 12 . Further, the carbon potential of an atmosphere within the furnace may be controlled in a manner described as follows, so that it is possible to maintain a high carbon potential which is slightly below a carbon solid solubility. At this time, the analysis values fed from the internal atmosphere analyzers 8 , 9 and 30 are introduced into the carbon potential computing device 13 . Then, the adjustment gauge 14 , in accordance with the computed values provided by the carbon potential computing device 13 , operates to send an adjustment signal to the mass flow controller 10 (for controlling the hydrocarbon gas supply amount) as well as to the mass flow controller 11 (for controlling the oxidative gas supply amount). In this way, it is possible to adjust an amount of at least one of the hydrocarbon gas and the oxidative gas being supplied into the furnace, thereby effectively controlling the carbon potential of an atmosphere within the furnace.
[0027] The control of an amount of the hydrocarbon gas and/or the oxidative gas being supplied into the furnace may be effected by measuring the partial pressure of at least one of various kinds of gases forming an atmosphere within the furnace. However, it is also possible to perform the same control by measuring the concentration of at least one of various kinds of gases forming the atmosphere within the furnace. For example, it is possible to measure the partial pressure or the concentration of at least one of CO gas, CO 2 gas, O 2 gas, H 2 gas and CH 4 gas (together forming an atmosphere within the furnace), by utilizing various partial pressure gauges (CO gas partial pressure gauge, CO 2 gas partial pressure gauge, O 2 gas partial pressure gauge, H 2 gas partial pressure gas and CH 4 gas partial pressure gas) or various concentration meters (CO gas concentration meter, CO 2 gas concentration meter, O 2 gas concentration meter, H 2 gas concentration meter and CH 4 gas concentration meter), thereby effecting correct control of the supply amount of the hydrocarbon gas and/or the oxidative gas when being supplied into the furnace.
[0028] Furthermore, it is possible to control an amount of the hydrocarbon gas and/or the oxidative gas being supplied into the furnace, by measuring the partial pressure of H 2 O or the concentration of H 2 O within the furnace, or by measuring the dew point of an atmosphere gas within the furnace using a dew point hygrometer.
[0029] In this way, with the use of the various methods as described in the above, it is possible to correctly control an amount of the hydrocarbon gas and/or the oxidative gas being supplied into the furnace, thereby making it possible to keep an atmosphere within the furnace at a high carbon potential which is slightly below the carbon solid solubility.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, reference numeral 15 represents an inlet door, reference number 16 represents a transportation room, reference numeral 17 represents a carburization room, reference numeral 18 represents a gas cooling room, reference numeral 19 represents an oil quenching room, reference numeral 20 represents an outlet door, while reference numerals 21 a , 21 b and 21 c all represent partition doors. Here, the carburization room 17 is identical to the carburization room in the carburization furnace shown in FIG. 1.
[0031] An initial state of the carburization quenching apparatus will be described as follows. Namely, the inlet door 15 , the outlet door 20 and the partition doors 21 a , 21 b and 21 c are all closed. The carburization room 17 is heated to a quenching temperature and then kept at this temperature, while the pressure within the carburization room is controlled at 0.1 kPa or lower. Similarly, the pressure within the quenching room 19 is also kept at 0.1 kPa or lower, while the quenching oil within the quenching room 19 is heated to a temperature suitable for steel material quenching treatment. At this time, the transportation room 16 is under atmospheric pressure.
[0032] Starting from the above-described initial state, at first, the inlet door 15 is opened so that steel material is introduced into the transportation room 16 . Then, the inlet door 15 is closed and the pressure within the transportation room 16 is reduced to 0.1 kPa or lower. Subsequently, the partition door 21 a located between the transportation room 16 and the carburization room 17 is opened so that the steel material is moved to the carburization room 17 . Then, the partition wall 21 is closed. On the other hand, although not shown in the drawings, an apparatus for transporting the steel material may be a chain device (for use in the transportation room 16 as well as in the oil quenching room 19 and driven by a motor, and may also be a roller hearth for use in the carburization room 17 ).
[0033] Then, after the partition door 21 a is closed, the pressure within the carburization room 17 recovers to a predetermined pressure such as 100 kPa by virtue of N 2 gas, while the temperature within the carburization room is elevated to the carburization temperature. Subsequently, after the carburization room has been kept at the carburization temperature for 30 minutes, N 2 gas is discharged from the carburization room 17 , so that the pressure within the carburization room 17 is reduced to 0.1 kPa or lower.
[0034] Afterwards, a predetermined amount of hydrocarbon gas and a predetermined amount of oxidative gas are supplied to the carburization room 17 by way of a purge line, so that an internal pressure within the carburization room 17 is allowed to be restored to its carburization pressure. Upon pressure restoration and based on the computation result obtained by processing the data representing the measured CO 2 partial pressure or CO 2 concentration, the carburization room 17 is allowed to control, with the use of a control line, the supply amount of at least one of the hydrocarbon gas and the oxidative gas. However, at this time, the carbon potential is set with reference to a carbon solid solubility which depends on a carburization temperature, so that such a carbon potential will be within a predetermined range so as not to produce soot.
[0035] After having performed the carburization treatment for a predetermined time period, the supply of the hydrocarbon gas as well as the oxidative gas to the carburization room 17 is stopped, and the atmosphere within the carburization room 17 is discharged so as to have the steel material kept under a reduced pressure, thereby adjusting the carbon concentration on the surface of the steel material. Then, the temperature within the carburization room 17 is lowered to the quenching temperature, and the partition door 21 a is opened. Further, the partition door 21 c located between the transportation room 16 and the quenching room 19 is opened, so that the steel material is transferred, under a reduced pressure, to the quenching room 19 by way of the transportation room 16 , thereby performing an oil quenching treatment. After the quenching treatment, the steel material is taken out of the treatment system by way of the outlet door 20 . At this moment, an adjustment of the carbon concentration on the surface of the steel material is allowed to be performed, and at the same time a control of the quenching temperature is carried out.
[0036] Furthermore, in the case of a high temperature carburization treatment (1050° C.) which requires an adjustment of crystal particles, after an adjustment has been performed on the carbon concentration on the surface of the treated steel material, the steel material is transported to the gas cooling room 18 by way of the transportation room 16 as well as the partition door 21 b . Then, after the pressure has been restored to a predetermined value (for example, 100 kPa) by means of N 2 gas, the steel material is cooled and the N 2 gas is discharged, so that the pressure over the steel material is reduced to 1 kPa or lower. In this way, under a reduced pressure and by way of the transportation room 16 , the steel material is returned to the carburization room 17 so as to be heated again to a temperature suitable for a reheating treatment. Moreover, the carburization room 17 is kept at the reheating temperature for 30 minutes. Then, the N 2 gas is discharged so that the pressure within the carburization room is reduced to 1 kPa or lower. Subsequently, the steel material is transported to the quenching room 19 by way of the transportation room 16 , thereby performing an oil quenching treatment. In this way, after the quenching treatment has been finished, the steel material is taken out of the treatment system by way of the outlet door 20 .
[0037] In fact, the inventors of the present invention have conducted the carburization treatment using the method of the present invention, with an actual process and results thereof being discussed in the following.
EXAMPLE 1
[0038] Sections of steel material SCM 420 in the form of test pieces each having a diameter of 20 mm and a length of 40 mm were disposed at nine positions (upper and lower corner portions as well as in the central area) within the carburization room 17 whose internal temperature was controlled at 950° C. and whose internal pressure was controlled at 0.1 kPa or lower. Then, the pressure within the carburization room 17 was restored to 100 kPa by charging the room with N 2 gas, while the internal temperature thereof was kept at 950° C.
[0039] After the carburization room 17 had been kept under the above-described conditions for 30 minutes, its internal pressure was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge. Subsequently, C 3 H 8 gas and CO 2 gas were supplied into the carburization room 17 , each at a flow rate of 3.5 L/min so as to increase the internal pressure to 1.7 kPa.
[0040] Next, with the internal pressure of the carburization room 17 kept at 1.7 kPa, the amount of C 3 H 8 gas and/or CO 2 gas being supplied to the carburization room was changed so as to control the carbon potential to 1.25%. Then, the interior of the carburization room 17 was kept at 950° C. for 57 minutes.
[0041] Subsequently, the supply of C 3 H 8 gas and/or CO 2 gas was stopped and the internal pressure within the carburization room 17 was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge. Then, this internal pressure was kept for 37 minutes, while the internal temperature of the carburization room 17 was lowered to 870° C. during a subsequent time period of 30 minutes. Then, the steel material was transported to the quenching room 19 by way of the transportation room 16 , thereby starting the oil quenching treatment.
[0042] The average carbon concentration distribution of the steel material treated in this example is shown in FIG. 3. In fact, the carbon concentrations shown in this graph represent the average values of the carbon concentrations of the steel material pieces located at the aforementioned nine positions. As a result, an effective carburization depth (0.36% C) could be found to be 0.7 mm, which was an appropriate value. Further, a photograph representing the surface organization of the treated steel material is shown in FIG. 4. It is to be noted that there were no abnormal layers formed on the surface of the steel material treated in the above described process.
[0043] When a carburization lead time of the carburization treatment in Example 1 was compared with a carburization lead time of the gas carburization treatment (which is a conventional process) using an endothermic gas, it was found that the conventional gas carburization treatment using an endothermic gas needed 118 minutes as its carburization lead time, while the carburization lead time of the carburization treatment in Example 1 was only 94 minutes, thus making it possible to shorten the carburization lead time by about 20%. In this way, using the carburization treatment method actually carried out in Example 1, it becomes possible to obtain a carburized layer having a desired depth using a shorter time period than required by the above described conventional gas carburization treatment (which requires the use of an endothermic gas). Therefore, the total energy consumption can be reduced and thus the desired economic advantage can be achieved. Moreover, since there is no soot being generated, the pieces of steel material can be placed at any position within the furnace without any limitation. In addition, the use of the present invention makes it possible to obtain carburized layers which are relatively uniform and differ little from each other in their physical and chemical properties.
EXAMPLE 2
[0044] Example 2 is used to explain how a high temperature carburization can be carried out. Namely, sections of steel material pieces which were identical to those used in Example 1 were disposed at nine positions within the carburization room 17 whose internal temperature was controlled at 1050° C. and whose internal pressure was controlled at 0.1 kPa or lower. Then, the pressure within the carburization room 17 was restored to 100 kPa by charging the room with N 2 gas, while the internal temperature thereof was kept at 1050° C.
[0045] After the carburization room 17 had been kept under the above-described conditions for 30 minutes, its internal pressure was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge.
[0046] Subsequently, C 3 H 8 gas and CO 2 gas were supplied into the carburization room 17 at a flow rate of 14 L/min so as to increase the internal pressure to 1.7 kPa.
[0047] Next, with the internal pressure of the carburization room 17 kept at 1.7 kPa, the supply amount of CO 2 gas was controlled at a constant flow rate of 10 L/min, while the supply amount of C 3 H 8 gas was changed so as to have the carbon potential controlled at 1.4%. Then, the interior of the carburization room 17 was kept at 1050° C. for 16 minutes.
[0048] Subsequently, the supply of C 3 H 8 gas and CO 2 gas was stopped and the internal pressure within the carburization room 17 was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge. This internal pressure was kept for 16 minutes. Afterwards, the steel material was cooled and then heated again so as to adjust the size of the crystal particles.
[0049] In more detail, the steel material was transported from the carburization room 17 to the gas cooling room 18 by way of the transportation room 16 . Then, the interior of the gas cooling room 18 was restored to 100 kPa by charging the room with N 2 gas, followed by cooling the same for 15 minutes. Afterwards, the N 2 gas was discharged and the internal pressure within the gas cooling room 18 was reduced to 0.1 kPa or lower. At this time, the steel material was transported into the carburization room 17 by way of the transportation room 16 . Then, the steel material was heated so as to increase its temperature, with the heating process being conducted under a condition in which the N 2 gas was still present and the internal pressure within the carburization room was 100 kPa. After this condition had been kept for 30 minutes, the internal pressure within the carburization room 17 was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge, while the steel material was transported to the quenching room 19 by way of the transportation room 16 , thereby starting the oil quenching treatment.
[0050] The average carbon concentration distribution of the steel material treated in this example is shown in FIG. 5. In fact, similar to the above example shown in FIG. 3, the carbon concentrations shown in this graph represent the average values of the carbon concentrations of the steel material pieces located at the aforementioned nine positions. As a result, an effective carburization depth (0.36% C) was found to be 0.73 mm, which was an appropriate value. Further, a photograph indicating the surface organization of the treated steel material is shown in FIG. 6. It is to be noted that there were no abnormal layers formed on the surface of the steel material treated in the above described process. In addition, one example of a crystal particle photograph is shown in FIG. 7. Here, the crystal particle size was #9, which was an appropriate value.
[0051] In this way, since the treatment temperature was set at 1050° C., which is a high temperature, and since the carbon potential was set at 1.4%, the carburization lead time of the carburization treatment in Example 2 could be greatly reduced. In fact, the carburization lead time in this example was reduced by about 73% compared with the aforementioned conventional gas carburization treatment (which uses an endothermic gas). Accordingly, using the carburization treatment method actually carried out in Example 2, it becomes possible to obtain a carburized layer having a desired depth, using a reduced time period than that required by the above described conventional gas carburization treatment (which uses an endothermic gas). Therefore, it is possible to reduce the total energy consumption. Moreover, since there is no soot being generated, the pieces of steel material can be placed at any position within the furnace without any limitation. In this way, the use of the present invention makes it possible to obtain carburized layers which are relatively uniform and differ little from each other in their physical and chemical properties.
EXAMPLE 3
[0052] Example 3 was conducted based on Example 1 but using a different carburization pressure from that used in Example 1. Namely, sections of steel material pieces which were identical to those used in Example 1 were disposed at nine positions within the carburization room 17 whose internal temperature was controlled at 950° C. and whose internal pressure was controlled at 0.1 kPa or lower. Then, the pressure within the carburization room 17 was restored to 100 kPa by charging the room with N 2 gas, while the internal temperature thereof was kept at 950° C.
[0053] After the carburization room 17 had been kept under the above described conditions for 30 minutes, its internal pressure was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge. Subsequently, C 3 H 8 gas and CO 2 gas were supplied into the carburization room 17 , each at a flow rate of 15 L/min so as to increase the internal pressure to 100 kPa.
[0054] Next, with the internal pressure of the carburization room 17 kept at 100 kPa, the supply amount of CO 2 gas and/or the supply amount of C 3 H 8 gas were changed so as to have the carbon potential controlled at 1.25%. Then, the interior of the carburization room 17 was kept at 950° C. for 57 minutes.
[0055] Subsequently, the supply of C 3 H 8 gas and CO 2 gas was stopped and the internal pressure within the carburization room 17 was reduced to 0.1 kPa by virtue of gas discharge. Then, this internal pressure was kept for 37 minutes, while the internal temperature of the carburization room 17 was lowered to 870° C. during a subsequent time period of 30 minutes. Afterwards, the steel material was transported to the quenching room 19 by way of the transportation room 16 , hence starting the oil quenching treatment.
[0056] As a result, an effective carburization depth (0.36% C) of the treated steel material in this example was found to be 0.72 mm, which was an appropriate value, and no soot was generated.
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The invention provides a carburization treatment method in which a carburization treatment is conducted simultaneously with an operation of supplying a hydrocarbon gas and an oxidative gas into a furnace kept under a reduced pressure. Preferably, the internal pressure within the furnace is kept at 0.1 to 101 kPa, the hydrocarbon gas is one, two or more than two kinds of gases selected from the group consisting of C 3 H 8 , C 3 H 6 , C 4 H 10 , C 2 H 2 , C 2 H 4 /C 2 H 6 and CH 4 , while the oxidative gas is an air, an O 2 gas, or CO 2 gas.
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TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a vibrational frequency adjustment device for adjusting the vibrational frequency of reciprocating linear motion and a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device using the same.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] As an electric toothbrush with a cleaning head making a reciprocating linear motion, a motor-powered electric toothbrush including conversion means that converts rotation of a pinion fixedly attached to a rotation shaft of a motor into rotation of a face gear about an axial core orthogonal to the rotation shaft and then converts the rotation of the face gear into reciprocating linear motion of a drive shaft via a crank shaft, is widely employed because of its low-cost manufacturability. However, in the motor-powered electric toothbrush, the face gear is rotated at a reduced speed by engagement of gear wheels, and thus the cleaning head is set with a vibrational frequency of 1,500 to 5,000 cpm and an amplitude of 3 to 7 mm, whereby there is a limit for providing the cleaning head with a high vibrational frequency. Accordingly, so-called sonic electric toothbrushes having a cleaning head with a vibrational frequency of 5,000 to 11,000 cpm and an amplitude of 0.2 to 1.0 mm, have recently been suggested and put into practical use, in which a plurality of gears is combined (refer to Patent Document 1, for example), a scotch yoke mechanism is used (refer to Patent Document 2, for example), or a linear actuator having a permanent magnet and a coil is used (refer to Patent Document 3, for example).
[0003] Meanwhile, as an oral cavity cleaning device, there is put into commercial use a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device including a pump capable of discharging a cleaning liquid by reciprocating linear motion of a piston; pump drive means driving the piston; and a discharge nozzle for the cleaning liquid, in which the cleaning liquid can be intermittently injected from the nozzle to thereby efficiently clean interdental gaps and periodontal pockets with the cleaning liquid (refer to Patent Document 4, for example).
[0004] In addition, as a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device, there is suggested a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device in which a connection member capable of being connected to a drive shaft of a drive unit of a motor-powered electric toothbrush is provided so that a pump can be driven by the drive unit of the motor-powered electric toothbrush, whereby pump drive means of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device can be used also as a drive unit of a motor-powered electric toothbrush (refer to Patent Document 5, for example).
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0005] Patent Document 1: WO 2004/112536
[0006] Patent Document 2: JP-A No. 2007-215796
[0007] Patent Document 3: JP-A No. 2002-176758
[0008] Patent Document 4: JP-A No. 11-128252
[0009] Patent Document 5: JP-A No. 5-161663
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0010] The invention disclosed in Patent Document 5 allows a drive unit of a motor-powered electric toothbrush to be used also as the pump drive means of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device, and therefore the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device can be utilized with reduction in economic burden on a user by using a drive unit of a currently used electric toothbrush as the pump drive means of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device. However, when a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush, instead of a motor-powered electric toothbrush, is connected to the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device, it is not possible to provide a sufficient discharge amount of the cleaning liquid due to a short stroke of the drive shaft of 0.2 to 1.0 mm, for example, and it is not possible to allow a piston of the pump to make a reciprocating linear motion at a high vibrational frequency of 5,000 to 11,000 cpm, which makes the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device unpractical. In addition, it is obvious that sonic electric toothbrushes use piston-type pumps due to a short stroke of the drive shaft, and even using diaphragm pumps cannot provide a sufficient discharge amount of cleaning liquid. Accordingly, it is considered as being extremely difficult to use a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush also as a pump drive means of water flow type oral cavity cleaning device.
[0011] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a vibrational frequency adjustment device that realizes easy adjustment of the vibrational frequency and amplitude of a reciprocating linear motion by a simple mechanical configuration, and a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device that uses the vibrational frequency adjustment device to thereby allow pump drive means to be used also as a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush.
Solution to Problem
[0012] A vibrational frequency adjustment device of the present invention includes first conversion means that includes an input-side rotational member, an output-side rotational member, and a one-way clutch transferring only a rotational motion of the input-side rotational member in one direction to the output-side rotational member, and allows the input-side rotational member to make a reciprocating rotational motion by a set angle by a reciprocating linear motion of a first shaft member, thereby to transfer only a forward motion or a backward motion of the input-side rotational member to the output-side rotational member via the one-way clutch and rotate the output-side rotational member by each specific angle; and second conversion means that converts the rotational motion of the output-side rotational member into a reciprocating linear motion of a second shaft member.
[0013] In the vibrational frequency adjustment device, when the first shaft member makes a reciprocating linear motion, the input-side rotational member of the first conversion means makes a reciprocating rotational motion by a set angle, only a forward motion or a backward motion of the input-side rotational member is transferred to the output-side rotational member via the one-way clutch, and then the output-side rotational member rotates by each specific angle. In addition, the second conversion means converts the rotation of the output-side rotational member into a reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member, whereby the second shaft member makes one reciprocating linear motion each time the first shaft member makes a plurality of reciprocating linear motions and the output-side rotational member makes one rotation. For example, if the output-side rotational member rotates by 30 degrees by one reciprocating motion of the first shaft member, the second shaft member makes one reciprocating linear motion by 12 reciprocating linear motions of the first shaft member, which allows the vibrational frequency of the second shaft member to be adjusted to 1/12 of the vibrational frequency of the first shaft member. In this manner, in the vibrational frequency adjustment device, the vibrational frequency of the second shaft member can be adjusted inexpensively and reliably by employing a simple mechanical configuration having the one-way clutch as the first conversion means. In addition, the second conversion means uses a crank mechanism or a cam mechanism or the like to convert a rotational motion of the output-side rotational member into a reciprocating motion of the second shaft member, and the second conversion means also makes it possible to arbitrarily adjust the amplitude of the second shaft member.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the first conversion means is provided with a lever member that converts a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member into a reciprocating rotational motion of the input-side rotational member. In this case, adjusting a lever length of the lever member makes it possible to adjust the angle of a reciprocating rotational motion of the input-side rotational member at a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member and adjust the ratio of the vibrational frequency of the first shaft member and the vibrational frequency of the second shaft member.
[0015] The second conversion means may be configured in such a manner that a first gear is formed at an outer peripheral part of the output-side rotational member; a second gear engaging with the first gear is provided; and an eccentric cam allowing the second shaft member to make a reciprocating linear motion is arranged at the second gear. In this case, the number of reciprocating linear motions of the second shaft member at one rotation of the output-side rotational member can be altered by changing the ratio of number of teeth between the first gear and the second gear. In addition, the amplitude of the second shaft member can be regulated by adjusting an eccentric distance of the eccentric cam.
[0016] A water flow type oral cavity cleaning device of the present invention includes: a pump capable of discharging a cleaning liquid by a reciprocating linear motion of a piston; pump drive means driving the piston; and a discharge nozzle for the cleaning liquid, in which the pump drive means includes the vibrational frequency adjustment device and a drive means main body having a first shaft member making a reciprocating linear motion, the input-side rotational member is allowed to make a reciprocating rotational motion by a set angle by a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member, thereby to transfer only a forward motion or a backward motion of the input-side rotational member to the output-side rotational member via the one-way clutch and rotate the output-side rotational member by each specific angle, and the rotational motion of the output-side rotational member is converted into a reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member, thereby to allow the piston to make a reciprocating linear motion at the second shaft member.
[0017] In the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device, a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member in the drive means main body is switched to a reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member in the vibrational frequency adjustment device, whereby the piston of the pump can be driven by the second shaft member. In the vibrational frequency adjustment device, the vibrational frequency and amplitude of a reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member can be arbitrarily adjusted as described above. Accordingly, it is possible to adjust a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member vibrating at a high speed to a low-speed reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member, for example, and use a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush also as the drive means main body of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the drive means main body is used also as a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush. In this configuration, the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device can be driven by the drive unit of the currently used sonic electric toothbrush, thereby to reduce an economic burden on a user of the sonic electric toothbrush at introduction of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device.
[0019] The first shaft member and the nozzle can be arranged in a coaxial line. In general, the first shaft member is arranged coaxially with a replacement brush of a sonic electric toothbrush. The nozzle of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device, is supposed to be inserted into an oral cavity of a user for use as with the replacement brush. Therefore, the nozzle can be enhanced in operability at use of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device by arranging the first shaft member and the nozzle in a coaxial line to meet the same positional relationship as that of the first shaft member and the replacement brush.
[0020] A pump and a cleaning liquid tank can be provided above a handling grip part. Although the cleaning liquid tank may be provided at the grip part or under the same, the cleaning liquid has a larger pressure loss in the course from the cleaning liquid tank to the pump and in the course from the pump to the nozzle. Therefore, the pump and the cleaning liquid tank are preferably provided above the handling grip part.
[0021] In another preferred embodiment, a drive unit of an electric toothbrush including a drive shaft as the first shaft member making a reciprocating linear motion, is detachably provided as the drive means main body to a cleaning device main body having the pump, the discharge nozzle, and the vibrational frequency adjustment device, and a power transfer attachment transferring power of the drive unit to the first conversion means, is provided, the power transfer attachment including: a power transfer member that has a fitting part fitted and fixed detachably to the first shaft member of the drive unit and transfers power of the first shaft member to the first conversion means; and position adjustment means that moves the drive unit and the cleaning device main body relatively in an axial direction of the first shaft member, thereby to adjust the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member moving together with the first shaft member of the drive unit with respect to the cleaning device main body to a position adapted to the current position of a reciprocating motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit.
[0022] In this case, the first shaft member formed by the drive shaft of the drive unit of the electric toothbrush is fitted and fixed to the fitting part of the power transfer member of the attachment, and power of the first shaft member is transferred via the power transfer member to the cleaning device main body. When the first shaft member is inserted and fitted into the fitting part of the power transfer member, even if the power transfer member is pressed and moved toward a top dead point, the position adjustment means allows the drive unit and the cleaning device main body to move relatively in the axial direction of the first shaft member, and the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member moving together with the first shaft member with respect to the cleaning device main body is adjusted to a position adapted to the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit. Accordingly, the reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit and the reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member with respect to the cleaning device main body, are synchronized.
[0023] As in the foregoing, the power transfer attachment allows the position adjustment means to synchronize by a one-touch operation a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit and a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member with respect to the cleaning device main body. This makes it possible to eliminate an adjustment for synchronization and allow the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device to be used only by fitting the first shaft member into the fitting part of the power transfer member.
[0024] If using the thus configured power transfer attachment, in a preferred embodiment, the first conversion means is provided with a lever member converting a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member into a reciprocating rotational motion of the input-side rotational member, and the power transfer member is coupled to an end part of the lever member. In this case, adjusting a lever length of the lever member makes it possible to adjust the angle of a reciprocating rotational motion of the input-side rotational member at a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member and regulate the ratio between vibrational frequency of the first shaft member and vibrational frequency of the second shaft member.
[0025] In addition, the position adjustment means may include first bias means that is compressed by a fitting operation of the first shaft member into the fitting part to bias the drive unit in a direction of separation of the first shaft member; and a positioning means that locks movement of the drive unit by the first bias means in the direction of separation and places the drive unit in an appropriate position with respect to the cleaning device main body. In this case, the first shaft member can be reliably fitted and fixed to the fitting part by fitting the first shaft member to the fitting part of the power transfer member while compressing the first bias means. In addition, after the fitting of the first shaft member, the drive unit is moved together with the first shaft member and the power transfer member in the direction separation of the first shaft member by a bias force of the first bias means, the drive unit is placed by the positioning means in a position appropriate with respect to the cleaning device main body, and the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member with respect to the cleaning device main body is adjusted to a position adapted to the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit. Accordingly, the reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member with respect to the drive unit and the reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member with respect to the cleaning device main body, are synchronized, are synchronized.
[0026] In another preferred embodiment, second bias means is provided to bias the power transfer member making a reciprocating linear motion together with the first shaft member to a central position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member. Providing the second bias means is preferred in stabilizing an operation of the power transfer member.
[0027] A guide part guiding the drive unit movably only in a direction of fitting of the first shaft member to the fitting part, may be provided. In this case, moving the drive unit along the guide part makes it possible to facilitate insertion and extraction of the first shaft member from and into the fitting part.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0028] In the vibrational frequency adjustment device of the present invention, the vibrational frequency of the second shaft member can be adjusted inexpensively and reliably by employing the first conversion means of a simple mechanical configuration having a one-way clutch. In addition, the second conversion means uses a crank mechanism, a cam mechanism, or the like, to convert a rotational motion of the output-side rotational member into a reciprocating motion of the second shaft member. The second conversion means also allows the amplitude of the second shaft member to be arbitrarily adjusted.
[0029] In the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device of the present invention, the vibrational frequency adjustment device makes it possible to arbitrarily adjust the vibrational frequency and amplitude of a reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member. This makes it possible to adjust a reciprocating linear motion of the first shaft member vibrating at a high speed to a low-speed reciprocating linear motion of the second shaft member, and use a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush also as the drive means main body of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a cross section view of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device at a placement position of a nozzle;
[0032] FIG. 3 is a diagram for describing an attachable/detachable part of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device;
[0033] FIG. 4 is a cross section view of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device at a placement position of a gear;
[0034] FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing an operation of a vibrational frequency adjustment device and a pump in the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device;
[0035] FIG. 6( a ) is a cross section view of FIG. 5 taken along line a-a, and FIG. 6( b ) is a cross section view of FIG. 5 taken along line b-b;
[0036] FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing an operation of a vibrational frequency adjustment device and a pump in the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device;
[0037] FIGS. 8( a ) to 8 ( c ) are diagrams for describing an operation of an attachment;
[0038] FIG. 9( a ) is a plan view of a coupling tube, FIG. 9( b ) is a cross section view of the same taken along line b-b, FIG. 9( c ) is a bottom view of the same, and FIG. 9( d ) is a perspective view of the same; and
[0039] FIG. 10( a ) is a plan view of a pressure tube, FIG. 10( b ) is a cross section view of the same taken along line b-b, FIG. 10( c ) is a bottom view of the same, and FIG. 10( d ) is a perspective view of the same with a front half part cut out.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0040] An embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[0041] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 , a water flow type oral cavity cleaning device 1 includes a cleaning device main body 2 , and a drive unit 3 as a drive means main body detachably attached to a front side of the cleaning device main body 2 , in which a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush is used also as the drive unit 3 of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device 1 . In the following description of this embodiment, a side of the device on which the drive unit 3 is attached is defined as a front side.
[0042] The drive unit 3 includes a drive shaft 10 (equivalent to a first shaft member) supported so as to be capable of a reciprocating linear motion; a motor 12 driven by a battery 11 ; and a scotch yoke mechanism 13 that converts a rotational motion of a rotation shaft 12 a of the motor 12 into a reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 . The drive unit 3 is configured in the same manner as a drive unit of a well-known sonic electric toothbrush, where a replacement brush (not shown) can be detachably attached to an upper end portion of the drive shaft 10 , and the drive shaft 10 makes one reciprocating motion each time the rotation shaft 12 a makes one rotation by the scotch yoke mechanism 13 . However, the drive unit 3 may be used as a drive unit of an arbitrarily configured sonic electric toothbrush with an increased vibrational frequency of the drive shaft 10 by combining a plurality of gears or by the use of a linear actuator having a permanent magnet and a coil, or may be used as a drive unit of a motor-powered electric toothbrush with a low vibrational frequency of the drive shaft 10 of 1,500 to 5,000 cpm, as far as the drive unit 3 is configured to allow the drive shaft 10 to make a reciprocating linear motion.
[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 , the cleaning device main body 2 includes: a power transfer attachment 60 that transfers power of the drive shaft 10 of the drive unit 3 to the cleaning device main body 2 via a power transfer member 61 ; a pump 21 that is capable of discharging a cleaning liquid by a reciprocating linear motion of a piston 20 ; vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 that switches a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 to a reciprocating linear motion of the piston 20 with a vibrational frequency and an amplitude adapted to the pump 21 ; a cleaning liquid tank 23 storing the cleaning liquid; and a discharge nozzle 24 for the cleaning liquid. The cleaning device main body 2 is configured to clean interdental gaps, tooth surfaces, periodontal pockets, and the like, by the cleaning liquid discharged intermittently from the discharge nozzle 24 . The vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 is equivalent to the vibrational frequency adjustment device, and the vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 and the drive unit 3 are equivalent to the pump drive means.
[0044] Formed on an upper part of a frame 25 of the cleaning device main body 2 is a U-shaped and horseshoe-like base part 26 in a planar view over which the cleaning liquid tank 23 is detachably fitted. Formed under the frame 25 is a grip part 27 extending to a lower end of the drive unit 3 along a back side of the same. The grip part 27 is configured to improve operability of the cleaning device 1 by gripping by hand the drive unit 3 together with the grip part 27 .
[0045] The discharge nozzle 24 is formed by a well-known, hollow and pipe-like discharge nozzle for water pickup, and is detachably attached to an upper end of the base part 26 in a liquid-tight manner so as to be coaxial with the drive shaft 10 .
[0046] The pump 21 includes a circular cylinder 30 provided in an up-down direction within a lower portion of the base part 26 ; the piston 20 fitted into the cylinder 30 in a liquid-tight manner so as to be capable of up-down movement; and a valve member 32 capable of opening and closing an entrance part 31 at a lower end portion of the cylinder 30 . The pump 21 is connected to a supply tube 33 allowing a lower end of the cleaning liquid tank 23 and the entrance part 31 of the cylinder 30 to communicate with each other, and is connected to a discharge tube 35 allowing an exit part 34 at a lower part of the cylinder 30 and the discharge nozzle 24 to communicate with each other. When the piston 20 moves upward, the valve member 32 is opened and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid tank 23 is supplied to the cylinder 30 through the supply tube 33 . When the piston 20 moves downward, the valve member 32 is closed and the cleaning liquid in the cylinder 30 is discharged from the discharge nozzle 24 through the discharge tube 35 .
[0047] The vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 includes first conversion means 40 that converts a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 making a reciprocating linear motion together with the drive shaft 10 into a rotational motion of an output-side rotational member 42 in one direction; and second conversion means 50 that converts the rotational motion of the output-side rotational member 42 into a reciprocating linear motion of a second shaft member 43 .
[0048] As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 , the first conversion means 40 includes an input-side rotational member 41 ; the output-side rotational member 42 ; and a one-way clutch 44 that transfers a rotational motion of the input-side rotational member 41 only in one direction to the output-side rotational member 42 . The input-side rotational member 41 , the output-side rotational member 42 , and the one-way clutch 44 are rotatably supported via a support shaft 45 in an upper back portion of the base part 26 .
[0049] The first conversion means 40 will be described below. The first conversion means 40 is provided with the ring-like one-way clutch 44 of a well-known configuration in which a plurality of axially extending rollers (not shown) is circumferentially arranged on an inner peripheral part so as to appear at specific intervals; an input-side sleeve 41 a over which the one-way clutch 44 is fitted is formed to project at a central part of the disc-like input-side rotational member 41 ; and an output-side sleeve 42 a fitted over the one-way clutch 44 and formed to project in the proximity of an outer periphery of the disc-like output-side rotational member 42 . The input-side rotational member 41 is fitted into the one-way clutch 44 so as to be incapable of relative rotation in a direction shown by arrow A and be capable of relative rotation in a direction opposite to the direction shown by arrow A. The output-side rotational member 42 is fitted over the one-way clutch 44 so as to be incapable of relative rotation via a projection 42 b projecting on an inner peripheral surface of the output-side rotational member 42 . In addition, at rotation of the input-side rotational member 41 in the direction of arrow A, the output-side rotational member 42 rotates together with the input-side rotational member 41 via the one-way clutch 44 , and a rotating force of the input-side rotational member 41 is transferred to the output-side rotational member 42 . At rotation of the input-side rotational member 41 in the direction opposite to arrow A, only the input-side rotational member 41 rotates, and no rotating force is transferred to the output-side rotational member 42 via the one-way clutch 44 .
[0050] A lever member 47 extending in a front-back direction is provided at an upper portion of the base part 26 , so as to be rotatable about a horizontal pivotal support shaft 46 . A front end portion of the lever member 47 is rotatably coupled to the power transfer member 61 capable of being integrally fitted over the drive shaft 10 via a pin member 48 , a middle portion of the lever member 47 has a frame portion 47 a avoiding contact with a support shaft 45 of the first conversion means 40 , and a back end portion of the lever member 47 has a horizontally elongated long hole 47 b. An operation pin 49 is raised and fixed so as to be fitted into the long hole 47 b in the proximity of an outer periphery of the input-side rotational member 41 . When the lever member 47 rotates about the pivotal support shaft 46 by a reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 in an up-down direction, the amplitude of the drive shaft 10 is amplified depending on the ratio of a length L 1 between the pivotal support shaft 46 and the operation pin 49 and a length L 2 between the pivotal support shaft 46 and the pin member 48 , and the back end portion of the lever member 47 makes a reciprocating motion in the up-down direction. Then, when the input-side rotational member 41 makes a reciprocating rotational motion by an angle corresponding to the amplitude of the back end portion of the lever member 47 as shown by arrow B, the output-side rotational member 42 rotates via the one-way clutch 44 by each specific angle in the direction of arrow A. However, the long hole 47 b may be formed in the input-side rotational member 41 , and the operation pin 49 may be provided at the lever member 47 .
[0051] The second conversion means 50 will be described below. A first gear 51 is formed at an outer peripheral portion of the output-side rotational member 42 , and a second gear 52 engaging with the first gear 51 is supported at a lower side of the output-side rotational member 42 so as to rotatable about the pin member 53 , and a cylindrical eccentric cam 54 is provided at the second gear 52 so as to be eccentric by a specific distance L 3 with respect to the pin member 53 . A tubular part 55 rotatably fitted over the eccentric cam 54 is formed at an upper end portion of the second shaft member 43 driving the piston 20 of the pump 21 in the up-down direction. When the second gear 52 rotates about the pin member 53 , the second shaft member 43 and the piston 20 make a reciprocating linear motion in the up-down direction with an amplitude twice the eccentric distance L 3 of the eccentric cam 54 with respect to the pin member 53 .
[0052] At the oral cavity cleaning device 1 , it is possible to set the ratio between vibrational frequency of the first shaft member and the vibrational frequency of the second shaft member 43 depending on the ratio between lengths L 1 and L 2 of the lever member 47 of the first conversion means 40 , a distance L 4 between the operation pin 49 and the support shaft 45 , and the ratio of number of teeth between the first gear 51 and the second gear 52 . In addition, the amplitude of a reciprocating linear motion of the piston 20 is twice larger than the eccentric distance L 3 of the eccentric cam 54 . Therefore, it is possible to use a drive unit of a sonic electric toothbrush also as the drive unit 3 of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device 1 , even if the drive shaft 10 has a vibration frequency of is 5,000 to 11,000 cpm and an amplitude of 0.2 to 1.0 mm. However, the pump 21 , the vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 , the cleaning liquid tank 23 , and the discharge nozzle 24 may be configured in manners other than those shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 .
[0053] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 and 7 to 10 , the power transfer attachment 60 has a fitting part 62 detachably fitted and fixed to the drive shaft 10 of the drive unit 3 , and includes a power transfer member 61 transferring power of the drive shaft 10 to the cleaning device main body 2 ; and position adjustment means 63 that moves the drive unit 3 and the cleaning device main body 2 relatively in an axial direction (up-down direction) of the drive shaft 10 and adjusts the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 moving together with the drive shaft 10 of the drive unit 3 to a position adapted to the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 with respect to the drive unit 3 .
[0054] The position adjustment means 63 includes: a pair of right and left guide parts 64 guiding the drive unit 3 movably only in the up-down direction; first bias means 65 that is compressed by a fitting operation of the drive shaft 10 to the fitting part 62 to bias the drive unit 3 in a direction of separation of the drive shaft 10 (downward in FIG. 5 ); and positioning means 66 that locks movement of the drive unit 3 by the first bias means 65 in the direction of separation and places the drive unit 3 in an appropriate position with respect to the cleaning device main body 2 .
[0055] The guide parts 64 are formed to project forward in an arc-like shape from the right and left sides of the grip part 27 along the drive unit 3 arranged in front of the grip part 27 of the cleaning device main body 2 . The drive unit 3 is guided movably only in the up-down direction when being inserted between the right and left guide parts 64 from underneath. However, the guide parts 64 may be omitted.
[0056] The first bias means 65 will be described below. As shown in FIGS. 5 , and 7 to 10 , a downwardly projecting support tubular part 67 is integrally formed on a lower surface of the front portion 26 a of the base part 26 opposed to the drive unit 3 . The support tubular part 67 has hook parts 67 a circumferentially spaced at a heightwise middle portion, and a downwardly extending coupling tube 68 is fitted over and fixed to fitting concave parts 68 a so as to be engaged with the hook parts 67 a and be incapable of moving in the up-down direction. An O-ring 69 is intervened between a base end portion of the support tubular part 67 and an upper end portion of the coupling tube 68 , and the coupling tube 68 is fitted over the support tubular part 67 via the O-ring 69 in watertight manner.
[0057] The power transfer member 61 is provided so as to pass through vertically central portions of the support tubular part 67 and the coupling tube 68 . The coupling tube 68 has inwardly projecting annular holding parts 68 b at a lower end portion thereof, second bias means 70 formed by a disc-like rubber member is provided between the holding part 68 b and a lower end portion of the support tubular part 67 . A middle portion of the power transfer member 61 penetrates through and is fixed to central portion of the second bias means 70 . The second bias means 70 biases the power transfer member 61 constantly to a central position of a reciprocating linear motion, and closes gaps between the support tubular part 67 and the power transfer member 61 and between the coupling tube 68 and the power transfer member 61 , in a water-tight manner.
[0058] An annular groove 68 c is formed in an outer peripheral surface of the coupling tube 68 at a heightwise middle portion, and three vertically extending guide grooves 68 d are spaced circumferentially in the outer peripheral surface of the coupling tube 68 . A cylindrical pressure tube 71 is fitted over the coupling tube 68 movably in the vertical direction. Engagement projections 71 a are formed in an inner peripheral surface of the pressure tube 71 so as to engage with the annular groove 68 c movably in the vertical direction. Projecting rails 71 b are circumferentially spaced in the internal peripheral surface of the pressure tube 71 so as to be fitted into the guide grooves 68 d. The pressure tube 71 is externally attached to the coupling tube 68 so as to be incapable of relative movement in a circumferential direction and be capable of vertical movement by a groove width of the annular groove 68 c. An inwardly extending annular reception part 71 c is formed at a lower end portion of the pressure tube 71 . A spring member 72 biasing the pressure tube 71 constantly downward is provided between the holding part 68 b of the coupling tube 68 and the reception part 71 c of the pressure tube 71 . Alternatively, in place of the spring member 72 , synthetic rubber such as urethane rubber or a cushion material such as an air cushion, can be provided.
[0059] The positioning means 66 will be described below. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 , a lock concave part 73 is formed in a front surface of a lower portion of the grip part 27 , a projection 74 to be fitted to the lock concave part 73 is formed in a back surface of the casing 14 of the drive unit 3 . When the projection 74 is fitted to the lock concave part 73 , the drive unit 3 is placed at the cleaning device main body 2 in an appropriate position along an axial direction (height direction) of the drive shaft 10 . A bracket part 27 a is formed to project backward at a lower end portion of the grip part 27 . A holder member 75 capable of holding the lower end portion of the drive unit 3 is supported at the bracket part 27 a so as to rotatable about the pivotal support pin 76 , ranging from a holding position shown in FIG. 2 to an opening position shown in FIG. 3 . A twisted spring 79 is externally attached to the pivotal support pin 76 between the bracket part 27 a and the holder member 75 , and the holder member 75 is constantly biased toward the opening position via the twisted spring 79 . A release button 77 is provided at the bracket part 27 a so as to be movable in the up-down direction, and the release button 77 is constantly biased upward by a spring member 78 . The holder member 75 has an engagement pawl 75 a, and the release button 77 has a lock hole 77 a in which the engagement pawl 75 a can be locked. When the holder member 75 is operated so as to move from the opening position shown in FIG. 3 to the holding position, the engagement pawl 75 a engages in the lock hole 77 a, the holder member 75 is held at the holding position, and the lower end portion of the drive unit 3 is held so as not to move downward or forward with respect to the holder member 75 , so that the projection 74 does not come off from the lock concave part 73 , as shown in FIG. 2 . Meanwhile, when the release button 77 is pressed, the engagement pawl 75 a is disengaged from the lock hole 77 a as shown in FIG. 4 , and the holder member 75 rotates into the opening position by a biasing force of the twisted spring 79 , as shown in FIG. 3 , whereby the drive unit 3 can be attached to or detached from the cleaning device main body 2 .
[0060] In the power transfer attachment 60 , when the drive unit 3 is not assembled into the cleaning device main body 2 , the pressure tube 71 is projected downward by the first bias means 65 , and the power transfer member 61 is held by the second bias means 70 at a central position of a reciprocating linear motion in the up-down direction, as shown in FIG. 8 ( a ). In this state, the drive shaft 10 is inserted into the fitting part 62 until the annular groove 30 a of the drive shaft 10 in the drive unit 3 of the electrical toothbrush is fitted to the annular projection 61 a of the power transfer member 61 of the attachment 60 , and the power transfer member 61 is pressed upward while the pressure tube 71 is pressed up by the casing 14 of the drive unit 3 to compress the first bias means 65 , whereby the drive shaft 10 is fitted and fixed to the fitting part 62 of the power transfer member 61 , as shown in FIG. 8 ( b ). At that time, the drive shaft 10 does not move relative to the drive unit 3 , but the power transfer member 61 moves relative to the cleaning device main body 2 toward a top dead point. In addition, in this state, when the drive unit 3 is released, as shown in FIG. 8 ( c ), the drive unit 3 moves downward by a biasing force of the first bias means 65 until the projection 74 of the casing 14 of the drive unit 3 is locked at the lock concave part 73 , and the power transfer member 61 moves downward together with the drive unit 3 . While the casing 14 of the drive unit 3 is locked at the lock concave part 73 , the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 with respect to the cleaning device main body 2 is adjusted to a position adapted to the current position of a reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 with respect to the drive unit 3 . Accordingly, synchronization is achieved between the reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 with respect to the drive unit 3 and the reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 with respect to the cleaning device main body 2 .
[0061] As described above, in the power transfer attachment 60 , the drive unit 3 of the electric toothbrush can be used also as a drive unit of the cleaning device main body 2 , which makes it possible to use the electric toothbrush and the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device 1 while reducing an economic burden on a user. In addition, the position adjustment means 63 allows synchronization by a one-touch operation between the reciprocating linear motion of the drive shaft 10 with respect to the drive unit 3 and the reciprocating linear motion of the power transfer member 61 with respect to the cleaning device main body 2 . Accordingly, it is possible to eliminate an adjustment task for synchronization and use the cleaning device main body 2 only by fitting the drive shaft 10 to the fitting part 62 of the power transfer member 61 .
[0062] In the embodiment described above, the vibrational frequency adjustment device of the present invention is applied to the vibrational frequency adjustment means 22 of the water flow type oral cavity cleaning device 1 . However, the vibrational frequency adjustment device can also be applied to various devices requiring modification of vibrational frequency or amplitude of a reciprocating linear motion.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0063] 1 Water flow type oral cavity cleaning device
[0064] 2 Cleaning device main body
[0065] 3 Drive unit
[0066] 10 Drive shaft
[0067] 11 Battery
[0068] 12 Motor
[0069] 12 a Rotation shaft
[0070] 13 Scotch yoke mechanism
[0071] 14 Casing
[0072] 20 Piston
[0073] 21 Pump
[0074] 22 Vibrational frequency adjustment means
[0075] 23 Cleaning liquid tank
[0076] 24 Discharge nozzle
[0077] 25 Frame
[0078] 26 Base part
[0079] 26 a Front part
[0080] 27 Grip part
[0081] 27 a Bracket part
[0082] 30 Cylinder
[0083] 30 a Annular groove
[0084] 31 Entrance part
[0085] 32 Valve member
[0086] 33 Supply tube
[0087] 34 Exit part
[0088] 35 Discharge tube
[0089] 40 First conversion means
[0090] 41 Input-side rotational member
[0091] 41 a Input-side sleeve
[0092] Output-side rotational member
[0093] 42 a Output-side sleeve
[0094] 42 b Projection
[0095] 43 Second shaft member
[0096] 44 One-way clutch
[0097] 45 Support shaft
[0098] 46 Pivotal support shaft
[0099] 47 Lever member
[0100] 47 a Frame part
[0101] 47 b Long hole
[0102] 48 Pin member
[0103] 49 Operation pin
[0104] 50 Second conversion means
[0105] 51 First gear
[0106] 52 Second gear
[0107] 53 Pin member
[0108] 54 Eccentric cam
[0109] 55 Tubular part
[0110] 60 Power transfer attachment
[0111] 61 Power transfer member
[0112] 61 a Annular projection
[0113] 62 Fitting part
[0114] 63 Position adjustment means
[0115] 64 Guide part
[0116] 65 First bias means
[0117] 66 Positioning means
[0118] 67 Support tubular part
[0119] 67 a Hook part
[0120] 68 Coupling tube
[0121] 68 a Fitting concave part
[0122] 68 b Holding part
[0123] 68 c Annular groove
[0124] 68 d Guide groove
[0125] 69 Ring
[0126] 70 Second bias means
[0127] 71 Pressure tube
[0128] 71 a Engagement projection
[0129] 71 b Projecting rail
[0130] 71 c Reception part
[0131] 72 Spring member
[0132] 73 Lock concave part
[0133] 74 Projection
[0134] 75 Holder member
[0135] 75 a Engagement pawl
[0136] 76 Pivotal support pin
[0137] 77 Release button
[0138] 77 a Lock hole
[0139] 78 Spring member
[0140] 79 Twisted spring
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A vibrational frequency adjustment device comprises, as a vibrational frequency adjustment means ( 22 ): a first conversion means ( 40 ) which is provided with an input-side rotating member ( 41 ), an output-side rotating member ( 42 ), and a one-way clutch ( 44 ) for transmitting only the rotational motion in one direction of the input-side rotating member ( 41 ) to the output-side rotating member ( 42 ) and which, by causing the input-side rotating member ( 41 ) to pivot in a reciprocating manner by a set angle by means of the reciprocating linear motion of an output shaft ( 10 ), transmits only the forward motion or the reverse motion of the input-side rotating member ( 41 ) to the output-side rotating member ( 42 ) through the one-way clutch ( 44 ) to thereby rotate the output-side rotating member ( 42 ) by a given angle; and a second conversion means ( 50 ) which converts the rotational motion of the output-side rotating member ( 42 ) into the reciprocating linear motion of a second shaft member ( 43 ).
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