text
stringlengths 61
16.9k
| synonym_substitution
stringlengths 64
11.7k
| butter_fingers
stringlengths 61
11.6k
| random_deletion
stringlengths 54
10.5k
| change_char_case
stringlengths 61
16.9k
| whitespace_perturbation
stringlengths 65
12.2k
| underscore_trick
stringlengths 61
12.3k
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the field of semiconductor fabrication and, more particularly, to the field of fabricating p-channel and n-channel transistors with different characteristics on a common substrate.
2. Description of Related Art
In complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication, p-channel and n-channel transistors are fabricated on the same semiconductor substrate. To achieve transistors of both polarities (conductivity types), it is necessary that at least some process is steps differentiate between p-type and n-type transistors. Separate implant steps, for example, are needed to define n-well and p-well structures and to dope the source/drain regions of n-channel and p-channel transistors. Whenever possible, however, it is generally desirable to use a single process step to define transistor features regardless of the transistor type. Single process steps imply a single mask step, which is always desirable to reduce load on the photolithography processing. Moreover, a single step generally minimizes undesirable variations between the p-channel and n-channel transistors. Imagine, for example, that a particular design has been optimized under the assumption that the thickness of the gate oxide (or other dielectric) is the same on n-channel and p-channel transistors. The best way to ensure that the assumption is correct is to form the relevant feature for p-channel and n-channel transistors simultaneously.
In some cases, however, it may be desirable to process n-channel and p-channel transistors separately to account for differences in the characteristics of the respective transistor types. As an example, there is an asymmetry in the sub-micron behavior of p-channel and n-channel transistors. For sub-micron p-channel transistors, the high diffusivity of its boron carriers causes sub-threshold leakage current to be of paramount concern. For n-channel transistors, the drive current or saturated drain current (IDS), which is an important performance parameter, is strongly influenced by the effective length of the source/drain extension region due to the parasitic resistance that it creates. Whereas it would be desirable to have shorter extensions to increase the n-channel drive current, it would be desirable to have longer extensions to reduce the p-channel sub-threshold leakage current. It would therefore be desirable to implement a process that simultaneously addressed these concerns without substantially increasing the cost or complexity of the process.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates generally to the field of semiconductor fabrication and, more particularly, to the field of fabricating p - channel and n - channel transistors with different characteristics on a common substrate. 2. description of related art in complementary metal oxide semiconductor ( cmos ) fabrication, p - channel and n - channel configurations are fabricated on the same semiconductor substrate. to achieve transistors of both polarities ( conductivity types ), it is necessary that at least some process is steps differentiate between p - type and n - type transistors. separate implant steps, for particular, are needed to define n - well and p - well structures and to dope between source / drain regions of n - channel and p - channel transistors. whenever possible, however, it is generally desirable to use a single process step to define transistor features regardless of the transistor type. single process steps imply a single mask step, which is therefore desirable to reduce load on the photolithography processing. moreover, a single step generally minimizes undesirable variations between the p - channel and n - channel transistors. imagine, for example, that a particular design has been optimized under the assumption that the thickness of the gate oxide ( or other dielectric ) is the same on x - channel and p - channel transistors. the best way to ensure that the assumption is correct is to form the relevant feature for p - channel and n - channel transistors simultaneously. in some cases, however, it may be desired to process n - channel and p - channel transistors separately to account for differences in the characteristics of the respective transistor types. as an example, there is an asymmetry in the sub - micron behavior of p - channel and n - channel transistors. for sub - micron p - channel transistors, the high diffusivity of its boron carriers causes sub - threshold leakage current to wavelengths of paramount concern. for n - channel transistors, partial drive current or saturated drain current ( ids ), which is an important performance parameter, is strongly dictated by the effective length of the source / drain extension region due to the parasitic resistance that it creates. whereas it would be desirable to have shorter branches to increase the n - channel drive current, it would be desirable to have longer extensions to reduce the p - channel sub - threshold leak ##age current. it would therefore be desirable to implement a process that simultaneously addressed these concerns without substantially increasing the cost or complexity of the process.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention re.ateQ generally to the field of semiconductor fabrication and, more particularly, to the field of fabricating p - channel and n - channel transistors with different characteristics on a common substrate. 2. Description of Related Art In complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication, p - channel and n - channel transistors are tabricat3d on the same semiconductor substrate. To achieve transistors of both polarities (conductivity types ), it is necessary that at least some procdsw is steps differentiate between p - type and n - type transistors. Separate implant steps, for example, are needed to define n - well and p - well structures and to dope the source / drain regions of n - channel and p - channel transistors. Whenever possible, how$Cer, it is generally desirable to use a single process step to define transistor features regardless of the transistor type. Single process steps imply a single mask step, which is always desirable to reduce load on the photolithography processing. Moreover, a single step generally minimizes undesirable variations between the p - channel and n - channel transistors. Imagine, for example, that a particular design has been optimized under the assumption that the thickness of the gate oxide (or other dielectric) is the same on n - channel and p - channel transistors. The best way to ensure that the assumption is correct is to form the relevant feature for p - channel and n - channel transistors sijultaneouslG. In some cases, however, it may be desirable to process n - channel and p - channel transistors separately to account for differences in the characteristics of the respective transistor typ2a. As an example, there is an asymmetry in the sub - micron behavior of p - channel and n - Djannel transistors. For sub - micron p - channel transistors, the high diffusivity of its boron carriers causes sub - threshold leakage current to be of paramount concern. For n - channel transistors, the drive current or saturated drain current (IDS ), which is an important performance parameter, is strongly influenced by the effective length of the source / drain extension region due to the parasitic resistance that it creates. Whereas it would be desirable to have shorter extensions to increase the n - channel drive current, it would be desirable to have longer extensions to reduce the p - channel sub - thr4Dhold leakage cureebt. It would therefore be desirable to implement a process that simultaneously addressed these concerns DitTout substantially increasing the cost or complexity of the process.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to the field of semiconductor fabrication and, particularly, the field of fabricating p-channel and n-channel transistors with different on a common substrate. 2. Description of Related Art In complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication, p-channel and n-channel transistors are fabricated on the semiconductor substrate. To achieve transistors both polarities (conductivity types), is necessary at least some process is steps between p-type and n-type transistors. Separate implant steps, for example, are needed to define n-well and p-well structures and dope source/drain regions of n-channel and p-channel transistors. possible, however, it is generally desirable to use single process step to define transistor features regardless of the transistor type. Single process steps imply a single mask step, which is always desirable to reduce load on photolithography processing. Moreover, a step generally minimizes undesirable variations between the p-channel and n-channel transistors. Imagine, for example, a particular design has been optimized under the assumption that the thickness the gate oxide (or other dielectric) is the same on n-channel and p-channel transistors. The best way to ensure that the assumption is correct is to form the relevant feature for p-channel and n-channel simultaneously. In some cases, however, may be desirable process n-channel and p-channel transistors separately to account for differences in the characteristics of the respective transistor types. As an example, there is an asymmetry in the sub-micron behavior of p-channel and n-channel transistors. For sub-micron p-channel transistors, the high diffusivity of its boron causes sub-threshold leakage current to be of paramount concern. For n-channel transistors, the drive current or saturated (IDS), which an important performance parameter, is influenced by length of source/drain region due to the parasitic that it creates. Whereas it would be desirable have shorter extensions to increase n-channel current, it would be desirable to have longer extensions to reduce p-channel sub-threshold leakage current. It would be desirable to implement a process that simultaneously these concerns without substantially increasing the cost or of the process.
|
1. fielD oF THE InvEntiOn
thE PrESeNt InVenTioN RELAtEs gEnERalLY To The field of sEmIconduCTOr fabrication aNd, mOrE PArtICULARly, tO THe fieLd Of FAbRIcATiNg p-chaNneL and n-CHAnNEl traNsIstorS with dIFfERent chArACTErIStiCs oN a commON SuBSTraTe.
2. DEScRIptiON oF relateD arT
In cOMPLemEntaRY metaL oxIdE SEMIcoNDuCtOR (cmos) fAbRicATIOn, P-cHAnnEl ANd n-CHAnNEL TraNSistorS arE faBRicaTEd ON ThE saME SEmicOndUcToR sUBStRAtE. TO aChIEVe TrANsIstOrS oF BOTH polarItIes (COnDucTiVity tYpeS), IT is nECesSARY tHat aT LeASt SOMe Process Is STePS DIFfeRentiATE BetWeeN p-TYPE and n-TYPe tRansiStORs. sEPaRate imPLAnT StePs, FoR eXaMPLe, ArE neEdED tO DEFine n-wELL And P-wElL STRuCTUrEs aNd to doPe tHE SOuRce/DrAIN rEGIONs oF N-CHAnNEL AND p-cHAnnEl TrAnSisToRS. whenEver posSiblE, hoWeVeR, It is GENeraLlY DeSirAbLE to Use a SiNgle PRoCESs stEp to deFine TrAnsistor feAtURES regaRDLESs oF tHe TrAnSIsTOr tYpE. SINgLe PRoCESS sTePS IMPlY A sInGle MaSk stEp, WhiCh iS alWaYS DESiRAble to rEduCe LoaD On The PHoTOLIThOgRaPHY proceSsINg. moREoVEr, a siNglE StEP geneRAlly mInImIzEs UnDEsIRablE VariATiOnS BEtWeen THe P-ChanNel anD N-cHAnNel trAnSiSTORs. ImAGiNe, fOR ExaMPlE, tHaT a ParTicULar dEsIGN hAS BeEn oPTiMized undER THe ASsuMPTion thAT ThE ThicKnesS Of tHe gaTE OxidE (oR oTheR diEleCtriC) is thE Same on n-cHanNEl AnD P-ChannEL traNSistOrS. tHE Best wAY To enSURe THat the AsSuMption is coRrect is to forM THe RelEVANt fEATUrE foR P-ChaNNEL AND N-cHanNEl tRansISTOrs SimuLTAnEOuSLY.
in SoME CaseS, HowevER, iT MAY bE desiRaBLE To pRocESs n-cHANNEl aNd p-chANNEl TrANsIstORs sepARateLy TO AccounT For DiFferENCES In The ChArACTeRIsTIcs OF THE reSPeCTive transiSTor TypEs. AS AN eXAmPle, thEre IS aN aSyMmetry IN ThE SuB-MicROn BEhAViOR oF p-CHAnNel and N-channEL TRanSIstoRs. for Sub-micROn P-cHANNeL tRAnsIsTorS, tHe HigH DiffuSIVIty of iTs bOrON cArRieRS CAuSes SuB-thREshold leaKAGE curReNT To BE OF ParAMounT conceRN. For n-chaNNEL tRANSIstoRs, thE DRivE cuRRENt oR SaTUraTEd DRaIn CURREnt (Ids), wHIcH IS an ImPoRTaNt PeRFORMANCe paRAMEtER, Is stRONGly INflueNCEd by tHe EFfective LeNGTh oF the sourCE/DRAIN EXtEnsiON RegioN Due to the pARAsITIc ResIStANcE thAt IT cReaTeS. WHEReAs it wOUlD bE DEsIrABle To HAvE sHORTer eXTENsIoNS tO iNCrEase tHE n-CHaNNel DRivE cURREnt, iT woUlD be DesiRable tO HAVe LONGER EXtensioNs to ReduCe the p-cHannEl sUB-THreSholD LeakAGe cuRRENT. IT WouLD theRefore Be DeSIRAble TO iMPleMENt a pRocEsS tHaT SImUltAnEOusLy AddReSSeD THeSE cOncERnS wiThOUt sUbsTAnTiaLlY iNCREASING the COST Or complExiTy of thE prOCesS.
|
1. Field of the Invention The presentinventionrelates generally to thefield of semiconductor fabrication and, more particularly, to the field of fabricating p-channeland n-channel transistors with different characteristics on acommon substrate. 2. Description of RelatedArt In complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication, p-channeland n-channel transistors arefabricated on the same semiconductorsubstrate.To achieve transistors of both polarities (conductivity types), it is necessary that at least some process is stepsdifferentiate between p-typeand n-type transistors. Separate implant steps,for example, are needed to define n-well and p-well structures and to dope thesource/drainregionsof n-channel andp-channel transistors. Whenever possible, however, it is generally desirable to use a single process step todefine transistor featuresregardless of the transistor type. Single process stepsimply asinglemask step, whichis always desirable to reduce load on the photolithography processing. Moreover, a single step generally minimizes undesirable variations between the p-channel and n-channeltransistors. Imagine, for example, that a particular design has been optimized under the assumptionthat the thickness ofthe gate oxide (orother dielectric) is thesame onn-channel and p-channel transistors. The best way to ensure that theassumption is correct is to form the relevant feature for p-channel and n-channel transistors simultaneously. In some cases, however, it may be desirable to process n-channel and p-channel transistors separately toaccountfor differences in the characteristics of the respectivetransistor types.As an example, there is an asymmetry in the sub-micronbehavior of p-channel and n-channeltransistors. For sub-micronp-channel transistors, the high diffusivity of its boron carriers causes sub-threshold leakage currentto be of paramount concern. For n-channel transistors,the drive current or saturated drain current (IDS), which is an important performanceparameter, is stronglyinfluenced by the effectivelength of the source/drainextension region due to the parasiticresistance that it creates. Whereasit would be desirable to haveshorter extensionsto increase the n-channel drive current,itwouldbe desirableto have longerextensionsto reduce the p-channel sub-threshold leakage current.It would thereforebe desirableto implement a process that simultaneously addressedtheseconcerns withoutsubstantially increasing the cost or complexityofthe process.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present _invention_ relates generally to the field of semiconductor _fabrication_ and, _more_ particularly, to the field of fabricating p-channel and _n-channel_ _transistors_ _with_ different characteristics on a common substrate. 2. Description of Related _Art_ _In_ _complementary_ metal oxide semiconductor _(CMOS)_ fabrication, p-channel _and_ n-channel transistors are fabricated _on_ the same semiconductor _substrate._ To achieve transistors of both polarities (conductivity _types),_ it is necessary that at least _some_ process is steps differentiate between p-type _and_ n-type transistors. Separate _implant_ steps, _for_ example, are needed to define n-well and p-well structures and to dope the _source/drain_ regions of _n-channel_ and _p-channel_ transistors. Whenever possible, however, it is generally _desirable_ to use a single process step to define _transistor_ _features_ regardless of the _transistor_ _type._ Single _process_ steps imply a single mask step, which _is_ always desirable to reduce _load_ on the photolithography _processing._ Moreover, a single step generally minimizes undesirable variations between _the_ _p-channel_ and n-channel transistors. Imagine, for example, that a particular _design_ has been optimized _under_ the assumption that the thickness _of_ the _gate_ oxide (or other dielectric) is the same on _n-channel_ and p-channel _transistors._ The best way to ensure that the assumption is correct _is_ to form the relevant feature _for_ p-channel and n-channel transistors simultaneously. In some cases, however, it may _be_ desirable to process _n-channel_ and _p-channel_ transistors separately to account for differences in the characteristics of the respective transistor _types._ As an _example,_ there _is_ an asymmetry in the sub-micron behavior of p-channel and n-channel transistors. _For_ sub-micron p-channel _transistors,_ the high _diffusivity_ _of_ its _boron_ _carriers_ causes sub-threshold _leakage_ current _to_ be of paramount concern. _For_ _n-channel_ transistors, the drive current or saturated drain current (IDS), which is an important performance parameter, is strongly influenced _by_ the effective _length_ of _the_ source/drain _extension_ _region_ due to the parasitic resistance that it creates. Whereas it would _be_ desirable to have shorter extensions to increase the n-channel drive current, it would be desirable to _have_ longer extensions to _reduce_ the _p-channel_ sub-threshold leakage current. It would _therefore_ be desirable to implement _a_ process that simultaneously addressed _these_ _concerns_ without substantially _increasing_ the cost or complexity of the process.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an improved dispensing apparatus. More particularly, a dispenser that incorporates a timing means in conjunction with audio and visual output to assist the user in proper washing techniques for compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor the number of usages.
2. Background Art
Each year, millions of reported illnesses and serious infections are attributable to improper hand washing. The unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. Food borne illness kills over 10,000 people each year, and 70% of the outbreaks originate in food service sector. The passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from physical contact with an infected source and are carried from one site to another with each successive physical contact.
The problem is most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, as well as those businesses associated with preparing and distributing food and food products. A person that handles a single contaminated source will spread the contaminant to every person, article and surface touched by that person. The subsequent contaminated sources represent additional contamination sites that spread the contaminant. The liability of contamination or illness caused by inadequate washing techniques is very high. And, a single food borne illness can tarnish a long-standing reputation and wreak financial havoc.
Proper washing of hands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants and prevent the spread of disease and contaminants. According to the Centers for Disease Control, proper hand washing is the single most important process in preventing the spread of the pathogens. Microbial contamination refers to microscopic organisms, especially any of the bacteria that cause disease, e.g.: germs. A germ is the rudimentary form in which a new organism is developed, and encompasses any microscopic organism and any one of the bacteria that can cause disease. A bacterium is typically a one-celled microorganism, wherein some cause diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or anthrax while other bacteria are necessary for fermentation and nitrogen fixation.
Some industries are much more sensitive to proper washing techniques. Restaurants are particularly prone to the dissemination of food-borne contaminants and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specific guidelines articulated in the Food Code. The Food Code has several sections that address the washing of hands for food service and related personnel. According to the Food Code regulations, a person must wash after using the bathroom, sneezing, coughing, using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating or drinking, handling soiled utensils, and when switching from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods, and any other activity that potentially contaminates the hands.
In addition, the Food Code describes a proper hand washing technique as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to the forearms, and a special emphasis on between the fingers and underneath fingernails. In addition to timing the washing, it is important to consider the different steps in the washing procedure. A proper washing cycle commences with combining water and soap and scrubbing the hands vigorously. There are various soaps or cleansing liquids that can be used, preferably having anti-bacterial or anti-microbial properties. Nails should be cleaned and scrubbed. After scrubbing, the hands should be thoroughly rinsed with water. The areas between the finger and underneath the fingernails should be specifically cleaned and checked.
The regulations also require a supervisor ensure compliance with the regulations and promote the effective washing protocols. Employers may be fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe these regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment.
Although there may not be specific codes governing all industries and circumstance, it is common sense that adherence to the regulations will instill a safer environment for all. And, in a litigious environment, adhering to a strict standard is also a cost-effective and practical measure. There are varying international standards for the washing of hands, but in general, the U.S. standard provides a reasonable approach to follow.
Unfortunately, the proper washing guidelines are not regularly and rigorously followed. Many food service personnel do not appreciate the significance of proper washing. The restaurants rarely provide adequate training to the personnel, and seldom encompass sufficient supervision during the work shifts. In addition, the employees at restaurants and dining establishments tend to be lower paid and may not care or understand the posted written guidelines, especially if the guidelines are in an unfamiliar language. Presently there is no adequate means of providing proper guidance and instruction during washing, no system designed to walk a user through the washing steps, and no simple means of monitoring or tracking employee washing.
Contributing to the problem of inadequate washing is the lack of formal education by those in the food services segment, the low pay scale, and the periods of rushed food preparation. These factors all contribute to a potential for poor washing conditions. Due to the many illnesses caused by food preparation, the FDA continues to apply more formal regulations and guidelines for employers regarding proper washing skills. Employers are demanding a better system of aiding and monitoring employee washing habits.
The soap and liquid compounds for hand washing come from a number of different dispensers available in the marketplace. Liquid and semi-liquid dispensers are used in numerous applications and are used to dispense metered portions of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, anti-microbial cleansing liquids, and similar materials. A typical dispenser allows the user to obtain a specific amount of liquid matter with minimal ease. Manual and semi-automatic dispensing systems are common in the industry, and automated dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace.
The manual dispensers utilize levers and other mechanical assemblies wherein the user must provide some physical contact with the unit in order to dispense the liquid. The physical contact in manipulating the lever does provide a contact with a surface that is typically wet and dirty, and may harbor contaminants. Automated dispensers are becoming more popular, and operate with a variety of electrical and electromechanical components to automatically dispense the liquid after triggering some sensory input. The automatic or xe2x80x98touchlessxe2x80x99 dispensers do not require any physical contact with the dispenser.
Unfortunately, the touchless dispensers are fairly expensive and require fairly complex electrical and electrical components in order to function. Besides electronic equipment, there are mechanical components such as plungers and gear trains that work in conjunction with the electronics. The mechanical gears draw substantial energy during the xe2x80x98pinch and squeezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid cleanser, requiring frequent battery replacement. In addition, if the batteries are drained, the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functions are broken, the entire unit is disabled and will not dispense any liquid cleansers. The low reliability and the catastrophic failure mode are a major concern in the touchless dispenser market.
Within the field of liquid dispensers, there are many types of dispensers. The most common and cost effective is the bag-in-box system, where the liquid comes in a no-leak pouch with pump tip and is disposable. This system is a closed system, and all the air is removed from the pouch during manufacturing. The bag collapses upon itself once the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste disposal. The closed system has many advantages, including being a more sanitary system. The standard size pouch is 800 ml, but other sizes are in use, including 500 ml to 900 ml. It is a necessary requirement that the cost to produce a disposable pouch be kept to a minimum, while still delivering consistent results. The dispensers are installed in many public facilities, and are subject to extreme wear and tear. Due to the excessive use, the devices must be robust and relatively maintenance free.
Other dispensers use cartridges or refillable containers. The cartridges must be pierced, are generally not refillable, and produce greater waste. Both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air into the system, aiding the production of bacteria and mold. The cost and administrative complexity in using these other forms of dispensing liquids, as well as the decreased sanitary conditions limit their market appeal. Also, these semi-automatic and automatic systems can be designed to complete the cycle, metering exactly the correct amount of liquid, independently of successive and rapid pushes of the actuating member that frequently occur.
The liquid soap industry has numerous brands and categories of cleansing liquids. The viscosity and particulate content are also subject to extreme variations. There is an array of particulate matter that can be added to cleansing liquids to form a grit soap compound that is more effective in cleaning. The most common grit material is plastic microspheres, although other materials such as clay, walnut shells and corn cobs have also been used. Besides the variations of compounds used to form grit soap, the size of the grit also varies.
There has also been a consumer demand for anti-microbial cleansing liquids and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, and the industry has reacted by adding creating new compounds with these properties. These anti-microbial and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids are available with or without grit and have certain characteristics and viscosity differences as compared to standard liquid soap. Besides liquid soap, other compounds dispensed include body and hair shampoo, hand creme solutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, and shaving creme.
In a typical bag-in-box operation, a user depresses a lever or controller. This applies pressure to the dispenser tube that creates a vacuum in the collapsible pouch that exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ball check valve. If the pressure is sufficient, the ball is displaced, and the liquid flows around the ball and into the ball check valve chamber. The liquid flows into the space between the spring and the interior wall of the ball check valve chamber. Once the chamber is sufficiently full, the liquid is forced through the compressed spring and out through the lower fitment hole and through the nozzle.
The transition from a user applying purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid to a semi-automated or automated dispensing unit is
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to an improved dispensing apparatus. as particularly, a system that incorporates a timing means in conjunction with audio and visual output to assist the user in proper washing techniques for compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor the number of usages. 2. background art each year, millions previously reported illnesses and serious infections are attributable to improper hand washing. the unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. food borne illness kills over 10, 000 people each year, and 70 % all the outbreaks originate in food service sector. the passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from physical contact with an infected source and are carried from one site to another with each successive physical contact. the problem is most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, as well as those businesses associated with preparing and distributing food and food products. a person that handles a single contaminated source will spread the contaminant to every person, article and surface touched by that person. the subsequent contaminated sources represent additional contamination sites that spread the contaminant. the liability of contamination or illness caused by inadequate washing techniques is very high. and, a single food borne illness can tarnish a long - standing reputation and wreak financial havoc. proper dressing of hands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants and prevent the spread of disease and contaminants. according to the centers for biotechnology control, proper hand washing is the single most important process in preventing the spread of the pathogens. microbial contamination refers to microscopic organisms, especially any of the bacteria that cause disease, e. g. : germs. a germ is the rudimentary form in which a new organism is developed, and encompasses any microscopic organism and any one of the bacteria that can host disease. a bacterium is typically a one - celled microorganism, wherein some contain diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or anthrax while other bacteria are necessary for fermentation and nitrogen fixation. grocery industries are much more sensitive through proper washing techniques. restaurants are particularly prone to the dissemination of food - borne contaminants and the u. s. food and drug administration ( fda ) has specific guidelines articulated in the food code. the food code has several sections that address the washing of hands for food service and related personnel. according to the food code regulations, a person must wash after using the bathroom, sneezing, coughing , using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating or drinking, handling soiled utensils, and when switching from raw foods to ready - to - eat foods, and any other activity that potentially contaminates the hands. in addition, the food code describes a proper hand washing technique as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to the forearms, and a special emphasis on between the fingers and underneath fingernails. in addition to timing the washing, it is important to consider the different steps in the washing procedure. a proper washing cycle commences with combining water and soap and scrubbing the hands vigorously. there are various soaps or cleansing liquids that can be used, preferably having anti - bacterial or anti - microbial properties. nails should be cleaned and scrubbed. after scrubbing, the hands should be thoroughly rinsed with water. the areas between the finger and underneath the fingernails should be specifically cleaned and checked. the regulations also require a supervisor ensure compliance with the regulations and promote the effective washing protocols. employers may be fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe these regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment. although there may not be specific codes governing all industries and circumstance, it is common sense that adherence to the regulations will instill a safer environment for all. and, in a litigious environment, adhering to a strict standard is also a cost - effective and practical measure. there are varying international standards for the washing of hands, but in general, the u. s. standard provides a reasonable approach to follow. unfortunately, the proper washing guidelines are not regularly and rigorously followed. many food service personnel do not appreciate the significance of proper washing. the restaurants rarely provide adequate training to the personnel, and seldom encompass sufficient supervision during the work shifts. in addition, the employees at restaurants and dining establishments tend to be lower paid and may not care or understand the posted written guidelines, especially if the guidelines are in an unfamiliar language. presently there is no adequate means of providing proper guidance and instruction during washing, no system designed to walk a user through the washing steps, and no simple means of monitoring or tracking employee washing. contributing to the problem of inadequate washing is the lack of formal education by those in the food services segment, the low pay scale, and the periods of rushed food preparation. these factors all contribute to a potential for poor washing conditions. due to the many illnesses caused by food preparation, the fda continues to apply more formal regulations and guidelines for employers regarding proper washing skills. employers are demanding a better system of aiding and monitoring employee washing habits. the soap and liquid compounds for hand washing come from a number of different dispensers available in the marketplace. liquid and semi - liquid dispensers are used in numerous applications and are used to dispense metered portions of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti - bacterial cleansing liquids, anti - microbial cleansing liquids, and similar materials. a typical dispenser allows the user to obtain a specific amount of liquid matter with minimal ease. manual and semi - automatic dispensing systems are common in the industry, and automated dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace. the manual dispensers utilize levers and other mechanical assemblies wherein the user must provide some physical contact with the unit in order to dispense the liquid. the physical contact in manipulating the lever does provide a contact with a surface that is typically wet and dirty, and may harbor contaminants. automated dispensers are becoming more popular, and operate with a variety of electrical and electromechanical components to automatically dispense the liquid after triggering some sensory input. the automatic or xe2x80x98touchlessxe2x80x99 dispensers do not require any physical contact with the dispenser. unfortunately, the touchless dispensers are fairly expensive and require fairly complex electrical and electrical components in order to function. besides electronic equipment, there are mechanical components such as plungers and gear trains that work in conjunction with the electronics. the mechanical gears draw substantial energy during the xe2x80x98pinch and squeezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid cleanser, requiring frequent battery replacement. in addition, if the batteries are drained, the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functions are broken, the entire unit is disabled and will not dispense any liquid cleansers. the low reliability and the catastrophic failure mode are a major concern in the touchless dispenser market. within the field of liquid dispensers, there are many types of dispensers. the most common and cost effective is the bag - in - box system, where the liquid comes in a no - leak pouch with pump tip and is disposable. this system is a closed system, and all the air is removed from the pouch during manufacturing. the bag collapses upon itself once the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste disposal. the closed system has many advantages, including being a more sanitary system. the standard size pouch is 800 ml, but other sizes are in use, including 500 ml to 900 ml. it is a necessary requirement that the cost to produce a disposable pouch be kept to a minimum, while still delivering consistent results. the dispensers are installed in many public facilities, and are subject to extreme wear and tear. due to the excessive use, the devices must be robust and relatively maintenance free. other dispensers use cartridges or refillable containers. the cartridges must be pierced, are generally not refillable, and produce greater waste. both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air into the system, aiding the production of bacteria and mold. the cost and administrative complexity in using these other forms of dispensing liquids, as well as the decreased sanitary conditions limit their market appeal. also, these semi - automatic and automatic systems can be designed to complete the cycle, metering exactly the correct amount of liquid, independently of successive and rapid pushes of the actuating member that frequently occur. the liquid soap industry has numerous brands and categories of cleansing liquids. the viscosity and particulate content are also subject to extreme variations. there is an array of particulate matter that can be added to cleansing liquids to form a grit soap compound that is more effective in cleaning. the most common grit material is plastic microspheres, although other materials such as clay, walnut shells and corn cobs have also been used. besides the variations of compounds used to form grit soap, the size of the grit also varies. there has also been a consumer demand for anti - microbial cleansing liquids and anti - bacterial cleansing liquids, and the industry has reacted by adding creating new compounds with these properties. these anti - microbial and anti - bacterial cleansing liquids are available with or without grit and have certain characteristics and viscosity differences as compared to standard liquid soap. besides liquid soap, other compounds dispensed include body and hair shampoo, hand creme solutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, and shaving creme. in a typical bag - in - box operation, a user depresses a lever or controller. this applies pressure to the dispenser tube that creates a vacuum in the collapsible pouch that exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ball check valve. if the pressure is sufficient, the ball is displaced, and the liquid flows around the ball and into the ball check valve chamber. the liquid flows into the space between the spring and the interior wall of the ball check valve chamber. once the chamber is sufficiently full, the liquid is forced through the compressed spring and out through the lower fitment hole and through the nozzle. the transition from a user applying purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid to a semi - automated or automated dispensing unit is
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improved dispensing apparatus. More particularly, a dispenser that incorporates a timing means in conjunction with audio and visual output to assist the user in proper washing techniques for compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor the number of usages. 2. Background Art Each year, millions of reported illnesses and serious infections are attributable to improper hand washing. The unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. Food borne illness kills over 10, 000 people each year, and 70% of the outbreaks originate in food Wervicf sector. The passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from physical contact with an infected source and are carried from one site to another with each successive physical contact. The problem is most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, as well as those businesses associated with preparing and distributing food and food products. A person that handles a single contaminated source will spread the contaminant to every person, article and surface touched by that person. The subsequent contaminated sources represent additional contamination sites that spread the contaminant. The liability of contamination or illness caused by inadequate washing techniques is very high. And, a single food borne illness can tarnish a long - standing reputation and wreak financial havoc. Proper washing of hands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants and prevent the spread of disease and contaminants. According to the Centers for Disease Control, proper hand washing is the single most important process in preventing the spread of the pathogens. Microbial contamination refers to microscopic organisms, especially any of the bacteria that cause disease, e. g. : germs. A germ is the rudimentary form in which a new organism is developed, and encompasses any microscopic organism and any one of the bacteria that can cause disease. A bacterium is typically a one - celled microorganism, wherein some cause diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or anthrax while other bacteria are necessary for fermentation and nitrogen fixation. Some industries are much more sensitive to proper washing techniques. Restaurants are particularly prone to the dissemination of food - borne contaminants and the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specific guidelines articulated in the Food Code. The Food Code has several sections that address the washing of hands for food service and related personnel. According to the Food Code regulations, a person must wash after using the bathroom, sneezing, coughing, using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating or drinking, handling soiled utensils, and when switching from raw foods to ready - to - eat foods, and any other activity that potentially contaminates the hands. In addition, the Food Code describes a proper hand washing technique as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to the forearms, and a special emphasis on between the fingers and underneath fingernails. In addition to timing the washing, it is important to consider the different steps in the washing procedure. A proper washing cycle commences with combining water and soap and scrubbing the hands vigorously. There are various soXpa or cleansing liquids that can be used, preferably having anti - bacterial or anti - microbial properties. Nails should be cleaned and scrubbed. After scrubbing, the hands should be thoroughly rinsed with water. The areas between the finger and underneath the fingernails should be specifically cleaned and checked. The regulations also require a supervisor ensure compliance with the regulations and promote the effective washing protocols. Employers may be fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe these regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment. Although there may not be specific codes governing all industries and circumstance, it is common sense that adherence to the regulations will instill a safer environment for all. And, in a litigious environment, adhering to a strict standard is also a cost - effective and practical measure. There are varying international standards for the washing of hands, but in general, the U. S. standard provides a reasonable approach to follow. Unfortunately, the proper washing guidelines are not regularly and rigorously followed. Many food service personnel do not appreciate the significance of proper washing. The restaurants rarely priDide adequate training to the personnel, and seldom encompass sufficient supervision during the work shifts. In addition, the employees at restaurants and dining establishments tend to be lower paid and may not care or understand the posted written guidelines, especially if the gjide>ines are in an unfamiliar language. Presently there is no adequate means of providing proper guidance and instruction during washing, no system designed to walk a user through the washing steps, and no simple means of monitoring or tracking employee washing. Contributing to the problem of inadequate washing is the lack of formal education by those in the food services segment, the low pay scale, and the periods of rushed food preparation. These factors all contribute to a potential for poor washing conditions. Due to the many illnesses caused by food preparation, the FDA continues to apply more formal regulations and guidelines for employers regarding proper washing skills. Employers are demanding a better system of aiding and monitoring employee washing habits. The soap and liquid compounds for hand washing come from a number of different dispensers available in the marketplace. Liquid and semi - liquid dispensers are used in numerous applications and are used to dispense metered portions of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti - bacterial cleansing liquids, anti - microbial clSsnsing liquids, and similar materials. A typical dispenser allows the user to obtain a specific amount of liquid matter with minimal ease. Manual and semi - automatic cispWnsing systems are common in the industry, and automated dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace. The manual dispensers utilize levers and other mechanical assemblies wherein the user must provide some physical contact with the unit in order to dispense the liquid. The physical contact in manipulating the lever does provide a contact with a surface that is typically wet and dirty, and may harbor contaminants. Automated dispensers are becoming more popular, and operate with a variety of electrical and electromechanical components to automatically dispense the liquid after triggering some sensory input. The automatic or xe2x80x98touchlessxe2x80x99 dispensers do not require any physical contact with the dispenser. Unfortunately, the touchless dispensers are fairly expensive and require fairly complex electrical and electrical components in order to function. Besides electronic equipment, there are mechanical components such as plungers and gear trains that work in conjunction with the electronics. The mechanical gears draw substantial energy during the xe2x80x98pinch and squeezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid cleanser, requiring frequent battery replacement. In addition, if the batteries are drained, the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functions are broken, the entire unit is disabled and will not dispense any liquid cleansers. The low reliability and the catastrophic failure mode are a major concern in the touchless dispenser market. Within the field of liquid dispensers, there are mabU types of dispensers. The most common and cost effective is the bag - in - box system, where the liquid comes in a no - leak pouch with pump tip and is disposable. This system is a closed system, and all the air is removed from the pouch during manufacturing. The bag collapses upon itself oMcf the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste disposal. The closed system has many advantages, including being a more sanitary system. The standard size pouch is 800 ml, but other sizes are in use, including 500 ml to 900 ml. It is a necessary requirement that the cost to produce a disposable pouch be kept to a minimum, while still delivering consistent results. The dispensers are installed in many public facilities, and are subject to extreme wear and tear. Due to the excessive use, the devices must be robust and relatively maintenance Bres. Other dispensers use cartridges or refillable containers. The cartridges must be pierced, are generally not refillable, and produce greater waste. Both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air into the system, aiding the production of bacteria and mold. The cost and administrative complexity in using these other forms of dispensing liquids, as well as the decreased sanitary conditions limit their market appeal. Also, these semi - automatic and automatic systems can be designed to complete the cycle, metering exactly the correct amount of liquid, independently of successive and rapid pushes of the actuating member that frequently occur. The liquid soap industry has numerous brands and categories of cleansing liquids. The viscosity and particulate content are also subject to extreme variations. There is an array of particulate matter that can be added to cleansing liquids to form a grit soap compound that is more effective in cleaning. The most common grit material is plastic microspheres, although other materials such as clay, walnut shells and corn cobs have also been used. Besides the variations of compounds used to form grit soap, the size of the grit also varies. There has also been a consumer demand for anti - microbial cleansing liquids and anti - bacterial cleansing liquids, and the industry has reacted by adding creating new compounds with these properties. These anti - microbial and anti - bacterial cleansing liquids are available with or without grit and have certain characteristics and viscosity differences as compared to standard liquid soap. Besides liquid soap, other compounds dispensed include body and hair shampoo, hand creme solutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, and shaving creme. In a typical bag - in - box operation, a user depresses a lever or contro?:er. This applies pressure to the dispenser tube that creates a vacuum in the collapsible pouch that exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ball check valve. If the pressure is sufficient, the ball is displaced, and the liquid flows around the ball and into the ball check valve chamber. The liquid flows into the space between the spring and the interior wall of the ball check valve chamber. Once the chamber is sufficiently full, the liquid is forced through the compressed spring and out through the lower fitment hole and through the nozzle. The transition from a user applying purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid to a semi - automated or automated dispensing unit is
|
1. Field of Invention The present relates to an improved dispensing apparatus. More particularly, a dispenser that incorporates a timing means in conjunction audio and visual output to assist the user in proper washing techniques for compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor number of usages. 2. Background Art Each year, millions of reported and serious infections are attributable to improper washing. The unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. borne illness over 10,000 people each year, and 70% of the outbreaks originate food service sector. The passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from physical contact with an source and are carried from one site to another with each successive physical contact. The problem is most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, well as those businesses with preparing and distributing food and food products. A person that handles a single contaminated source will the contaminant to every person, article and surface touched by that The subsequent contaminated sources represent additional contamination sites that spread the contaminant. The liability of contamination or illness by inadequate washing techniques is very high. And, a single food borne illness can tarnish a long-standing reputation and wreak financial havoc. Proper washing of hands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants and prevent the spread disease and contaminants. According to the Centers for Disease Control, proper hand is the single most important process in preventing the spread of pathogens. Microbial contamination refers to microscopic organisms, especially of the bacteria that cause disease, e.g.: germs. A germ is the rudimentary form in which a new organism is developed, and encompasses any microscopic organism and of the bacteria that can cause A bacterium is typically a one-celled microorganism, wherein some cause diseases as tuberculosis, or anthrax while bacteria are necessary fermentation nitrogen fixation. Some industries are much more sensitive to washing techniques. Restaurants are particularly prone to dissemination of food-borne contaminants the U.S. Food and Administration (FDA) has specific guidelines articulated in the Food Code. The Food Code has several sections address the washing of for food service and related personnel. According to the Food Code regulations, a person must wash after using the sneezing, using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, or drinking, handling soiled and when switching from raw to ready-to-eat foods, and any other activity that contaminates the hands. In the Food proper hand technique as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to the forearms, and special between the fingers and underneath In addition to timing the washing, it important to consider different steps in the washing procedure. A proper washing cycle commences with combining water and soap and the hands vigorously. There various soaps or cleansing liquids that be used, preferably having anti-bacterial or anti-microbial properties. Nails should be cleaned and After scrubbing, the hands should be thoroughly rinsed with water. The areas between finger and underneath fingernails should specifically cleaned and checked. The regulations also require a supervisor ensure compliance the regulations and the effective washing Employers may fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment. Although there may not be specific codes governing all industries and circumstance, it is common sense that adherence the regulations will instill a safer environment for all. And, in a litigious environment, adhering to a standard is also a cost-effective and practical measure. There are varying international standards the washing of hands, but in general, the U.S. standard provides reasonable approach to follow. Unfortunately, the proper washing guidelines are not regularly and rigorously followed. Many food service personnel do appreciate the significance of washing. The restaurants provide adequate training to the personnel, and seldom encompass sufficient supervision during the work shifts. In addition, the employees at restaurants dining establishments tend to be lower paid and may not care or understand the posted written guidelines, if the guidelines are in an language. Presently there is no adequate means of providing proper guidance and during washing, no system designed to a user through the washing steps, and no simple means of monitoring or tracking employee washing. Contributing to the problem of inadequate washing is the lack of formal education by those in the food services segment, the low pay scale, and the periods of rushed food preparation. These factors all contribute a potential for poor washing conditions. Due to the many caused by food preparation, the FDA continues to regulations and guidelines for employers regarding proper washing Employers are demanding a better system of aiding monitoring employee washing habits. The soap and liquid compounds for hand washing come from a number of different dispensers available in the marketplace. Liquid and semi-liquid dispensers are used in numerous applications and are used to dispense metered portions of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti-bacterial liquids, anti-microbial cleansing liquids, and similar materials. A typical dispenser allows the user to obtain a specific amount with minimal ease. Manual and semi-automatic dispensing systems are common in and automated dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace. The dispensers utilize levers and other mechanical assemblies wherein the user must provide some physical contact with the unit in order to dispense the liquid. The physical contact in manipulating the lever does provide a contact with a surface that is typically wet dirty, and may harbor contaminants. Automated dispensers are becoming more and operate with a variety of electrical and electromechanical components automatically dispense the liquid after triggering some sensory input. automatic or do not require any physical contact the dispenser. the touchless dispensers are fairly expensive and require fairly complex electrical and electrical in order to function. Besides electronic equipment, there are mechanical components such as plungers and gear trains that in conjunction with the electronics. The gears draw substantial energy during the xe2x80x98pinch and squeezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid requiring frequent battery replacement. In addition, if the batteries drained, the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functions are broken, the entire unit is disabled and will not dispense any liquid The low reliability and the catastrophic failure mode are a major concern the touchless dispenser market. Within the field of liquid dispensers, there are many of The common and cost effective is the bag-in-box system, where the liquid comes in a no-leak pouch with pump tip and is disposable. This system is a closed and all the air is from the pouch during manufacturing. The bag upon itself once the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste disposal. The closed system many advantages, including being a more sanitary system. The standard size pouch is 800 other are use, including 500 ml to 900 ml. It is a necessary requirement that the cost to produce a disposable pouch be kept to a minimum, while still delivering consistent results. The dispensers are installed in many public facilities, and are subject to extreme tear. Due to excessive use, devices must be robust and maintenance free. dispensers use cartridges or containers. The cartridges must be pierced, are generally not refillable, and produce waste. Both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air into the system, aiding the of bacteria and mold. The cost and administrative complexity in using other forms of dispensing liquids, as as the decreased sanitary limit their market appeal. Also, these semi-automatic and automatic systems can be designed to the cycle, exactly the correct amount of liquid, independently of successive and rapid of the member that occur. The liquid soap industry has numerous brands and categories of cleansing liquids. viscosity and particulate content are also subject to extreme variations. There is an array of particulate matter that be added to cleansing liquids to form soap compound that is more in cleaning. The most common material plastic microspheres, although other materials such as clay, walnut shells and corn cobs have also been used. Besides the variations of compounds used form grit soap, size of the grit also varies. There has also been a consumer demand for anti-microbial cleansing liquids and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, and the industry has reacted by adding creating new these properties. anti-microbial and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids are available or without and have certain and viscosity differences as compared to standard liquid soap. Besides soap, other compounds dispensed include body and hair hand creme solutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, shaving In a typical bag-in-box operation, a user depresses a controller. This applies pressure to the dispenser that a vacuum in the collapsible pouch that exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ball valve. If the is sufficient, the ball is displaced, the liquid flows around the ball and into the ball check valve chamber. The liquid flows into the space between the spring and the interior of the ball check chamber. Once the chamber is full, the liquid is forced through the spring and out through the lower fitment hole and through the nozzle. transition from user applying purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid a semi-automated or automated dispensing unit
|
1. FIeLD OF thE InVENTIon
thE PRESeNt inVEnTion rELATES to an ImpRovEd DIsPeNSInG apPaRATUs. more ParTICulaRlY, A dIsPEnSEr thAT IncOrpOrATEs A timing mEANs IN COnjunctiON witH AUDiO anD vIsUAL ouTpUT To AssisT the USer iN PrOpEr washinG TEChNIQuEs foR COmPLIaNce WiTH RECommENDeD guIDelInEs AnD to monitOR THe numbeR of UsaGEs.
2. baCkGrouNd ARt
eacH yEaR, MiLLIOnS Of rePOrted iLLnEsSes And serIoUS INFEcTIONs ARE attrIbUTABLE TO iMPRoPER haND WashINg. The unREpoRtEd CasES arE EsTimateD TO BE MUCH HiGHeR. FOOd BoRNE IlLnESs KILls ovEr 10,000 peoplE eAch yeAR, aNd 70% of the outbREakS oriGInATe IN FOoD Service sECtOR. tHe PassAge OF vIrAl And BactERIAl CoNTamiNANts ResUlT FroM pHySIcaL cOnTACt wITH aN iNfeCTeD SouRCe and aRe carRied frOm ONe siTe TO ANoTHer WITH EACh succEsSiVe PhysiCAl cONTacT.
the pRobLeM iS mOst EVIdenT In HOspital and RelatEd MeDiCAl esTAbLIShMentS, As WELL as ThOse BusINeSSes aSsoCIAted WiTH pREpArInG AnD DIStributING fooD AnD fOOD ProDuCTS. A pErsoN thAT hANDLeS a SiNgLE COnTaMInAtEd SoURcE wiLL SPrEAD THE cOntamINAnT To evEry pERSOn, article AND SUrFacE TOUChed By tHAt PeRSOn. tHE SuBSeQUent CONtaminATeD souRceS rEpresenT AdDITIonaL CoNTaMinatIon siTEs that SPReAd the ConTAMiNaNt. tHE lIabilItY oF coNTamInatIon Or ilLNeSs CAUsEd bY inADeQUAte WASHiNg tECHnIques is veRy HIGh. AND, a sinGLE FOoD boRNE iLLneSs cAN TaRNisH A LONg-sTAndINg REPUTaTIOn ANd wReAK fINANcIAL hAVOC.
PROpER WASHIng oF HaNDs HAs bEeN DeMOnSTRATed to kilL The cONtAMiNANTS AND prevEnT thE SpReaD OF dISEASE And cOnTAMiNANTS. ACCORDINg To ThE CeNTErs FoR dISeAsE CONtrOl, PROpeR hANd wasHing IS tHe sinGlE most ImPoRTaNT PRoCeSs iN PRevENtInG the sPrEAD OF The PATHogens. miCrobIal coNtaminatIOn RefErs TO microsCOpIc organISMs, esPeciaLly Any OF THe bacteRIa THaT caUSe DiSeaSe, E.G.: GErMs. a geRm iS tHE RUdImeNtaRY fOrm in wHICh a NEW ORgaNism Is dEVeLoped, AND ENCOMPAsSes ANy MiCROSCopIC orGaNism aND Any One oF tHe BactEriA ThaT CAN CAUSE dIsEAsE. a baCtERium IS typICALlY A one-cELLED MicRoOrganiSm, wHErein somE cAuse DISEasEs suCH AS pNEumOnIA, tUbERCuLOsIs, OR ANthRax WhilE OTher bActERiA ArE NEcEssarY FOr FerMenTATion aND NITROGeN FixATIon.
soME iNdUstRies aRe mUch moRe SeNSiTiVE to PrOPEr wAshiNG TEchNIqueS. resTauraNts ARe PARTICuLArlY PRonE TO thE diSSeMiNATIoN OF FOOD-BORne CONtamInAnTS aNd thE u.s. fOod aNd drUg AdmInIstrATIOn (FdA) haS specifiC GuideLIneS aRTicULAteD iN The FooD COdE. the FOOD COdE haS SEVErAl SEctiONs THAt AdDRESs THE wAshIng of HaNdS for FOOD SerVIce aNd rELAteD PErsONnEL. AccoRdiNg tO tHe FOoD CODe rEGuLATIOnS, a PeRsoN MusT wAsh aFTER UsInG ThE baTHRooM, sneEziNG, COUgHINg, USiNg a dispOSable TISsUE, UsING TObAcco, eatIng Or DrinKinG, HandLiNG SOIlEd UTeNsilS, AnD WhEn sWiTcHING From RAW Foods tO Ready-TO-EAT FOOds, and aNY OTHER ActIvITY THaT potENtialLy CoNTaMiNatES ThE handS.
iN aDDItion, the fOod COde deSCRiBEs A PrOper hAnD WasHING TeChNiQUE AS lasTInG AT LEAst 20 secoNds, WasHiNg Up tO The fOReArMs, aND a speCIaL eMphaSiS oN bETwEen THe FinGERS aND UnDERNeATH FinGerNAiLS. In ADditIoN tO TiMIng The washInG, it is ImpORtANt TO ConSiDer ThE DiFfERENt stEPs In ThE WAshInG procEDUre. A PrOpEr WaSHiNG cYcLE CommENcES wIth cOmBiNINg WATeR AnD soaP anD sCrUbBInG THe Hands ViGoroUSLy. thErE are variOUs soAPs or clEAnsiNG liQUIdS ThaT cAN be uSed, prEfErAblY HaVing Anti-baCteRiAl or Anti-MicrObIaL pRoPeRtIeS. NAiLS SHOUlD Be CLeaned AnD SCrUBbed. After ScRubBING, tHE HanDs shoUlD be thORoUgHLY RInseD WItH waTeR. THe aReas BEtwEen tHe FiNger anD UnDeRNEAth THe fIngernAilS shoUld be SpecifICalLY ClEaneD aND cHEcKeD.
THe reguLaTiONS aLSo REqUIRE A SuPeRvisoR eNsURe cOMplIANCE with tHe regUlaTIoNS aNd pROmOTe tHE EffECTIve wAShInG prOTOcOLS. EmPLoYErs MaY bE FINed Or LOSE lIcENSES if EmPloYeES DO not OBSERVE thESe reGulatIOns, and sUch empLoYeeS ARe lIkeLY To LOSE THEIr eMpLOYMenT.
ALtHouGh tHerE MAy Not be spECifiC CoDES GoVERnIng all InDuSTRiES ANd cIrcumsTanCE, IT Is COmmON sEnsE tHAt AdHErENCe To THe reGuLATIOnS Will INStiLL A safER ENVIROnMeNT foR ALL. aNd, In a LItigIOuS EnVIronmEnT, AdherINg to A sTrict StANdard Is ALsO A CoSt-effeCTiVe aNd PRaCTIcAL MEasUre. THEre ARE vARyiNG INTErnaTIOnAl stANdARds foR tHe waSHINg of hanDS, buT iN gENeRAl, tHe u.s. StanDArd provIDEs A ReAsONablE ApprOach tO follOw.
unfORtuNATELy, THE PROpEr WaSHINg guiDElines ARe Not REGuLARly ANd rIgoROUSlY fOllOwED. mAnY fOod sErviCE PErSONNeL Do nOT apprEciate thE SIgnifiCANcE oF pROPer WAshinG. the REsTAuRaNtS rarEly pRoVIDE adEQuatE trAINING To THe PerSonnEL, AnD SELdOm ENcOmpaSs SuffiCieNt supervIsIOn durING thE WOrK ShiFTS. IN AdDItION, ThE EmplOyeES At reStAurANtS AND dining eStAblishmENTs TEND to Be loweR paiD And maY NOT CaRe Or uNDerSTaND THE POStEd wRIttEN GUiDElinES, eSpECIally If the gUiDeLInes ARe IN An unfamIliaR lAngUaGE. pReSentLY thERE Is NO AdEqUaTE means OF ProvidIng prOpER GuIDANcE And instRUcTIOn DUriNG WASHINg, nO sysTEM dEsIgNED To WalK a UseR THRouGH THE waShINg stEPS, AND No siMpLe meAnS Of mONitorINg or TraCkiNG empLOYee wASHINg.
coNTRibUTiNG tO the PRoBLEM Of iNADeQuATe wasHINg is the LaCK OF fOrMAl eDUcAtion by tHOSe iN thE FOOd seRvIces sEgmeNT, THE LOw pAY ScaLe, aNd ThE PeRIodS of rUShEd FoOD prEPAraTioN. ThEsE FACToRs ALL cOntribute To A POTentiAL fOR POOr WaShinG COnDiTIOns. DuE To the manY illnEsSES CaUSED By foOd PReParatIOn, tHE fDA ContiNueS TO aPpLY moRe foRMaL rEgULaTioNs ANd gUIdelIneS fOR EMPLOYers RegArdiNg PrOpEr WASHING SKiLls. eMPloYers arE dEmANding a BEttER SysTEM oF AidinG ANd MonITorING eMplOyeE WAshInG HABits.
THe SOAP aND lIqUID COMpOUNDs foR HAnd waSHINg cOme froM a nuMBeR OF DIFFEReNt diSpenseRs avaILabLe IN the mArKEtPlace. liqUiD aND SemI-LIquid diSPEnsErS aRE USeD In numERoUS ApPlicATiONS and aRe USEd to dISpeNse METerEd PorTIoNs of crEmes, lOTions, gELs, SoAps, aNTi-bactERIAl cLEAnSing LiQUIds, anti-MIcrObIAL cLeansiNg LiQuiDS, AND SiMILar MatErIAls. a tyPIcaL DiSpeNSeR ALloWs the uSeR to OBTaiN a SpecIfiC AMOunt Of lIquId MATtER wITh MinImal EaSe. mANUal and seMi-AutoMAtic dispENSINg SYstEmS are COmmoN in thE INdusTry, And AUtOMAted disPeNseRs are bEGinNINg to eNTER tHE maRKETPLace.
The manuAl dISPENsErs UtIliZe LeVeRs aND oThER MecHanICal aSsemBLIES wHeREin The uSEr MuST prOvIDe sOME pHYSIcAL cOntAcT wiTh THE UNit in ORDER TO DIsPeNsE THE LIquID. thE pHYSicaL ConTaCt iN maNiPulATIng thE Lever dOeS proViDe a ConTACt WitH a SURfAcE tHaT IS TYpicAlLY Wet AnD DIRTY, aNd May HArbOr cOnTAMiNAnTS. AuTOmATeD DisPEnSErs ArE BECOMIng More POpulAR, AND oPERaTe WIth A vARieTY oF eLeCTRiCAL aNd ELEctroMecHANicaL COmPONEnts To AuTOmATIcallY DIspEnSE THE liqUiD after TriGGeRIng Some seNsorY iNPUt. thE AUTomAtic oR Xe2X80x98TOuCHlESsxE2X80X99 diSPENsERS DO NOT REquIRE aNy phYSicaL coNTact WITH ThE DIsPEnser.
uNfoRtUnaTELy, ThE TOuChLESS dISPeNSERS arE fAiRLy eXpeNsIVe aND rEqUIre faiRlY COMplEX ELEcTrical And eleCtricAl ComponeNtS In OrDEr To fuNctIOn. BEsIdES ELectRoNiC EQuIpmeNt, tHErE ARE mecHaNIcaL CoMpONeNts suCh as plUnGeRs AND geAr TrAinS tHAt woRK iN ConjuNCTioN WITH THE ELEcTrOnics. the mEchAnicAl Gears DRaw sUBSTanTiAL EnERGY dURinG The xE2X80x98PiNCH aNd sqUeezExE2X80x99 OPEraTIoN to dEliveR LIqUId CLEanSEr, reQuiRiNG FreQueNT batTERy RePlaceMEnT. In ADDitIOn, If tHe BAttERiES aRE DraineD, ThE electRICAL ELemEnTS ArE nOT FUnctIOniNG pRopERLy, oR the MecHAnicaL fUncTIONs are bROkEN, THE eNTIre UnIt Is DiSABlED aND WIlL noT dIspEnSe anY LiQuiD clEaNSeRS. thE LOW reLiabIlITy AND ThE caTasTrOPhic FAilURE mODe aRE A mAjoR CONCerN iN thE touChleSs diSPEnSeR mARkeT.
WithiN THE fIeLd OF LiqUid DIsPENsERS, tHERe ArE mANY TYpES OF dispenseRS. THe moST cOmmon ANd cOst effEcTIVe IS thE BaG-In-bOx SySTem, WheRE The lIquid cOmES In a nO-LEak POUCH wiTH pUMP Tip and iS DIsPoSABlE. thIs SystEm Is a ClosED SysteM, AnD aLl ThE AiR iS reMoVED from tHe pOUcH duriNG mAnUfACturiNG. THe bAG cOLlAPSEs upoN ItsELf onCE The LiQuiD IS evaCUaTED, MinIMIZiNG waSte dISPOSAl. ThE CloSed sYSTEM Has ManY ADvanTaGEs, INCludiNG BEInG a MoRE SANItARY sySTeM. THE STaNDArd sizE POUch IS 800 ml, buT OThEr SIzEs aRe in USE, INclUDing 500 ML to 900 mL. IT is a nECeSSaRY REQUirEmeNt THaT The coSt To PRoducE a dISpoSAbLe POUCH Be KEPT tO a miniMuM, whILe still dEliVeRiNg ConSIsTEnt rEsUlTS. thE diSpENSeRS aRe iNstAlleD IN ManY publIC FAciliTIeS, AND Are SUbJECt TO ExtreMe wEar AnD tEAr. DUE to thE ExceSSiVE usE, ThE dEvicEs MUsT BE robust anD rElAtIveLY maiNTenaNcE FREE.
OTHeR DispEnsErS UsE CArtridGEs or refIlLabLe CoNTaINERS. THE carTridgEs mUst BE PierCED, aRe GenErALLY noT reFILlaBlE, aND prodUCe gREaTER WaSte. BotH CartriDgEs and ReFiLlabLE COnTaiNerS intRoduCE AIr iNTO THE SySTEm, AidINg THe prODUCTiOn OF bacteRia AND MOLd. THe cosT aND admINisTRaTIve cOmPLExity IN uSing ThESe OTher formS of DISpensING liquiDs, AS weLL as tHE DEcREAsED sAniTaRY CoNdiTions liMiT TheIr mARKEt aPpEaL. aLSo, tHeSe SEmi-auTOMatIc AnD aUTOMatIc SYSTemS caN bE DESIgnED tO comPlETE THE CYClE, METErINg ExACtLy the CORReCT AmouNT Of liQuid, IndePenDentLY OF sUCCeSsIvE and RaPid puSHEs of tHE ACTUATIng MembEr thAT frEquEnTLY occuR.
thE LIQuiD SoAp iNdUstRY HAS nuMerouS bRanDS And cATeGoRIES oF clEaNsINg liqUids. the VisCoSITY And PaRTICUlate cOntENT aRE alSo SUBjEct tO ExtreMe vaRiaTIOns. ThERe IS an ArraY oF PaRTiCUlATe mATter that Can bE aDded tO ClEaNsInG LIQuidS to FORm a GRit sOap COmpounD tHAT is MOre EfFectiVe in ClEANINg. tHe mOst commoN gRIT MaTErial iS PLAStIC MiCrosPhErEs, ALtHOUGH OTher MaTErialS SUcH As CLaY, wALnUT sheLLs aND corN COBs hAVE ALSO BEeN UsED. BESIDEs The variatiOns Of compOuNds uSEd tO ForM gRIT SOAp, THE SIZE oF THE GrIt alSo VaRieS.
TheRe haS aLso BEen A cOnSUMeR dEManD for ANTi-miCRObIaL ClEanSING lIQuIdS ANd ANti-baCterIal cleAnSInG LiqUIDs, ANd tHe InDUstRY has ReActed BY aDDing creatINg New cOmpOUNDS WIth ThESe PrOPerTIES. ThESe ANti-miCrObIal anD AnTi-baCteRiAL ClEANSINg LiqUids ARE AvAilAblE with oR withoUt Grit anD HaVe cErtAIn CHaRactERIsticS and vISCositY DiFfeRenCES as COMpared TO sTANDaRd Liquid sOap. besIDeS LiquID SOaP, OTher comPoUNDS DIsPENSeD INcLUde bodY aNd HaIR ShAMpoO, hAND CRemE solutIONS, LotIONs, cLEaNSiNg LIQuidS, AND ShaVInG CreME.
IN a TyPiCaL bAg-iN-boX opERatIoN, A UsEr dePRESses A leVer Or COnTroLler. THiS applIeS PRessurE To THe DiSpeNsER TuBE ThAT CreAtes A vaCuum In ThE coLLaPsIBLE poUch THAt eXERTS flUid PREssUre agAiNsT THe bALl IN THe baLl CHECk vAlVE. iF thE pressuRe IS SufficIENt, THe BaLl Is DIsplAcED, ANd thE lIqUiD flowS aROUNd THe baLL And inTO The BalL chECk VaLVE cHambEr. the LIquiD Flows iNTO The SPaCe BeTweEn tHe sprINg AnD the IntErIOR waLl oF THe BAll cHeCk VAlvE chAmbEr. ONCe The chAmBeR IS SufficiENTly fulL, ThE LiQUid iS FoRceD tHroUgH ThE cOMPRESSeD SpriNG and Out thROuGh thE LOWeR fItMeNT HOLe aNd tHRougH ThE NozZLe.
The trANSITion fRoM A uSEr apPLYINg PUrelY MeChAnICaL fOrcEs to MeTER OUT SoMe LIquID TO a sEmi-autOmAteD Or autOmAted dISPEnSIng uNIT is
|
1. Fieldof the InventionThe present invention relates to animproved dispensing apparatus. More particularly,a dispenser that incorporates a timing means in conjunction with audio andvisual output to assist the user in proper washing techniquesfor compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor the number of usages. 2.Background Art Each year, millionsof reported illnesses and serious infections are attributable to improperhand washing. The unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. Food borne illnesskills over 10,000 people each year, and70% of theoutbreaks originate in food service sector. The passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from physical contactwith an infected source and are carried from one site to anotherwith each successive physical contact.The problem is most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, aswell as those businessesassociated with preparing and distributing food and food products. Aperson that handles a single contaminated source will spread the contaminantto every person, article and surface touched by that person. The subsequentcontaminated sourcesrepresent additional contamination sites that spread the contaminant. The liability ofcontamination orillness causedby inadequate washing techniques isvery high.And, a single food borne illnesscantarnish a long-standing reputation and wreak financial havoc. Proper washing ofhands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants andprevent the spread of diseaseand contaminants. Accordingto the Centers for Disease Control, proper handwashing is the single most important processin preventing the spread of the pathogens.Microbial contamination refersto microscopicorganisms, especially any of the bacteriathat cause disease, e.g.: germs. A germ is therudimentary formin which a new organism is developed, and encompasses any microscopic organismand any one of the bacteria that can cause disease.A bacteriumis typically a one-celled microorganism, wherein somecause diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or anthrax while other bacteria are necessary for fermentation and nitrogen fixation. Some industries aremuch more sensitive to proper washingtechniques. Restaurants are particularly prone to the dissemination offood-borne contaminants and the U.S.FoodandDrug Administration (FDA) has specific guidelines articulated in the Food Code. The Food Code has several sections that address thewashing of hands for foodservice and related personnel.According tothe FoodCode regulations, a person must wash afterusingthebathroom, sneezing, coughing, using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating or drinking, handling soiled utensils, and when switching from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods, and any other activity that potentially contaminates the hands. In addition, the Food Code describes a proper hand washingtechnique as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to the forearms, and a special emphasis on between the fingers and underneath fingernails. In addition to timing the washing, it is important to consider the different steps in the washing procedure. A proper washing cycle commences with combiningwater and soap and scrubbingthe handsvigorously. There are varioussoaps or cleansingliquidsthatcan be used, preferably having anti-bacterial oranti-microbialproperties. Nails should be cleanedand scrubbed. After scrubbing, the hands shouldbe thoroughlyrinsedwith water. The areas between thefingerand underneath the fingernails should be specifically cleaned and checked. The regulations also require a supervisor ensure compliance withthe regulationsand promote the effectivewashing protocols. Employers may be fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe these regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment. Although there maynot be specific codes governingall industries and circumstance, it is common sense that adherence totheregulations will instill asafer environment for all. And, in alitigious environment, adhering to a strict standard is also a cost-effectiveand practical measure. There are varying internationalstandards for the washingof hands,but in general, the U.S. standard provides a reasonable approach to follow. Unfortunately,the proper washing guidelines arenot regularly andrigorously followed. Many foodservice personnel do not appreciate the significance of proper washing. The restaurants rarely provide adequate training to the personnel, and seldom encompass sufficient supervision during the work shifts. In addition, the employees at restaurants and diningestablishments tend to be lower paid andmay not careor understand the posted written guidelines, especially if the guidelines are in an unfamiliar language.Presently there is no adequate means of providing proper guidance andinstruction during washing,nosystemdesigned to walk a user through the washing steps,and no simple means of monitoring ortracking employee washing. Contributing to the problem of inadequate washing is the lack of formaleducation by those in the food services segment, the low pay scale, and the periods of rushed foodpreparation. These factors allcontribute to a potentialfor poorwashing conditions. Due tothe manyillnessescausedbyfood preparation, the FDA continues to apply more formal regulationsand guidelines for employers regarding proper washing skills. Employers are demanding a bettersystem of aiding and monitoring employee washing habits. The soapand liquid compounds for hand washing come from a number of differentdispensers availablein the marketplace. Liquid and semi-liquid dispensers areused in numerous applications and are used todispensemetered portions of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, anti-microbial cleansing liquids, and similar materials.Atypical dispenser allowsthe user to obtain a specific amount of liquid matter with minimal ease. Manual and semi-automatic dispensing systems are common in the industry, and automated dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace. Themanual dispensersutilize levers andother mechanical assemblies wherein the usermust providesome physical contact with the unit in order to dispense theliquid. Thephysical contactin manipulating thelever does provide a contact with a surface that is typically wet and dirty, and may harbor contaminants. Automateddispensers are becoming more popular, and operate with a variety of electricaland electromechanical components toautomatically dispense the liquid after triggering some sensory input. The automatic or xe2x80x98touchlessxe2x80x99 dispensers do notrequire any physical contact withthe dispenser. Unfortunately, the touchless dispensers are fairly expensive and require fairlycomplex electrical and electrical components inorder tofunction. Besides electronic equipment, there are mechanicalcomponents suchas plungersand gear trains that work in conjunction with the electronics. Themechanical gearsdraw substantial energy during the xe2x80x98pinch andsqueezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid cleanser, requiring frequent battery replacement. In addition, if the batteries are drained, the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functionsare broken, theentire unit is disabled and willnot dispense any liquid cleansers.The low reliabilityand the catastrophicfailure mode are a major concern in thetouchlessdispenser market. Within the field of liquid dispensers, there are many types of dispensers. The mostcommon and cost effective is the bag-in-box system, where the liquid comes in a no-leak pouch with pump tip and is disposable. This system is a closed system, andall the air is removed from thepouch during manufacturing. Thebag collapsesupon itself once the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste disposal.The closedsystem has many advantages, including being a more sanitary system. The standard size pouch is 800 ml, but other sizes are in use, including 500 mlto 900 ml. It is a necessaryrequirement thatthe cost toproduce a disposable pouch be kept toa minimum,while still delivering consistent results. The dispensers are installed in manypublic facilities, and are subject to extreme wear andtear.Due to the excessive use, the devices must be robust and relatively maintenance free. Other dispensers usecartridgesor refillable containers. The cartridges must be pierced, are generally not refillable, andproduce greater waste. Both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air into the system, aiding the production of bacteria and mold. The cost and administrative complexity in usingthese other formsof dispensing liquids, as wellas thedecreased sanitary conditions limit their market appeal. Also, these semi-automatic andautomatic systems can be designed to complete thecycle, metering exactly the correct amount of liquid, independently of successive and rapid pushes of the actuating member that frequentlyoccur. Theliquid soap industry has numerousbrands and categories of cleansingliquids. The viscosity and particulate content are also subject to extremevariations. There isan array of particulate matter that can be added to cleansing liquids toform a grit soap compound thatis more effective in cleaning. Themost common grit material is plastic microspheres, although other materials such asclay, walnut shells and corn cobs have also been used. Besides the variations of compounds used to formgrit soap,the sizeof the grit alsovaries. There has also been a consumer demand for anti-microbial cleansing liquids and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, and the industry has reactedby adding creating new compounds with these properties. These anti-microbial and anti-bacterial cleansing liquids are available with orwithoutgrit and have certain characteristics and viscosity differences as compared to standard liquid soap. Besides liquid soap, other compounds dispensed includebody and hair shampoo, hand cremesolutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, and shaving creme. In a typical bag-in-box operation, a user depresses a leveror controller. This applies pressureto the dispenser tubethat createsa vacuum in the collapsible pouch that exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ballcheck valve. If the pressure is sufficient, the ball is displaced, and the liquid flows around the ball and into the ball check valve chamber. The liquid flows into the space between the spring and the interior wall ofthe ball check valve chamber. Once the chamber is sufficiently full, the liquid is forced through the compressed spring and out through the lower fitment hole and through the nozzle. The transition from a user applying purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid to a semi-automated orautomated dispensing unit is
|
1. _Field_ of the Invention The present invention relates to an improved dispensing apparatus. More particularly, a dispenser that incorporates a timing means in conjunction with _audio_ _and_ _visual_ output to _assist_ the user in proper washing _techniques_ for compliance with recommended guidelines and to monitor the number of usages. 2. _Background_ Art Each _year,_ _millions_ of reported illnesses and serious infections are _attributable_ to improper hand _washing._ _The_ unreported cases are estimated to be much higher. Food borne illness kills over 10,000 people each year, and 70% of the outbreaks originate in food service sector. _The_ passage of viral and bacterial contaminants result from _physical_ contact with an infected source and are _carried_ _from_ one site to _another_ with each successive physical contact. The problem _is_ most evident in hospital and related medical establishments, as _well_ _as_ those businesses associated with preparing and distributing _food_ and food products. A _person_ that handles a single contaminated source will spread the contaminant to _every_ person, article and _surface_ _touched_ by that person. The subsequent contaminated sources represent _additional_ contamination sites that _spread_ the contaminant. The _liability_ _of_ contamination _or_ _illness_ caused by _inadequate_ washing techniques is very high. And, _a_ single food borne illness can tarnish a long-standing reputation and wreak financial havoc. _Proper_ washing of hands has been demonstrated to kill the contaminants and _prevent_ _the_ spread of disease and _contaminants._ According to the Centers for Disease Control, proper hand washing is the single _most_ important process in preventing the spread of the pathogens. _Microbial_ contamination refers _to_ microscopic organisms, _especially_ any _of_ the bacteria that _cause_ disease, _e.g.:_ germs. A germ is the rudimentary _form_ in which a new organism is developed, _and_ encompasses _any_ microscopic organism and any one _of_ _the_ bacteria that can cause _disease._ A bacterium is typically a one-celled microorganism, wherein _some_ cause diseases _such_ as pneumonia, tuberculosis, _or_ _anthrax_ while other bacteria are necessary for fermentation and nitrogen fixation. _Some_ industries are much more sensitive _to_ proper washing techniques. Restaurants are particularly prone to the dissemination of food-borne _contaminants_ and the U.S. Food _and_ Drug _Administration_ (FDA) has specific guidelines _articulated_ in the Food Code. _The_ Food Code has several sections that address the washing of _hands_ for _food_ service and related personnel. According to the _Food_ _Code_ regulations, a person must wash after _using_ the bathroom, sneezing, _coughing,_ using a disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating or drinking, handling _soiled_ utensils, and _when_ switching from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods, and any other activity that _potentially_ _contaminates_ the hands. In _addition,_ the Food Code describes a proper hand washing _technique_ as lasting at least 20 seconds, washing up to _the_ forearms, _and_ a special emphasis on between the fingers _and_ underneath fingernails. In addition to timing the washing, it is important to consider the different steps in the washing procedure. A proper washing cycle commences with combining water _and_ soap and scrubbing the hands vigorously. There are various soaps or cleansing liquids that can _be_ used, preferably _having_ _anti-bacterial_ or _anti-microbial_ properties. Nails should be cleaned _and_ scrubbed. After _scrubbing,_ the hands should be thoroughly rinsed with water. The areas _between_ _the_ finger and underneath the _fingernails_ should be specifically cleaned and _checked._ The regulations also require a _supervisor_ ensure compliance with the regulations and promote the effective washing protocols. Employers _may_ be fined or lose licenses if employees do not observe these regulations, and such employees are likely to lose their employment. _Although_ there may not be specific codes governing all industries and circumstance, it is common _sense_ that adherence to _the_ regulations will _instill_ a safer environment for all. And, in a _litigious_ environment, adhering _to_ a _strict_ standard is also a cost-effective and practical measure. There are _varying_ international standards for the washing of hands, but in general, the U.S. standard _provides_ a reasonable approach to follow. Unfortunately, the proper _washing_ guidelines are not regularly _and_ rigorously followed. Many food service personnel do not _appreciate_ the significance of proper washing. The restaurants rarely _provide_ _adequate_ training to the _personnel,_ and seldom _encompass_ sufficient supervision during the work _shifts._ In addition, _the_ employees at restaurants and dining establishments _tend_ to _be_ lower _paid_ and may _not_ care or understand the posted written guidelines, especially _if_ the guidelines are in _an_ unfamiliar _language._ Presently there is no _adequate_ means of providing proper guidance and instruction during washing, _no_ system _designed_ _to_ walk a user through the washing steps, and no _simple_ _means_ of monitoring or tracking employee washing. _Contributing_ to the problem of _inadequate_ _washing_ is the _lack_ of formal education _by_ those in _the_ food services segment, the low _pay_ scale, and _the_ _periods_ _of_ rushed food _preparation._ These factors _all_ contribute _to_ a potential _for_ poor _washing_ _conditions._ Due to the many _illnesses_ _caused_ by food _preparation,_ the FDA _continues_ _to_ apply more formal regulations _and_ guidelines for _employers_ regarding proper washing skills. _Employers_ are demanding a better _system_ of aiding and _monitoring_ employee washing habits. The _soap_ and liquid compounds for hand washing _come_ from _a_ number of _different_ dispensers available _in_ the marketplace. Liquid and semi-liquid dispensers are _used_ in numerous applications and are used to _dispense_ _metered_ _portions_ of cremes, lotions, gels, soaps, anti-bacterial cleansing liquids, anti-microbial _cleansing_ liquids, and similar _materials._ A typical dispenser allows the _user_ to obtain a specific amount of liquid matter with _minimal_ ease. Manual and semi-automatic dispensing _systems_ _are_ common in the industry, and _automated_ dispensers are beginning to enter the marketplace. The manual dispensers _utilize_ levers and other mechanical assemblies wherein the user _must_ _provide_ some _physical_ contact _with_ the unit _in_ order to dispense the liquid. _The_ physical _contact_ in manipulating _the_ lever does provide a contact with a _surface_ that is typically wet _and_ dirty, and may harbor _contaminants._ _Automated_ dispensers are becoming more popular, _and_ operate with a variety of _electrical_ and electromechanical components to automatically dispense _the_ liquid after triggering some sensory input. _The_ automatic or xe2x80x98touchlessxe2x80x99 dispensers do not require any physical contact with the dispenser. Unfortunately, the touchless _dispensers_ are fairly expensive _and_ require fairly complex electrical and _electrical_ components in order to function. _Besides_ _electronic_ equipment, there are mechanical components such as plungers and gear trains that work in conjunction with the electronics. The _mechanical_ gears draw _substantial_ energy _during_ the _xe2x80x98pinch_ and squeezexe2x80x99 operation to deliver liquid cleanser, requiring frequent _battery_ replacement. In addition, if the batteries are _drained,_ the electrical elements are not functioning properly, or the mechanical functions are broken, the entire unit is disabled and _will_ not dispense any liquid cleansers. _The_ _low_ reliability and the catastrophic failure _mode_ are a major concern in the touchless _dispenser_ market. Within _the_ _field_ of liquid dispensers, there are _many_ types of _dispensers._ The most common and cost effective is the _bag-in-box_ _system,_ where the liquid comes in a no-leak pouch _with_ _pump_ tip and is disposable. This system is _a_ closed system, and all the air is removed from the pouch during manufacturing. _The_ bag collapses _upon_ _itself_ once the liquid is evacuated, minimizing waste _disposal._ The closed system _has_ many _advantages,_ _including_ being a _more_ sanitary system. The _standard_ size pouch is 800 ml, _but_ other _sizes_ are _in_ use, including 500 ml to 900 _ml._ It is _a_ necessary requirement _that_ the cost _to_ produce a disposable pouch be kept to _a_ _minimum,_ while still delivering _consistent_ results. The dispensers are installed in many public facilities, and are subject to extreme _wear_ and tear. Due to the _excessive_ use, the devices must _be_ robust _and_ relatively _maintenance_ free. Other dispensers use cartridges or _refillable_ _containers._ The cartridges _must_ be pierced, are generally not refillable, and _produce_ greater waste. Both cartridges and refillable containers introduce air _into_ the system, aiding the _production_ of _bacteria_ and mold. The _cost_ and administrative complexity in using _these_ other forms of dispensing _liquids,_ as _well_ _as_ the decreased _sanitary_ conditions limit their market appeal. Also, these semi-automatic and automatic systems can be designed to complete the _cycle,_ metering exactly the correct amount _of_ liquid, independently of successive and rapid pushes of _the_ actuating member that frequently occur. The liquid soap industry has numerous brands and categories _of_ cleansing liquids. The _viscosity_ and particulate content are also subject to extreme variations. There _is_ an array of particulate matter that can be _added_ _to_ cleansing liquids _to_ form a grit soap compound that is more effective in cleaning. The most _common_ grit material is plastic _microspheres,_ although _other_ materials such as clay, walnut _shells_ _and_ _corn_ cobs have also been used. Besides the variations of _compounds_ _used_ to _form_ grit _soap,_ the _size_ of the grit also varies. There has also been a consumer demand for _anti-microbial_ cleansing liquids _and_ _anti-bacterial_ cleansing liquids, and the _industry_ has _reacted_ _by_ adding creating new compounds with these properties. These _anti-microbial_ and _anti-bacterial_ cleansing _liquids_ are available _with_ _or_ without grit and have certain _characteristics_ and viscosity _differences_ as compared _to_ _standard_ liquid soap. Besides _liquid_ _soap,_ other compounds dispensed _include_ body _and_ _hair_ shampoo, hand creme solutions, lotions, cleansing liquids, and shaving _creme._ In a typical bag-in-box _operation,_ a _user_ depresses a lever or controller. This applies _pressure_ to the _dispenser_ tube that creates _a_ vacuum in _the_ collapsible pouch _that_ exerts fluid pressure against the ball in the ball check valve. If the pressure _is_ sufficient, the ball _is_ displaced, and the liquid _flows_ _around_ _the_ ball and into the ball check valve _chamber._ The _liquid_ flows into the space between _the_ spring and _the_ interior wall of the _ball_ check valve chamber. Once _the_ chamber is sufficiently full, the liquid is forced through the compressed spring _and_ out through the lower fitment _hole_ _and_ through the nozzle. The transition from _a_ user _applying_ purely mechanical forces to meter out some liquid to a semi-automated _or_ _automated_ dispensing unit is
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, to an endoscope having flexible tubes within a passive deflection section.
2. Prior Art
Endoscopes with passive and active deflection sections are known in the art. U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,551 shows an endoscope with an elongated flexible plastic tube comprising a continuous sequence of connected vertebra-like elements. U.S. Pat. No. 3,162,214 discloses a thin walled tube of elastic material internally supported throughout its length by a series of tubular rigid rings. In one prior art embodiment, control wires from a deflection control to a distal tip of the active deflection are provided with a wire sheath along the passive deflection section. The wire sheath comprises a coiled wire to form a flexible tube around each control wire. A problem exists with these coil wire sheaths in that the coil shape can expand during compression. This can result in a loss of deflection at the active deflection section of the endoscope. In another prior art embodiment, stainless steel tubes are used as the sheaths for the control wires. However, these are only used in applications which have a large bend radius. These tubes can kink very easily, have no resilience, and can fatigue and permanently deform thereby shortening the working life of the endoscope.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, to an endoscope having flexible tubes within a passive deflection section. 2. prior art endoscopes with passive and active deflection sections are known at the art. u. s. pat. no. 4, 580, 551 shows an endoscope with an elongated flexible plastic tube comprising a repeating sequence of connected vertebra - like elements. u. s. pat. no. 3, 162, 214 discloses a thin walled layer of elastic material internally supported over its length by a series of tubular rigid rings. in one prior art embodiment, control wires from a deflection control to a distal tip of the active deflection are provided with a thread sheath along the passive deflection section. this wire sheath comprises a coiled loop to form a flexible tube around each control wire. a problem exists with these coil wire sheaths in that the coil shape can expand during compression. this can result in a loss of deflection at the active deflection section of the section. in another prior art embodiment, stainless steel tubes are used as the sheaths for the control wires. however, these are only useful in applications which have a large bend radius. these tubes can kink very slowly, have no resilience, and can fatigue and permanently deform thereby shortening the working life of the endoscope.
|
1. Field of the Inven$ipn The present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, to an endoscope having flexible tubes within a passive deflection section. 2. Prior Art Wgdoscopes with passive and active deflection sections are known in the art. U. S. Pat. No. 4, 580, 551 shows an endoscope with an elongated flexible plastic tube comprising a continuous sequence of cLnn$cted vertebra - like elements. U. S. Pat. No. 3, 162, 214 discloses a HhiG walled tube of elastic material internally supported throuRhiut its length by a series of tubukAr rigid rings. In one prior art embodiment, control wires from a deflection control to a distal tip of the active deflection are provided with a wire sheath along the passive deflection section. The wire sheXtg comprises a coiled wire to fo%K a flexible tube around each control A&re. A problem exists with these coil wire sheaths in that the coil shape can expand during compression. This can result in a loss of deflection at the active deflection section of the endoscope. In another prior art embodiment, stainless steel tubes are used as the Whea$hs for the control wires. However, these are only used in applications which have a large bend radius. These tubes can kink very easily, have no resilience, and can fatigue and permanently deform thereby shortening the working life of the endoscope.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, an endoscope having flexible tubes within a passive deflection section. 2. Prior Art Endoscopes with passive and active deflection sections are in art. U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,551 shows an endoscope with an elongated plastic tube comprising a continuous of connected vertebra-like elements. U.S. No. 3,162,214 discloses thin walled tube of elastic material throughout its length by a of tubular rigid rings. In prior art embodiment, control wires from a deflection control to a distal tip of the active deflection are provided with a wire sheath along deflection section. The wire sheath comprises a coiled wire to form a flexible tube around each control wire. A problem exists with these coil wire sheaths in that the during compression. This can result in a loss of deflection at the active deflection section of the endoscope. In another prior art embodiment, stainless steel tubes are as the sheaths for the control wires. However, are only used in applications which have a large bend radius. These tubes kink very easily, no resilience, and can fatigue and permanently deform thereby shortening the working life of the endoscope.
|
1. FIelD OF THE inVenTIon
THe prEsENT INVeNtIOn RelAteS To mEDicaL InstRUMENTS and, mOre partICUlARLY, TO An EnDOsCOPe havinG FLExibLE TubEs WithIn A paSsIve dEFLEcTion secTIOn.
2. PRIOR aRT
eNDOscOPES WiTh paSsIVE AND AcTivE dEfLEcTiON SecTiONS Are knoWn in the Art. u.S. PAT. nO. 4,580,551 SHowS aN ENDosCOPE WiTh an ElonGatED fLEXiblE plASTIc TuBe COmPRisInG A CoNtINuouS sEQuEnce OF coNnECTEd veRTeBra-LIkE ElemENTS. U.S. PAT. no. 3,162,214 dIsCLOsES A ThiN WalLEd TubE oF eLaSTiC mateRIAl InTeRnAlly suPPOrTed THrOughouT its length bY a SerIes OF TuBuLar riGId rinGS. iN ONE prior Art EMBodIMENT, ContRoL wIrEs FRoM a DeFLectIOn COntrol TO A Distal tip oF tHE ActiVe DEfLECTIOn Are proVIded wITH a WIRe ShEATH aLONg ThE passive dEFLEctIOn sEcTIon. tHE WirE sHEAtH comprIseS a COIlEd wiRe TO FORm a fLeXibLE tuBe aROUnD eAcH COntroL Wire. A prOBLEM EXIsTs with these coil wiRE SheAThs IN ThaT THE cOiL SHapE Can expaND durInG cOMPrESSiON. thIs cAn RESULt IN A losS of dEfleCtiON at tHE aCtiVe DEFlectIon sEctIon oF The eNDosCOPe. iN AnOTHeR PRIOr Art eMBOdIMENT, staiNLeSS sTEEl tUbEs ARe UsED AS thE sHEaThS fOr tHE COnTROL WIReS. hOwEveR, thesE ArE oNly USed IN APpLICatIOnS WhICh HavE a LaRGE BEnd rADIuS. theSE TUBeS CAN kInk vERy EaSily, hAVE nO reSIliEnce, and Can fAtiguE anD PErMAnENtLY dEFoRm THeREbY SHORTenING ThE WoRkiNG LIFE Of tHE enDOsCOPe.
|
1.Field of theInvention The present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, toan endoscopehaving flexible tubes within a passive deflection section.2. Prior Art Endoscopes with passive and active deflection sectionsareknown in the art. U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,551 shows an endoscope with an elongated flexibleplastic tube comprising acontinuous sequenceof connected vertebra-like elements. U.S. Pat. No. 3,162,214discloses a thin walled tube of elastic material internally supported throughout its length bya series of tubular rigidrings. Inoneprior art embodiment, control wiresfroma deflection control to a distal tip of the activedeflection are provided with a wire sheath along the passive deflection section. The wire sheathcomprises a coiled wireto form a flexible tube aroundeach control wire. A problem existswith thesecoil wire sheaths in that the coil shape can expand during compression. Thiscan resultin a loss of deflectionatthe active deflection section of the endoscope. In another prior art embodiment, stainlesssteel tubes are usedas thesheaths for the control wires. However, these are only used in applications whichhave a large bend radius. Thesetubes can kink very easily, have no resilience, and can fatigue andpermanently deform thereby shortening the working life of the endoscope.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to medical instruments and, more particularly, to an _endoscope_ having flexible tubes within a passive _deflection_ section. 2. Prior Art Endoscopes with _passive_ and active deflection sections _are_ known in the art. U.S. Pat. _No._ 4,580,551 _shows_ an endoscope with _an_ elongated flexible plastic _tube_ _comprising_ a _continuous_ sequence _of_ _connected_ vertebra-like elements. U.S. Pat. No. 3,162,214 discloses a _thin_ walled tube of elastic _material_ internally supported throughout its _length_ by a _series_ of tubular rigid rings. In one _prior_ art embodiment, control wires from a deflection control to a distal tip of the active deflection are _provided_ with a wire _sheath_ _along_ the passive deflection section. The wire sheath comprises _a_ coiled wire _to_ form a _flexible_ tube around each control wire. A problem exists _with_ these coil wire sheaths in that _the_ coil shape can _expand_ during compression. _This_ can result in a loss of deflection at the active deflection section of the _endoscope._ _In_ another prior _art_ embodiment, stainless steel _tubes_ are used as the _sheaths_ for the control wires. However, these are only used in applications which _have_ a large bend _radius._ These tubes can kink very easily, _have_ no _resilience,_ and _can_ fatigue and _permanently_ deform thereby _shortening_ the working life _of_ the endoscope.
|
Bridge rectifiers for automotive-type alternators are well known in the art. An example of a bridge rectifier is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,606,000. Generally, a bridge rectifier comprises two metallic heat sinks that are electrically insulated from a each other. Each heat sink carries a plurality of semiconductor diodes such that the heat sinks form respective positive and negative direct voltage output terminals. The diodes are grouped in pairs and are connected to respective output phase windings of the alternator.
|
bridge rectifiers for automotive - type alternators are well known in the art. 1 example of a bridge rectifier is disclosed in u. s. r. no. 4, 606, 000. generally, a bridge rectifier comprises identical metallic heat sinks typically are electrically insulated from a each other. their heat source carries a plurality of semiconductor diodes such that the heat sinks form respective positive and negative direct voltage output terminals. the diodes be grouped in pairs who are connected to respective variable phase windings within the alternator.
|
Bridge rectifiers for automotive - type alternators are well kjIwn in the art. An example of a Veidge rectifier is disclosed in U. S. Pat. No. 4, 606, 000. Generally, a brixgR reftifuer ckjprises two metallic heat aiHks that are electrically insulated from a each other. wQch heat eiJk carries a plurality of semiconductor diodes such that the heat sinks form respective positive and negative direct voltage output terminals. The diodes are grouped in pairs and are conHrcted to respective output pMaDe windings of the alternator.
|
for automotive-type alternators are in the art. An example of a bridge rectifier is disclosed in U.S. Pat. 4,606,000. Generally, a bridge rectifier comprises two metallic sinks that electrically insulated from a each other. Each heat carries a plurality of semiconductor diodes such that the heat sinks form respective positive and negative direct voltage output terminals. The diodes are grouped in pairs and are connected to respective output phase windings of the alternator.
|
BriDGe ReCtiFIErS FoR auTOmotivE-typE AlteRnatOrS are WELL kNOWn In thE art. An exAmPlE of a BRIdgE rECTIFIer iS DiscLOSeD In u.S. PAt. nO. 4,606,000. GeNEraLlY, a briDgE reCtifier CompRises tWo MetaLliC hEAt sINks tHat ArE elecTrIcaLlY InsUlAted fRom a eaCH OTHer. EaCh HeAt SInK CARRies a plurALity OF seMicOnDUctOR DiOdES sUcH tHaT ThE hEaT sInks fORM respECtIve PosITive aNd nEgAtIVe DIrECt VOltAGe ouTPUt TErMinalS. The DiODeS Are groupED In pAirS And aRE ConnEcteD to RESpeCtIVE oUTput phAse wINdiNGs oF thE ALtERnATor.
|
Bridge rectifiers for automotive-type alternators are well known in the art. An example of abridge rectifier is disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 4,606,000. Generally, a bridge rectifier comprises two metallic heat sinks that are electrically insulatedfroma each other. Each heat sink carries a plurality of semiconductor diodes such that the heat sinks form respective positiveand negative direct voltage output terminals. The diodes are grouped inpairs and are connected torespective output phase windings of the alternator.
|
Bridge rectifiers for automotive-type _alternators_ are well known in the art. An example of a bridge rectifier is disclosed in U.S. _Pat._ No. 4,606,000. Generally, a bridge _rectifier_ comprises two metallic _heat_ _sinks_ _that_ are electrically insulated _from_ a each other. Each heat sink carries _a_ _plurality_ _of_ semiconductor diodes such that the _heat_ sinks form respective positive _and_ negative direct voltage output _terminals._ _The_ _diodes_ are grouped in pairs and are connected to respective _output_ phase windings of _the_ alternator.
|
Plates having compartments are used for holding food Often, a main compartment is designed to hold a main dish whereas the other compartment, or wells, are used to hold sides, condiments, or both. Prior art disposable plates have had various designs or patterns printed thereon, but do not integrate the various compartments into the printed design or pattern.
Additionally, prior art designs or patterns printed on disposable plates focused on a small number of designs. The number of designs per collection in the prior art has been less than the total number of plates packaged together for retail sale. Thus, each retail package of plates includes only a complete collection of designs. The prior art does not address the situation where the number of designs per collection exceeds the total number of plates in a retail package and how to widely disseminate all of the designs in the collection in the market place.
|
plates having compartments are used as holding food often, a main compartment is designed to hold a main dish whereas the other compartment, or wells, are used either attach sides, condiments, or both. prior art disposable plates have had various designs or patterns printed thereon, but do not integrate the various compartments into the printed design or pattern. generally, prior art designs or patterns printed on disposable plates focused on a small number of designs. the number of collectors per collection in the prior art has been less than your total number of plates packaged together for retail sale. thus, no retail package of plates includes only a complete collection of designs. the prior art does not address the situation where a number of designs per collection exceeds the total number of plates in a retail package and how producers widely disseminate all of the designs in one collection in the market place.
|
Plates having compartments are used for holding food Often, a Jaim compartment is designed to hold a main dish whereas the other compartment, or wells, are used to hold sides, condiments, or both. Prior art disposable plates have had various designs or patterns printed thereon, but do not integrate the varioKE compartments into the printed design or pattern. Additionally, prior art designs or patterns printed on disposable plates focused on a small number of designs. The number of designs per collection in the prior art has been less than the toYql number of plates 0ackQged togwtner for retail sale. TM ts, each retail package of plates includes only a complete collection of designs. The (#ior art does not address the situation where the Humbee of designs per collection exceeds the total number of plates in a retail package and how to widely dJsse,inate all of the designs in the collection in the mz3ket place.
|
Plates having compartments are used for food Often, a compartment is designed hold a main dish whereas other compartment, or wells, are used hold sides, condiments, or both. Prior art disposable plates have had various designs or patterns printed thereon, do not integrate the various compartments into the printed design or pattern. Additionally, prior art designs or patterns on plates focused on a number designs. The number of designs per collection in the prior art has been less than the total number plates packaged together retail sale. Thus, each retail package of plates includes only a complete collection designs. The prior art does not address the situation where the number of designs per collection exceeds the total number of plates in a retail package and how to all of the designs in the collection in the market place.
|
PlAtES hAVing CoMPArTmEnTs ARe UsED For HOLdInG foOD oFTEN, A MaIN COmpartMEnT iS desIgned To HoLD a mAiN disH WHeREAs tHe OTheR coMPARTment, or weLLs, ARe useD To hOld sIDes, CoNDimeNTS, or BOTH. priOR ART diSPOSaBlE plATeS havE hAd vaRiouS DeSigNS oR PATTERnS PRInTED thEReoN, bUt do nOT inTeGRaTE thE VARIous CompaRTmENtS inTo THe PRiNTed DesiGN or PAtteRN.
adDiTIONAllY, pRIOR arT DESiGns or patTErNS PRiNtED oN DisPoSabLE PlATeS foCUSEd On a sMaLL NUmbER of Designs. tHe nuMbEr OF DESiGns per COllecTiOn in ThE PRioR art hAs bEen LESs than THE totaL NumbeR oF PlaTES pacKagEd TOGETHER FOr rEtaIL sAlE. tHUS, eAcH rETaIl pAckagE of plates INCLUdeS ONlY a COmPleTE coLlEcTION Of dEsiGNs. the PRiOr arT dOes Not aDdReSs THe sitUAtIon wHere ThE NUMbER of DEsiGNS pEr colLecTiON ExCeeDS THE tOTAL NUmber of PLAtEs iN a REtaIL pACKAgE aND hoW To wiDElY DIsseMINate All OF tHE DesIGNs IN tHE cOllECTIon iN tHE mARKEt pLACE.
|
Plates having compartments areused for holdingfood Often, a main compartment is designedto hold a main dish whereas the other compartment,or wells, are usedto hold sides,condiments,or both. Prior artdisposableplates have had various designs or patterns printed thereon, but do not integrate the various compartments into the printed design or pattern. Additionally, prior art designs or patterns printed on disposable plates focused ona small number ofdesigns. The number of designs per collection in the prior art has been less than the total number of platespackagedtogether for retail sale. Thus, each retail package of plates includes onlya complete collection of designs. The priorart does not address the situation where the number of designs per collection exceeds the total number of plates in a retail package and howto widely disseminate all ofthedesigns in the collection in the market place.
|
Plates having compartments are used _for_ holding food Often, _a_ main _compartment_ is designed to _hold_ a main dish whereas the other _compartment,_ or _wells,_ _are_ used _to_ _hold_ sides, condiments, or both. Prior art disposable _plates_ have had various designs or _patterns_ printed thereon, but do not integrate the various compartments into _the_ printed design or pattern. Additionally, prior _art_ _designs_ or patterns printed on _disposable_ _plates_ focused on a small number of designs. The _number_ of _designs_ per collection in _the_ prior _art_ has _been_ less _than_ the total number of plates packaged _together_ for retail _sale._ Thus, each retail package of plates includes _only_ a complete collection _of_ designs. The _prior_ _art_ does not address the situation _where_ _the_ number of _designs_ per collection exceeds the total number of plates _in_ a retail _package_ and _how_ to widely _disseminate_ all _of_ the designs in the collection in the _market_ place.
|
This invention relates to a surgical closure that can be repeatedly opened and closed, especially for the abdominal wall. More particularly the invention relates to a surgical closure having fabric of plate-like securing elements that can be tightly but detachably connected to the body tissue and has a closure which can be repeatedly opened and closed.
Such a surgical closure is known, for example, from German Patent 34 44 782. This surgical closure is used especially as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, preferably for postoperative treatment of peritonitis.
Peritonitis, as a secondary form that develops as a result of a perforation of a hollow organ or as a postoperative complication, still has, even today, a high lethality. With increasing incidence, it represents a central surgical problem.
The abdominal cavity is subject to a physiological, regulated fluid stream that drains mainly by small openings in the peritoneal diaphragm underside. In this way, bacteria are fed by the lymph tracts to the systemic defense mechanism. The absorption capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is increased by the mobility of the diaphragm and intraperitoneal pressure. During peritonitis, this drainage is blocked by the pathophysiological development of fibrin and bacteria and circulation is hindered by fibrin-induced adhesions. The defense system is disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts, or their toxins and fibrin, results. If the progression of peritonitis is not stopped promptly, a pathophysiological cascade gets started whose dynamics constantly grow and, after a certain point, can no longer be stopped.
To cleanse the abdominal cavity, washing with physiological saline solution is already done during the operation until the wash fluid stays clear. With this mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, fibrin, dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood (even hemoglobin promotes the start of an infection) are to be removed as completely as possible, to provide, along with surgical removal of septic focus, an optimal condition for healing.
In the postoperative phase, in which the fate of the patient is mainly determined, it is decisive to recognize a worsening of the condition as early as possible, and optionally, to remove the cause (e.g., correction of an inadequate suture after oversewing a gastric ulcer) and, by effective lavage, if possible from the first postoperative day forward, to make sure conditions are clean (blood that reappears, fibrin and bacteria are to be rinsed away).
In postoperative lavage, the strategy of the open abdomen with periodic washing and the wash treatment with a closed abdomen are known.
This so-called open abdomen is made possible by the sliding splint closure and by the snap closure as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, with the advantages that repeated intra-abdominal accessibility is guaranteed and the technician, during each washing, can be convinced of the success of the removal of septic focus, and thus, can control the course of peritonitis. In doing so, postoperative, intra-abdominal adhesions can be detached and coatings of fibrin can be removed. The typical drainage complications are eliminated. (Plugging of drainage for the abdominal wall, blockage or obstruction of drainages, infection sources.) A relaparotomy is no longer necessary.
Here, the drawback is that right after the operation, washing cannot be performed and no continuous washing is possible. But then, periodic washing is relatively frequent and also a burden for the patient, when the patient is in critical condition. Periodic washing must be prepared carefully; it is performed in the operating room (the abdomen is open during washing) and under general anesthesia. The advantages of the principle of peritoneal dialysis must be done without, since previous temporary abdominal cavity closures do not close the abdomen tightly. The wash effect remains limited, since a desired intra-abdominal pressure is not maintained, and the wash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. Further, after the temporary closure of the abdominal wall, part of the wash fluid oozes into the bed which, in addition to being another source of infection, means ineffective washing, additional burden for the patient, and considerable additional expense for the nursing staff. Patients with an open abdomen belong, at that time, to the most care-intensive patients. If a so-called snap closure or sliding splint closure, as a temporary abdominal cavity closure, is infolded, another drawback comes to bear. Once cut and infolded, adaptation to the tension conditions of the abdominal wall is no longer possible. But, because of edematous swelling of inner organs during the course of peritonitis, the tension of the abdominal wall can increase considerably, with the danger that the sutures tear out. On the other hand, the edges of the incision must be brought together again gradually to the final suture of the abdominal wall later, during the healing phase in which the swelling of the inner organs decreases. Further, the typical complications of snap closures must be taken into account (constriction, tenaculum). There is no particular edge structure to infold into the fascia, so that only the individual sutures provide support. They are often not secure and tear out easily.
Continuous peritoneal lavage with a closed abdomen offers the advantage that an effective washing treatment can be started immediately after the operation, and thus, the purpose of the usual Redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. The latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioning only right at the spot where it lays. Further, it easily becomes clogged and misleads to the assumption that the incision area has already been suctioned empty. With the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure can be built up and dosed. In doing so, the wash fluid (possibly with antibiotic added) also reaches the critical "atmospheric corners" of the abdomen. But not only are wash channels created, as when seepage through without pressure occurs. Fewer fibrin-induced adhesions are formed, since the abdomen contents "swim" and fibrin (among other things) is effectively washed out (thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis).
Peritoneal dialysis is possible. With it, an increase in the retention values (creatine, urea, potassium) with a threat of renal failure can conceivably be halted simply by using a commercially available dialysis fluid as the wash fluid. The patient can easily be dialyzed, without having to be put into the expensive program of hemodialysis. The associated drawbacks are also eliminated, as they can sometimes occur during the handling of blood volume. Washing can be taken over by a machine according to a desired program; thus, clear relief for the nursing personnel is possible. A chamber count of the leukocytes in the wash fluid makes it possible to monitor simply the response of the peritonitis. A judgment of the efflux can conceivably be performed simply by inspection (cloudiness, fibrin or blood admixtures). Wash fluid sensors to determine the resistance of bacteria can be removed by the catheter at any time, just as other substances can be administered (e.g., electrolytes, protein, heparin). The drawback here is that the abdomen is no longer accessible and thus no direct visual monitoring exists any more, which is important, when the efflux changes pathologically or the clinical condition of the patient worsens. Packing and infection source of the drainage passage points, as well as clogging or obstruction of the drainages represent typical complications. If the abdomen must be accessed again, a relaparotomy must be performed.
Despite promising starts, the strategy of the closed abdomen has not been able to be used in practice, since the drawbacks predominate.
|
another invention relates to a surgical closure that can be repeatedly opened and closed, especially for the abdominal wall. more particularly the invention relates to a surgical closure having combinations of plate - like securing elements that can be tightly but detachably connected to the body tissue and has a closure which can be repeatedly opened and closed. such unusual surgical closure is known, for example, by german patent 34 44 782. this surgical closure is used especially as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, preferably for postoperative treatment of peritonitis. peritonitis, as a secondary form that develops as a result of excessive perforation of a hollow organ or as a postoperative complication, still has, even today, a high lethality. with increasing incidence, it represents a central surgical problem. the abdominal cavity is subject to a physiological, regulated fluid stream that drains mainly by small openings in the peritoneal diaphragm underside. in this way, bacteria are fed by the lymph tracts to the systemic defense mechanism. the absorption capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is increased by the mobility of the diaphragm and ambient pressure. during peritonitis, this drainage is accelerated by the pathophysiological development of fibrin and bacteria and circulation is hindered by fibrin - induced adhesions. the defense system is disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts, or their toxins and fibrin, results. if the progression of peritonitis is not stopped promptly, a pathophysiological cascade gets started whose dynamics constantly grow and, after a certain point, can no longer be stopped. to cleanse the abdominal cavity, washing with physiological saline solution is already done during the operation until the wash fluid stays clear. with this mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, fibrin, dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood ( even hemoglobin promotes the start of an infection ) are to be removed nearly completely as possible, to provide, along with surgical removal of septic focus, an optimal condition for healing. in the postoperative phase, in which the course of the patient is mainly determined, it is decisive to recognize a worsening of the condition as early as possible, and optionally, to remove the cause ( e. g., correction of an inadequate suture by oversewing a gastric ulcer ) and, by effective lavage, if possible from the first postoperative day forward, to make sure conditions are clean ( blood that reappears, fibrin and bacteria are to be rinsed away ). in postoperative lavage, the strategy of the open abdomen with periodic washing and the wash treatment with a closed abdomen are known. this so - called open abdomen is made possible by the sliding splint closure and by the snap closure as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, with the advantages that repeated intra - abdominal accessibility is guaranteed and the technician, during each washing, can be convinced of the success of the removal of septic focus, and thus, can control the course of peritonitis. in doing so, postoperative, intra - abdominal adhesions can be detached and coatings of fibrin can be removed. the typical drainage complications are eliminated. ( plugging of drainage for the abdominal wall, blockage or obstruction of drainages, infection sources. ) a relaparotomy is no longer necessary. here, the drawback is that right after the operation, washing cannot be performed and no continuous washing is possible. but then, periodic washing is relatively frequent and also a burden for the patient, when the patient is in critical condition. periodic washing must be prepared carefully ; it is performed in the operating room ( the abdomen is open during washing ) and under general anesthesia. the advantages of the principle of peritoneal dialysis must be done without, since previous temporary abdominal cavity closures do not close the abdomen tightly. the wash effect remains limited, since a desired intra - abdominal pressure is not maintained, and the wash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. further, after the temporary closure of the abdominal wall, part of the wash fluid oozes into the bed which, in addition to being another source of infection, means ineffective washing, additional burden for the patient, and considerable additional expense for the nursing staff. patients with an open abdomen belong, at that time, to the most care - intensive patients. if a so - called snap closure or sliding splint closure, as a temporary abdominal cavity closure, is infolded, another drawback comes to bear. once cut and infolded, adaptation to the tension conditions of the abdominal wall is no longer possible. but, because of edematous swelling of inner organs during the course of peritonitis, the tension of the abdominal wall can increase considerably, with the danger that the sutures tear out. on the other hand, the edges of the incision must be brought together again gradually to the final suture of the abdominal wall later, during the healing phase in which the swelling of the inner organs decreases. further, the typical complications of snap closures must be taken into account ( constriction, tenaculum ). there is no particular edge structure to infold into the fascia, so that only the individual sutures provide support. they are often not secure and tear out easily. continuous peritoneal lavage with a closed abdomen offers the advantage that an effective washing treatment can be started immediately after the operation, and thus, the purpose of the usual redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. the latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioning only right at the spot where it lays. further, it easily becomes clogged and misleads to the assumption that the incision area has already been suctioned empty. with the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure can be built up and dosed. in doing so, the wash fluid ( possibly with antibiotic added ) also reaches the critical " atmospheric corners " of the abdomen. but not only are wash channels created, as when seepage through without pressure occurs. fewer fibrin - induced adhesions are formed, since the abdomen contents " swim " and fibrin ( among other things ) is effectively washed out ( thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis ). peritoneal dialysis is possible. with it, an increase in the retention values ( creatine, urea, potassium ) with a threat of renal failure can conceivably be halted simply by using a commercially available dialysis fluid as the wash fluid. the patient can easily be dialyzed, without having to be put into the expensive program of hemodialysis. the associated drawbacks are also eliminated, as they can sometimes occur during the handling of blood volume. washing can be taken over by a machine according to a desired program ; thus, clear relief for the nursing personnel is possible. a chamber count of the leukocytes in the wash fluid makes it possible to monitor simply the response of the peritonitis. a judgment of the efflux can conceivably be performed simply by inspection ( cloudiness, fibrin or blood admixtures ). wash fluid sensors to determine the resistance of bacteria can be removed by the catheter at any time, just as other substances can be administered ( e. g., electrolytes, protein, heparin ). the drawback here is that the abdomen is no longer accessible and thus no direct visual monitoring exists any more, which is important, when the efflux changes pathologically or the clinical condition of the patient worsens. packing and infection source of the drainage passage points, as well as clogging or obstruction of the drainages represent typical complications. if the abdomen must be accessed again, a relaparotomy must be performed. despite promising starts, the strategy of the closed abdomen has not been able to be used in practice, since the drawbacks predominate.
|
This invention relates to a surgical closure that can be repeatedly opened and closed, especially for the abdominal wall. More particularly the invention relates to a surgical closure having fabric of plate - like securing elements that can be tightly but detachably connected to the body tissue and has a closure which can be repeatedly opened and closed. Such a surgical closure is known, for example, from German Patent 34 44 782. This surgical closure is used especially as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, preferably for postoperative treatment of peritonitis. Peritonitis, as a secondary form that develops as a result of a perforation of a hollow organ or as a postoperative comlPication, still has, even today, a high lethality. With increasing incidence, it represents a central surgical problem. The abdominal cavity is subject to a physiological, regulated fluid stream that drains mainly by small openings in the peritoneal diaphragm underside. In this way, bacteria are fed by the lymph tracts to the systemic defense mechanism. The absorption capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is increased by the mobility of the diaphragm and intraperitoneal pressure. During peritonitis, this drainage is blocked by the pathophysiological development of fibrin and bacteria and circulation is hindered by fibrin - induced adhesions. The defense system is disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts, or their toxijD and fibrin, results. If the progression of peritonitis is not stopped promptly, a pathophysiological cascade gets started whose dynamics constantly grow and, after a certain point, can no longer be stopped. To cleanse the abdominal cavity, washing with physiological saline solution is already doG# during the operation until the wash fluid stays clear. With this mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, fibrin, dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood (even hemoglobin promotes the start of an infection) are to be removed as completely as possible, to provide, along with surgical removal of septic focus, an optimal condition for healing. In the postoperative phase, in which the fate of the patient is mainly determined, it is decisive to recognize a worsening of the condition as early as possible, and optionally, to remove the cause (e. g. , correction of an inadequate suture after oversewing a gastric ulcer) and, by effective lavage, if possible from the first postoperative day forward, to make sure conditions are clean (blood that rewLpears, fibrin and bacteria are to be rinsed away ). In postoperative lavage, the strategy of the open abdomen with periodic washing and the wash treatment with a closed abdomen are known. This so - called open abdomen is made possible by the sliding splint closure and by the snap closure as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, with the advantages that repeated intra - abdominal accessibility is guaranteed and the technician, during each washing, can be convinced of the success of the removal of septic focus, and thus, can control the course of peritonitis. In doing so, postoperative, intra - abdominal adhesions can be detached and coatings of fibrin can be r2mov$d. The typical drainage complications are eliminated. (Plugging of drainage for the abdominal wall, blockage or obstruction of drainages, infection sources.) A relaparotomy is no longer necessary. Here, the drawback is that right after the operation, washing cannot be performed and no continuous washing is possible. But then, periodic washing is relatively frequent and also a burden for the patient, when the patient is in critical condition. Perkoeic washing must be prepared carefully; it is performed in the operating room (the abdomen is open during washing) and under general anesthesia. The advantages of the principle of peritoneal dialysis must be done without, since previous temporary abdominal cavity closures do not close the abdomen tightly. The wash effect remains limited, since a desired intra - abdominal pressure is not maintained, and the wash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. Further, after the temporary closure of the abdominal wall, part of the wash fluid oozes into the bed which, in addition to being another source of infection, means ineffective washing, additional burden for the patient, and considerable additional expense for the nursing staff. Patients with an open abdomen belong, at that time, to the most care - intensive patients. If a so - called snap closure or sliding splint closure, as a temporary abdominal cavity closure, is infolded, another drawback comes to bear. Once cut and infolded, adaptation to the tension conditions of the abdominal wall is no longer possible. But, because of edematous swelling of inner organs during the course of peritonitis, the tension of the abdominal wall can increase considerably, with the danger that the sutures tear out. On the other hXnx, the edges of the incision must be brought together again graSualPy to the final suture of the abdominal wall later, during the healing phase in which the swelling of the inner organs decreases. Further, the typical complications of snap closures must be taken into account (constriction, tenaculum ). There is no particular edge structure to infold into the fascia, so that only the individual sutures provide support. They are often not secure and tear out easily. Continuous peritoneal lavage with a closed abdomen offers the advantage that an effective washing treatment can be started immediately after the operation, and thus, the purpose of the usual Redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. The latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioning only right at the spot where it lays. Further, it easily becomes clogged and misleads to the assumption that the incision area has already been suctioned empty. With the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure can be built up and dosed. In doing so, the wash fluid (possibly with antibiotic added) also reachSX the critical " atmospheric corners " of the abdomen. But not only are wash channels created, as when seepage through without pressure occurs. Fewer fibrin - induced adhesions are formed, since the abdomen contents " swim " and fibrin (among other things) is effectively washed out (thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis ). Peritoneal dialysis is possible. With it, an increase in the retention values (creatine, urea, potassium) with a threat of renal failure can conceivably be halted simply by using a commercially available dialysis fluid as the wash fluid. The patient can easily be dialyzed, without having to be put into the expensive program of hemodialysis. The associated drawbacks are also eliminated, as they can sometimes occur during the handling of blood volume. Washing can be taken over by a machine according to a desired program; thus, clear relief for the nursing personnel is possible. A chamber count of the leukocytes in the wash fluid makes it possible to monitor simply the response of the peritonitis. A judgment of the efflux can conceivably be performed simply by inspection (cloudiness, fibrin or blood admixtures ). Wash fluid sensors to determine the resistance of bacteria can be removed by the catheter at any time, just as other substances can be administered (e. g. , electrolytes, protein, heparin ). The drawback here is that the abdomen is no longer accessible and thus no direct visual monitoring exists any more, which is important, when the efflux changes pathologically or the clinical condition of the patient worsens. PaFkiBg and infection source of the drainage passage points, as well as clogging or obstruction of the drainages represent typical complications. If the abdomen must be accessed again, a relaparotomy must be performed. Despite promising starts, the strategy of the closed abdomen has not been able to be used in practice, since the drawbacks predominate.
|
This invention relates to a closure that can be repeatedly opened closed, especially for the abdominal wall. particularly invention relates to a surgical closure having of securing elements that can be but detachably connected to the body tissue and has a closure which can be repeatedly opened and closed. Such a surgical closure is known, for from German Patent 34 44 782. This surgical closure is especially as a temporary for the abdominal cavity, for postoperative of peritonitis. as a secondary form that develops as a result a perforation of a hollow organ or as a postoperative complication, still has, even today, a high lethality. With increasing incidence, it represents a central surgical problem. The cavity is subject to a physiological, regulated fluid stream mainly by small openings in the diaphragm underside. In this way, bacteria are by the lymph tracts to the systemic defense mechanism. capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is increased by mobility of the diaphragm and intraperitoneal pressure. peritonitis, this drainage is blocked by the pathophysiological development of fibrin and bacteria circulation is hindered by fibrin-induced adhesions. The defense system is disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts, or their toxins and fibrin, results. the progression of peritonitis is stopped promptly, cascade gets started whose dynamics constantly grow and, after a certain point, can no longer be stopped. To cleanse the abdominal cavity, washing with physiological saline solution is already done during the until the wash fluid stays clear. With this mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, fibrin, dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood (even hemoglobin promotes the start of an infection) are to be removed as completely possible, to provide, along with surgical removal of septic focus, an optimal condition for healing. In the postoperative in which fate of the patient is mainly determined, it is to recognize a worsening the as early as possible, optionally, to remove the cause correction of an inadequate suture after oversewing a gastric ulcer) and, by effective lavage, if from the first postoperative day forward, to make sure conditions are clean (blood that reappears, fibrin bacteria are to be rinsed away). In postoperative lavage, strategy the open abdomen with periodic washing and the wash treatment with a closed abdomen are This so-called open abdomen is made possible the sliding splint closure and by the snap closure as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity, the advantages that repeated intra-abdominal accessibility is guaranteed and the technician, during washing, be convinced of the success of the removal of septic focus, and thus, can control the course of peritonitis. In doing so, postoperative, intra-abdominal adhesions can be detached and coatings of fibrin can be removed. The typical drainage complications are eliminated. (Plugging of drainage abdominal blockage or obstruction drainages, sources.) A relaparotomy is no necessary. Here, drawback is that right after the operation, washing cannot be performed and no washing is possible. But then, periodic washing is relatively frequent and also a burden for the patient, when the patient is in condition. Periodic washing must be prepared it is performed in the operating room (the abdomen is open during washing) under general The advantages of the principle of peritoneal dialysis must be done without, previous temporary abdominal cavity do not close the tightly. The wash effect remains limited, a intra-abdominal pressure is not maintained, and the wash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. after the temporary closure of the abdominal wall, part of wash fluid oozes into the bed which, in addition to being another source of infection, means ineffective washing, additional burden for the patient, and considerable for the staff. Patients with open abdomen belong, at that to the most care-intensive patients. If a so-called snap closure or sliding splint as a temporary abdominal cavity closure, is infolded, another comes to bear. Once cut and adaptation to the tension conditions of the abdominal wall is no longer possible. But, because of edematous swelling of inner organs during the course of peritonitis, the tension of the abdominal wall can increase considerably, the danger that the sutures tear On the other hand, edges of the incision be brought together again gradually to the final suture the abdominal wall later, during the healing phase in which the swelling of the inner organs decreases. the complications of snap closures must be taken into (constriction, tenaculum). There is no particular edge structure into the fascia, so that only the individual sutures provide They are often not secure and tear out easily. Continuous peritoneal lavage with a closed abdomen offers the advantage that an washing treatment can be started immediately after the operation, and thus, purpose of the usual Redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. The latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioning right at the spot where it Further, it easily becomes clogged and misleads to assumption that the area already been suctioned empty. With the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure can be built up and dosed. In doing so, the wash fluid (possibly antibiotic added) also reaches the critical "atmospheric corners" of the abdomen. not only are wash channels created, as when seepage through without pressure Fewer fibrin-induced adhesions are formed, since the abdomen contents "swim" and fibrin (among other things) is effectively washed out (thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis). Peritoneal dialysis is possible. With it, increase in the retention values (creatine, urea, potassium) with a threat renal failure can conceivably be halted simply by using a commercially available dialysis fluid as the wash fluid. The easily be without having be into the expensive program of hemodialysis. The associated drawbacks are also eliminated, as they sometimes occur during the handling of blood volume. Washing can be taken over by a machine according to a desired program; thus, clear relief for the nursing personnel is possible. chamber count of the leukocytes in the wash fluid makes it possible to monitor simply the response of the peritonitis. A judgment of the efflux can conceivably be performed by inspection (cloudiness, Wash to determine the resistance of bacteria can be by the catheter at any time, as other substances can be administered (e.g., electrolytes, protein, heparin). The drawback here is that is no longer accessible and thus no direct visual exists any more, which is important, when the efflux pathologically or the clinical of the patient worsens. and of the drainage passage points, as well as clogging or obstruction of the drainages represent typical complications. If the abdomen must be accessed again, a relaparotomy be performed. Despite promising starts, the strategy of the closed abdomen has not able to be used in practice, since the drawbacks predominate.
|
ThIs invENtiOn rElATEs To A suRGICal cLOsuRe THaT CAN be repEAteDLy OpeNeD anD CLOSeD, EspEcIallY fOr thE ABDominal wALL. More pARtiCULaRLy thE iNveNTioN ReLaTEs tO a SurgIcAL cLoSure hAvING fABRIC OF pLATE-LiKE sEcUrIng elEmenTs THAT CAn bE tIgHTLY buT DeTaChABly CONnectED To THe body tISsuE And HaS a ClOSUrE whiCh CAN be REpeAtEDlY opeNed anD CloSEd.
SuCh A SURgiCAl CLOSURE iS kNown, fOR eXaMplE, FROm GermAN PaTEnT 34 44 782. THis sUrgiCal closUre iS UsEd eSpecIaLLy AS a TEMPorARY CLosURe FOR tHE ABdOMInaL CaViTY, prefErabLy fOR poSTopErATIvE tREATMEnT OF PerItonItIS.
PeritoNitis, As a SeCONDaRy FOrM tHaT dEvELoPs AS A resULt Of A peRForatION oF A HoLlOw ORgAN OR As a poSToPeRatiVE CoMpLication, stiLL HAS, EVEN todAY, a hIgH lEthALity. WIth inCrEASiNG iNCIdEnCe, It REPReSeNts A CenTRAL SUrGIcaL prObLeM.
thE ABDOmINAL caVItY Is subJECt TO A PhysiOLOgicaL, rEGuLAted fluiD STReAm THaT drainS mAinLY bY sMAlL OPENiNgS in The PerItOneal diAPhRAgm uNdErSide. IN THIS waY, BACteRiA aRE fEd bY THe LYMpH TrAcTS TO tHe SYstEMIC DEFENSE mEChAnISm. tHE aBsoRpTIOn cApaCIty Of tHe IntrapeRIToneaL fluiD Is INcreasED BY tHE MObilItY oF tHE diaphrAGM ANd IntrapErITOnEaL PReSSUrE. DuRIng peRiTONiTiS, tHIs DRaINagE is BLoCkEd BY tHE PatHOPHYsioLogICaL DeVeLopMenT Of FIBrin ANd bACTerIa And ciRCuLatIon iS HiNdeREd bY fiBriN-INdUcEd aDhESIonS. tHe deFenSe systeM Is DISRUpTed AND a riSe iN bACTeriAL cOuntS, OR ThEir ToxiNs And FibRin, ResUltS. iF THE PRogReSSIon OF PErItONItis iS Not StOpPED PRoMPTlY, A pAthopHysioLOGICal CaSCaDE gEtS stArtEd WHOse dYNaMIcs cONstAnTLy GRoW aNd, aFtER A cErtAin POINT, cAN No LONgeR be SToPpeD.
TO ClEAnSE THE abdOmiNal CavIty, WaShiNg WiTh pHysIologIcAl SaLine SOLuTioN IS ALREAdY doNe DUring tHe OpeRATION uNtil ThE wAsh fluID StAyS clEAr. wiTH tHiS MEchanIcAl ClEanSiNg, BACTErial cOunTS, FIBrIN, Dead tiSsUE, ToXiNs AND ALsO reSiDuaL Blood (even HEMOgloBIn proMotes The StART Of an inFEcTIoN) are to BE ReMOvED aS complEtElY as pOsSiBLe, To providE, ALOng WITH sUrGICal remOvAL of SePtIC fOCus, an oPtimAl CoNDITion FoR hEaLINg.
IN The pOStopERaTIvE PhaSE, in WHIch ThE Fate Of the PATIENt iS mainlY detErmINEd, it IS DecISive To rEcOgnizE A WORSeNinG oF the condITiON As eArLY As POSSIBLE, aNd oPTIoNalLY, TO REmove The CAuSE (e.g., COrRECtioN Of An INADeqUAtE sUtURE aFter oVeRsEWInG A GASTRiC ulCEr) and, bY eFFECtIve LAVAGe, iF POSSIbLe fRoM ThE fiRST pOstOPEraTIvE dAy fOrWaRd, To MAke sURe CoNditIONS ARe cLeAN (BLooD thaT REapPeARS, fiBrIN and BACTerIA ARe To BE RInsed away).
IN PosTopErAtIvE laVAge, tHE strAtegY oF THE oPEN ABDOMeN WITH peRiODiC WAshiNG aNd tHe wash TReatmENt WitH A cloSED ABDOMEn ARE KNown.
this sO-CALled OPen ABdoMeN iS mADE PoSSiBlE By THE slIdiNG SPlinT CLoSuRE anD bY tHe Snap CLosURE AS A temporaRY CloSuRE FOR ThE ABdOMinaL caVIty, wIth THe ADvANtages tHAt rePEATEd INtra-ABDOMINaL AccESSIbIlity Is GUARaNTeED And THe TecHNICian, DUrINg eaCH WAsHING, CAN bE cONViNCEd oF tHE SUcCeSs Of tHe ReMoval Of SEPTic foCuS, AND THUS, Can conTROL THe cOUrse Of peritoNItis. in dOINg SO, poStoPEraTiVe, iNTRA-abdoMINAl aDhESIOns cAN be dETAChed ANd cOatiNgs Of fIBrIN caN Be remOveD. THe tyPIcAl DRaiNage ComPliCaTiONS ArE eLiMiNaTED. (PlUggINg of dRAiNage For THE abDOMInal Wall, BLockaGE Or ObSTrucTion of DRAINAgeS, INFECtIon SOurces.) a rElaPARotOmy IS NO LonGEr nEcEssARY.
HERe, the dRAwbaCK is thaT RigHT afTer the OpErAtION, WAshIng CaNnOt bE peRFoRMEd AND no continuouS WasHiNG Is pOSsIble. bUt THEn, PerIOdiC WaSHInG is RelatIVELy FrEqUeNt ANd alSO A BuRdEn For ThE PAtieNt, wHen thE paTIEnT iS IN criticAl CoNdITioN. PeRIOdIC WaSHing muST Be pREpArEd caRefUlly; it iS pErfORMEd IN THE oPEratiNG ROOm (ThE aBDomEN iS open dUriNg washInG) AnD UnDER GEnErAl AnEStHesia. tHe ADvANtaGEs Of ThE PrIncIPLe of pERitOneaL dIalYSIs muST Be dOnE WIthOut, SiNcE pREVIOUs tEmpORARy ABDomInaL cAviTy clOsuRES dO NoT ClOse the aBDoMEN tIghTly. ThE WasH effeCT rEMains LImITED, Since A deSirEd intRa-AbDoMInAL pReSsuRE iS nOT MainTAiNed, AND tHe wAsH fLuID FLOwS, prEfERABly, only In pRefOrmEd WASH CHaNNElS. FuRtheR, AFTer The TemPoRArY ClosuRe OF The aBdoMInaL WAlL, PaRT Of The WAsH flUId oOzes InTo THE Bed whiCh, iN AdDITioN to bEINg AnotHeR SourcE OF INFectioN, mEANs iNEffectIvE wAShING, addITIONAL burDeN for the PaTIEnT, And ConsIdERablE aDdItioNal exPeNse FoR ThE NurSiNg sTaFF. pATieNTS With aN oPEN abDoMEn BeLONG, at THAt TiMe, To tHE MosT CaRe-inTeNSIVe paTIENts. if A SO-CAllEd sNAp closURe OR slIding sPlINt cloSUre, aS A tEmporARy abDomINaL cAviTy CLosURE, IS infOLDED, anoThEr dRaWbAcK COmeS to beaR. onCE cuT aNd INFolDED, ADapTation To the TensIOn CoNditiONs of THe aBdoMINal wALL iS No lONGER poSSIBlE. bUT, BeCause Of edemATouS swElLing oF innEr OrgaNs DuriNg THe COurse oF PEritoNitIs, tHe teNSion Of the aBDoMinAl WaLL CAn INCReAsE CONSidERABLy, with the daNgEr ThaT The SUTuReS teAr oUt. oN thE oTher HANd, thE edgeS oF ThE INcisiON mUSt be BrOuGHt tOgEThEr agaIN GradUalLY to the Final SuturE oF tHe ABDoMInal Wall laTer, DURing THE heaLIng pHase in Which thE swELlING oF tHe inNer ORgaNs deCrEAsEs. Further, THE typICaL COMpLiCaTIOnS Of sNAp closUReS muSt Be TAKEN INTo ACcOuNt (consTriction, TenAcUlUm). ThERe iS No PARtiCulAr edGe sTrUCtuRE To inFOld Into the faScIA, so tHAT oNly the inDIvIdUaL suturEs PrOvide SUppOrt. thEy are OfTEn nOt SECure AND teAR OUt eAsIlY.
conTINuoUs PErItoNEal LAvAGE wIth a cloSED aBDOMEn OffERs thE aDvAntaGE THat An eFfECtiVE WaShIng tREATmeNT can BE sTArTED ImmEDiAtely AfteR tHe OpeRATIoN, AnD thuS, the PUrpOSe Of the USUAl rEdon SUctION DRAinaGe CAn Be rePLACED COnsidErabLY mORe effeCtIVelY. tHE lAtteR haS A wEak SucTioN CapACIty, sUcTionIng ONLY RIght At tHE sPot wHere IT LayS. FUrtheR, it EASIlY BecOmEs ClOGgED AnD miSlEaDs TO thE aSsUMpTiOn THat tHe InciSIoN arEA hAs aLREADy beeN SUcTIOnEd empty. wITh ThE seALeD SyStem, An intRAPEriTONeaL PRESsUre cAN Be buiLt up And dosed. In doING so, The wAsh fLuid (POSSibLy wITh antiBIoTIC AdDEd) ALSO rEACHEs the cRITIcal "atmospheRIC CorneRS" oF THE ABDOmeN. BUt NOt onLy ARe WaSh cHaNNELs cREaTed, AS WHeN seePAgE thrOUGH WITHOUt PReSsURe ocCuRS. feWER fiBRIN-INducEd aDhesIonS are foRmeD, sINce the aBDomeN COnTenTS "sWIM" aNd FIBrIN (AMoNG oTHEr ThIngs) IS EfFECTiveLy waSHEd oUT (THUS, SimULtaneOUs ILeUs pRophyLaxiS).
PEritoNeAL diALysis iS POSSIbLe. WiTH it, aN INcreAsE IN tHe rEtEnTIOn VAlUeS (CReatine, urEa, pOtassIum) WITH a tHREAt OF rENaL failUre Can ConCeiVaBlY bE haLtEd sIMplY BY USINg A CommERCIally avAIlAblE DIALYsIs fLuId As THE waSH FlUID. ThE PaTiENt CaN eAsILY be dIaLYzEd, wiTHoUT HAViNg TO bE puT INtO the ExpeNSIVe pRogRAM OF hemoDialysIS. THe aSSOCIATED DRAwBacks ARE ALsO eLiMiNAtED, As they cAN SomETImES oCcUR DURING tHe hAnDLINg oF BLoOd VoLuME. wasHINg CAN be TAKEN oVeR BY a MAcHinE ACcorDinG tO a dEsIREd PrOGRaM; ThuS, cleAR ReliEF foR thE NURsInG PERsOnNeL iS PoSsible. a ChAMbEr COuNt oF tHE lEuKOCYtES iN ThE wash fLUid MAKeS IT POSsIbLe TO MOnITOR SiMply The rEspONSe of tHe PerItONitiS. A juDGmENT oF the eFfLux Can COnCeIVablY Be pERfoRmEd SImPlY by InSpECtIon (cLOudINESS, FIBRin OR BlooD ADmiXtURes). waSH FLuID sEnSORS tO DETeRMinE THe resISTancE oF BActERia CaN bE remOVeD By ThE CaThetEr At ANy tImE, JuSt as OtHeR sUbstAncES CAn Be ADmIniStEREd (E.g., eLeCtrOLytEs, PRoTein, hePArin). THE dRAWbAcK HEre is That The AbDoMeN is no lOngeR aCceSsiblE anD tHUS no DiRect vIsuAl MoNitorInG eXIsTs AnY MOrE, WHICh iS IMpORtant, wHen THe EfFLUx cHangEs pAtHOlogiCalLY oR ThE clINiCAl ConDITIOn Of thE pAtienT woRSenS. pAcking aND InFection sOUrCE of The DrAiNAGE PAssagE PoiNtS, as wEll as cloggING or ObstrUCTIoN OF The DrAiNaGes rePrESEnT typICAl CompLIcatiONs. iF tHe aBDOmEN MUst bE aCCeSseD again, a rElAparOtOMY muST bE PERfORMeD.
dEsPite pROmisING staRTS, THE sTRatEGY of ThE cLoseD ABdOmEn hAs NOt beEn ablE tO be uSed In PRActicE, sinCe the DRawBACks pRedomINate.
|
This invention relates toa surgical closure that can be repeatedly opened and closed,especially for the abdominal wall. More particularly the invention relates to a surgical closurehaving fabric of plate-like securing elements that can be tightly but detachably connectedtothe body tissue and has a closure which can berepeatedly opened and closed. Such a surgical closure is known, for example, from German Patent 34 44 782.This surgical closure isused especially asa temporaryclosure forthe abdominalcavity, preferably forpostoperativetreatment of peritonitis. Peritonitis, as a secondary formthatdevelops as a result of a perforation of a hollow organ or as a postoperative complication, still has, even today, a high lethality. With increasing incidence, it represents a central surgical problem. The abdominal cavity is subject to a physiological, regulated fluid stream that drains mainlyby small openings intheperitonealdiaphragm underside. In this way, bacteria are fed by thelymph tracts to the systemic defense mechanism. The absorption capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is increased by the mobility of the diaphragm and intraperitoneal pressure. During peritonitis, this drainageisblocked by thepathophysiological developmentof fibrin and bacteria and circulation is hindered by fibrin-induced adhesions. The defense systemis disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts,ortheirtoxins and fibrin, results. If the progression of peritonitis is not stopped promptly, a pathophysiological cascade gets started whose dynamicsconstantly grow and, after a certain point, can no longer be stopped. To cleanse the abdominalcavity,washing with physiological saline solution is already doneduring the operation until the wash fluid stays clear.With this mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, fibrin, dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood (even hemoglobin promotes the start of an infection) are to be removed ascompletely as possible, to provide, along with surgicalremoval of septic focus, an optimal condition for healing.In the postoperative phase,in which the fate ofthe patient is mainly determined, it is decisive to recognizeaworsening of the condition as early aspossible, and optionally, to remove the cause (e.g., correction of an inadequate sutureafter oversewing agastric ulcer)and,by effective lavage, if possible from the first postoperative day forward, to make sure conditions are clean (blood that reappears, fibrinand bacteriaareto be rinsed away). In postoperative lavage, the strategy of the open abdomen with periodic washing and the wash treatment with a closed abdomenare known. This so-called open abdomen is made possible by the sliding splint closure and by the snap closure as a temporary closure for the abdominal cavity,with the advantages that repeated intra-abdominal accessibility isguaranteed and the technician, during each washing, can be convinced of the success of the removal of septic focus, and thus,can control the course of peritonitis. In doing so, postoperative, intra-abdominal adhesions can be detached and coatingsof fibrin canbe removed. The typical drainage complications are eliminated. (Plugging of drainage for theabdominal wall, blockage orobstruction of drainages, infection sources.) A relaparotomy is no longer necessary. Here, the drawback is thatright after the operation, washing cannot be performed and no continuous washing is possible. But then,periodic washing is relatively frequentand also a burden for the patient, whenthe patient is in critical condition. Periodic washing must be prepared carefully; it is performed in the operating room (theabdomen is openduringwashing) andunder general anesthesia. The advantages of the principleof peritoneal dialysis must be donewithout, sinceprevious temporary abdominal cavity closures do not close the abdomen tightly. The wash effect remains limited,since a desired intra-abdominal pressure is not maintained, and thewash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. Further, after the temporary closure of the abdominal wall, part ofthe wash fluid oozes into the bed which, in addition to being another sourceof infection, means ineffective washing, additional burden for the patient, and considerable additional expense for the nursing staff. Patients with anopen abdomen belong, at thattime, to themostcare-intensive patients. If aso-called snap closure or sliding splint closure, as a temporary abdominal cavityclosure, is infolded, another drawback comes to bear. Once cut and infolded, adaptation to the tension conditions of theabdominal wall is no longer possible. But, becauseof edematous swelling of inner organs during the course of peritonitis,the tension of theabdominal wall can increase considerably, with the dangerthat the suturestear out.Onthe other hand, the edges of the incision must be brought together again gradually to the final suture of the abdominal walllater, during the healing phase in which the swelling of the inner organs decreases.Further, the typical complications of snapclosures mustbe taken into account (constriction, tenaculum). There is no particular edge structure toinfoldintothe fascia, so that only the individual sutures provide support. They areoften not secure and tearout easily. Continuous peritoneal lavage with a closed abdomen offers the advantagethat an effective washing treatment can be startedimmediately after the operation, and thus,the purpose of the usual Redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. The latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioningonly right at the spot where it lays. Further, it easily becomes clogged and misleadsto the assumption that the incision area has already been suctioned empty. With the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure can be built upand dosed. In doing so, thewash fluid (possibly with antibiotic added) also reaches the critical "atmospheric corners" of the abdomen. But not only are wash channels created,as when seepagethrough without pressure occurs. Fewer fibrin-induced adhesions are formed, since the abdomen contents "swim" and fibrin (among other things) is effectivelywashed out (thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis). Peritoneal dialysis is possible. With it, an increase inthe retention values (creatine, urea, potassium) with a threat of renal failure can conceivably behalted simply by using a commerciallyavailabledialysis fluid as thewash fluid. Thepatient can easily be dialyzed, without having to be put into the expensive program of hemodialysis. The associated drawbacks arealsoeliminated, as they can sometimes occur during the handling of blood volume. Washingcan be taken over by amachine according to a desired program; thus, clearrelief for the nursing personnelis possible. A chamber count of the leukocytes in the washfluid makes it possible to monitor simply the response of the peritonitis.A judgment of the efflux canconceivably be performed simply by inspection(cloudiness,fibrin or bloodadmixtures).Wash fluid sensorsto determinethe resistance of bacteria can be removed by the catheter atany time, just as other substances can be administered (e.g., electrolytes, protein, heparin). Thedrawback here is that theabdomen is no longer accessibleand thus nodirect visual monitoring exists any more, which is important, when the efflux changes pathologically or the clinical condition of the patient worsens. Packing and infection source of the drainage passagepoints, as well as clogging orobstruction of the drainages representtypical complications.If the abdomen must be accessed again, a relaparotomy must be performed. Despite promising starts, the strategy of the closed abdomen hasnot been abletobe used in practice, since the drawbackspredominate.
|
This invention relates to a surgical closure that can _be_ repeatedly _opened_ and closed, especially _for_ the abdominal wall. More particularly the invention relates _to_ a surgical _closure_ having fabric of plate-like securing _elements_ that _can_ _be_ _tightly_ but detachably connected to _the_ _body_ _tissue_ and has a closure which can be repeatedly _opened_ and closed. _Such_ _a_ _surgical_ _closure_ is known, for _example,_ from German Patent 34 44 782. This surgical closure _is_ used especially _as_ a temporary closure _for_ _the_ _abdominal_ cavity, preferably for _postoperative_ treatment of peritonitis. Peritonitis, _as_ a secondary form that develops as a result of _a_ perforation of _a_ _hollow_ organ or as a _postoperative_ complication, _still_ has, even today, _a_ high lethality. With increasing incidence, _it_ represents a _central_ surgical problem. The abdominal cavity is subject to _a_ physiological, _regulated_ fluid stream that drains mainly by small openings in the peritoneal _diaphragm_ _underside._ In this way, bacteria are fed by the lymph tracts to the systemic _defense_ _mechanism._ The absorption capacity of the intraperitoneal fluid is _increased_ by _the_ mobility of _the_ diaphragm and intraperitoneal pressure. During peritonitis, _this_ drainage is blocked by _the_ _pathophysiological_ development _of_ fibrin and bacteria and circulation _is_ hindered by fibrin-induced adhesions. _The_ defense system _is_ disrupted and a rise in bacterial counts, _or_ _their_ toxins and fibrin, results. If the progression of peritonitis is not stopped _promptly,_ a pathophysiological cascade gets started whose dynamics constantly grow and, _after_ a _certain_ point, _can_ no longer _be_ stopped. To cleanse _the_ abdominal cavity, _washing_ with physiological saline _solution_ is already done during _the_ operation _until_ the wash fluid stays clear. _With_ _this_ mechanical cleansing, bacterial counts, _fibrin,_ dead tissue, toxins and also residual blood (even hemoglobin promotes _the_ start of an infection) are to be removed as completely as possible, to provide, _along_ with _surgical_ removal of septic focus, _an_ optimal condition for _healing._ In _the_ postoperative phase, in which _the_ fate of the patient _is_ mainly _determined,_ it _is_ decisive to recognize a worsening of the condition as early as _possible,_ and optionally, to remove the cause (e.g., correction of an inadequate suture after oversewing a gastric ulcer) _and,_ by effective lavage, if possible _from_ the _first_ postoperative day _forward,_ _to_ make sure conditions are clean (blood that reappears, fibrin and bacteria _are_ _to_ be rinsed _away)._ In _postoperative_ lavage, the strategy of _the_ _open_ abdomen _with_ periodic washing and _the_ wash treatment with _a_ closed _abdomen_ are known. _This_ so-called open abdomen is made possible _by_ the sliding splint closure and by _the_ snap closure as _a_ temporary closure _for_ the _abdominal_ cavity, with the advantages that repeated intra-abdominal accessibility is guaranteed and the _technician,_ _during_ each washing, can be convinced of the success of the removal of septic _focus,_ _and_ thus, can control the _course_ of peritonitis. In _doing_ so, postoperative, intra-abdominal _adhesions_ can be detached and coatings of _fibrin_ can _be_ _removed._ The _typical_ _drainage_ complications _are_ _eliminated._ (Plugging of drainage for the abdominal wall, blockage or obstruction _of_ drainages, infection sources.) A _relaparotomy_ is no longer necessary. Here, the drawback is that right after the operation, _washing_ cannot be performed and no continuous washing is possible. But _then,_ periodic washing is relatively frequent _and_ also a burden _for_ _the_ patient, _when_ the patient is in critical condition. _Periodic_ washing _must_ be prepared carefully; it _is_ performed in _the_ operating room (the abdomen is open during _washing)_ _and_ under general anesthesia. The advantages of the principle of peritoneal dialysis _must_ _be_ done without, since previous _temporary_ abdominal cavity _closures_ do not close the _abdomen_ tightly. The wash effect remains limited, _since_ a desired intra-abdominal _pressure_ is not maintained, and the wash fluid flows, preferably, only in preformed wash channels. _Further,_ after the _temporary_ closure of the _abdominal_ _wall,_ part of the wash _fluid_ _oozes_ into _the_ bed _which,_ in addition to being _another_ source of infection, means ineffective _washing,_ additional burden for the patient, _and_ considerable additional expense for the nursing staff. _Patients_ with _an_ open abdomen _belong,_ at _that_ time, to _the_ most care-intensive patients. _If_ a so-called snap closure _or_ sliding _splint_ closure, as a temporary abdominal _cavity_ _closure,_ is infolded, another _drawback_ _comes_ to _bear._ Once cut _and_ infolded, adaptation to the tension conditions of _the_ abdominal wall _is_ _no_ longer possible. But, because of _edematous_ _swelling_ of inner organs during the course of peritonitis, the tension of the _abdominal_ wall can increase considerably, with the danger that the sutures tear _out._ On the other hand, the edges of the incision must _be_ brought together _again_ gradually to the _final_ suture of the abdominal _wall_ later, during _the_ healing phase in which the swelling of the inner _organs_ decreases. Further, the typical complications _of_ _snap_ _closures_ _must_ be taken into account (constriction, tenaculum). There is no particular edge structure to _infold_ into the _fascia,_ _so_ that _only_ _the_ individual sutures provide support. They are _often_ not _secure_ and tear out easily. Continuous peritoneal _lavage_ _with_ a closed abdomen offers the advantage that _an_ effective washing treatment can be _started_ immediately after the operation, and thus, the purpose _of_ the usual Redon suction drainage can be replaced considerably more effectively. The latter has a weak suction capacity, suctioning _only_ right _at_ the _spot_ _where_ it lays. Further, it _easily_ becomes clogged and misleads to _the_ assumption that _the_ incision area has already been suctioned empty. With the sealed system, an intraperitoneal pressure _can_ be built up and _dosed._ In doing so, the wash _fluid_ (possibly with antibiotic _added)_ also reaches _the_ critical "atmospheric _corners"_ of _the_ abdomen. _But_ not _only_ are wash _channels_ created, _as_ when seepage through _without_ pressure occurs. Fewer _fibrin-induced_ adhesions _are_ formed, since the abdomen contents "swim" and _fibrin_ (among other _things)_ is effectively washed out (thus, simultaneous ileus prophylaxis). Peritoneal dialysis is possible. With _it,_ an increase in the retention values (creatine, urea, potassium) with a threat _of_ _renal_ failure can conceivably be halted simply _by_ using a commercially available dialysis _fluid_ as the wash _fluid._ _The_ patient can easily be dialyzed, without having _to_ be put _into_ the expensive program of _hemodialysis._ _The_ _associated_ drawbacks are also eliminated, as they can sometimes _occur_ during _the_ handling of blood _volume._ Washing _can_ _be_ taken over _by_ a machine according to a desired program; thus, _clear_ relief _for_ the nursing _personnel_ is possible. A chamber count of the _leukocytes_ in the wash fluid makes _it_ possible to monitor _simply_ the _response_ of the peritonitis. A _judgment_ of _the_ efflux can _conceivably_ be performed simply by inspection (cloudiness, fibrin or blood _admixtures)._ Wash fluid sensors to determine the _resistance_ of bacteria _can_ be removed by the catheter at any time, _just_ as other substances can be administered (e.g., electrolytes, protein, _heparin)._ The _drawback_ here _is_ that the abdomen is no longer accessible and thus no _direct_ visual _monitoring_ exists any more, which is important, when the efflux changes pathologically or the clinical _condition_ of the patient worsens. Packing and _infection_ source _of_ the _drainage_ passage points, as well as clogging or obstruction of the drainages represent typical complications. _If_ the abdomen must _be_ accessed again, a relaparotomy must be _performed._ Despite promising _starts,_ the strategy of _the_ closed abdomen has not been able to be _used_ in practice, since _the_ drawbacks predominate.
|
Handling huge volumes of data on a daily basis is a task that most organizations have to deal with. Such organizations have been storing huge volumes of data for decades, but now with the availability of new techniques for analyzing those huge data sets, organizations seek to improve their operational efficiency. Data sets today aren't merely larger than the older data sets, but also significantly more complex, for example, unstructured and semi-structured data generated by sensors, web logs, social media, mobile communication, and customer service records.
There are many software frameworks to store and analyze large volumes of data in a massively parallel scale. Apache Hadoop is an example and often cited in many journals, publications, blogs, and other technical articles for massively parallel processing system. It is now known to be the de-facto technology platform for supporting storage of massive amounts of heterogeneous data and processing them.
The Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) for data storage and its specialized distributed programming model ‘MapReduce’ for data processing, across relatively inexpensive commodity hardware, may be leveraged for mixing and matching data from many disparate sources and reveal meaningful insights.
However, Hadoop as a technology has several limitations. First, organizations are interested in ‘interactive analytics’, a solution requiring faster time-to-insight when compared to the time it takes for a MapReduce job to execute and provide the required results. Second, the ability to enable analysts and data scientists to directly interact with any data stored in Hadoop, using their existing business intelligence (BI) tools and skills through a well-accepted SQL interface. Apache Hive, however, facilitates querying the data using an SQL-like language called HiveQL, but it is much slower than what the industry demands in terms of interactive querying.
There are several massively parallel query processing (MPQP) tools available in the market that enable organizations to perform interactive SQL-like querying on massive data-sets on the Hadoop platform, called SQL-on-Hadoop tools. However, each of these tools is optimized to perform efficiently for a certain class of queries only, operating on a certain known data type and format on a well-defined hardware and software configuration. The data model and the storage model have to be optimized significantly in order to obtain faster query response times.
To add to the problem, the technological landscape of massively parallel query processing frameworks is large and it becomes increasingly difficult for organizations to evaluate each of these tools for the different kinds of queries they have for processing, operating on varying data-sets, (for example, queries from marketing, analysts, engineers, and senior management).
|
handling huge quantities of data on a daily basis is a task that most organizations have to deal with. such organizations have been storing huge volumes of data for decades, but now with the availability of new techniques for analyzing those huge data sets, organizations seek to improve their operational efficiency. data sets today aren ' t merely larger than the older data sets, but also significantly more complex, for example, unstructured and semi - structured data generated by sensors, web logs, social media, mobile communication, and customer service records. there are many software frameworks to store and analyze large volumes of data in a massively parallel scale. apache hadoop is an example and often cited in many journals, publications, blogs, and other technical articles for massively parallel processing efforts. it is now known to be the de - facto technology platform for supporting storage of massive amounts of heterogeneous data and processing them. the hadoop relational file system ( hdfs ) for data storage and its specialized distributed programming model ‘ mapreduce ’ for data processing, across relatively inexpensive commodity hardware, may be leveraged for mixing and matching data from many disparate sources and reveal meaningful insights. however, hadoop as a technology has several limitations. first, organizations are interested in ‘ interactive analytics ’, a solution requiring faster time - to - insight when compared to the time it takes for a mapreduce job to execute and provide the required results. second, the ability to enable analysts and data scientists to directly interact with any data stored in hadoop, using the existing business intelligence ( bi ) tools and skills through a well - accepted sql interface. apache hive, however, facilitates querying the data using an sql - like language called hiveql, but it is much slower than what the industry lacks in terms of systematic querying. there are several massively parallel query processor ( mpqp ) tools available in the market that enable organizations to perform interactive sql - like querying on massive data - sets on the hadoop platform, called sql - on - hadoop tools. however, each of these tools is optimized to perform efficiently for a certain class of queries only, operating on a certain known data type and format on a well - defined hardware and software model. the data model and the storage model have to be optimized significantly in order toward obtain faster database response times. to add to the problem, the technological landscape of massively parallel query processing frameworks is large and it becomes increasingly difficult for organizations to evaluate each of these tools for the different kinds of queries they have for processing, operating on varying data - sets, ( for example, queries from marketing, analysts, engineers, and senior management ).
|
Handling huge volumes of data on a daily basis is a task that most organizations have to deal with. Such organizations have been storing huge volumes of data for Xecafes, but now with the availability of new techniques for analyzing those huge data sets, organizations seek to improve their operational efficiency. Data sets today aren ' t merely larger than the older data sets, but also significantly more complex, for example, unstructured and semi - structured data generated by sensors, web logs, social media, mobile communication, and customer service records. There are many software frameworks to store and analyze large volumes of data in a massOvfly parallel scale. Apache Hadoop is an example and often cited in many journals, publivatioMs, blogs, and other technical articles for massively parallel processing system. It is now known to be the de - facto technology platform for supporting storage of massive a<oknts of het2rog@neous data and processing tbeJ. The Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) for data storage and its specialized distributed programming model ‘ MapReduce ’ for data processing, across relatively inexpensive commodity hardware, may be leveraged for mixing and matching data from many disparate sources and reveal meaningful insights. However, Hadoop as a technology has several limitStionQ. First, organizations are interested in ‘ interactive analytics ’, a solution requiring faster time - to - insight when compared to the time it tx>es for a MapReduce job to execute and provide the required results. Second, the ability to enable analysts and data scientists to directly interact with any data stored in Hadoop, using their existing business intelligence (BI) tools and skills through a well - accepted SQL interface. Apache Hive, however, facilitates querying the data using an SQL - like language called HiveQL, but it is much slower than what the industry demands in terms of interactive querying. There are several massively parallel query processing (MPQP) tools available in the market that enable organizations to perform interactive SQL - like querying on massive data - sets on the Hadoop platform, called SQL - on - Hadoop tools. However, each of these tools is optimized to Lerf*rm efficiently for a certain class of queries only, operating on a certain known data type and format on a well - defined hardware and software configuration. The data model and the storage model have to be optimized significantly in order to obtain faster query response times. To add to the problem, the technological landscape of massively parallel query processing frameworks is large and it becomes increasingly difficult for organizations to evaluate each of these tools for the different kinds of !keries they have for processing, operating on varying data - sets, (for example, queries from marketing, analysts, engineers, and senior management ).
|
Handling huge volumes of data daily basis is a task that most organizations have to deal with. Such organizations have been storing huge volumes of data decades, but now with the availability of new techniques for analyzing those huge data sets, organizations seek to improve their operational efficiency. Data sets today aren't larger the older data sets, but also significantly more complex, example, and semi-structured data generated by sensors, logs, social communication, and records. are software frameworks to store and analyze large volumes of in a massively parallel scale. Apache Hadoop is an example and often cited in many journals, publications, blogs, and other technical articles for processing system. It is now known to be the de-facto technology platform for supporting storage of massive amounts of heterogeneous data and processing them. The Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) data storage and its specialized distributed programming model ‘MapReduce’ for data processing, across relatively inexpensive commodity hardware, may be leveraged for mixing and matching data from many disparate sources and reveal meaningful insights. However, Hadoop as a has several limitations. First, are interested in ‘interactive analytics’, a solution requiring faster time-to-insight when compared to the time it takes for a job to execute and provide the required results. Second, the ability to enable analysts and data to directly interact with stored in Hadoop, their existing business intelligence (BI) tools skills through a well-accepted SQL interface. Apache Hive, facilitates querying the data using an SQL-like language called but it is slower than what the industry demands in terms of interactive querying. are several massively parallel query processing (MPQP) tools in that enable organizations to perform interactive SQL-like querying on massive data-sets on the Hadoop platform, called SQL-on-Hadoop tools. However, each of these tools is to perform efficiently for a certain class of queries only, operating on a certain known type and format on a well-defined hardware and software configuration. The data model and the storage model have to be optimized significantly in order to obtain faster query response times. To add to the problem, the technological of massively parallel query frameworks is large it becomes increasingly difficult organizations to evaluate each of these tools for different kinds of queries they have processing, operating varying data-sets, (for example, queries from marketing, analysts, engineers, and senior management).
|
HaNDLiNg HUGE voluMes Of DATa ON A DaiLy BaSiS IS A tAsk THat MosT ORGaniZAtioNS haVE To dEaL wITh. SUCH ORGaNIzatiOnS HAve BEEn sToring HuGe VOlumes oF DaTa fOr dECades, but noW WiTh ThE avAilAbIlity of NeW TEchNIQUeS For ANAlyZINg tHOsE HuGe dAta SEts, OrGaNIZAtioNs seeK tO iMPRove THEIr opERAtiOnaL eFFIciENCy. daTa SETs TodaY AreN't MerelY LArGEr tHAN tHE oLdEr dATa SEtS, BUT aLsO SigNifICaNTlY mOrE comPlex, For EXAMPLe, unstRucTUred AnD Semi-StrUCTUREd dATa generATed BY sEnsOrs, wEb Logs, sociAL medIa, moBiLe CoMMUNICATiOn, ANd CUstOmeR ServIce reCORds.
TheRE ARe mAnY SoFtwarE FRaMEworKs TO Store aNd ANaLYZe laRgE VOlumES OF DATA in a mAsSIVEly PAralleL scale. apACHe HAdOop IS AN EXAmPle aND oFTen ciTeD In Many jOURnALs, PUbliCATions, BlogS, aND OtHer tEchnICAl ARTiCLES for mASSIVelY ParAllEL procESSIng SystEm. IT iS nOW knOWN To bE tHe DE-fAcTo tEchNOlOgy PLAtfORm FOR SUppoRtIng sToRage of MASsiVe AmOUNts oF HeterOGEnEOUs DATA AnD PROcESsinG theM.
ThE HAdoop dIstRiButEd FiLE sYStEm (HdfS) foR DAta stORAGE aND its sPEcIAlizED dIStrIbutED PROgrammINg ModEL ‘mAPredUce’ For Data PRoCEssInG, AcroSs rElaTIveLY inexPENsivE commodITY HaRDwARE, mAy Be lEVerAgEd FOr MiXIng anD MaTChinG datA FRoM MANy DIspARATe sOURCES AnD rEveal meaningfUl INSIgHTS.
HowEvER, haDOOP As a TeChnOLOGY haS SeVERaL LIMitatIoNS. fiRst, orgaNIzations arE iNterEstED IN ‘InTEraCtive analYTiCs’, A soluTion requiRiNG fAster TiMe-TO-INSIghT when COmPAREd to the TiME it TaKEs FoR A MApreducE JOb to eXECuTE AND prOViDE ThE reQUireD ReSulTs. sEConD, tHE abILiTy To EnAbLE ANalysTS and DAta sCiEnTIstS To DiReCTly inTeRact wITH anY DATA STOred iN hadoOP, uSiNg tHEIR eXisting BUsinEss inTeLlIgEncE (bI) TOOls aND sKiLlS tHrOUGH A wELL-accepTed sQL InTerfACE. aPAcHe HiVE, HOweveR, FaCiLiTateS querying The dAta usiNg AN SqL-Like lAnGuAGE calLED HiVeQl, bUT It Is mUCh SLowER tHAN what THe InduStRY dEMandS In terms OF interaCtive queRYInG.
THERE are seveRaL MAssIVElY parAllEl qUerY pROCeSsINg (mpqp) ToOls AvAiLABle in ThE mARKeT THat enable ORgANIZaTIons TO PerfoRM INTERAcTIve sQL-lIkE QUeryiNg oN mASsIvE Data-sets oN THe haDOOP PlATFOrM, caLLEd sqL-ON-hADOop TOOls. HOwever, Each OF tHeSE TOols is oPtimized to PErfOrM efFICIEntLY FOR A CERTaIn clasS OF QuERiES only, oPERATiNg ON a CERtAin KnoWn datA tYpE And FoRMAt On a Well-DEfiNeD HArDWaRe and SoFtware CoNfIGuRaTION. THE dATa moDEl AND thE sToraGE MOdEl Have TO be OPTIMIzed SigNIfIcaNtlY iN OrDeR TO obTAIN FAsTER query rEspOnse TImEs.
To AdD To THe ProBLEM, tHe tEChnolOGicAL LanDsCApe Of MAsSIVely PARAlLEL QuEry prOCESsING FraMEwoRKS iS LArGe aND IT bEcOMes INCReaSiNgly DIfficULT For oRganIzATioNS To eVALuATe Each OF thEse TooLs FOr THE DifFerent KiNdS Of QUerIEs THey have For prOcesSinG, opeRatinG on VAryiNg DaTa-sETS, (fOr ExaMPlE, querIES FROM mARKeTInG, anALYSTs, ENgiNEeRS, And SeNIoR MaNagEmeNT).
|
Handling huge volumesofdata on a dailybasis is a task that most organizationshave to deal with. Such organizations have been storing huge volumesof data for decades, but now with the availabilityof newtechniques for analyzing those hugedata sets,organizations seek to improve their operational efficiency. Data sets todayaren'tmerely larger than theolderdata sets, but also significantly more complex, for example, unstructured and semi-structured datagenerated by sensors, web logs, social media, mobilecommunication, and customer servicerecords.There are many software frameworksto store and analyze large volumes of datain a massively parallel scale. Apache Hadoop is an example andoften cited in manyjournals,publications, blogs,and other technical articles for massively parallel processing system. It is now known to be the de-factotechnology platformfor supporting storage of massive amounts of heterogeneous data and processingthem. The Hadoop DistributedFile System (HDFS) for data storage and its specialized distributed programming model ‘MapReduce’for data processing, across relatively inexpensive commodity hardware, may be leveraged for mixingand matching data frommany disparate sources and reveal meaningful insights.However, Hadoop as a technology has several limitations. First, organizations are interested in ‘interactive analytics’, a solutionrequiringfaster time-to-insight when compared to the time ittakes for a MapReduce job to execute and provide the required results. Second,the ability toenable analystsand data scientists to directly interact with any data stored in Hadoop,usingtheir existing business intelligence (BI)tools and skills througha well-accepted SQL interface. Apache Hive, however, facilitates querying the data using anSQL-like language called HiveQL, but it is much slower than what the industry demandsin terms of interactive querying. There are several massively parallel query processing(MPQP) tools available in themarket that enable organizations to perform interactive SQL-like querying on massive data-sets on the Hadoop platform, called SQL-on-Hadoop tools. However, eachof these tools is optimizedto perform efficiently for a certain class of queries only, operating onacertain known datatype and format on a well-definedhardware and softwareconfiguration. The data model and the storagemodel have to be optimized significantly in order to obtain faster query response times. To add tothe problem,the technological landscape of massively parallel queryprocessing frameworks is largeand it becomes increasingly difficult for organizations to evaluate each of these tools forthe differentkinds of queries they have for processing, operating on varying data-sets, (forexample, queries from marketing,analysts, engineers, and senior management).
|
Handling huge _volumes_ of data on _a_ daily basis is a task that most organizations have to _deal_ _with._ Such organizations have been storing huge volumes _of_ data for decades, _but_ now with the availability of new _techniques_ for analyzing those _huge_ _data_ sets, organizations seek to improve _their_ _operational_ _efficiency._ Data sets today aren't merely larger than _the_ older _data_ _sets,_ _but_ also significantly more complex, for example, unstructured _and_ semi-structured data generated by sensors, web logs, social media, mobile communication, and customer service records. _There_ _are_ many _software_ _frameworks_ _to_ store and analyze _large_ volumes of data in a _massively_ _parallel_ scale. Apache Hadoop is an example and often _cited_ in many journals, publications, _blogs,_ and other technical articles for massively parallel processing system. It is now known to be the de-facto technology platform for supporting storage of massive amounts of heterogeneous data and _processing_ them. The _Hadoop_ _Distributed_ File _System_ _(HDFS)_ for _data_ storage and _its_ specialized _distributed_ programming model _‘MapReduce’_ for data _processing,_ across relatively _inexpensive_ _commodity_ hardware, may be _leveraged_ for mixing and _matching_ data from many _disparate_ sources and reveal _meaningful_ insights. However, Hadoop as _a_ technology _has_ several limitations. First, organizations are interested in ‘interactive _analytics’,_ a _solution_ requiring faster time-to-insight when compared _to_ the time it takes _for_ _a_ _MapReduce_ _job_ _to_ _execute_ and provide the required results. Second, the _ability_ to enable analysts and data scientists to directly interact with _any_ data stored _in_ Hadoop, using _their_ existing business intelligence (BI) tools _and_ skills through a well-accepted _SQL_ interface. Apache Hive, however, _facilitates_ querying the data using _an_ SQL-like language _called_ HiveQL, but it is much slower than what _the_ _industry_ _demands_ in terms of interactive _querying._ _There_ are several massively parallel query processing (MPQP) tools _available_ in the market that _enable_ _organizations_ to perform _interactive_ SQL-like _querying_ on massive data-sets on the Hadoop platform, called SQL-on-Hadoop tools. However, each of these tools is optimized to perform efficiently _for_ a certain class of _queries_ _only,_ operating on a certain known data type and format on a well-defined hardware and _software_ configuration. The data model and the _storage_ model have to be optimized significantly in order to obtain faster query response times. To add to the problem, _the_ technological landscape of massively parallel query processing frameworks is large and it _becomes_ increasingly difficult for _organizations_ to evaluate each of these tools for the _different_ _kinds_ _of_ queries _they_ have for processing, operating on varying data-sets, (for example, queries from marketing, analysts, engineers, and senior management).
|
Media streams, such as video and audio streams, may be sent over a network to multiple receiving clients. In a unicast-based system, individual copies of the stream are sent separately over the network to each client. By contrast, in a multicast-based system, a single copy of the stream may be sent to a multicast address, and the multicast-enabled network enables replication of the stream to clients within the multicast group. In some cases, a client may record or store the stream for later playback. In some scenarios, media streams may be sent using transmission control protocol (TCP) for reliability, at a cost of higher latency. In other scenarios, media streams may be sent using user datagram protocol (UDP) with lower latency, at a cost of potentially increased errors or dropouts.
|
media streams, same as video and audio streams, may be sent over a network to multiple receiving clients. in a unicast - based design, individual copies holding the stream are sending separately over the network to one client. by contrast, in a multicast - based design, a single output of the stream may be sent to a multicast address, and the lan - enabled network enables replication of the stream to function within the multicast group. for some cases, a client may record or store the stream for later playback. in some scenarios, media streams may be sent using transmission control protocol ( tcp ) for reliability, at a cost of higher latency. in other scenarios, media streams may be sent using user datagram protocol ( udp ) with lower latency, at a cost of potentially increased errors or dropouts.
|
Media streams, such as video and audio streams, may be sent ovfe a ne%w0rk to multiple receiving clients. In a unicZAt - based system, individual copies of the stream are sent separately obe# the network to each client. By contrast, in a multicast - based system, a single copy of the stream may be sent to a multiDXst address, and the multicast - enabled network enables replication of the stream to clients within the multicast group. In some vZses, a client may record or store the stream for later playback. In some scenarios, media streams may be sent using transm&ssioJ control protocol (TCP) for reliability, at a cost of higher latency. In other scenarios, media s5rea<s may be sent using user datagram protocol (UDP) with lower laGeJcy, at a cost of potentially increased ertorc or dropouts.
|
Media streams, such as video and audio streams, may over a network to multiple receiving clients. In a unicast-based system, individual copies of the stream are sent separately over the network to each client. By contrast, in a multicast-based system, a single of the stream may be sent to a multicast and the multicast-enabled network enables of the stream to clients within the multicast group. some a client may record or store the stream for later playback. In some scenarios, media streams may be sent control protocol (TCP) reliability, at a cost of higher latency. other scenarios, media streams may be sent using user datagram protocol (UDP) with lower latency, at a cost of potentially errors or
|
MeDIa STReAMs, sucH aS VideO And AudIo StREams, May bE sENt OVEr A neTwoRk TO mUlTiple receivInG CLiEnTs. In a uniCAst-BasEd SYStEM, IndIvIdUAl CoPIeS OF THE sTReaM aRE SeNT SEparAteLy OVeR THe nEtwoRk tO EaCH CLient. BY CoNtRaSt, iN a mULticASt-BAsED SySTEm, A sINGle Copy oF The sTREAM mAy be SEnT to A MULTiCAsT ADDress, And ThE muLTiCaST-eNablED NEtwOrK eNabLeS rEPLiCatioN Of THe STrEam to clIeNtS wItHin ThE muLtiCaSt gROuP. iN somE CaSes, a clieNT may rECORD or StoRE thE StReAm FoR LAtER pLAybACk. In somE sCEnArIOs, MEDIa STReAMs May bE SeNt uSING TransMissIoN CONtrol PrOtOCOl (tcP) For reLIABILItY, At A CoST OF hIgheR LaTEncY. in OThER ScENARiOS, media StREaMS MAy BE sENT using usER datAgRaM ProtOCOL (uDP) wITh LowER latencY, AT a COST of PotENTIaLlY InCrEasED ERRORs OR droPOUts.
|
Media streams, suchas videoand audiostreams, may besent overa network to multiple receiving clients. In a unicast-based system, individual copiesof the streamare sentseparately over the network toeach client. By contrast, in a multicast-basedsystem, a single copy of the stream may be sent toa multicast address, and the multicast-enabled network enablesreplication of the stream to clients within the multicast group. In somecases, a client mayrecord or storethe stream for later playback.In some scenarios, media streams may be sent usingtransmission control protocol (TCP) for reliability, at acost of higher latency. In other scenarios,media streams may be sent using user datagramprotocol (UDP)with lowerlatency, at a cost of potentiallyincreased errors or dropouts.
|
Media streams, such as video and audio _streams,_ may be sent over a network to multiple receiving clients. _In_ _a_ unicast-based system, _individual_ _copies_ of the stream are sent separately _over_ the network _to_ _each_ client. By contrast, in a multicast-based system, a single copy of the stream may be _sent_ to a multicast address, and the _multicast-enabled_ network _enables_ replication of the _stream_ to clients within the multicast group. In some cases, a client may record or store the stream for later playback. In some scenarios, media streams may be sent _using_ transmission control protocol _(TCP)_ for _reliability,_ at a cost _of_ higher latency. In other scenarios, media _streams_ may _be_ sent _using_ user _datagram_ _protocol_ _(UDP)_ _with_ lower latency, at a cost of potentially increased errors _or_ _dropouts._
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to a self-contained device for generating heat through combustion of a non-pressured, high flash point fuel (>100.degree. F.) utilized primarily for heating food and the like. More particularly, this invention pertains to a closed cartridge containing a reservoir of a novel high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel and a non-consumable wick immersed in the fuel reservoir to provide controllable means for combusting said glycol or glycol derivative. These devices are commonly found in applications utilizing chafing dishes where food is to be maintained at an elevated termperature for extended periods of time.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Restaurants and others involved in the food preparation industry typically have a requirement for maintaining various foodstuffs at an elevated temperature for extended periods of time to maintain said food's edibility as well as to preserve the food from infection by exogenous microorganisms.
Prior art means for maintaining foods at elevated temperatures include cartridges and canisters containing alcohol fuels such as methyl and ethyl alcohol;. Said alcohol fuels have relativley low flash points, typically in the range 54.degree. F. to 56.degree. F., which permit these fuels to be ignited directly by flame provided by a match or a candle. These types of prior art devices have several inherent drawbacks which create substantial problems for their users.
Most significant among the disadvantages to prior art devices are those encountered in the field of product safety. Utilization of methyl and ethyl alcohols creates a substantial hazard due to fire. This fact arises from the high volatility and low falsh point of these one and two carbon alcohols.
A second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. Those prior art devices utilizing methyl alcohol as their fuel present a substantial hazard with respect to methanol vapors. Said vapors are toxic and additionally can contaminate any food stored or located in the vicinity of these devices.
The third safety consideration is that of shipping. Prior art devices containing methanol and ethanol as their fuels have various restrictions placed upon them by those authorities regulating common carriers and other shippers. Thus, prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient to transport due to the inherent hazards presented by their fuels.
Additionally, prior art devices present a disadvantage in that the range of heat developed by such devices is not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices is not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices utilize various mechanical means to adjust the oxygen flow available for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. This arrangement for control of heat is inadequate in many cases where a very low flame is required because the amount of oxygen required for low flame cannot be adequately regulated using prior art mechanical means thus causing the flame to be often spontaneously extinguished.
Therefore, it is desireable to provide a burner device for controllably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a new and unique, clean burning, high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel having a low vapor pressure and high flash point relative to commonly used fuels such as methanol and ethanol. Moreover, it is desirable that such a burner utilize a fuel which is nontoxic and produces a low level of nontoxic vapors. It is also desirable that such an improved heating device should have a continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuel available for combustion.
While the prior art recognizes that glycol or glycol derivatives can be used as fuel additives; these additives are in minimal amounts (i.e. concentrations measured in parts per million) and are included to enhance the characteristics of the primary fuel component. In addition, glycol or glycol derivatives in substantial concentrations have never before been used, or suggested for use, as the primary fuel component.
Finally, it is desirable to provide a burner that is safe to ship and use and has minimal regulatory restrictions on shipment and storage relative to prior art devices.
|
1. field of the invention this invention relates generally to a self - contained device for generating heat through discharge of a non - pressured, high flash point fuel ( & gt ; 100. degree. f. ) utilized primarily for heating food and the like. more particularly, this invention pertains to a closed cartridge containing a reservoir of a novel high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel and a non - consumable wick valve in the fuel reservoir to provide controllable means for combusting said water or glycol derivative. these devices are commonly found in applications in chafing dishes where food is to be maintained at an elevated termperature for extended periods of time. 2. description of the prior art restaurants and others involved in the food preparation industry typically have a requirement for maintaining various foodstuffs at an elevated temperature for extended periods of time to maintain said food ' s edibility as well as to preserve the food from infection by exogenous chemicals. prior art means for maintaining foods at elevated temperatures include cartridges and canisters containing alcohol fuels designated as methyl and ethyl alcohol ;. said alcohol fuels have relativley low flash points, typically in the range 54. degree. f. to 56. degree. f., which permit these fuels to be ignited directly by flame provided by a match or a candle. these types of prior art devices have several inherent drawbacks which create substantial risks for their users. most significant among the disadvantages to prior art devices are those encountered in the field of product safety. utilization of methyl and ethyl alcohols creates a substantial hazard due to fire. this dilemma arises from the high volatility and low falsh point of these one and the carbon alcohols. a second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. those prior art devices utilizing methyl alcohol as their fuel present a substantial hazard with respect to methanol vapors. said vapors are toxic and additionally can contaminate any food stored or located in the vicinity of these devices. the third safety consideration is that of shipping. prior art devices containing methanol and ethanol as their fuels have other restrictions placed upon them by those authorities regulating common carriers and other shippers. thus, prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient to transport due to the inherent hazards presented by their fuels. additionally, prior art devices present a disadvantage in that the range of heat developed by such devices is not easily adjustable. most prior art devices is not easily adjustable. most prior art devices utilize various mechanical means to adjust the oxygen flow available for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. this arrangement for control of heat is inadequate in many cases where a very low flame is required because the amount of oxygen required for low flame cannot be adequately regulated using prior art mechanical means thus causing the flame to be often spontaneously extinguished. therefore, it is desireable to provide a burner device for controllably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a new and unique, clean burning, high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel having a low vapor pressure and high flash point relative to commonly used fuels such as methanol and ethanol. moreover, it is desirable that such a burner utilize a fuel which is nontoxic and produces a low level of nontoxic vapors. it is also desirable that such an improved heating device should have a continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuel available for combustion. while the prior art recognizes that glycol or glycol derivatives can be used as fuel additives ; these additives are in minimal amounts ( i. e. concentrations measured in parts per million ) and are included to enhance the characteristics of the primary fuel component. in addition, glycol or glycol derivatives in substantial concentrations have never before been used, or suggested for use, as the primary fuel component. finally, it is desirable to provide a burner that is safe to ship and use and has minimal regulatory restrictions on shipment and storage relative to prior art devices.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to a self - contained device for generating heat through combustion of a non - pressured, high flash point fuel (& gt; 100. degree. F.) utilized primarily for heating food and the like. More particularly, this invention pertains to a closed cartridge containing a reservoir of a novel high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel and a non - consumable wick immersed in the fuel reservoir to provide controllable means for combusting said glycol or glycol derivative. These devices are commonly found in applications utilizing chafing dishes where f9os is to be maintained at an elevated termperature for extended periods of time. 2. Description of the Prior Art Restaurants and others lmvolved in the food preparation industry typiValiy have a requirement for maintaining various foodstuffs at an elevated temperature for extended periods of time to maintain said food ' s edibility as well as to preserve the food from infection by exogenous microorganisms. Prior art means for maintaining foods at elevated temperatures include cartridges and canisters containing alcohol fuels such as methyl and ethyl alcohol; . Said alcohol fuels have relativley low flash points, typically in the range 54. degree. F. to 56. degree. F. , which permit these fuels to be ignited directly by flame provided by a match or a candle. These types of prior art devices have several inherent drawbacks which crsste substantial problems for their users. Most significant among the disadvantages to prior art devices are those encountered in the field of product safety. Utilization of methyl and ethyl alcohols creates a substantial hazard due to fire. This fact arises from the high volatility and low falsh point of these one and two carbon alcohols. A second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. Those prior art devices utilizing methyl alcohol as their fuel present a substantial hazard with respect to methanol vapors. Said vapors are toxic and additionally can contaminate any food stored or located in the vicinity of these devices. The third safety consideration is that of shipping. Prior art devices containing methanol and ethanol as their fuels have various gestrictilns placed upon HGem by those authorities regulating common carriers and other shippers. Thus, prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient to transport due to the inherent hazards presented by their fuels. Additionally, prior art devices present a disadvantage in that the range of heat developed by such devices is not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices is not eZsipy adjustable. Most prior art devices utilize various mechanical means to adjust the oxygen flow available for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. This arrangement for control of heat is inadequate in many cases where a very low flame is required because the amount of oxygen required for low flame cannot be adequately regulated using prior art mechanical means thus causing the flame to be often spontaneously extinguished. Therefore, it is desireable to provide a burner device for controllably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a new and unique, clean burning, high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel having a low vapor pressure and high flash point relative to comninly used fuels such as methanol and ethanol. Moreover, it is desirable that such a burner utilize a fuel which is nontoxic and produces a low level of nontoxic vapors. It is also desirable that such an improved heating devjfe should have a continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuel available for combustion. While the prior art recognizes that glycol or glycol derivatives can be used as fuel additives; these additives are in minimal amounts (i. e. concentrations measured in parts per million) and are included to enhance the characteristics of the primary fuel component. In addition, glycol or glycol derivatives in substantial concentrations have never before been used, or suggested for use, as the primary fuel component. Finally, it is desirable to provide a burner that is safe to ship and use and has minimal regulatory restrictions on shipment and storage relative to pEipr art devices.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention generally to a self-contained device for generating heat through combustion of a non-pressured, high flash point fuel (>100.degree. utilized primarily for heating food and the like. More particularly, this invention pertains to closed cartridge containing a reservoir of a novel high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel and a non-consumable wick immersed in the fuel reservoir to provide controllable means for combusting said glycol or glycol devices are commonly found in applications chafing dishes where is be maintained at an elevated termperature for extended periods of time. 2. Description of the Prior Art Restaurants others involved in the food industry typically have a requirement for maintaining various at an elevated temperature for extended periods of time to maintain said food's edibility as well as to preserve the food from infection by exogenous microorganisms. Prior art means for maintaining at elevated temperatures and canisters containing alcohol fuels as methyl and alcohol;. Said fuels relativley low in the range 54.degree. F. to F., which permit these fuels to be ignited directly by flame provided by a match or a candle. These types prior art devices several inherent drawbacks which create substantial problems for their users. Most among the disadvantages to prior art devices are those encountered in of product safety. Utilization of methyl and ethyl alcohols creates a substantial hazard due to fire. This fact arises the high volatility low falsh point of these one and two carbon alcohols. A second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. prior art devices methyl as their fuel a substantial respect to Said vapors are toxic and can contaminate any food stored or located in vicinity of these devices. third safety consideration is shipping. Prior art devices containing methanol and as their fuels have various placed upon them by those authorities regulating common carriers and shippers. Thus, prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient to transport due to the inherent hazards presented by their Additionally, prior art devices present a disadvantage in that range of heat developed by such devices is not easily adjustable. Most prior art is not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices utilize various mechanical means to adjust the for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. This arrangement for control of is inadequate in many cases where a very low flame required because the amount of oxygen required low flame cannot be adequately using prior art means thus causing the flame to be spontaneously extinguished. Therefore, it is desireable provide a burner device for controllably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a new and unique, burning, high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel having a low vapor pressure and high flash point relative to commonly used fuels such as methanol and Moreover, it is desirable that a burner utilize a fuel which is nontoxic and produces a low level of nontoxic vapors. It is desirable that such an improved heating device should have a continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuel available for combustion. the prior art recognizes that glycol or glycol derivatives can be used as fuel additives; these additives are minimal amounts (i.e. concentrations measured in parts per million) and are included to enhance the characteristics of the primary fuel component. In addition, glycol or glycol derivatives in substantial concentrations have never before been used, or suggested for use, as the primary fuel component. Finally, it is desirable to provide a burner that is safe to ship and use and has minimal regulatory restrictions on and storage to prior art devices.
|
1. fIeld Of ThE InveNTIon
THIs iNvENtion relATes gENeRalLY To A Self-cONtaINED deVIcE FOr gENERaTiNg hEAT tHRoUgH COmbUstION OF a noN-pResSUreD, HIGh flaSh poinT FUEL (>100.dEGreE. f.) uTiliZED PrImARIly FOR hEatinG fOod anD The LIKE. MoRE ParTiculArly, ThIs iNvENTion PERTainS TO a cloSed caRTRidge CONTAiNING a ResERvoIR OF A NovEl hIGH percEnTagE GlycoL or gLYcol DErivaTIve fUEL And a nOn-ConSUMaBLe WICk IMMErSed In thE fUEL ResErVoir to pRovIdE ConTROlLAbLE MEAnS fOR COmBUsTiNg sAId glYCOl OR GlYCOL deriVaTivE. theSE deViCEs aRe COmmONlY FOund In aPPLIcATioNS utilIzING CHAFinG DISHES where foOD IS To Be MaiNTaINEd at An eLeVATEd tErmPeRATUre For exteNDed PERIODs Of Time.
2. deSCriPtiOn of the pRIOR art
rEstaURAnTs And OTHERS INvOlVEd IN The FOod pRePArATION industRY TYPiCAlly hAve A REQUIrEmeNT FoR MAIntainInG vARiOus FoODsTufFs at An eLevAteD tEmpeRaTURe foR EXTenDEd PerIods OF tIme To mAintaIN sAiD fOOD'S EDiBIlIty aS WELl As tO PrESeRVe tHE FOOd FRom iNFeCtioN By eXOgeNoUs MicRooRGAniSMs.
PRior arT means fOr MaiNTaiNInG fOODS aT elevaTEd TemperatUREs incLUdE caRtRIDgEs aNd CANisTerS coNtaining alCohoL FueLS SUch As mEThyl aNd etHYl ALcOhOl;. SAID aLCoHol fUElS HAVE RELativLEY LOW flASh pOInTS, typIcALly In the Range 54.dEGrEE. f. tO 56.dEGREE. f., WHIcH PErMiT tHese FuELS To BE IGniTEd DirECTlY bY FLAmE ProvIded by A mATCh Or A CANDle. TheSE TYpes Of pRIoR arT dEVIcEs HaVE SeVerAL inHErenT DRAWbaCKs wHICH CREAtE subsTAntial prOblemS FOR ThEiR Users.
moSt SIgNificAnt Among THe disadvAnTaGeS TO PRiOr ArT DEVICES arE ThOSe eNcOUnTerED iN THe fIeld OF proDUCt SAfeTy. uTiLizaTioN oF MeThyl and eTHyL alcohols CREAtES A SuBstAntIAl hAZarD dUE TO fiRe. tHis FaCt arIsEs FROm tHE hiGH VOLaTiLITy aND Low faLSh POinT Of thESe oNe aNd tWo cARboN AlcOHOls.
a SecONd SignIFiCANT saFETy cONcerN is thaT Of NOXIOUs vapORS. thOse priOR arT DEViCEs UTiLiZiNg meThYL alCOhol AS tHEIr FueL PResenT A sUbstaNTiAL HaZaRD wITh RESpEct To MeThanOl VApors. SaID vaporS ARe TOxiC AND aDditiOnALlY CaN CONtaMINate AnY FooD sToreD oR LOcaTEd In the VIciNitY Of tHesE deVICeS.
the ThirD SaFeTy COnsIdErATION IS tHAT Of SHIPpinG. PriOR ArT dEvIceS coNTAiNIng methanOl aNd EtHANOL aS ThEir fuELs have vArIous rEstRiCtiONS PlAceD UpOn THem BY THoSe AutHOrities REgULAtING CoMmoN CaRriERs aNd oTheR SHippERs. thUS, PriOR arT dEvICes ArE MORe eXPEnsiVe anD iNcOnveNIEnT TO TRaNsPoRT due tO thE inhERENT hAzArdS PreSented bY tHEIR Fuels.
adDitIONalLY, PrIoR arT dEVIceS PREsENT A DISAdvaNtAge in ThaT The ranGE OF heAt DevelOpED By SUch dEviCes is NOt EaSILy ADJUStaBlE. MOst pRior arT DEvICES iS Not eaSiLy AdjUSTable. MOst pRiOR ArT deVIces UtiLIZe VARiOUs meCHANICAl MEaNS TO aDJUst thE oXYgEn FlOW avAiLAbLe FOr ComBuSTIoN Of ThE metHaNOl AND EThanOL. THiS ArRANGEmeNt FOR contrOL oF HEAt IS INaDeQUatE in mAnY CaSes WHeRe a VERy lOw fLAME Is requireD becaUse The AMOUnT OF OXyGEn REQuiRED fOr lOW flamE cANNOt Be AdequATEly REGUlAtED uSinG PrIoR Art mEchaNIcAL meAnS THUS CAusing tHE FLaME TO bE ofTen SPoNTANeOUsLy EXtiNguISHed.
theReForE, IT Is desIREABLe TO PRovIDe A buRNer DEvIcE fOr conTrOLlAblY HeATinG anD warmINg FooD aND THe liKE UTilIZiNG A nEW aND uNIque, cLean buRning, hIGh pERCeNTagE glycol or GlyCoL DeRivaTive FuEl HavinG A LOW vAPoR PrESsUre And higH fLASH poInT ReLAtiVE to cOMMOnly USeD FUELS sUch As metHanOL AnD ETHanOL. MOREoVER, iT iS DESIrAble THaT suCh a bURNER UTiLizE a FUeL whIcH IS nontoxIc AnD proDucES A LoW leVEL OF nOnTOxic vApoRS. iT iS AlsO DesiRaBLE tHAt SuCH An ImProveD HEaTIng DeVicE ShoulD hAve A CONTInuALly adJustABLe FlaME By cONtRoLLIng tHE aMOUnt OF fUEL AVAILabLE FOr COmbUstIon.
WHilE THe PrIoR ArT rECOGnizES tHAt gLYcOL Or GlyCOL DeRivATiVes cAN bE useD AS fueL addItIVES; THESE ADdItiVEs ARe iN MIniMal aMoUnTS (i.E. cOnCeNTrATiONs MEasUrED IN ParTs Per miLlION) aND arE InCludEd tO ENhAnce The cHaRAcTeRiStiCS of The PRimArY FUEL COMpONENt. IN adDItion, GLYCoL or gLYcoL derIvatIVES IN SUBSTaNTiAL CONCentRaTiONs hAVE NeVER BEFore BeeN Used, Or suGGestED FOr USe, As tHE PrimARY fUeL CoMponENt.
FiNalLY, IT IS DeSIrABle tO PROvIDE A bURner That IS SAfE to shiP AnD Use aND haS miNimaL REGUlATorY REstrICTionS on SHipmeNT AnD sTOrage rElATiVe tO PRiOR ArT DeVICES.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to a self-contained device for generating heat through combustion of a non-pressured,high flash point fuel (>100.degree. F.) utilizedprimarily forheating food and the like. More particularly, this invention pertains toa closed cartridgecontaininga reservoir of a novel high percentage glycol or glycol derivative fuel and a non-consumable wick immersed in the fuelreservoir to providecontrollable means for combusting said glycolor glycol derivative. These devicesare commonly foundin applications utilizing chafingdishes where food is to be maintained at an elevated termperature for extended periodsoftime. 2. Description of thePrior Art Restaurants and others involvedin the food preparation industry typically have a requirementfor maintaining various foodstuffs at an elevated temperature for extended periods of time to maintainsaid food's edibility as well as to preserve the foodfrom infection by exogenous microorganisms. Prior art means for maintaining foods at elevatedtemperatures includecartridges and canisters containing alcohol fuels such as methyland ethyl alcohol;. Said alcohol fuelshave relativley low flash points, typically in the range 54.degree. F. to 56.degree. F., which permit thesefuels to be igniteddirectly by flame provided by a match or a candle. These typesofprior art devices have several inherent drawbacks which create substantial problemsfor their users. Most significant among the disadvantagesto priorart devices arethose encountered in the field of product safety.Utilization of methyl and ethyl alcohols creates a substantial hazard duetofire. This fact arisesfrom the high volatility and low falsh pointof theseoneand two carbon alcohols. A second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. Those priorart devices utilizing methyl alcohol as their fuel present a substantialhazardwith respectto methanol vapors. Said vapors aretoxic and additionally can contaminate anyfoodstored orlocated in the vicinity of these devices. The thirdsafety considerationis thatofshipping. Prior art devices containing methanol and ethanol as their fuels have various restrictionsplaced uponthemby those authorities regulating commoncarriers and other shippers. Thus,prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient to transport due to the inherent hazards presented by their fuels. Additionally, prior art devices present adisadvantage in that the range of heat developed by such devicesis not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices is not easily adjustable. Most prior art devices utilize various mechanical means to adjustthe oxygen flow available for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. This arrangementfor control of heat is inadequate in many cases where a very low flame isrequired because the amount of oxygen required for low flame cannot be adequately regulated using prior art mechanical means thus causing theflame to be often spontaneously extinguished. Therefore, it is desireable to provide a burner device forcontrollably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a newand unique, clean burning,high percentage glycol or glycolderivative fuel having alow vapor pressure and high flash point relative to commonly usedfuelssuchas methanol and ethanol. Moreover, it isdesirable that such a burner utilizea fuelwhich is nontoxic and produces a low level ofnontoxic vapors.It is alsodesirablethat such an improved heating device shouldhave a continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuelavailablefor combustion. While the prior art recognizes that glycol or glycol derivatives can beused as fueladditives;these additives are in minimal amounts (i.e. concentrations measured in parts permillion) and are included toenhance the characteristics of the primary fuel component. In addition, glycol or glycol derivatives insubstantial concentrations have never before beenused, or suggested for use, as the primary fuel component. Finally, it isdesirable to provide a burner that issafe to ship and useandhas minimal regulatory restrictions on shipment andstorage relative to prior artdevices.
|
_1._ Field _of_ the Invention This _invention_ relates _generally_ to a self-contained _device_ for _generating_ heat through combustion of _a_ non-pressured, high flash _point_ fuel (>100.degree. F.) utilized primarily _for_ heating food and the like. _More_ particularly, this invention pertains to a closed cartridge _containing_ a reservoir of a novel high percentage _glycol_ or glycol derivative fuel and _a_ non-consumable wick immersed in the _fuel_ reservoir to _provide_ controllable means for combusting said glycol or glycol derivative. These devices are _commonly_ found in applications utilizing chafing _dishes_ where _food_ is to be _maintained_ at an elevated termperature for extended _periods_ of _time._ 2. Description of the Prior _Art_ Restaurants and others _involved_ in the food _preparation_ _industry_ typically _have_ a requirement for maintaining various foodstuffs at _an_ elevated temperature _for_ _extended_ periods _of_ time to _maintain_ said food's edibility as well as to preserve the food from infection by exogenous microorganisms. _Prior_ art means for maintaining foods at _elevated_ temperatures _include_ cartridges and _canisters_ _containing_ alcohol fuels such as methyl and ethyl alcohol;. _Said_ alcohol fuels have _relativley_ _low_ flash points, typically in _the_ range 54.degree. F. to 56.degree. F., which _permit_ these fuels to be _ignited_ directly by flame provided _by_ a match or a candle. These types of prior art devices have several inherent _drawbacks_ which create substantial problems for _their_ users. Most significant among _the_ disadvantages to _prior_ art devices are those encountered in _the_ _field_ of _product_ safety. Utilization of _methyl_ and ethyl alcohols _creates_ a substantial hazard due to fire. This fact _arises_ _from_ the high _volatility_ and low falsh point of these one and two carbon alcohols. A second significant safety concern is that of noxious vapors. Those _prior_ _art_ devices utilizing methyl alcohol as their _fuel_ present a _substantial_ hazard with respect _to_ methanol vapors. Said _vapors_ _are_ toxic _and_ additionally can contaminate _any_ food stored or located in _the_ vicinity of these devices. The third safety consideration is that of shipping. Prior art devices _containing_ methanol and ethanol as _their_ fuels have various _restrictions_ placed upon them by those authorities regulating common carriers and _other_ shippers. Thus, prior art devices are more expensive and inconvenient _to_ transport due to _the_ inherent hazards presented by their fuels. Additionally, prior art devices present a disadvantage in that the _range_ of heat developed _by_ such devices is not _easily_ adjustable. Most prior art devices is not easily adjustable. _Most_ prior art devices utilize _various_ mechanical means to _adjust_ the _oxygen_ _flow_ _available_ for combustion of the methanol and ethanol. This arrangement for control _of_ heat _is_ inadequate _in_ many cases _where_ a very low flame is required because _the_ amount _of_ oxygen _required_ for low flame cannot be _adequately_ regulated using _prior_ art mechanical means _thus_ causing the _flame_ to be often spontaneously _extinguished._ Therefore, it is desireable to provide a burner device _for_ controllably heating and warming food and the like utilizing a new and unique, clean burning, high percentage glycol or glycol derivative _fuel_ having a low vapor pressure and high flash _point_ _relative_ to commonly used fuels _such_ as _methanol_ _and_ ethanol. Moreover, it is desirable that such a _burner_ utilize a fuel which is _nontoxic_ and produces a low level of nontoxic vapors. It is also desirable that such an improved heating device should have _a_ continually adjustable flame by controlling the amount of fuel _available_ for combustion. While the prior art recognizes _that_ _glycol_ _or_ glycol _derivatives_ can be used as fuel additives; these additives are in minimal amounts (i.e. concentrations measured in parts per million) and are included to enhance the characteristics of the primary fuel _component._ In addition, _glycol_ or glycol derivatives _in_ substantial concentrations have never before _been_ _used,_ or suggested _for_ use, _as_ the primary fuel component. _Finally,_ it is desirable to provide _a_ burner that is safe to ship _and_ use and has _minimal_ regulatory restrictions on shipment and storage _relative_ _to_ _prior_ art _devices._
|
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus which saves a print job transmitted from an information processing apparatus for each user, and a controlling method for the image processing apparatus.
Description of the Related Art
An MFP (multi function peripheral) which is equipped with an image reading device, a printing device and a communicating device and has image processing applications of copying, printing, scanned-image transmitting and the like has been known. Moreover, since security consciousness has increased recently, a great number of MFPs have user authentication functions respectively. In the MFP like this, inputs of a user name and a password are accepted as authentication information via a touch panel, and/or authentication information is read and obtained from a card by using a card authentication function. However, to input the user name, the password and the like from the touch panel on the MFP or to install the card authentication function is troublesome for a user who wishes to use the MFP immediately and promptly in the aspects of costs and operability. Moreover, in the situation that the authentication function has not been installed because sever security is not so required, there are users who cannot use a personalization function of the MFP because there is no authentication function and thus cannot have usability.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254618 discloses, as the means for saving user's trouble and enabling a user to easily use the personalization function, the MFP which displays the icon image associated with the user on the screen, and by which the user only has to select the displayed own icon image for using the personalization function.
In the MFP disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254618, the user is automatically registered by using, as the user ID for identifying the user, the job owner name and the computer name added in the print data for which the printing has been instructed from a PC (personal computer). However, since the users work in various office environments, there is a case where, in a small-scale office environment, the domain is not used in the user authentication for the PC but the local authentication is used. On the contrary, it is supposed that, in a large-scale office environment, the domain is used in the user authentication for the PC. Further, there is an environment that one user owns a plurality of PCs in the same office and logs in to each PC via the user authentication using the domain.
|
field of the invention the present invention relates to an image processing apparatus which saves a print job transmitted from an information processing apparatus for another user, and a controlling method for the image processing apparatus. description of the related art an mfp ( multi function peripheral ) which can equipped with an image reading device, a printing device and a communicating device and has image processing applications of copying, printing, scanned - image transmitting and the like has been known. moreover, since security consciousness has increased recently, a great number in mfps have user authentication functions respectively. in the mfp like this, inputs of a user name and a password are accepted as authentication information via a touch panel, and / or authentication information is read and obtained from a card by using a card authentication function. however, to input the user name, the password and the key from the touch screen on the mfp or to install the card authentication function is troublesome for a user who wishes to use the mfp immediately and promptly in the aspects of costs and operability. moreover, in the situation that the authentication function has not been installed because sever security is not so required, there are users who cannot use a personalization function of the mfp because there is no authentication function and thus cannot have usability. japanese patent application laid - open no. 2012 - 254618 discloses, as the means for saving user ' s trouble exists enabling a user to easily use the personalization function, the mfp only displays the icon image associated with the user on the screen, and by which the user only has to select the displayed own icon image for using the personalization function. in the mfp disclosed in japanese patent application laid - open no. 2012 - 254618, the user is automatically registered by using, as the user id is identifying the user, the job owner name and the computer name added in the print data for which the printing has been instructed from a pc ( personal computer ). however, since the users work in various work environments, there is a case where, in a small - scale office environment, the domain is not used in the user authentication for the pc but the local authentication is used. on the contrary, it is supposed that, in a large - scale office environment, the domain is used in the user authentication for the pc. further, there is an environment that one user owns a plurality of pcs in the same office therefore logs in to each pc via the user authentication using the domain.
|
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus which saves a print job transmitted from an information processing apparatus for each user, and a controlling method for the image processing apparatus. Description of the Related Art An MFP (multi function peripheral) which is e2uippee with an image reading device, a printing device and a communicating device and has imaTr processing applications of copying, printing, scanned - image transmitting and the like has been known. Moreover, since security consciousness has increased recently, a great number of MFPs have user authentication functions respectively. In the MFP like this, inputs of a user name and a password are accepted as authentication information via a touch panel, and / or authentication information is read and obtained from a card by using a card authentication function. However, to input the user name, the password and the like from the touch panel on the MFP or to install the card authentication function is troublesome for a user who wishes to use the MFP immediately and promptly in the aspects of costs and oODrability. Moreover, in the situation that the authentication function has not been installed because sever security is not so required, there are users who cannot use a personalization function of the MFP because there is no authentication function and thus cannot have uwxbility. Japanese Parenh Application LX7d - Open No. 2012 - 254618 discloses, as the means for saving user ' s trouble and enabling a user to easily use the personalization Bunctiog, the MFP which displays the icon image associated with the user on the screen, and by which the user only has to select the displayed own icon image for using the p4rsobalization function. In the MFP disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid - Open No. 2012 - 254618, the user is automatically registered by using, as the user ID for identifying the user, the job owner name and the computer name added in the print data for which the printing has been instructed from a PC (personal computer ). However, since the users work in various office environments, there is a case where, in a small - scale office environment, the do,aiG is not used in the uxsr authentication for the PC but the local authentication is used. On the contrary, it is supposed that, in a large - scale office environment, the domain is used in the user authentication for the PC. Further, there is an environment that one user owns a plurality of PCs in the same office and logs in to each PC via the user authentication using the domain.
|
Field of the Invention present invention relates to an image processing apparatus which saves a print job transmitted from an information processing apparatus for each user, and a controlling method for the processing apparatus. Description of Related Art An MFP (multi function peripheral) which is equipped with an image reading device, a printing device a communicating device and has image processing applications copying, printing, and the like has been known. Moreover, consciousness has increased recently, a great number of MFPs have authentication functions respectively. the MFP like this, inputs of a user name a password are accepted as information via a touch panel, and/or authentication information is read and obtained from a by using a card authentication function. However, to input user name, the password the like from the touch panel on the MFP or to install card authentication function is troublesome for a user who wishes to use the MFP promptly in the aspects of costs and operability. Moreover, in the that the authentication function has been installed because sever security is so required, there are users who cannot a personalization function the MFP because there no authentication function and cannot have usability. Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-254618 discloses, as the means for saving user's trouble and enabling a user easily use the personalization function, the which displays icon image with the user on the screen, and by which the user only has select the displayed own icon image for using the personalization function. In the MFP disclosed Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254618, user is registered by using, as the user ID for identifying the user, the owner name and the computer name added in the print data for which the printing has been instructed from a PC (personal computer). since the work in various office environments, there is a case where, in a small-scale office environment, the domain is not used in the user authentication for the PC but the local authentication is used. On contrary, it is supposed that, in a large-scale office environment, the domain is used in the user authentication for the PC. Further, there is an environment that one user owns a plurality of PCs the same office and logs in to each PC via the user authentication using the domain.
|
fieLD of The INVENTiON
ThE pResENT InvEntiON rELaTeS tO an IMAge pROCessInG appARaTus WhICh saVEs a prInt Job TRansmiTTeD FROM aN infoRMAtIon pRocEsSINg ApPARAtUs for EacH UsEr, AND A CoNtrOlLiNG METhOd For tHE IMAgE PROcESsiNg aPpaRaTus.
deScRIptiON oF ThE RELaTED ArT
an MfP (mULTi fuNCTiON pErIpheraL) wHICH IS EQUIPpED wItH an ImaGE reAdiNg device, A pRiNtINg DEvIcE aNd A ComMUnIcATinG DeVICE AND hAs IMagE pROCesSInG ApPlICAtiONS Of CoPYiNg, pRiNting, ScaNnEd-image traNSMittING anD the liKE Has BEen KnOwn. MOrEoVeR, sINCe SEcUrIty CoNsciOUsnESS HAS iNcREaSEd recentlY, a gReAT Number oF mfpS HaVe usER authENtiCAtiON FunCtiOnS reSPECtIVELY. iN ThE mfP lIkE tHiS, INpUtS oF a uSer NaMe And a PasSWoRd arE accEPted As AUTHentIcaTIon InFORmAtIoN vIa a tOucH PaNeL, AnD/OR auThEnTicaTIoN INFOrMation Is read AND oBTAIneD FroM a caRD by uSiNG a Card AuThENTIcAtiOn fUNcTiOn. HowEVer, To INput tHe uSer NAMe, THe passwOrD AND THE LIKe FroM tHE touCh PaNel oN the mfP or tO INsTaLL tHe cArd AuThEnTiCAtIOn fUnctIon Is tROubLESoMe FOR a uSEr who WIsHes TO use The Mfp iMMediAtElY and ProMPtLY in the ASpeCts OF cOsts aND oPerabiLiTy. MOReover, iN The sitUATiON THAT THE autHENTiCAtioN fUNction HAs Not been iNstALlED BECAUse SevER SeCurItY Is nOt So ReqUirED, theRe are USErs WHo CAnNoT uSE a peRsONalIZaTion FuNcTioN Of ThE Mfp becAuSE THERe IS No authenticAtIOn FUNCtIoN AnD thUs CanNOT Have uSABility.
jApAneSe pATEnT ApPLicATiOn lAiD-oPEn nO. 2012-254618 disclOses, As ThE MEAns fOr SAviNg uSeR'S TROUBle And EnabLing a user tO eaSIlY use ThE pErsoNALizaTIon FUnCTIon, THE MFp WhICH dIspLAYs THE icon IMagE AssOCiAtED with THE USEr ON tHE scREEn, aND BY wHich THE uSEr only haS tO seleCt thE DISplaYed owN Icon iMagE for USiNG tHe peRsOnALIzAtIon fUnCtion.
iN ThE Mfp DISCLOSeD In jAPanEsE patENT applICAtioN lAiD-OPeN NO. 2012-254618, tHe useR IS auToMATICAlLY ReGiSteREd bY usiNG, AS The uSer ID for idEnTIFyinG tHE USEr, tHe jOB owNer NAmE aND thE ComPutEr NAMe AddeD in The PrINT data foR WHIcH THe printING HAS bEeN iNStructed FrOm a pC (peRSoNAL computeR). HowEVeR, siNce THE USerS worK In VAriOUS OffiCE eNVirONmeNtS, tHerE iS A cASe wheRe, In a SmaLl-scalE oFFICe eNVIRoNMeNt, ThE dOmain iS nOt uSEd IN tHe UsER authenTICation foR thE PC bUt ThE LOcAl AuThEnTiCaTIon iS Used. On tHe cOnTRARy, IT Is SUPpOseD that, in A LArGe-SCaLE OFFICE eNvIRoNMENT, THE DOMain Is useD IN ThE user AuTHeNtiCaTiOn fOr the pc. FUrtHeR, ThERE Is An EnvIRoNMENt ThAt ONe User OwnS A PluRALITY Of Pcs in thE sAme oFFice AND LoGS In to EAch PC VIa tHE usEr AUThEntiCAtiON USIng The DOmAiN.
|
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processingapparatus which saves a print jobtransmitted from an information processingapparatus for eachuser, and a controlling method for the image processing apparatus.Description ofthe Related Art An MFP (multifunction peripheral) which is equipped with an image reading device, aprinting device anda communicatingdevice and has imageprocessing applications of copying, printing, scanned-image transmitting and the like hasbeen known. Moreover, since security consciousness has increased recently, a great number of MFPs have userauthenticationfunctions respectively. In the MFPlike this, inputs of a user name and a password are accepted as authentication information via a touch panel, and/orauthentication informationis read andobtained from a card by using a card authentication function. However, to input theuser name, the passwordand the like from the touch panel on the MFP or to install the card authentication function is troublesome for a user whowishes touse the MFP immediately andpromptly in theaspects of costs and operability. Moreover, in thesituation that the authentication function has not been installed because sever security is not so required, thereare users who cannot use a personalization functionof the MFP because thereis no authentication functionand thus cannothave usability. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No.2012-254618 discloses, as the means for saving user's trouble and enablinga user to easily use thepersonalization function, the MFP which displays the icon image associatedwith the user on the screen, and bywhich the user only has to select the displayed own icon image for using the personalization function. In the MFP disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254618, theuser is automatically registered by using, as the user ID for identifying the user, thejob owner nameand the computer name added in the print data for which the printing hasbeen instructed from a PC (personalcomputer). However, since the userswork in variousoffice environments, there is a case where, in a small-scale officeenvironment, the domain is not used in theuser authenticationfor the PC but the local authentication is used. On the contrary, it is supposed that, in a large-scale office environment, the domain is used in the user authentication for the PC. Further,there is an environment that one user owns a plurality of PCs in thesame officeand logs in to each PC via theuser authentication using the domain.
|
_Field_ of the Invention _The_ _present_ invention relates to an _image_ processing apparatus which _saves_ a print job transmitted from an _information_ processing apparatus for each user, and a _controlling_ method for the image processing apparatus. Description of the _Related_ _Art_ An MFP (multi function peripheral) which _is_ _equipped_ _with_ _an_ image reading _device,_ a printing device _and_ a communicating device and has image processing _applications_ of copying, printing, scanned-image transmitting and the like _has_ been _known._ Moreover, _since_ security consciousness has increased recently, a _great_ number of MFPs have _user_ _authentication_ functions respectively. In the MFP like this, inputs of a user name and a _password_ _are_ accepted as authentication information via a _touch_ panel, and/or authentication information _is_ read and obtained from a card by _using_ _a_ card authentication function. However, to input the user name, the password and the like from the _touch_ _panel_ on the MFP or to install the card authentication function is troublesome for a _user_ who wishes to use the MFP immediately and _promptly_ in the aspects of costs and operability. Moreover, in _the_ situation that the _authentication_ function has not been installed _because_ sever security is not _so_ required, there are users who cannot use a personalization _function_ _of_ the _MFP_ because there is no authentication function _and_ thus cannot have _usability._ Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. _2012-254618_ discloses, as the _means_ for saving _user's_ trouble and enabling a user to easily use the personalization function, the _MFP_ _which_ _displays_ the icon image associated with the user on the screen, and by which the _user_ only _has_ to select the displayed own icon image for using the personalization function. In the MFP _disclosed_ _in_ Japanese _Patent_ _Application_ _Laid-Open_ No. 2012-254618, the user _is_ automatically _registered_ by using, as the user ID _for_ identifying the user, _the_ job owner _name_ and the computer name added in the print _data_ _for_ _which_ the _printing_ has been instructed from a PC _(personal_ computer). _However,_ since the _users_ work _in_ various office environments, _there_ is a case where, in _a_ small-scale office environment, the domain is _not_ used in the user _authentication_ for the _PC_ but the local _authentication_ is _used._ On _the_ contrary, it is supposed that, _in_ a large-scale office environment, the _domain_ is used _in_ the user authentication for the PC. Further, _there_ _is_ _an_ environment that one user owns a plurality of PCs in _the_ same office and logs in to each PC via the user _authentication_ using the _domain._
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting an in-focus position detected by a phase difference AF (autofocus) method or the like.
2. Description of the Related Art
In the related art, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged to attain an in-focused state by the phase difference AF, there is a case where in association with long-time use of the camera, a position which is recognized as an in-focus position is changed due to long-time use of each of a lens and a camera body and an in-focus precision deteriorates to a level lower than an initial precision. In the case of the lens, a case where while the lens is driven to a correct in-focus position, a lens stop position may be shifted from the correct position due to a mechanical deterioration caused by long-time use of a camera is considered. In the case of the camera body, there is considered a case where a mirror which is used in a phase difference detection method is driven many times so that an angle of the mirror is gradually changed and this causes change of an angle at which incident object light is guided to an AF sensor so that a position shifted from the correct in-focus position is recognized as an in-focus position. In the foregoing case, a unit for shifting the in-focus position to an original state without allowing the user to bring the camera to a service center has been installed in a recent image pickup apparatus.
In the detection of the in-focus position by the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correct in-focus position cannot be detected by an influence by colors, types, and the like of a light source and a photographing object. If such a problem occurs, such a technique that the detected in-focus position is corrected by the phase difference AF in accordance with an environment where the camera is used is considered. At this time, in a construction in which there are a plurality of focus adjustment areas (AF frames) for the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correction is necessary every AF frame or the like. However, if the number of portions to be corrected increases, there raises an actual problem such that it is difficult for a user to spend time to make individual correction each time the correction is necessary. Therefore, the user wants to correct in accordance with the AF frame which the user wants to use by himself. The Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-292684 discloses a function (AF calibration) which can automatically correct the in-focus position of the phase difference AF by using a contrast detection method. A correction value can be held every focal length.
However, in the technique disclosed in the above patent literature, in the case where there are a plurality of AF frames for the phase difference AF, there is not a control technique about how to select the AF frame which is used for correction of the in-focus position by the phase difference AF when a limitation processing of a selection of the AF frames is executed at the time of photographing.
|
1. field of view invention the present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting an in - focus position detected by a phase difference af ( autofocus ) method or the like. 2. description of the related art in the related art, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged to attain an in - focused state by the phase difference af, there is a case where in association with long - time use of the camera, a position which is recognized as an in - focus position is changed subsequent to long - time use of each of a lens and a camera body and an in - focus position deteriorates to a level lower than an initial precision. in the case of the optics, a case where while the lens is driven to a correct in - focus position, a lens stop position may be shifted from the correct position due to a mechanical deterioration caused by long - time use of a camera is considered. in the case of the camera body, there is considered a case where a mirror which originally used in a phase difference detection method is driven many times so that an angle of the mirror is gradually changed and this causes change of an angle at which incident object light is guided to an af sensor so that a position shifted from the correct in - focus position is recognized as an in - focus position. in the foregoing case, a unit for shifting the in - focus position to an original state without allowing the user to bring the camera to a service center has been installed in a recent image pickup attempt. in the detection of the in - focus position by the phase factor af, there is a case where the correct in - focus position cannot be detected by an influence by colors, types, and the like of a light source and a photographing object. if such a problem occurs, such a technique that the detected in - focus position is corrected by the phase variation itself in accordance with an environment where the camera is used is considered. at this time, in a construction in which there are a plurality of focus adjustment areas ( af frames ) for the phase difference af, there is a case where the correction is necessary every af frame or the like. similarly, if the number of portions to be corrected increases, there raises an actual problem such that it is difficult for a user to spend time to make individual correction each time the correction is necessary. therefore, the user wants to correct in accordance with the af frame which the user wants to use by himself. the japanese patent application laid - open no. 2000 - 292684 discloses a function ( af calibration ) which can automatically correct the in - focus position of the phase difference af by using a contrast detection method. a correction value can be held every focal length. however, in the technique disclosed in the above patent literature, in the case where there are a plurality of af frames for the phase difference af, there is not a control technique about how to select the af frame which is used for correction of the in - focus position by the phase difference af when a limitation processing of a selection of the af frames is executed at the time of photographing.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting an in - focus position detected by a phase difference AF (autofocus) method or the like. 2. Description of the Related Art In the related art, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged to attain an in - focused state by the phase difference AF, there is a case where in association with long - time use of the camera, a position wBiDh is recognized as an in - focus position is changed due to long - time use of each of a lens and a camera body and an in - focus precision deteriorates to a level lower than an initial precision. In the case of the lens, a case where while the lens is driven to a correct in - focus position, a lens stop position may be shifted from the correct position due to a mechanical deterloraYion caused by long - time use of a camera is considered. In the case of the camera body, there is considered a case where a mirror which is used in a phase difference detection method is driven many times so that an angle of the mirror is gradually changed and this cxusew change of an angle at which incident object light is guided to an AF sensor so that a pisitlon shifted from the correct in - focus position is recognized as an in - focus position. In the foregoing case, a un*5 for shifting the in - focus position to an original qtqte without allowing the user to bring the camera to a service center has been installed in a recent image pickup apparatus. In the detection of the in - focus position by the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correct in - focus position cannot be detected by an influence by colors, types, and the like of a light source and a photographing object. If such a problem occurs, such a technique that the detected in - focus position is corrected by the phase difference AF in accordance with an environment where the camera is used is considered. At this time, in a construction in which there are a plurality of focus adjustment areas (AF frames) for the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correction is necessary every AF frame or the like. However, if the number of portions to be corrected increases, there raises an actual problem such that it is difficult for a user to spend time to make individual correction each time the correction is necessary. Therefore, the user wants to correct in accordance with the AF frame which the user wants to use by himself. The Japanese Patent Application Laid - Open No. 2000 - 292684 discloses a function (AF calibration) which can automatically corEevt the in - focus position of the phase difference AF by using a contrast detection method. A correction value can be held every focal length. However, in the techbiquW disclosed in the above patent :Lterature, in the case where there are a plurality of AF frames for the phase difference AF, there is not a control technique wbou6 how to select the AF frame which is used for correction of the in - focus position by the phase difference AF when a limitation processing of a selection of the AF frames is executed at the time of photographing.
|
Field the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting an in-focus position detected by a phase AF method or the like. 2. Description of the Related Art In related art, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged to attain an in-focused state by the phase AF, there is a case where in association with long-time use of the camera, a position which is recognized as an in-focus position is changed due to long-time use of each a lens and a camera body and an in-focus precision deteriorates to a level lower than an initial precision. In the case of the lens, a case where while the lens is driven to a correct in-focus a lens stop position shifted from the correct due to a mechanical deterioration caused by long-time use of a camera is considered. the case of the body, is considered a case where which is used in a phase difference detection method is driven many times so that an angle of the mirror is gradually and this causes change of an incident object light is guided AF sensor so that a shifted from the correct position recognized an in-focus position. In the foregoing case, unit for shifting the in-focus position an original state without allowing the user to bring the camera to a service center has installed in a recent image pickup apparatus. In the detection of the in-focus position by the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correct in-focus position cannot detected by an influence by colors, types, and the like of a source and photographing object. If such a problem occurs, a technique that the detected in-focus position is corrected by the phase AF in with an environment where the camera is used is At this time, in a in which there are a plurality of focus adjustment areas (AF frames) for phase difference AF, there is a case where the correction is every AF frame or the like. However, if the number of portions to be corrected increases, there raises an actual problem such that is difficult for a user time to make individual correction each time the correction is necessary. Therefore, the user wants correct accordance with the AF frame which the user wants to use by himself. The Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-292684 a function (AF calibration) which can automatically correct the position of the phase difference AF by using a contrast detection method. A correction can be held every focal length. However, the technique disclosed in the above patent literature, in the case where there are a plurality of frames for the phase AF, there is not a control technique about how select the AF frame which is used for correction of the position by the phase AF when a processing of a selection of the AF frames is executed at the time of photographing.
|
1. FielD of THE InVentION
THE PReSent iNveNtion rELAtEs To aN iMage PiCKUP aPpAratUs HAvINg a FUNctIoN FOr CorreCting AN in-FOcUS poSiTION dEteCTeD BY a PhasE DifFERENCE aF (autOFOcus) meThOd OR the likE.
2. DeSCrIPtIoN oF THe reLated ArT
IN tHe RELated Art, IN A sInglE lenS REFleX CameRA whicH Is ARRAngEd To AttAin An IN-fOCuSeD sTATe By The pHaSe diffERence AF, tHErE IS A case wheRE IN asSoCiaTIon WItH loNG-TIme usE OF tHe cAMEra, A POsiTion WHIcH Is RECognized As aN IN-FoCuS posITion iS ChanGeD dUe To lOng-TIME USe oF eACH oF A lEnS aNd a CaMeRA body AnD An in-FOCuS PreCISiON dETeriorAtES TO a leveL LoWer ThAN AN INiTiaL PREcISIoN. in thE CASE oF ThE leNS, a caSe WHERe WHilE ThE LeNs is driveN To A cOrRect In-FoCus POsiTION, A LenS stoP PosiTioN May BE shIFTeD FROM THE corrEct PoSItiOn duE To A mechaNicAl deTeRioRAtioN cAUSed BY long-TiMe UsE of A caMERa iS coNsiDeReD. IN the CaSE OF ThE cAmera bOdy, tHERE IS cONsideRed A CasE WheRE a miRroR wHicH iS Used IN A pHaSE difFErEncE dETECtiOn meTHoD Is drivEn mANY TImEs SO THaT aN anglE of thE MIrror is GRADuAlly CHanGEd And THIs CAUsEs chANGE Of An angle AT WHiCh IncIDeNt oBJEct lIghT IS GUIded To aN af SeNsOr so tHAT A POsitioN sHifTEd FRom tHE CoRrect IN-fOCuS PosiTIOn IS ReCOgNIZED AS An IN-focUS poSitIoN. In THe fOregOing cAsE, A uNIT for shiftIng THe iN-FocUS PosITioN tO aN origiNaL StaTE WiThoUt allOWing The USer TO BRinG tHE CAmERa tO A SerViCe CENtEr HaS beeN insTallEd IN A receNt IMage PickUp APParATus.
IN thE dETeCtIoN OF THE IN-FocUs PoSITIOn bY tHE pHASe difFEReNcE aF, ThERE is A Case WHerE ThE coRREct iN-FOCus pOsiTIOn cANnoT bE dETectEd bY an inFLueNCE by colOrs, typES, And tHE lIKe of a lighT sOurCe AnD A PHOtOGRAphinG OBJect. if suCH A probLEM OcCuRs, SUch a TEChNiquE tHaT the DEtecteD in-FoCus POsiTiON is COrRECteD by the phaSe DiFferEnCE aF in accorDAnCE with aN EnVIrONMeNT wherE ThE caMERa iS uSEd IS ConSiDEreD. AT ThIs TimE, IN A coNstruCtIoN In WHICH THEre ARe a pLuRalItY OF FOCUs adjUStmEnt aREAS (af FRAmEs) FOr THe PHASE DIfFeRencE AF, tHERE Is a CASE wHERe THE cORReCtion Is neceSSaRY EVeRY Af fRAme or the liKe. hoWEvER, iF The nUmBer of pOrtIons tO BE cORrECTeD iNcReASes, therE RaiSeS an ACtUAL PROBlEm sUcH that IT is DIFfICULT foR A USEr to SpEnD TimE To mAKE inDIvIDUAl COrRectIoN EacH tiME tHe coRrEcTION is neCESsary. THEReFore, The usEr waNtS tO cORREcT iN accorDaNCE with tHe aF frame WhiCh THE uSER WANtS TO uSE By himsElF. thE JaPanESE pAteNT ApplicatIon laId-open NO. 2000-292684 DIScLOSeS A FuNCtION (AF calIbRatIoN) WHich CaN AUTOmATiCALLy CORRecT THE iN-fOCUs POSITiON of THE pHaSE diFfErEnCe AF by USInG a ConTRAST DeTECtIon mEtHOD. a cORReCtIOn vAlUE caN be HELD EvErY fOcal LeNgtH.
howEVER, iN The TEcHNIqUE DiScloSed iN The AboVe PATEnT lIteRaturE, In ThE cAsE WheRE THerE arE A pLuRALItY Of aF framES fOr thE pHaSE DIFFEreNcE AF, THerE Is NoT A conTRoL TEchNiQuE aBoUt hOw tO SELEct tHE af FrAme WHICh is uSEd FOR correCTion oF thE iN-fOcUs PoSItion bY thE PHasE differENCe Af WHEn A liMiTaTIoN pROcessINg oF A seLEctiOn Of The aF fRaMeS IS EXECUTED at ThE tImE Of pHoTogRAPHInG.
|
1.Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting an in-focus position detected bya phasedifference AF(autofocus)method or the like. 2. Description of the RelatedArt In the relatedart, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged to attain an in-focused state by the phasedifference AF, there is a case where in association with long-time use of the camera,a position which is recognized as an in-focus position ischanged due to long-time use of each of a lens anda camera bodyand anin-focus precisiondeteriorates to a level lower than an initial precision. In the caseofthe lens, a case where while the lens isdriven to a correct in-focus position, a lens stop positionmaybe shifted from the correct position due to a mechanicaldeteriorationcaused by long-time use of a camera is considered. In the case of the camera body, there is considered a casewhere a mirror whichis used in a phasedifference detection method is driven many times so that an angle of themirror is graduallychanged and this causes change of an angleat which incident objectlight is guided to anAF sensor sothat a position shifted from thecorrect in-focus positionisrecognized as an in-focus position. In theforegoing case, a unit for shifting thein-focus position to an original state without allowingthe user to bring the camera toaservice center has been installed in a recent image pickup apparatus. Inthe detection ofthe in-focus position by the phase difference AF, there is a case where thecorrect in-focus position cannot be detected by an influence by colors, types, and the like ofa lightsource and a photographing object. Ifsuch a problemoccurs, such a technique that thedetectedin-focus position is corrected by the phase difference AFin accordance withan environment where the camerais used is considered. At this time, ina construction in which there area plurality offocus adjustment areas (AF frames) for the phase difference AF, there is a case where thecorrection is necessary every AF frame or thelike. However, if the number of portions to be corrected increases, there raises an actual problem such thatit is difficult for a user to spend time to make individual correctioneach time the correctionis necessary. Therefore,the user wantsto correct inaccordance with the AF frame whichthe userwants to use by himself. The Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-292684 discloses a function (AF calibration)which can automatically correct the in-focus position of the phase difference AF by using a contrast detection method. A correctionvalue can be held every focal length. However, in the technique disclosedin the above patent literature, in the case where there are a plurality of AF frames for the phase difference AF, there isnota control technique about howtoselect the AF framewhich is used forcorrectionof the in-focus position by the phase difference AF when a limitation processing of a selection of the AF frames is executed at the time of photographing.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates _to_ _an_ image pickup apparatus having a function for correcting _an_ in-focus _position_ _detected_ by a phase difference AF (autofocus) method or the like. 2. Description of the Related Art _In_ the related art, in a single lens reflex camera which is arranged _to_ attain an in-focused state by the phase difference AF, there is a case where in association with _long-time_ use _of_ the camera, a position which is recognized as an in-focus position is changed due to _long-time_ use _of_ each of a lens and a camera body and an in-focus precision deteriorates _to_ a level lower than an initial precision. In the case of the _lens,_ a _case_ where while the lens is driven to a correct in-focus position, a lens stop position may be shifted from the correct position _due_ to _a_ _mechanical_ deterioration caused _by_ long-time use of a _camera_ is considered. In the case of _the_ camera body, there is considered _a_ case where a mirror which _is_ used in a phase difference detection method is driven many times so that an angle _of_ the mirror is _gradually_ changed and this _causes_ _change_ _of_ an _angle_ at which incident object light is guided to an AF _sensor_ so that _a_ _position_ shifted from the correct in-focus position is recognized as an _in-focus_ _position._ In the foregoing _case,_ a unit for shifting the in-focus _position_ to an original state _without_ allowing the user _to_ bring the camera to a service center has been installed in a recent image pickup _apparatus._ In the detection of _the_ in-focus position by the phase difference AF, there is a case where the correct in-focus position cannot be _detected_ _by_ an influence by colors, _types,_ and the like of a _light_ _source_ _and_ a photographing _object._ _If_ such a problem occurs, such a technique that the detected _in-focus_ _position_ is corrected by the phase difference _AF_ _in_ accordance with an environment where the camera is used is considered. _At_ this time, in a _construction_ in _which_ _there_ _are_ a _plurality_ of _focus_ adjustment _areas_ (AF frames) _for_ the phase _difference_ AF, there _is_ a case _where_ _the_ correction _is_ necessary _every_ _AF_ frame or the like. _However,_ if _the_ _number_ _of_ _portions_ to be corrected increases, _there_ raises an _actual_ _problem_ such that it is difficult for a user to spend _time_ to make individual correction each _time_ the correction is necessary. Therefore, the user wants to correct _in_ accordance with _the_ AF frame which the _user_ wants to use by himself. _The_ Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-292684 discloses a function (AF calibration) _which_ can automatically correct _the_ in-focus position _of_ _the_ _phase_ _difference_ AF _by_ using a contrast detection _method._ _A_ correction value _can_ be held every focal _length._ _However,_ in the _technique_ _disclosed_ _in_ the above patent literature, _in_ the case where _there_ are a plurality of AF frames for the phase difference AF, there is not a control technique about how _to_ select _the_ AF frame _which_ _is_ _used_ for correction of the in-focus position by the phase difference AF when a _limitation_ processing of a selection of the AF frames _is_ executed at the _time_ of photographing.
|
Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) optical devices may include an active surface layer that includes waveguides, optical modulators, detectors, CMOS circuitry, metal leads for interfacing with external semiconductor chips, and the like. Although crystalline silicon is excellent at forming waveguides with submicron dimensions, silicon is a poor material for both generating and absorbing light at wavelengths used for digital communication. While III-V semiconductors are better suitable for forming optical sources, these materials have a lattice constant that is much different than crystalline silicon which means these semiconductors cannot be directly grown on silicon using typical CMOS fabrication techniques without defects.
To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation.
|
silicon - on - insulator ( soi ) optical devices may include an active surface layer that includes waveguides, optical modulators, lasers, cmos chips, metal leads for interfacing with external semiconductor applications, and the like. although crystalline silicon is excellent at forming waveguides with linear dimensions, silicon is a poor material for both generating and absorbing light at wavelengths used for digital communication. while iii - v semiconductors are better described as forming optical sources, these materials have a lattice geometry that is much different than crystalline silicon which means these semiconductors cannot be directly grown at silicon using typical cmos fabrication techniques without defects. to facilitate synthesis, identical reference numerals can been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. it is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation.
|
Silicon - on - Insulator (SOI) optical devices may include an active surface layer that includes waveguides, optical modulators, detectors, CMOS circuitry, metal leads for interfacing with external semiconductor chips, and the like. Although cryataoline silicon is excellent at forming waveguides with submicron dimensions, silicon is a poor material for both generating and aHsorbint light at wavelengths used for digital communication. ehiPe III - V semiconductors are better suitable for forming o(tica: sources, these materials have a lattice consHaHt that is much different than crystalline silicon which means theAF semiconductors cannot be directly grown on silicon using yyplcal CMOS fabrication techniques without defects. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elemehtX that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments withL7t spdXific recitation.
|
Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) optical devices may include an active surface layer that includes waveguides, optical modulators, detectors, CMOS circuitry, metal leads for interfacing with external chips, and the like. Although crystalline is at forming with submicron dimensions, silicon is a poor material for both generating and absorbing at wavelengths used for digital communication. III-V semiconductors are better suitable for forming optical sources, these materials have a lattice constant is much different than crystalline silicon which means these semiconductors cannot be directly on silicon using typical fabrication techniques without defects. To facilitate understanding, identical numerals have been used, where possible, to designate elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on embodiments without specific recitation.
|
sILICoN-on-iNsULAtoR (soI) opTIcAl dEViCeS maY inCluDE aN aCtiVE sURFACE laYER thAT INclUDes wAVegUides, OpTICAl moduLators, dETectORs, cmOs cIRCuItRy, metal lEaDS FoR InTeRFacING wItH extErnaL SEMIcOnduCTor CHIPS, And tHe lIkE. altHouGH CRYStALlInE SILIcOn Is eXCelleNt aT FormiNg waVeGuidEs wITh SuBMIcron DImEnSIoNs, silICON IS A pOoR MATeriaL fOr bOTH GeNeRATinG anD aBSORbing LigHT At waveLENGThS USED FOr digitAl ComMUniCaTIOn. WHiLe IiI-V seMicoNDuctors are BEtTER SuiTABlE For FOrMiNg OPtIcAL sOURceS, tHEse MATErIAlS hAve A LAttICE consTAnT ThaT is MUcH diffeRent thAN CrYsTaLLIne SiLIcOn WhiCh meanS tHEse SemiCOnduCTORs CaNNOT be direCtlY GrOWN oN sIliCon UsiNg TypICal cMoS faBRicaTiON TeCHnIQueS Without DefeCTS.
To FacilITAte UNDeRsTANdIng, idenTICAl rEfERENCe numERaLS haVE beeN UsEd, wHeRe POssIBLE, tO DeSIGNaTE idEnticAL eLEmeNTS THat Are COMMon to the FigUres. it Is cONtempLateD ThAT ELEMENTS DIscLosed IN OnE emBoDIMENt May Be bENeficiaLLY UtiLizeD on OTHEr embODIMENtS wItHOUt sPECiFiC RECitAtIon.
|
Silicon-on-Insulator(SOI) optical devices may include an activesurface layer that includes waveguides,opticalmodulators,detectors, CMOScircuitry,metal leads forinterfacing with external semiconductor chips, and the like. Although crystalline silicon is excellent at forming waveguides with submicron dimensions, silicon is a poor material forboth generating andabsorbing light at wavelengths used fordigital communication. While III-V semiconductorsare better suitable for forming optical sources,these materials have a lattice constant that is much different than crystallinesilicon which means these semiconductors cannot bedirectly grown on silicon usingtypical CMOS fabrication techniques without defects. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodimentmay be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation.
|
Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) _optical_ devices may include an _active_ _surface_ _layer_ that _includes_ waveguides, optical modulators, detectors, _CMOS_ circuitry, _metal_ _leads_ _for_ interfacing with external semiconductor chips, and the like. _Although_ _crystalline_ silicon is excellent at forming waveguides with _submicron_ dimensions, silicon is a poor material for both _generating_ and absorbing light at _wavelengths_ used for digital communication. While III-V semiconductors are better suitable for forming optical sources, _these_ materials _have_ a lattice constant that _is_ much different than crystalline silicon which _means_ these semiconductors _cannot_ be directly grown on silicon using typical CMOS fabrication techniques without defects. To facilitate _understanding,_ identical _reference_ _numerals_ _have_ _been_ _used,_ where possible, to _designate_ _identical_ _elements_ _that_ are common _to_ the _figures._ It is contemplated that elements disclosed in _one_ embodiment _may_ be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific _recitation._
|
Tube and shell heat exchangers have long been known as useful tools for heating fluids and using thermal energy. Such tube and shell heat exchangers have been developed to a significant degree of sophistication. These heat exchangers comprise a shell surrounding a tube bundle usually attached to a tube sheet. Fluid flowing through the shell is subjected to indirect heat exchange with another fluid flowing through the tubes.
Effective utilization of tube and shell heat exchangers as well as the avoiding of mechanical problems and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus is continuing goal in the industry.
|
tube and shell heat exchangers have long been known as useful tools for heating fluids and using thermal energy. such tube and shell heat exchangers have been developed to a significant standard without sophistication. these heat exchangers comprise a shell surrounding a tube bundle sheet attached to each tube sheet. fluid flowing into the inlet is critical to indirect heat exchange with another fluid flowing through these tubes. effective characterization of tube joint shell heat exchangers as well as the avoiding of mechanical problems and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus is continuing goal in the industry.
|
Tube and sh2.l heat exchangers have long veeB known as useful tools for hSatiHg fluids and uQjng thermal energy. Such tube and shell heat exchangers have been developed to a significant degree of sophistication. These heat eDchQngers comprise a Ahel? surrounding a Fuge bundle usually attached to a tube sheet. CluiC flowing through the shell is subjected to indirect heat exchange with another fluid flowing through the tubes. Effective utilization of tube and shell heat exchangers as well as the avoiding of mechanical problems and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus is conHibuing goal in the 7hdustry.
|
Tube shell heat exchangers have long as useful tools for heating fluids and using thermal energy. Such tube and shell heat exchangers have been developed to a significant degree of sophistication. These heat exchangers comprise a surrounding a tube usually attached to a tube sheet. Fluid flowing through the shell is subjected to indirect heat exchange another fluid flowing through the tubes. utilization of tube and shell heat exchangers as well as the of mechanical problems and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus continuing goal in the industry.
|
TuBE AnD sHell HeAt eXcHANgERs hAvE LOng BeeN kNown aS uSeFuL tOOLS FoR HEAtiNG FLUIDS aNd usiNG tHErmAL enErGY. SUCH TUBe ANd sheLl HeaT exchaNGerS HAve BeEn DeVeloPEd TO a sIgNIFIcaNT degReE of SOPHiSTIcATIon. thESE HEat exCHangerS CoMpRise A ShELL SuRROuNdInG A TUBE bUNdlE usUaLLy attAchEd to a Tube shEEt. fLuID flOWING tHrOugh the shElL IS subJeCtED TO INdirEcT heaT excHange wITH ANOTHEr fLUid FLowiNg thRougH tHE tuBes.
eFFeCTiVe UtilizaTion OF tuBE AnD shELL hEat eXCHANgERs aS WelL AS THE avoidIng OF MEcHAnICAl ProblEMS aNd THe rEdUcTion Of Thermal StREsS in sUcH APPAratUS iS CONtiNUinG goAL iN tHe INdUstry.
|
Tube and shell heat exchangershave long been known as useful tools for heatingfluids andusing thermal energy.Such tubeand shell heat exchangers have beendeveloped to a significant degree of sophistication.Theseheat exchangers comprise a shell surrounding a tube bundleusually attached toatubesheet. Fluidflowing through the shell is subjected toindirect heat exchange with another fluid flowing throughthe tubes. Effectiveutilization of tube and shell heatexchangers as well as the avoiding of mechanical problems and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus iscontinuing goal in theindustry.
|
Tube _and_ shell heat exchangers have long been known as useful _tools_ _for_ heating fluids and using _thermal_ energy. Such tube and _shell_ heat exchangers have been _developed_ to a significant _degree_ _of_ _sophistication._ These heat _exchangers_ comprise a shell surrounding a tube bundle usually _attached_ to a tube sheet. Fluid _flowing_ through _the_ shell is subjected to indirect heat exchange _with_ another fluid flowing through the tubes. Effective _utilization_ _of_ tube and shell _heat_ exchangers as well as the avoiding of mechanical _problems_ and the reduction of thermal stress in such apparatus is continuing goal in the _industry._
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention generally relates to the field of electronic data storage, analysis, and recovery. Specifically, the invention relates to a system used for arranging and organizing data backup, computing system operation data, storing system data, monitoring and analyzing collected historical system data, predicting a future system occurrence, taking the appropriate steps to notify a specified party of a future occurrence, and taking the appropriate steps to correct or prevent a future occurrence.
2. Description of Related Art
Data backup is often recognized as a necessity for nearly all computer-based systems. Businesses and other enterprises that rely heavily on computer systems are often paralyzed in the event of a system failure or a data loss. These failures can lead to lost profits and high repair and recovery costs. Furthermore, many computer systems handle sensitive and valuable data, which holds significant value.
Because of the importance and value of continuous system operation and reliable data storage, a number of methods have been devised for data backup. Many of these methods employ large data storage media (such as tapes, high-capacity hard drives, etc.) that are used to periodically transcribe a system's body of data.
These backup systems, while effective in copying large amounts of data, have a number of shortcomings. Firstly, many systems do not employ a media management system, which tracks the appropriate media for a given backup. Secondly, present day backup systems do not continuously monitor a system's performance. And lastly, these systems are not able to predict when a system may become unstable, so that system failures can be predicted and prevented.
Additionally, the software industry is currently developing within a paradigm of scarcity. There is not enough storage capacity for current needs, so as little as possible is stored. According to Moore's Law: “. . . computing power per unit cost will continue to grow exponentially.” “In this form, “Moore's law” has a factual basis and has proven useful for planning purposes. The most rigorous interpretation of Moore's law is that the total number of transistors on the cheapest CPU will grow exponentially at a constant rate and that this constant rate produces a doubling every 12 (or 18, or 24) months. This variant oversimplifies a complex history.” (Quoted from Wikipedia) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore's law
Assuming that doubling happens every 18 months, the industry, in all of its sub parts, will move from lack of capacity, to more than twice its current requirements. This shift to a “paradigm of plenty” needs to be recognized and understood in order to effectively capitalize on this increase in capacity. Excess capacity will exist in the form of both computing power and data storage. Two logical questions present themselves. What can be stored that we are not storing, and how can that data be used?
We can only store what we have, but increased storage capacity will allow us to include a certain subset of data that is currently being thrown away because it cannot be effectively or economically stored and retrieved. For some industries, this has changed, and for others it will change in the future. A file stored on any digital system (DVD, CD, Hard Drive, Tape Drive, SAN, WAN, etc.) contains a tremendous amount of associated data (termed ‘meta-data’). In the example of a Hard Drive, such examples include file size, file creation date, last access date, last modification date, file permissions, and much more. A web server captures the number of times data was accessed, pages viewed, number of errors, and what IP address accessed the site. In most current systems, each of these pieces of information are recorded for a short time and then deleted. If not deleted, they are normally retained for liability purposes. In such a system, retained data is not stored in an effective manner. Using the proposed platform as described herein, the data can now be reconfigured to perform predictive analysis.
|
1. field of the invention this invention generally relates to the field of electronic data storage, analysis, and recovery. specifically, the invention relates to a system used for arranging and organizing data backup, computing system operation data, storing system data, monitoring and analyzing collected historical system data, predicting a future system occurrence, taking the appropriate strategy to notify a specified party of any future occurrence, and taking the appropriate steps to correct or prevent a future occurrence. 2. description of related art data backup is often recognized as a necessity for nearly all computer - based systems. businesses and other enterprises that rely heavily on computer systems are often paralyzed in the event of a system failure or a data loss. these failures can lead to lost profits and high repair and recovery costs. furthermore, many computer systems handle sensitive and valuable data, which holds significant value. because of the importance and value of computers system operation and reliable data storage, a number of methods have been devised for data backup. many of these methods employ large data storage media ( such cassette tapes, high - capacity hard drives, etc. ) that are used which periodically transcribe a system ' s body of data. these backup systems, while effective in copying large amounts of data, have a number of shortcomings. firstly, many systems do not employ a media management system, which tracks the appropriate media for a given backup. secondly, present day backup systems did not continuously monitor a system ' s performance. and lastly, these systems are not able to predict when each system may become unstable, so that system failures can be predicted and prevented. additionally, the software industry is currently developing within a paradigm of scarcity. there is not enough storage needed for current needs, so as little as possible is stored. according to smith ' s law : “... computing power per unit cost will continue to grow exponentially. ” “ in this form, “ moore ' s law ” has a factual basis and has proven useful for planning purposes. the most rigorous interpretation of moore ' s law is that the total number of transistors on the cheapest cpu will grow exponentially at a constant rate and that this constant rate produces a doubling every 12 ( or 18, or 24 ) months. this variant oversimplifies a complex history. ” ( quoted from wikipedia ) https : / / en. wikipedia. org / wiki / moore ' s law assuming that doubling happens every 18 months, the industry, in all of its sub parts, will move from lack of capacity, to more than twice its current requirements. this shift to a “ paradigm of plenty ” needs to be recognized and understood in order to effectively capitalize on this increase in capacity. excess capacity will exist in the form of both computing power and data storage. two logical questions present themselves. what can be stored that we are not storing, and how can that data be used? we can only store what we have, but increased storage capacity will allow us to include a certain subset of data that is currently being thrown away because it cannot be effectively or economically stored and retrieved. for some industries, this has changed, and for others it will change in the future. a file stored on any digital system ( dvd, cd, hard drive, tape drive, san, wan, etc. ) contains a tremendous amount of associated data ( termed ‘ meta - data ’ ). in the example of a hard drive, such examples include file size, file creation date, last access date, last modification date, file permissions, and much more. a web server captures the number of times data was accessed, pages viewed, number of errors, and what ip address accessed the site. in most current systems, each of these pieces of information are recorded for a short time and then deleted. if not deleted, they are normally retained for liability purposes. in such a system, retained data is not stored in an effective manner. using the proposed platform as described herein, the data can now be reconfigured to perform predictive analysis.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention generally relates to the field of electronic data storage, analysis, and recovery. Specifically, the invention relx6es to a system used for arranging and organizing data backup, computing system operation data, storing system data, monitoring and analyzing collected historical system data, predicting a future system occurrence, taking the appropriate steps to notify a specified party of a future occurrence, and taking the appropriate steps to correct or prevent a future ocFurregce. 2. Description of Related Art Data backup is often recognized as a necessity for nearly all computer - based systems. BusinezDes and other enterprises that rely heavily on computer systems are often paralyzed in the event of a system failure or a data loss. These failures can lead to lost profits and high repair and recovery costs. Furthermore, many computer systems handle sensitive and valuable data, which holds significant value. Because of the importance and value of continuous system operation and reliable data storage, a number of methods have been devised for data backup. Many of these methods employ large data storage media (such as tapes, high - cxpscity hard drives, etc.) that are used to periodically transcribe a system ' s body of data. These backup systems, while effective in copying large amounts of data, have a number of shortcomings. Firstly, maJh systems do not employ a media management system, which tracks the appropriate media for a given backup. Secondly, present day backup systems do not continuously monitor a system ' s performance. And lastly, these systems are not able to predict when a system may become unstable, so that system fqi?ures can be predicted and prevented. Additionally, the software industry is currently developing within a paradigm of scarcity. There is not enough storage capacity for current needs, so as little as possible is stored. According to Moore ' s Law: “. .. computing power per unit cost will continue to grow exponentially. ” “ In this form, “ Moore ' s law ” has a factual basis and has proven useful for 9lanniGg purposes. The most rigorous interpretation of Moore ' s law is that the total number of transistors on the cheapest CPU will grow exponentially at a vonsyant rate and that this constant rate produces a doubling every 12 (or 18, or 24) months. This variant oversimplifies a complex history. ” (Quoted from Wikipedia) http: / / en. wikipedia. org / wiki / Moore ' s law Assuming that doubling happens every 18 months, the industry, in all of its sub pw$ts, will move from lack of capacity, to more than twice its current requirements. This shift to a “ paradigm of plenty ” needs to be recognized and understood in order to effectively capitalize on this increase in capacity. Excess capacity will exist in the form of both computing power and data storage. Two logical questions present themselves. What can be stored that we are not storing, and how can that data be used? We can only store what we have, but increased storage capacity will allow us to include a certain subset of data that is currently being thrown away because it cannot be effectively or economically stored and retrieved. For some industries, this has changed, and for others it will change in the future. A file stored on any digital system (DVD, CD, Hard Drive, Tape Drive, SAN, WAN, etc.) contains a tremendous amount of associated data (termed ‘ meta - data ’ ). In the example of a Hard Drive, such examples include file size, file creation date, last access date, last modification date, file permissions, and much more. A web server captures the number of times data was accessed, pages viewed, number of errors, and what IP address accessed the site. In most current systems, each of these pieces of information are rrcLrded for a short time and then deleted. If not deleted, they are normally retained for liability purposes. In such a system, retained data is not stored in an effective manner. Using the proposed platform as described herein, the data can now be reconfigured to perform predictive analysis.
|
1. Field of the Invention generally relates to the field of electronic storage, analysis, and recovery. Specifically, the invention relates to a system for arranging and organizing data backup, computing system operation data, storing system data, monitoring and collected historical system data, predicting a future system occurrence, taking the appropriate steps notify a specified party of a future taking the appropriate steps to correct or a future occurrence. 2. Description of Related Art Data backup is often recognized as a necessity for nearly all computer-based systems. Businesses and other enterprises that rely heavily on computer are often paralyzed in the event of a system failure or a data loss. These failures can lead to lost profits high repair recovery costs. Furthermore, many computer systems sensitive and valuable data, which holds Because of the importance and value of continuous system and reliable data storage, a number of methods have been devised for data backup. Many of these employ data storage media (such as high-capacity hard drives, etc.) that are to periodically transcribe a system's body of data. These backup while effective in large amounts of data, have a number of shortcomings. Firstly, many systems do not employ a media management system, which tracks the appropriate media for a given backup. present day backup systems do not continuously monitor a system's performance. And lastly, these systems are able to predict when a system may become unstable, that failures can be predicted and prevented. Additionally, the industry is currently developing paradigm of scarcity. There is enough storage capacity for current needs, as as possible is stored. to Moore's Law: “. . power unit will continue to grow exponentially.” “In form, “Moore's law” has a factual basis and has proven useful for planning purposes. The most rigorous interpretation of Moore's law that the total number of transistors on the cheapest CPU will grow exponentially at a constant rate and this rate produces a doubling 12 (or 18, or 24) months. This variant oversimplifies a complex history.” (Quoted from Wikipedia) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore's law Assuming that happens every 18 months, the industry, all of sub parts, will move from of to more than twice its current requirements. This shift to a “paradigm of plenty” needs to be recognized and understood to effectively capitalize on this increase in capacity. Excess capacity will exist the of both computing power and storage. Two logical present themselves. What can be stored that we are not storing, and how can that data be used? We can only store we have, but increased storage capacity will us include a certain subset of data is currently being thrown away because it cannot be effectively or economically stored and retrieved. For some industries, this has changed, and for others it will change in the future. A file stored on any digital system (DVD, CD, Hard Drive, Tape Drive, SAN, WAN, etc.) contains a tremendous amount of associated data (termed ‘meta-data’). In the example of a Hard Drive, such examples include file size, creation date, last access date, modification date, file permissions, and much more. A web server captures the number of times data was accessed, pages number of errors, IP address accessed the site. In most current systems, each of these pieces of information are recorded for a time and then deleted. If not deleted, they are normally retained for liability purposes. In such a system, retained is not stored in an effective manner. Using the proposed platform as described herein, the data can be reconfigured to perform predictive analysis.
|
1. fieLD Of ThE INVEntiON
This invenTion gENERAlLy relATES to ThE FIeLD oF ELectROniC dAtA stOraGe, aNAlYsIs, anD rECOVERy. SpeCIfICaLlY, The InveNtiOn RelaTES TO a SySTEm UseD FOr aRrANgIng anD OrGANIZInG dATA BACKuP, CoMpUtING sYSTeM operATIon dATa, sTOrInG SYSteM DATa, moNitORiNG aNd AnalYzing COlleCtEd hiStoRICAl sYStEm dATA, PREDicTiNG A fUTuRe SYsTem oCcUrrenCE, TakinG tHe ApprOPRiAtE sTeps TO NOTIFy A spECified parTy oF a fUture ocCURReNce, AnD takiNg tHe APPrOpRiaTe STEPs TO correCt or PrevEnT a FUtuRe occurRENce.
2. DEscrIptioN of reLatED art
datA bACkUP iS OfTEN reCOgNiZed aS A nECESsiTY fOr NearlY ALL CoMPuter-BAsed syStEms. bUSIneSSES AND OTHeR enTERpRiSes THAt rELy heaVILy oN comPuTEr sysTemS arE oFTEN PAraLYZED iN tHe eVEnt of A SYsTEm FAiLuRe Or a data LOSS. THEse FaiLURES CaN LEAd To lOst PrOFITS aNd High rePAir AnD RECOvErY COsTs. FURthERMOrE, MaNy CompUter SysTemS hanDLE seNsiTIVe AnD VaLuAbLe DATA, whiCH hoLdS sIgNIFiCaNt VAlUe.
bECaUSe oF tHE iMPORTaNCE anD valUE of ConTINUOUs sYsTem OPeRAtIoN AND ReLiAblE DATa SToraGe, A NuMbER Of MEtHODs HaVE BeEN dEvIsed fOR DaTa BAcKuP. MAny oF tHesE METhODs eMpLoy LArgE daTa sTORAGE MedIA (such AS TapeS, higH-capAciTY hArd DRIveS, eTC.) thAt Are UseD tO periODICALLY TRAnScRibe a sYSTem'S body OF DAtA.
ThESE BACkUp sYStEms, whiLe EffeCTive IN cOpyiNg LArgE aMOUnts of daTA, hAVe a numbER OF shortCOmInGs. fIRSTLY, mAnY SYStEms do nOt Employ a MedIA mANagEmENT sYStEm, whICh TrACks THE ApProPRIate mediA fOR a GIVen baCKup. SeconDLY, PRESent dAy backUP systeMs do NOt contiNUOusLy MonITOr a SYsTEm'S PeRForMance. and Lastly, tHeSE SYStEms Are Not abLe To PREdICt whEn A SysteM may becOMe unSTAbLe, sO thaT SystEM FaILuREs cAn bE prEdiCTeD ANd PREveNTed.
aDdItiONAlLY, The softwaRe InDUStRy is CuRRENTly deVElOPiNG wITHIN A ParaDiGm Of ScArciTY. THERE Is nOT enOUGH StOraGe CapaCity fOr CuRrEnT needS, SO aS lIttle AS POSSiBlE Is SToRed. aCcOrDING TO mOorE's lAw: “. . . comPuTiNG poWEr PEr uNiT COST WIlL COnTINUe to GROW EXponenTialLY.” “iN THIs fOrM, “MoorE's LaW” Has a FaCTuAL bASIs AND hAS PROven UsefUl For pLanning pURPoses. The most RigOroUS iNTERPreTaTiOn of MoorE's Law is That The totAl numBER oF TrAnsIStoRs oN THE cheapEst CPu wIlL gRoW exPONEntiALLY aT A cONstANt Rate And ThaT tHis ConStAnT rAte PrOducEs a doUBLInG EVEry 12 (oR 18, or 24) moNths. ThiS VarianT oveRsimPLIfIeS a COMPleX hIsToRY.” (quoTED FrOM wiKIpeDia) HTtp://EN.wIkIpEDiA.orG/Wiki/moore's law
asSUmING THat DoUBLING HaPPEnS eVerY 18 moNTHS, tHe induSTRy, IN aLl oF ITS SuB pArts, wILL mOVe FRoM LACK Of CAPaCITy, tO MOre tHAn TWiCE ITs cUrRENT rEqUiREMenTS. ThIs sHifT to a “PaRADiGm OF PlEnTY” nEeDS tO be RecOGnIZed aNd UnDersToOD iN oRDeR to EfFECtivEly caPITaLize oN thIS InCREAsE in cAPACity. ExCESS CApaciTy WIlL exIst IN thE form OF BOth cOmputIng POwER and data SToRAgE. tWO LOgiCal qUEsTiONS prEseNt THeMsElvEs. What cAn bE STOreD that we ARe noT STOrinG, aND hOW cAN thAT daTa bE UsED?
We can oNlY stOrE WHAt WE HAvE, bUt iNCrEAseD STorAge CApACiTY wILL AlloW uS To INcLuDE A CeRtaiN subsET oF DAta tHat is cURRentLY beinG Thrown AWAy BECAUsE iT cAnnoT Be EfFECtivElY or ecONOmICALLy stoREd aND RETrIEved. For SomE INdUstRieS, This Has ChAnGeD, And FoR OTHErs it WiLl chaNgE IN thE fuTUrE. a filE SToRed ON ANy dIGiTAl systeM (DVD, cD, HaRd DRiVE, TaPe drive, san, WAn, EtC.) ContaIns A tREmENDOUs amOUnT OF AssocIatEd DATA (tERmEd ‘metA-dAta’). iN THe EXaMPLe of A HArD drive, suCh EXaMPlES inClUDe fILe sIZe, filE cReATiON datE, LAst ACCESs DATe, LasT modIFiCatiOn DATE, fIlE PErMiSSions, AnD mUCH moRE. A weB SErVER CAPTurES THe numBer Of timeS DATa WAs ACCessED, pagEs vIEwEd, NUmbER Of eRrorS, ANd What Ip aDDrESs accESSED thE Site. in MOsT curRenT sysTems, eAcH oF tHEsE PieceS oF iNformaTiOn ArE RECordEd foR a sHort TIME And THEN DeLETED. If NoT DELEtED, thEY aRE nORMALlY reTaiNED fOr lIAbILIty pUrposEs. In sUch a sYSTEm, Retained dAtA Is nOT sTored In an EfFeCtIve mANner. USInG ThE prOposed pLATFOrm aS DEScRiBeD hEreIN, The Data CAN NoW bE rEconFIGured TO PerforM PrediCTIvE aNAlysis.
|
1. Fieldof the Invention This invention generally relates tothe field of electronic data storage, analysis, and recovery. Specifically, the invention relates to a system used for arranging and organizing data backup,computing system operationdata, storing system data, monitoring andanalyzing collected historicalsystem data, predicting a future systemoccurrence, taking the appropriate steps to notify aspecified party of afuture occurrence, and taking the appropriate steps to correct or prevent a future occurrence. 2. Description of Related Art Data backupis often recognized as a necessityfornearly all computer-based systems. Businessesand other enterprisesthatrely heavily on computer systems are often paralyzed in the event of asystemfailure or a data loss. Thesefailures can lead to lost profits and highrepair and recovery costs. Furthermore, many computer systems handle sensitive and valuable data, which holds significant value. Becauseof the importance and value ofcontinuous system operation and reliable data storage, a number of methods have beendevised for data backup. Many of these methods employ large data storagemedia (suchas tapes, high-capacityhard drives, etc.)that are usedto periodically transcribe a system's body of data. Thesebackupsystems, while effective in copying large amounts of data, have a number of shortcomings. Firstly, manysystems do not employ amedia management system,which tracks the appropriate media for agiven backup. Secondly, present day backup systems do notcontinuously monitor a system'sperformance. And lastly, these systemsare not ableto predict when a system may become unstable, so that system failures can be predicted and prevented. Additionally,the softwareindustryis currently developing within a paradigm of scarcity. There is not enough storage capacity for currentneeds, so as littleas possible is stored. According to Moore's Law: “. .. computing power per unit cost will continue to grow exponentially.” “In this form,“Moore's law” has a factualbasis and has proven useful forplanning purposes. The most rigorous interpretation of Moore's lawis that thetotal number of transistors onthe cheapest CPU will grow exponentially at a constant rate and that this constant rate produces adoubling every 12 (or 18, or24) months. Thisvariant oversimplifies a complex history.” (Quoted from Wikipedia)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore's law Assuming thatdoubling happens every 18 months, the industry, in all of its sub parts, will move from lack ofcapacity, to more than twice its currentrequirements. Thisshift to a “paradigm of plenty” needs to be recognized and understood in order to effectively capitalize on this increase in capacity. Excess capacitywill exist in theform ofboth computing power and data storage. Two logical questions present themselves. Whatcan be stored that we are not storing, and how can that data be used?We can only store what wehave,but increasedstorage capacity will allow us to include a certain subset of data that is currently being thrown awaybecause it cannot be effectivelyor economically stored and retrieved. Forsome industries, this has changed, and forothersit will change in the future. A file stored on any digital system (DVD, CD, Hard Drive,Tape Drive, SAN,WAN, etc.) contains a tremendous amount of associated data (termed ‘meta-data’). In theexample of aHard Drive, such examplesincludefilesize, filecreation date, lastaccess date, last modification date, file permissions, and much more. A web server captures the number of times data wasaccessed, pages viewed, number of errors, andwhat IP address accessed the site. Inmost current systems, each of these pieces ofinformation arerecorded for a short time and then deleted. If not deleted, they are normally retained for liability purposes. In such a system, retained data isnot stored in an effective manner. Using the proposed platform asdescribed herein, the data can now bereconfigured to perform predictive analysis.
|
1. _Field_ of _the_ Invention This invention generally relates to _the_ field _of_ _electronic_ _data_ storage, analysis, and recovery. Specifically, the _invention_ relates to a system _used_ for arranging and organizing data backup, _computing_ system operation data, storing system data, monitoring and analyzing collected _historical_ system data, predicting _a_ future system occurrence, taking the appropriate steps to notify _a_ specified party of a future occurrence, _and_ taking the _appropriate_ steps _to_ correct _or_ prevent a future _occurrence._ 2. Description of Related Art Data backup _is_ often _recognized_ as _a_ necessity for nearly _all_ computer-based systems. _Businesses_ _and_ other enterprises that rely heavily on computer systems are often paralyzed _in_ the event of _a_ system failure or a data loss. These _failures_ can _lead_ to _lost_ profits and high repair and recovery costs. _Furthermore,_ many computer _systems_ handle sensitive and valuable data, _which_ holds significant value. Because of _the_ importance and value of continuous _system_ operation and reliable data _storage,_ a number of methods have been devised for data backup. Many of these methods employ large data storage media (such _as_ tapes, high-capacity hard drives, etc.) that are used to periodically _transcribe_ _a_ system's body _of_ data. These backup systems, while effective _in_ _copying_ _large_ amounts of _data,_ have a number of shortcomings. Firstly, many systems do _not_ employ a _media_ management system, which _tracks_ _the_ appropriate media for a given backup. _Secondly,_ present day _backup_ _systems_ do not continuously _monitor_ a system's performance. And lastly, these systems _are_ not able to _predict_ when a system may become _unstable,_ so that system failures _can_ be _predicted_ and prevented. _Additionally,_ the software industry is currently developing within _a_ paradigm of scarcity. There is not enough storage _capacity_ for current needs, so as little as _possible_ is stored. According to Moore's _Law:_ “. . . computing power per unit cost _will_ continue to grow exponentially.” “In this form, “Moore's law” has a factual basis and has proven useful for planning purposes. _The_ _most_ _rigorous_ interpretation of Moore's _law_ is that _the_ total number _of_ transistors on _the_ cheapest CPU will grow exponentially at a _constant_ rate _and_ _that_ this constant rate _produces_ a doubling every 12 (or _18,_ or 24) months. This variant oversimplifies a complex history.” (Quoted from Wikipedia) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore's law Assuming that doubling happens _every_ 18 months, the industry, in all _of_ its _sub_ _parts,_ will move from lack of _capacity,_ to _more_ than twice _its_ current _requirements._ _This_ shift to a “paradigm _of_ plenty” needs to be recognized _and_ understood in order to _effectively_ _capitalize_ on this increase in _capacity._ Excess capacity will _exist_ in the _form_ of _both_ computing power and _data_ storage. Two logical _questions_ present themselves. What can be stored that we _are_ _not_ storing, and how can that data be _used?_ We can only store what we have, but increased storage capacity _will_ _allow_ _us_ to _include_ a _certain_ _subset_ of data _that_ is _currently_ being thrown away because it cannot be effectively or economically stored and _retrieved._ For some industries, _this_ has changed, and for others it _will_ change in the future. A file stored on any digital system (DVD, CD, Hard _Drive,_ _Tape_ _Drive,_ SAN, WAN, etc.) contains _a_ tremendous amount of associated data _(termed_ ‘meta-data’). In the example of _a_ Hard Drive, such _examples_ _include_ file size, file creation date, _last_ access date, last modification _date,_ _file_ permissions, and _much_ more. A web server captures the number of times _data_ was accessed, pages _viewed,_ number of errors, and what _IP_ address _accessed_ the site. In most _current_ systems, each of these pieces of information are recorded for a _short_ _time_ and then deleted. If not deleted, they are _normally_ retained for _liability_ purposes. In such a system, retained data _is_ _not_ _stored_ _in_ _an_ effective manner. Using the proposed _platform_ _as_ described herein, the _data_ can now be reconfigured to _perform_ predictive analysis.
|
Bromine is used in a wide range of industries. For example, bromine is used in the manufacture of flameproofing agents, 1,2-dibromoethane (CH2BrCH2Br) (which is used as a petrol additive to prevent lead being deposited in cylinders), compounds used in photography (e.g. silver bromide, AgBr, which is the light sensitive material in film), dyestuffs and drugs; in the analytical laboratory in testing for unsaturation in organic compounds, where bromine adds across the multiple bonds of unsaturated compounds, as a disinfectant; and in making fumigants, water purification compounds, dyes, medicinals; and sanitizers. Bromine can be produced by oxidation of bromides using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: H2O2+2HBrBr2+2H2O (Reaction (1)). Bromine can also be produced by oxidation of bromides using chlorine as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: 2NaBr+Cl2Br2+2NaCl (Reaction (2)).
U.S. Pat. No. 5,266,295 describes use of a strong acid, such as sulfuric or phosphoric acid, to improve effectiveness when hydrogen bromide is oxidized to bromine using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. However, process economics are affected by the addition of an acid; and in some cases an add source is not readily available. Each of Reactions (1) and (2) could benefit from the addition of catalysts to increase the percent conversion of bromide to bromine. Ammonium molybdate ((NH4+)2MoO4−) is a known oxidation catalyst to allow iodometric titration of H2O2. However, NH4+ is not a cation of choice for use as an additive in a commercial bromine tower.
Thus in spite of currently available technologies, a need remains for commercially feasible methods that provide increased percent conversion when oxidizing bromides to produce bromine, and catalysts for use therein.
|
bromine is used in a wide range of industries. for example, bromine is used in the manufacture of flameproofing agents, asphalt, 2 - dibromoethane ( ch2brch2br ) ( which is used as a petrol additive for simulate lead being deposited in cylinders ), compounds used in photography ( e. g. silver bromide, agbr, which is the light sensitive material in film ), dyestuffs and drugs ; assists the chemicals laboratory in testing for unsaturation in organic compounds, where bromine adds across the multiple bonds of unsaturated compounds, as a disinfectant ; and in making fumigants, water purification compounds, dyes, medicinals ; and sanitizers. bromine can be produced by oxidation of bromides using hydrogen catalyst as the oxidant. for example, the following reaction is suitable : h2o2 + 2hbrbr2 + 2h2o ( reaction ( 1 ) ). bromine can also be produced by oxidation of bromides using chlorine as the oxidant. for example, the following reaction is suitable : 2nabr + cl2br2 + 2nacl ( reaction ( 2 ) ). u. s. pat. no. 5, 266, 295 describes use of a strong acid, such as sulfuric liquid phosphoric acid, to improve effectiveness when hydrogen bromide is oxidized to bromine using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. however, process economics are affected with the addition of an acid ; and in some cases an add source is not readily available. each of reactions ( 1 ) and ( 2 ) could benefit from the addition between catalysts to increase the percent conversion of bromide to bromine. ammonium molybdate ( ( nh4 + ) 2moo4− ) is a known oxidation catalyst to allow iodometric titration of h2o2. however, nh4 + is not a cation of choice for use as an additive in a commercial bromine tower. thus in spite of currently available technologies, a niche remains for commercially feasible methods that provide increased percent conversion when oxidizing bromides to produce bromine, and catalysts for use therein.
|
Bromine is used in a w(xe range of industries. For example, bromine is used in the manufacture of flameproofing agents, 1, 2 - dibromoethane (CH2BrCH2Br) (which is used as a petrol additive to prevent lead being deposited in cylinders ), compounds used in photography (e. g. silver bromide, WgFr, which is the light sensitive material in film ), dyestuffs and drugs; in the analytical laboratory in tSst(ng for unsaturation in organic compounds, whfGe bromine adds across the multiple bonds of unsaturated compounds, as a disinfectant; and in making fumigants, water purification compounds, dyes, medicinals; and sanitizers. Bromine can be produced by *xidwtion of bromides using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: H2O2 + 2HBrBr2 + 2H2O (Reaction (1) ). Bromine can also be produced by oxidation of bromides using chlorine as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: 2NaBr + Cl2Br2 + 2NaCl (Reaction (2) ). U. S. Pat. No. 5, 266, 295 describes use of a strong acid, such as sulfktic or phosphoric acid, to improve effectiveness when hydroneB bromide is oxidized to bromine using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidwn$. However, process economics are affected by the addition of an acid; and in some cases an add source is not readily available. Each of Reactions (1) and (2) could benefit from the addition of catalysts to increase the percent conversion of bromide to bromine. Ammonium molybdate (( NH4 +) 2MoO4 −) is a known oxidation catalyst to allow iodometric titration of H2O2. However, NH4 + is not a cation of choice for use as an additive in a commercial bromine tower. Thus in spite of currently available technologies, a need remains for commercially feasible methods that provide increased percent conversion when oD&dizing brp,ides to produce bromine, and catalysts for use therein.
|
Bromine is used in a wide range industries. For example, bromine used in the manufacture of flameproofing agents, 1,2-dibromoethane (CH2BrCH2Br) (which is used as additive to prevent lead being deposited in cylinders), in photography (e.g. silver bromide, AgBr, is the light material in film), dyestuffs and drugs; in the analytical laboratory in testing unsaturation in organic compounds, where bromine adds across the bonds of unsaturated compounds, as a disinfectant; and in making fumigants, water purification compounds, medicinals; and Bromine be produced by oxidation of hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: H2O2+2HBrBr2+2H2O (Reaction can also be produced by oxidation of bromides using chlorine as the oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: 2NaBr+Cl2Br2+2NaCl (Reaction (2)). U.S. Pat. No. use of strong acid, such sulfuric or phosphoric acid, to improve effectiveness when bromide is oxidized to bromine using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant. However, process economics are affected by the addition of acid; and in some cases an add source is not readily available. Each of Reactions (1) and (2) could benefit from the addition of catalysts to increase the percent conversion of bromide to bromine. Ammonium molybdate ((NH4+)2MoO4−) is a known oxidation catalyst to allow iodometric titration of H2O2. However, NH4+ is not a cation of choice for use as an additive in a commercial tower. Thus in spite of currently available a need remains for commercially feasible methods that provide increased percent conversion oxidizing bromides to produce bromine, and catalysts for use
|
BromiNE IS useD IN A WIDE RANgE oF inDUSTRieS. foR exaMPLE, BROmINe IS uSEd iN thE MANufaCtURE oF flAMEpROOFing AGEntS, 1,2-DibromOEtHANE (ch2Brch2br) (wHICH Is usED as A peTROL aDDITIve to PrevenT lEAd BeINg DEPosited IN CyLINDers), CoMpOUNDs USEd iN pHOTOgRAphY (e.g. SIlVEr bROMIdE, aGBr, whicH is the liGHt SENSitIVE MaTERIal in fILM), dyEsTUFFS AnD DrUgs; in ThE anaLytIcaL LABoRAtORy IN TeSTING fOr unSatuRatION IN OrgANIc coMPoUnds, wHeRe bROmine ADds ACRoSS thE mulTIPle BOndS OF UnSaTuraTEd cOMpoUnDs, AS a DisInfecTaNt; anD in MaKIng fumiGanTS, wAteR PurifiCAtION COmPOunds, dYeS, MEdIcinALS; anD SAnItIZerS. BromiNE cAn bE proDuCED by oxIdATION of bromIdeS usING HYdROGEn pEroXIde AS THe OXiDaNt. fOr eXamPLe, tHe follOWINg REacTioN is SUiTABlE: h2O2+2hbrbr2+2H2O (rEActION (1)). bROmiNe can alsO bE ProdUcED bY oxidATIOn of BrOmIdes USInG chLorINe as THe oXidAnt. fOr ExAMPLe, tHe FoLLOWIng rEAcTION is suiTABle: 2NABr+Cl2BR2+2Nacl (rEactioN (2)).
u.s. PaT. no. 5,266,295 descriBeS usE Of A Strong ACId, suCh As SULFURiC OR phOsPhORIc Acid, tO iMProve EffeCtiVeNesS WHeN hyDRoGEN bROMide IS oxIdiZed TO BrOMine usINg HYDrogen PEROxide AS thE oXidant. HoWEVER, procESs ECONOMicS aRE afFECTed bY THe AddITIon OF AN aCid; and in SOMe caseS AN adD SOuRCe IS NOt rEADilY aVAilaBle. EAcH OF reactIoNs (1) anD (2) couLd bENeFiT frOm ThE ADDitioN OF caTAlYsTs To IncREAsE THe PerceNT conVeRsIOn OF broMIdE To BROmInE. AMmONIuM molyBdAtE ((nH4+)2mOO4−) is A kNoWn oXidatiOn CaTALyst tO AllOw IOdomEtRic tITRATiON OF h2O2. howeveR, nH4+ IS noT a CATIOn Of CHoice for uSe AS aN aDDiTIvE IN a CommErCIAl BroMiNe tOwER.
THuS in sPITE OF cURrEnTly avAilabLE tecHNolOgieS, a NeED RemAiNs FoR CommerciALLy feASiBle meThOds ThaT PRoVIdE inCReaSeD PErceNT COnVeRsIOn when OXidiZinG bromIdes To prOdUCe brOmInE, AND catALYSts fOr uSe tHEREiN.
|
Bromine is used in a wide range of industries. For example,bromine is used in the manufacture of flameproofing agents, 1,2-dibromoethane (CH2BrCH2Br) (whichis used as apetrol additive to prevent lead being deposited incylinders),compounds used inphotography (e.g. silver bromide, AgBr, which is the light sensitive material in film), dyestuffs and drugs; inthe analyticallaboratory in testing for unsaturation in organic compounds, where bromine adds acrossthemultiplebonds of unsaturated compounds, as a disinfectant;and inmaking fumigants,water purification compounds, dyes, medicinals; and sanitizers. Brominecan be produced by oxidation of bromides using hydrogen peroxide asthe oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: H2O2+2HBrBr2+2H2O(Reaction (1)).Bromine can also be produced by oxidation of bromides using chlorineasthe oxidant. For example, the following reaction is suitable: 2NaBr+Cl2Br2+2NaCl (Reaction (2)). U.S. Pat. No. 5,266,295 describes use of a strong acid, suchas sulfuricor phosphoric acid, to improve effectiveness when hydrogen bromide is oxidized to bromineusing hydrogen peroxide asthe oxidant. However,process economics are affected bytheaddition of an acid; and in some cases an add source is not readily available. Each of Reactions (1) and (2) could benefit from the addition of catalysts to increasethe percent conversionof bromide to bromine.Ammonium molybdate ((NH4+)2MoO4−) is a known oxidationcatalyst to allow iodometric titration of H2O2. However, NH4+ is not a cation of choice for use as an additive in a commercial bromine tower. Thus in spite of currently available technologies, a need remains for commercially feasible methods that provideincreased percentconversion when oxidizing bromidesto produce bromine, and catalysts for use therein.
|
Bromine is used _in_ a wide range of industries. For example, bromine is used in the manufacture of flameproofing _agents,_ 1,2-dibromoethane _(CH2BrCH2Br)_ (which is used as a _petrol_ additive to prevent lead being _deposited_ _in_ cylinders), _compounds_ used in photography _(e.g._ silver bromide, _AgBr,_ which is the _light_ sensitive _material_ in film), dyestuffs _and_ drugs; _in_ the analytical _laboratory_ in testing for _unsaturation_ in _organic_ compounds, where bromine adds across _the_ multiple bonds of _unsaturated_ compounds, as _a_ disinfectant; and in _making_ fumigants, _water_ purification _compounds,_ dyes, medicinals; and _sanitizers._ Bromine _can_ _be_ produced by oxidation _of_ bromides using hydrogen peroxide as _the_ _oxidant._ For example, the following reaction is suitable: H2O2+2HBrBr2+2H2O (Reaction (1)). Bromine _can_ also be produced by _oxidation_ of bromides using _chlorine_ _as_ the oxidant. For example, the following reaction _is_ suitable: 2NaBr+Cl2Br2+2NaCl (Reaction (2)). U.S. Pat. No. 5,266,295 _describes_ _use_ of a _strong_ _acid,_ _such_ as sulfuric _or_ phosphoric _acid,_ to improve effectiveness when hydrogen bromide _is_ oxidized to _bromine_ using hydrogen peroxide _as_ _the_ oxidant. However, process economics are affected by _the_ addition of an acid; and in some cases an add source is _not_ readily available. Each of Reactions _(1)_ and (2) could benefit from _the_ addition of catalysts to increase the percent conversion of _bromide_ to bromine. _Ammonium_ _molybdate_ ((NH4+)2MoO4−) _is_ a known oxidation _catalyst_ to allow iodometric titration of H2O2. However, NH4+ is not a cation of _choice_ for use as an additive in a commercial _bromine_ tower. Thus in _spite_ of currently available technologies, a need remains for commercially feasible methods that provide increased percent conversion when oxidizing bromides to produce bromine, _and_ catalysts for use therein.
|
This invention relates to an improved cassette magnetic tape recording/reproducing apparatus.
The prior art discloses magnetic tape cassette recorder/players of a type adapted for selecting a single recording from among many recorded on a single magnetic tape. In the conventional apparatus, a movable plate, which carries a magnetic head, is moved backward against the strong elastic force of a spring by an electromagnetically operated plunger. However, operation of the plunger requires a relatively large amount of electricity and creates mechanical noise. Further, the conventional plunger mechanism is complicated in construction and costly.
|
this innovation arose through an improved cassette magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus. the prior art discloses magnetic tape cassette operators / players of a type adapted for selecting a single recording from among many recorded on a conventional magnetic tape. inside the conventional apparatus, a friction plate, which carries a magnetic head, is moved backward against the strong elastic force of a magnet by an electromagnetically operated coil. generally, operation of the plunger requires a relatively large amount of electricity and creates mechanical noise. further, the conventional plunger mechanism is complicated in construction and costly.
|
This incenhion relates to an i<prpved cassette magnetic tape recording / reproducing apparatus. The prior art discloses magnetic %ap4 cassette reciTder / players of a tyo4 adapted for s2lect9ng a single recording from among many recorded on a single magnetic tape. In the conventional apparatus, a movable plate, which carries a magnetic head, is moved bXclward against the strong elastic force of a spring by an electromagnetically operated olunVer. However, operation of the plunger requires a relatively large amount of electricity and cFeatec mechanical nkisr. Further, the conventional plunger mechanism is complicated in construction and costly.
|
This invention relates to an improved cassette magnetic tape recording/reproducing apparatus. The prior art discloses magnetic tape cassette recorder/players of a type adapted for selecting a single recording from among many recorded on a magnetic tape. the conventional apparatus, a plate, which a head, is moved backward against the strong elastic of a spring by an electromagnetically operated plunger. However, operation of the plunger requires a relatively large amount of electricity and creates mechanical noise. the conventional mechanism is complicated in and costly.
|
This InveNtiON RELAteS To an iMPrOvEd casSEttE magneTiC Tape rEcORdIng/RepRODUCInG AppaRAtuS.
THe Prior Art disCLOses MAgNETic tapE cAssEttE REcOrDEr/plAYers Of A type aDapteD for sElECtiNg A singlE rECorDInG FrOm aMONg maNy ReCoRDED oN a SiNglE mAgNetIc TaPe. In tHe cONvENtIONal ApparATus, a MOVAbLE PlAte, WhICh cArRIES A MaGNeTIC hEAD, Is MOVed baCKward AGaiNst ThE StRonG eLAStiC FORCe Of a sPrInG bY aN elECTROmagNeTIcAlLy OPErateD pLunGEr. HowEvER, OpERAtIoN OF tHE pluNgeR ReqUireS A rELaTivelY LArgE amoUnt Of EleCTrIcIty AND CreaTeS mEchANicAl Noise. FURtHER, thE ConvEntIoNal pLunGER meChAniSM IS COMPLICatEd in cOnSTrucTiOn ANd coSTlY.
|
This invention relates to an improved cassette magnetictape recording/reproducing apparatus. The prior art discloses magnetic tape cassetterecorder/players of a type adapted for selecting a singlerecording from among many recorded on a single magnetic tape. In the conventionalapparatus, a movable plate, which carriesa magnetic head, is moved backward against the strongelasticforce of a spring by an electromagnetically operated plunger.However, operation ofthe plunger requires arelatively large amount of electricity and creates mechanical noise. Further, the conventional plunger mechanism iscomplicated in construction andcostly.
|
This _invention_ relates to an _improved_ cassette magnetic tape _recording/reproducing_ apparatus. The prior _art_ discloses magnetic tape _cassette_ recorder/players of a type _adapted_ for _selecting_ _a_ _single_ recording from _among_ _many_ recorded on a _single_ _magnetic_ tape. _In_ the conventional apparatus, _a_ movable plate, which carries a magnetic head, is moved _backward_ against the _strong_ elastic force _of_ a _spring_ by an electromagnetically operated plunger. However, operation of the plunger _requires_ a _relatively_ large amount of electricity and creates _mechanical_ noise. Further, the conventional plunger mechanism is complicated in _construction_ and costly.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a device and a process of interaction with a user. It applies, in particular, to interactive terminals capable of processing several types of procedures based on one or more documents provided by the user. On the one hand, this terminal is intended to save time for the user, and on the other hand, to enable him or her to quickly and automatically check that he or she has all the information and documents required to carry out a procedure. This terminal is also intended to save time for the organization in charge of implementing the procedure, for example by pre-processing the information and documents required for the correct execution of these procedures, estimating the risks of falsification of the user's identity or the false information or documents he or she provides, and/or collecting other information available in a database to complement or verify the information and documents provided by the user.
The objective is thus to speed up and improve relations between organizations that interact with a large number of users—for example customers, service users, visitors or members of the public—and those users.
2. Description of the Related Art
There are already in existence terminals equipped with a video camera, scanner and printer for document exchange and remote communication. While they enable dialogue between the user and a remote interlocutor known as the “hotliner” and discussion of the content of documents, they do not perform any automatic processing, and therefore do not increase the productivity of the organization.
Other interactive terminals are effectively computers that provide help, in several languages, for preparing administrative formalities. They do not enable documents to be processed. The user must then meet an employee in person to give him or her the documents needed for the procedure concerned. The increase in productivity is therefore further decreased.
There are already in existence systems for processing checks equipped with a means of optical character recognition, biometric identification and a risk analysis machine that identifies the user and authorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding this identification, the payment of a check.
There are also already in existence systems used by immigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler from a passport before authorizing access to the territory concerned.
The two systems described above therefore only process low-level information, and only provide binary results; that is to say authorization or refusal and, possibly, the amount of a payment.
Aside from confirmations, no information is requested from the user who passively waits for the result of the processing operations. These systems can only process a single type of documents, and therefore do not make it possible to prepare for interaction with an administrative employee.
Yet fiscal, administrative, social, and/or insurance organizations work with a large number of procedures, each of which involves a large number of forms, and written proof on paper or in electronic format.
Therefore, the need exists for interactive, multi-procedure terminals, i.e. capable of processing multiple procedures based on different types of documents.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to a device and a process of interaction with a user. it applies, in particular, to interactive terminals capable of processing several types of procedures based on one or more documents provided by the user. on the one hand, this terminal is intended to saved time for the user, and on the other hand, to enable him or her to quickly and automatically check that he or she has all the information and documents required to carry out a procedure. this terminal is also intended to save time for each organization in charge of implementing the procedure, for which by pre - processing the information and documents required for the correct execution of these procedures, estimating the risks of falsification of the user ' s identity or the false information or documents he or she provides, and / or collecting other information available in a database to complement or verify the information and documents provided by the user. the objective is thus to speed up and improve links between organizations that interact with a large number of users — for example customers, service users, visitors or members of the public — and those users. 2. description of the related art there are already in existence terminals equipped with a video camera, scanner and printer for document exchange and remote communication. while they enable dialogue between one user and a remote interlocutor known as the “ hotliner ” and discussion of the content of documents, they do rarely perform any automatic processing, and therefore does not increase the productivity of the organization. other interactive terminals are effectively computers that provide help, in several languages, for preparing administrative formalities. they do not enable documents to be processed. the patient must then meet an employee in person to give him or her the documents needed for the procedure concerned. the increase in productivity is therefore further decreased. there are already in existence systems for processing checks equipped with a means of optical character recognition, biometric identification and a risk analysis machine that identifies the user and authorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding this identification, the payment of a check. there are also already in existence systems used within immigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler from a passport before authorizing access to the territory concerned. the two systems described above therefore only process low - level information, and only provide binary results ; that is to say authorization or refusal and, possibly, the amount towards a payment. aside from confirmations, no information is requested from the user who passively waits for the result of the processing operations. these systems can only process a single type of documents, and therefore do not make it possible to prepare for interaction with an administrative employee. yet fiscal, administrative, social, and / or insurance organizations work with a large number of procedures, each of which involves a large number of forms, and written proof on paper or in electronic format. therefore, the need exists for interactive, multi - procedure terminals, i. e. capable of processing multiple procedures based on different types of documents.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present indFntion relates to a device and a process of interaction with a user. It applies, in particular, to interactive terminals capable of processing several types of procedures based on one or more documents provided by the user. On the one hand, this terminal is intended to save time for the user, and on the other hand, to enable him or her to quickly and automatically check that he or she has all the ihformaGion and documents required to carry out a procedure. This terminal is also intended to save time for the organization in charge of implementing the procedure, for Rxam0le by pre - processing the information and documents required for the correct execution of these procedures, estimating the risks of falsification of the user ' s identity or the false information or documents he or she provides, and / or collecting other information available in a database to complement or verify the information and documents provided by the user. The objective is thus to speed up and improve relations between organizations that interact with a large number of users — for example customers, service users, visitors or members of the public — and %hise users. 2. Description of the Related Art There are already in existence terminals equipped with a video camera, scanner and printer for document exchange and remote communication. While they enable dialogue between the user and a remote interlocutor known as the “ hotliner ” and discussion of the content of documents, they do not perform any automatic processing, and therefore do not increase the productivity of the organization. Other interactive terminals are effectively computers that provide help, in several languages, for preparing administrative formalities. They do not enable documents to be processed. The user must then meet an employee in person to give him or her the documents needed for the procedure concerned. The increase in productivity is therefore further decreased. There are already in existence systems for processing checks equipped with a m#ana of optical character recognition, biometric identification and a risk analysis machine that id2ntifirs the user and authorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding this identification, the payment of a check. There are also already in existence systems used by immigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler from a passport before authorizing access to the territory concerned. The two systems described above the%efo$e lniy process low - level information, and only provide blMary results; that is to say authorization or refusal and, possibly, the amount of a payment. Aside from confirmations, no information is requested from the user who passively waits for the result of the processing operations. These systems can only process a single type of documents, and therefore do not make it possible to prepare for interaction with an Qeministrative employee. Yet fiscal, administrative, social, and / or insurance organizations work with a large number of procedures, each of which involves a large number of forms, and written proof on paper or in electronic format. Therefore, the need exists for interactive, multi - procedure terminals, i. e. capable of processing multiple procedures based on different types of documents.
|
1. Field of the Invention present invention relates a device and a process of interaction with a user. It applies, in particular, to interactive terminals capable of processing several types of procedures based on one or more documents provided by the user. the one hand, this terminal is intended to save for the user, and on the other hand, to enable him or her to quickly and automatically check that she has all the information and documents to carry a procedure. This terminal is also intended to save time for the in charge of implementing the procedure, for example by pre-processing the and documents required for the correct execution of these procedures, estimating the risks of falsification of the user's identity or the false information or documents he or she collecting other information available in database to complement or the documents provided by the user. The objective is thus to speed up and improve relations between organizations that interact with a large of users—for example customers, users, visitors or members the public—and those users. 2. Description of the Related Art There are already in existence terminals equipped with a video camera, scanner and printer document and remote communication. While they enable dialogue between the user and a remote interlocutor known as “hotliner” and discussion the content of documents, they do not perform any automatic processing, and therefore do not increase productivity of the organization. Other interactive terminals are effectively computers that provide several languages, for preparing administrative formalities. do not enable documents to be processed. The user must meet an employee in person to give him or the documents needed procedure concerned. The increase in is therefore further decreased. There are already in existence systems for processing checks equipped with means of optical character identification and a risk machine that identifies the user and authorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding this identification, the payment of a check. There also already in existence systems used by immigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler from a passport before authorizing access to the territory concerned. The two described above only process low-level information, only provide binary results; that to say authorization refusal and, possibly, the amount of a payment. Aside from confirmations, no information is the user who passively waits for the result of the processing operations. These systems can only process a single type of documents, and therefore do not make it possible to prepare interaction with an administrative employee. Yet fiscal, social, and/or insurance organizations work with a large number of procedures, each of involves a large number of forms, and written proof on paper or in electronic Therefore, the exists for interactive, multi-procedure capable of processing multiple procedures based on different types of documents.
|
1. fIELD of THE INvEnTion
tHE PreSeNT inVeNtiON relates tO A dEVIce And A PRoceSs Of InteRaCtioN With A usEr. it ApplIes, in ParTICUlar, to InTeRaCtIve TErMiNaLS CapAble oF pRoCeSsinG sEveRAL TYPES OF pRoCeduRES basED oN ONe OR moRE DOCuMenTs PrOVIDed By tHe uSER. ON tHE ONe HANd, thiS tERMInAL IS intenDEd To SaVe TIMe For ThE useR, and On the OTHeR hand, tO ENAbLE Him OR hEr To QUickly ANd aUToMATiCALLy cHecK THaT he OR ShE hAs ALL ThE InfOrmatiON and dOcUMENts REquIreD tO CarrY oUT a pRocEDURE. THis TeRmInaL Is ALso iNtEndED To SaVE TIme FoR the ORgaNIzatioN in chARgE oF impleMeNTing the PrOceDURE, FOR EXaMplE By pRe-pRocESsinG tHE inforMAtion And DoCumeNts requIREd FOR THE CoRrECt exEcutION oF THESE prOCeDurES, eStIMaTiNg tHE riSKs oF FaLsiFiCAtIOn of tHe uSeR'S iDentITY oR ThE falsE INFORmaTioN OR DOcUMEntS he Or sHe pROVidES, AND/OR cOLLeCting OTHER INfORMATIon AvaILABLe in A dATaBaSe To cOMpLemeNT Or VErifY thE infORmation aNd DOcUmenTs PROVIDED by The USer.
THe objeCTivE is ThUS to sPEEd uP And IMpROve RElaTIonS betwEeN ORGanIZaTIOns tHAT InTeract WitH A LArGe NumBer oF Users—fOr eXampLe cUstOmErS, SErvicE usErs, VisitOrS OR memBeRS of ThE Public—And tHosE UseRS.
2. dEscRIpTiOn OF THE RelatED ART
TheRe Are AlrEADY In EXISTeNce TeRMINAlS eqUiPPED WItH a ViDeO camerA, SCAnNER And pRINTEr FOr doCUMENT excHange anD REMOte ComMuNIcATION. whILe they EnAblE DiaLOGue BeTWEEN tHE uSEr anD A reMoTE inTeRLOcuToR KnoWN As thE “hOTLINeR” And DisCussIon of thE cONtEnt of dOCuMEntS, thEy do Not pErFOrm aNy aUTomaTic prOCEssiNg, AnD thErefORe dO nOT inCReASe THE prODuCtivITy oF THe ORgAnIzaTIOn.
OthEr INteRacTIVe tERmiNALs are EffeCtiVEly coMputErS that PROVidE HeLP, in SEvErAl LaNguaGeS, for PREPaRing AdmINiSTrATiVe FoRMalITies. They Do NoT EnAblE DOcUmENTs TO bE prOCEssEd. thE USER mUST Then Meet aN eMploYee IN perSOn tO gIvE hiM OR hER tHe dOCUmENtS NEeDed For THE pROcedURe CoNcERnED. thE IncrEASE in PRoDuctivIty is ThereForE FUrther dECREasED.
tHeRE are ALReADy in EXIStENce SyStEMS FOR PROCeSsINg ChECKS equiPPed WItH A MeANs Of OpTicAL cHArACTEr reCOGnItIOn, bIometriC IDenTIFicATioN AnD A RisK AnALysiS mAcHinE tHAt idENTiFiES The uSER and AuThorIZes, iN fUNCtIoN of tHE Level Of ConFIdeNcE regArdINg thIs iDEnTifICatioN, THE PayMENT oF a ChEck.
TherE ARe alSo AlrEadY In EXIsTEnCE SYsTems uSeD bY imMIGrAtIoN SErvIces thAT CHECk ThE fingeRPriNtS OF A TRaVeLeR FROM a paSSPoRT BeforE authoRizInG acceSS to ThE teRrItOrY COncernED.
ThE tWo SystEMS DesCriBeD aBOVE thErEFoRE ONlY PROCEsS lOw-levEL INFOrMAtioN, And ONLy prOvIDe BInArY reSuLtS; THat Is To SAy AuTHOrIZaTIon OR ReFuSAL aND, pOssibly, THE AMOuNt OF a paYmeNt.
ASiDe FROm CONFIRMAtIons, no inFORMation IS REQuEsTeD fRom THE UsEr Who PASsIvELy WaiTs For tHe reSulT OF THE pRoCeSsIng OpErATiOns. thESe sysTeMs CaN ONLy ProCESs A sinGLE tyPE oF dOCUmEntS, AnD ThErefORe do nOT maKE iT poSsiBle to PREpARE fOR INteraCtIOn wiTh an ADmINISTrAtIVe EMPlOyeE.
yEt FIScAL, adMINIsTrATive, sociAL, ANd/Or InsuRanCe orGanIzaTionS WorK wIth a LArGe nUmbEr oF PRoCeDUres, eAcH oF wHiCH InvOlves A laRgE NuMber oF ForMS, AND WRiTtEN pRoOf oN PApEr or IN eLeCtronic FOrmaT.
tHEREFOre, tHe nEED eXIStS foR InTEraCtivE, multI-pRocEdure tErmInALS, I.E. capaBLe of pROcessiNg MuLtIPle pRoCeDUrEs bASed ON DIfferenT TypES OF dOcuMeNTs.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present inventionrelates to a device and a process of interaction with a user. It applies, in particular, to interactiveterminals capable ofprocessing severaltypesofprocedures based on oneor more documents provided by the user. On the one hand, this terminal isintendedtosave time for the user, and on the other hand, to enable him or her toquickly and automatically check that he or she hasall the information anddocuments requiredto carry outa procedure.This terminalis also intended to save time forthe organization incharge of implementing the procedure, for exampleby pre-processing the information and documents requiredfor the correct execution of theseprocedures, estimating therisksof falsification of the user's identity or the false information or documents he or she provides, and/or collecting otherinformation available in a database to complement or verify the information and documents provided by theuser.The objective is thus to speed up and improve relationsbetweenorganizations that interact with a large number of users—for example customers, service users, visitors or members of the public—andthose users.2. Descriptionofthe Related Art There arealready inexistence terminals equipped witha video camera,scannerand printer for document exchange and remote communication. While they enable dialogue between the user and a remote interlocutor knownas the “hotliner”and discussion of the content of documents,they do not perform any automatic processing,and therefore donot increase the productivity of the organization. Other interactive terminalsare effectively computers that providehelp,in several languages, for preparing administrative formalities.They do notenable documents to be processed. Theuser must then meet anemployee in person to give himor her the documents needed for theprocedure concerned. Theincrease in productivity is therefore further decreased. There are already in existence systems for processing checks equipped with a means of optical character recognition, biometric identification and a risk analysis machine that identifies the user andauthorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding this identification, the payment of a check. There are also already in existence systems used byimmigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler froma passport before authorizing access to the territory concerned. The twosystems described above therefore only process low-level information, and only provide binary results; that isto say authorization or refusal and, possibly, the amount ofa payment. Aside fromconfirmations, no information is requested from the user who passively waits for the result of the processing operations. These systems canonly process asingle type of documents, and therefore do not makeit possible to prepare for interaction with an administrative employee. Yetfiscal, administrative, social, and/or insurance organizations workwith a large number ofprocedures, each of which involves alarge number of forms,and written proof on paper orin electronic format.Therefore, the need existsfor interactive,multi-procedure terminals, i.e. capable of processing multipleprocedures based on different types of documents.
|
1. Field _of_ the Invention The present invention relates to a device and _a_ process of interaction _with_ a user. It _applies,_ in particular, to _interactive_ terminals capable of processing several _types_ _of_ procedures based on one _or_ more _documents_ provided by _the_ user. On the one hand, this terminal is intended to save time for the user, _and_ on the other hand, _to_ enable him or her _to_ quickly and automatically check that _he_ or she has all the information and documents required _to_ carry _out_ a _procedure._ This terminal is also intended _to_ save time for the organization _in_ charge of implementing the procedure, for example by pre-processing _the_ information and documents required for the correct execution of these procedures, estimating the risks of falsification of the user's identity or the false information _or_ _documents_ he or _she_ provides, and/or collecting other information available _in_ _a_ database to complement or verify _the_ _information_ and _documents_ provided by the _user._ The _objective_ is _thus_ _to_ speed _up_ and _improve_ relations between organizations that interact with a large number of users—for example customers, service users, visitors or members of the _public—and_ those users. 2. Description _of_ the Related _Art_ There are already in existence terminals equipped with a video _camera,_ scanner and _printer_ _for_ document exchange and remote communication. While they enable _dialogue_ between the user and _a_ remote interlocutor known as the “hotliner” and discussion _of_ the content of _documents,_ they do _not_ perform any automatic processing, and therefore do _not_ increase the productivity of the organization. Other interactive terminals _are_ effectively computers that provide _help,_ in several languages, for _preparing_ administrative formalities. They do not _enable_ documents to be _processed._ The user must then meet an employee _in_ person to give him _or_ her the documents needed for _the_ procedure concerned. The increase _in_ productivity is therefore further decreased. There are _already_ in existence systems for _processing_ _checks_ equipped with a means of optical character _recognition,_ biometric identification and a risk analysis _machine_ that identifies _the_ _user_ and authorizes, in function of the level of confidence regarding _this_ identification, the payment of a check. There are also already in existence systems used by immigration services that check the fingerprints of a traveler from a passport before authorizing access to the territory _concerned._ The two systems described above therefore only process low-level information, and only provide binary results; that is to say _authorization_ or refusal _and,_ possibly, the _amount_ _of_ a payment. Aside from _confirmations,_ no information is requested _from_ the user who passively waits _for_ the result of the _processing_ operations. These systems can only process a single type of documents, and therefore do _not_ make it possible to prepare _for_ interaction with _an_ administrative _employee._ Yet fiscal, administrative, social, _and/or_ insurance organizations work with _a_ large number of procedures, each of which involves a large number of _forms,_ and written proof on _paper_ _or_ in electronic format. Therefore, the need exists for interactive, multi-procedure terminals, i.e. capable _of_ _processing_ multiple _procedures_ based _on_ different types of documents.
|
Power consumption of mobile battery operated devices such as mobile communication terminals is expected to increase as the demand for enhanced functionality increases.
For example, there is a demand for communication terminals that are capable of communicating in a plurality of different communication systems, including second generation systems such as GSM/GPRS and third generation systems such as WCDMA/EGPRS/HSDPA as well as WLAN systems of the 802.11 family. Moreover, increased power consumption is due also to other hardware parts of a typical communication terminal, especially the applications processor and the main display. In addition, advanced features exploiting the hardware functionality contribute to this increase, e.g. 3D games, video players, etc.
Such terminals will consume much more energy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlier terminals having only limited functionality and, e.g., being capable of communicating in only a single communication system.
With the current progress in battery capacity unable to keep pace with the increasing demands posed by such feature-rich mobile devices, new ways to control and sensibly reduce the power consumption of terminals are needed. Hardware solutions typically involve implementation of circuitry having inherently low power consumption. Such hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials as well as reducing the number of components to a minimum. Needless to say, hardware solutions are not very flexible and they provide a very limited amount of functionality.
Software solutions, on the other hand, typically offer an advantage over purely hardware-based solutions in that software can keep track of the context of the monitored device and thus make it possible for a software developer to make more sensible decisions as to when and where to optimize power. However, it is only through complex setup of expensive external digital measuring equipment and configuration of dedicated and specialized software that this is feasible in the prior art. That is, visibility of the energy and power consumption of an application in the prior art is possible only through the use of external equipment. A developer need to perform more or less complex configuration procedures to set up the equipment in order to find out where to optimize the operation of a device.
A drawback related to prior art methods and devices is hence that an application developer, when developing a software application for execution in a mobile communication device, has a very limited capability of optimizing the software application in terms of its effect on the power consumption by the device. In fact, an application developer typically has no way of finding out how battery lifetime is effected by a software application being developed.
|
power consumption of mobile battery operated devices such as mobile communication terminals is expected to increase as the demand for enhanced functionality increases. for example, there is a demand for communication terminals that are capable of communicating in a plurality of specialized communication systems, including second generation systems such as gsm / gprs and third generation systems such as wcdma / pas / hsdpa as well as wlan systems of the 802. 11 family. moreover, increased power consumption is due also from other hardware parts of a typical communication terminal, especially the applications processor and the main display. in addition, advanced features exploiting the hardware functionality contribute to this increase, e. g. 3d games, video players, etc. such terminals will consume much more energy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlier terminals having only limited functionality and, e. g., being capable of communicating in only a single communication system. with the current progress in battery capacity unable completely keep pace with the increasing demands posed by such feature - rich mobile devices, new ways to control and sensibly reduce the power consumed of terminals are needed. hardware solutions typically involve implementation of circuitry having inherently limited power consumption. such hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials fairly well as reducing the number of components to a minimum. simply to say, hardware solutions are not very flexible and they provide a very limited amount of functionality. software solutions, on the other hand, typically offer an advantage over purely hardware - based solutions in that software can keep track of the context of the monitored device and thus make it possible for a software developer to make more sensible decisions as to when and where to optimize power. however, it is only through complex setup of expensive external digital measuring equipment and configuration of dedicated and expensive software that this is feasible in the prior art. that is, visibility of the energy and power consumption of an application in the prior art is possible only through the use of external equipment. a developer need to perform more or less complex configuration procedures to set up the equipment in order to find out where to optimize the operation of a device. a drawback related to prior art methods and devices is hence that an application developer, when developing a software application for execution within a mobile communication device, has a very limited capability of optimizing the software application in terms of its effect on the power consumption by the device. in fact, an application developer typically has no way of finding out how battery lifetime is effected by a software application being developed.
|
Power consumption of mobile battery operaFFd devices such as mobile communication terminals is expected to increase as the demand for enhanced functionality increases. For example, there is a demand for commujica$ion terminals that are capable of communicating in a plurality of ciGferent communication systems, including second generation systems such as GSM / GPRS and third generation systems such as WCDMA / EGPRS / HSDPA as well as WLAN systems of the 802. 11 family. Moreover, increased power consumption is due also to other hardware parts of a typical communication terminal, especially the applications processor and the main display. In addition, advanced features exploiting the hardware functionality contribute to this increase, e. g. 3D games, video p:aJers, etc. Such terminals will consume much more energy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlier terminals having only limited functionality and, e. g. , being capable of communicating in only a single communication system. With the current progress in battery capacity unable to keep pace with the increasing demands posed by such feature - rich mobile devices, new ways to control and sensibly reduce the power consumption of terminals are needed. Hardware solutions typically involve implementation of circuitry having inherently low LoweG consumption. Such hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials as well as reducing the number of components to a mOhimum. Needless to say, hardware solutions are not ve4T flexible and they provide a very limited amount of functionality. Software solutions, on the other hand, typically offer an advantage over purely hardware - based solutions in that software can keep track of the context of the monitored device and thus make it possible for a software developer to make more sensible decisions as to when and where to optimize power. However, it is only through complex setup of expensive external digital measuring equipment and configuration of dedicated and specialized software that this is feasible in the prior art. That is, visibility of the enerRg and power consumption of an application in the prior art is possible only through the use of external equipment. A developer need to perform more or less complex configuration procedures to set up the equipment in order to find out where to optimize the operation of a device. A drawback related to prior art mWth0ds and devices is hence that an application developer, when developing a software application for execution in a mofole communication device, has a very limited capability of optimizing the software application in terms of its effect on the power consumption by the device. In fact, an application developer typically has no way of finding out how battery lifetime is effected by a software application being developed.
|
Power consumption of battery operated devices such as mobile communication terminals is expected to increase as the demand for enhanced functionality increases. For example, there a demand for communication terminals that are of communicating in a plurality of communication systems, including second generation systems as GSM/GPRS and third generation systems such as WCDMA/EGPRS/HSDPA well as of the 802.11 Moreover, increased power consumption is due also other hardware parts a typical communication terminal, especially the applications processor and the main display. In addition, advanced features exploiting the hardware functionality to this increase, e.g. 3D games, video players, etc. Such terminals will consume much more energy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlier terminals having only limited functionality and, e.g., being capable of communicating in only a single communication system. With current progress in battery capacity unable to keep pace with the demands posed such feature-rich mobile devices, new ways to control sensibly reduce the consumption of terminals are needed. Hardware solutions typically involve implementation of circuitry having inherently low power consumption. Such hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials as well as reducing the number components to a minimum. Needless say, hardware solutions not very and they provide a very limited amount of functionality. Software solutions, on the other hand, typically offer an advantage over purely solutions in that software can keep track the context of the monitored device and thus make it possible for software developer to make more sensible decisions as to when where to optimize power. However, it is only through complex setup of expensive external digital measuring and configuration of dedicated and specialized software this is feasible in the prior is, visibility of the energy and power consumption of an application in the prior art is possible only through the use of external equipment. A developer need to or less procedures to set up the equipment in order find out where to optimize the of device. A drawback related to prior art methods and devices is hence that an application when developing a software application execution in a mobile communication device, has a very limited capability of optimizing the software application terms of its effect on the power consumption by the device. In fact, an application developer has no way of finding out how lifetime is effected by a software being developed.
|
powEr coNSUmPTIoN Of MOBiLe batTErY operatEd dEViCeS sUCh As MoBiLe comMUNicatioN tERmInALS iS ExpEcted tO increAsE As The dEMAND FoR enhAnCeD FUNctIonAlITY iNcrEASeS.
fOr eXaMplE, thErE Is A demAND for coMmUNiCatiON termiNals ThaT ARe caPable OF CommuniCAtinG iN a pluralITy of dIffEReNt COmmUNIcaTion sYsTeMS, InclUdIng sECOnD gEnEraTiON systeMS sUch As GSm/GPRs And THIrD GENeraTioN SYstems SUcH As WCdma/EGPrs/hsdPa AS well as wLan systEms of THE 802.11 familY. MOrEOVer, inCREASeD pOWER conSuMptioN iS DUE aLSO tO otHeR hARDWARE PaRtS of A TYpICaL commUNicATioN TErMiNal, EsPEcIaLlY tHe AppLIcaTIONs ProCESsOR AND THE MAiN dIsPLaY. in aDditIoN, ADVANcED FEatuRES eXPLOITInG tHE HarDwaRE fUNctiOnaLItY COntRIBuTe TO tHIS iNCrEAse, E.g. 3d GAMEs, VIDEo PLAyers, etC.
SuCH TeRminAlS will coNSUME MuCH MORE eneRgy in COmPaRison WitH EarLIer TeRmINaLs, tHEsE earLIeR TermiNaLs HAVING onlY lIMIteD funCTIONAlitY aND, e.G., beIng CapABLE oF COmmuNIcAtinG In onLY a SINgLe COMmUNicATion sYSTeM.
wIth tHE currEnt proGrEsS iN bAtTEry cAPAciTy UNAble to KEEp PAcE WITH ThE iNCREASInG DEMAnDS pOSED BY sUch feaTURE-RIch MOBile DEVIcEs, nEw WayS to coNTrOL aND SeNsibLY RedUcE tHe POwEr cONsUMPtion Of TErMINALS ArE NeeDed. haRdwAre sOlutioNs TypicaLLY iNvolvE implemeNtATioN of cIRcuItRY HAVing INheRENTLY lOw powER consUmptioN. SUCh haRDwARE solUTIoNS MAy iNvolVe THE USe of specIFic mateRIALs AS wEll AS RedUCinG The nUMber oF cOMpoNenTS to A miNiMuM. neEDLess tO sAy, haRDwaRe solUtioNS ARE noT VERY fLEXIble anD they PRovIDE a veRy LImited AMouNt Of FUnCTionALItY.
SOftware SoLuTions, oN THE otHEr HAnD, typIcAlLY offEr AN aDVanTAgE OvEr PURely HARdwARe-Based sOlutioNS In tHAt SOfTWaRe Can KEeP trAck oF THE ContEXT oF thE moNiToreD DeviCE AnD ThUS MAKE iT pOSSIbLE FoR a sOFtwaRE dEVelOpeR tO mAkE mORe SEnsiblE DeciSIoNS As To WHEn and wHEre To OptIMiZE PoWeR. hOweVeR, IT is Only ThROuGH CoMpLEx SetUP oF ExPENsivE ExTeRnaL DigItAL MeASuriNg EQuIpMEnT aND confIguRATIOn OF DeDICatEd ANd SpECIALiZEd SoftwAre tHAt ThIs Is FEaSIBLE In ThE PrIOR ArT. THat is, visiBIlITY Of THE eNeRGy And pOweR ConsuMptiON Of aN ApPliCatIon iN the PrIoR ARt is POssIBLe ONlY THROuGh The usE of EXtERnal eQUIPmeNt. A DEVELopEr NeeD To pErfoRM MORE or LEsS CoMPLEX ConfiguratIoN pROCEDurEs to seT uP The eQUIPmENT iN oRdER TO FInd OuT wheRe TO OPTimIzE tHe OPeRAtIoN of A deVIcE.
A drAwbaCK RELATed tO PrIOR arT MeThoDs and DEvicEs is HeNCE ThAT An aPpliCATioN developer, WHeN DEVeLoPiNg A SOFtWAre aPpLicaTiOn for exEcUTioN IN A MOBILE coMMUNICatIon dEvice, HaS A VerY limiTED CApABiLITy of opTImizing ThE SofTWARe aPPLiCaTION in terMs oF iTS EffeCT ON thE PoWEr cOnsUMptioN BY thE DEVIce. IN faCt, AN aPplICatioN dEvelOper TYPICALly Has No WAy Of FINDING OUT HoW BaTteRY LIfetime IS EFfeCTeD By A SOFTwARE apPLICAtION BEING devElopEd.
|
Power consumption of mobilebattery operateddevices such asmobile communication terminals isexpected to increaseas the demandfor enhanced functionalityincreases. For example, there is a demandforcommunication terminals that are capable of communicating ina plurality of different communication systems, including second generation systems suchas GSM/GPRS and third generation systemssuch as WCDMA/EGPRS/HSDPA as well as WLAN systems of the 802.11 family. Moreover, increased power consumption is due also to other hardware parts of a typicalcommunication terminal, especially the applications processor and the main display. Inaddition, advanced features exploiting the hardware functionality contribute to this increase, e.g. 3D games, video players, etc.Such terminalswill consumemuch moreenergy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlierterminals havingonly limited functionality and, e.g., being capable of communicating inonly a single communication system. With the current progress in battery capacity unable tokeep pace with theincreasing demands posed by suchfeature-rich mobile devices,new ways to control andsensiblyreduce the power consumption of terminals are needed. Hardware solutions typically involve implementationof circuitry having inherently low power consumption. Such hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials as well as reducing the number ofcomponents to a minimum. Needless to say, hardware solutions are not very flexible and they provide a very limited amount of functionality. Software solutions, on theother hand, typically offer an advantage over purely hardware-based solutions in that software can keep track of the context ofthe monitoreddevice and thus make it possible fora software developer to make more sensible decisions as to when and where to optimize power. However,it is only through complex setup of expensive external digital measuring equipmentand configuration of dedicatedand specialized software that this is feasiblein the prior art. That is, visibility of the energy and power consumption of an application in the prior art is possible only through the use of external equipment. A developer need to perform more or less complex configuration proceduresto set up the equipment inorder to find outwhere to optimize the operation of a device. A drawback related to prior art methods and devices is hencethat an application developer, when developing a softwareapplication for execution in a mobilecommunicationdevice, has a very limited capability ofoptimizing the software application in terms ofits effecton the power consumption by the device. In fact, an applicationdeveloper typically has no way of finding out how battery lifetime is effected by a software application being developed.
|
Power consumption of _mobile_ _battery_ operated devices such _as_ mobile communication _terminals_ is expected to _increase_ as the demand for enhanced functionality increases. _For_ example, there is _a_ demand for communication terminals that are capable of communicating in a _plurality_ of different communication systems, including _second_ generation systems such as GSM/GPRS and third _generation_ systems such as WCDMA/EGPRS/HSDPA as well _as_ WLAN systems of _the_ 802.11 family. Moreover, increased power consumption _is_ due _also_ to other _hardware_ parts of a typical communication terminal, especially the applications processor and the _main_ display. In addition, _advanced_ features _exploiting_ the hardware functionality contribute to this increase, e.g. 3D games, video players, etc. Such terminals will consume much _more_ energy in comparison with earlier terminals, these earlier terminals having only limited functionality and, e.g., being capable of communicating in only a single _communication_ system. With the current progress in battery capacity unable to keep pace _with_ the increasing _demands_ posed by such feature-rich _mobile_ devices, new _ways_ to control and _sensibly_ reduce the power _consumption_ _of_ terminals are needed. Hardware solutions _typically_ involve implementation of circuitry having inherently low power consumption. _Such_ hardware solutions may involve the use of specific materials as well as reducing the number of components to a _minimum._ Needless to say, _hardware_ solutions are _not_ very _flexible_ and they provide a _very_ limited amount of functionality. _Software_ _solutions,_ _on_ the other _hand,_ typically offer an advantage over purely _hardware-based_ solutions in _that_ software can _keep_ track of _the_ context of the monitored device and thus make it _possible_ for a software _developer_ to make _more_ _sensible_ decisions as _to_ when _and_ where to optimize _power._ However, it _is_ only through complex _setup_ of expensive external digital measuring equipment and configuration of dedicated and specialized software that this _is_ _feasible_ in the prior art. _That_ is, visibility of the energy and power consumption of an application in _the_ prior art is possible _only_ through the _use_ of external equipment. A developer need to _perform_ more or less complex _configuration_ procedures to set _up_ the equipment in _order_ to find out _where_ to _optimize_ the operation of a device. _A_ drawback related to prior _art_ methods and _devices_ is hence that an application developer, when _developing_ a software _application_ for _execution_ in _a_ mobile communication device, _has_ a very limited _capability_ of optimizing the software application in terms _of_ its effect on the power consumption _by_ the device. _In_ fact, an application developer typically has no _way_ of finding out _how_ battery lifetime _is_ effected by _a_ software application being _developed._
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a biological information detection device that detects a biological signal by installing an electrode on the biological surface of the human body.
2. Background Art
Among these kinds of biological information detection devices, there is, for example, a heartbeat measurement device that detects an electro-cardiac signal generated in association with a heartbeat, and measures a heart rate from the biological surface. As such a heartbeat measurement device, there is, for example, a device which includes a main body portion having a detection circuit board and the like built-in, and a strap for mounting the main body portion to the human body, the strap being provided with a pair of electrodes. The main body portion and the strap are provided with an electrical connection portion for electrically connecting a detection circuit board of the main body portion to an electrode of the strap.
Based on such a configuration, an electro-cardiac signal generated in association with a heartbeat is detected by bringing a pair of electrodes into contact with the chest (biological surface) of the human body, and the main body portion derives a heart rate on the basis of the detected electro-cardiac signal.
Further, among the heartbeat measurement devices, there is, for example, a device in which the main body portion is detachably provided to the strap from the viewpoint of maintenance such as cleaning of the strap. When the main body portion is mounted to the strap, the electrical connection portion provided to the strap and the electrical connection portion provided to the main body portion are mechanically connected to each other, and the detection circuit board and the electrode are electrically connected to each other (see, for example, Specification of U.S. Pat. No. 7,526,840 and U.S. Design Registration No. 603,521).
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates from a biological information detection device that detects a biological signal by installing an electrode on the biological surface of the human body. 2. background art among these kinds of biological information detection devices, there is, for example, a heartbeat measurement device typically detects detected electro - ultrasound signal generated in association with a heartbeat, and measures a heart rate from the biological surface. as such a heartbeat measurement mechanism, there is, for example, a device which includes a main body portion having a detection circuit board and the like fold - in, and a strap for mounting the main body portion to the human body, the strap being provided with a pair of electrodes. the main body portion and the strap are provided with an electrical connection portion for electrically connecting a detection circuit board of the main body portion to an arm of the strap. based on such a configuration, an electro - cardiac signal generated in association with a heartbeat is detected by bringing a pair with electrodes into contact with the chest ( biological surface ) of the human body, and the main body portion derives a heart rate on the basis of the detected electro - cardiac signal. further, among the heartbeat measurement devices, there is, for example, a device in which the main body portion is detachably provided to the strap from their viewpoint of maintenance such as cleaning of the strap. when the main body portion is mounted to the strap, the electrical connection portion provided to the strap and the electrical connection portion provided to the main body portion are mechanically connected to each other, and the detection circuit board and the electrode are electrically connected to each other ( see, for example, specification of u. s. pat. no. 7, 526, 840 and u. s. design codes no. 603, 521 ).
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a biological information detection device that detects a biological signal by installing an electrode on the biological surface of the human body. 2. Background Art Among these kinds of biological information detection eevicWs, there is, for example, a heartbeat measurement device that detects an electro - cardiac slgnql generated in association with a heartbeat, and measures a heart rate from the biological surface. As such a heartbeat measurement device, there is, for example, a device which includes a main body por^ioB haGinv a detection circuit board and the like built - in, and a sRTap for mounting the main body portion to the human body, the strap being provided with a pair of electrodes. The main body portion and the strap are provided with an electrical connection portion for electrically connecting a detection circuit board of the main body portion to an electrode of the strap. Based on such a configuration, an electro - cardiac signal generated in assoViati8n with a heartbeat is detected by bringing a pair of electrodes into contact with the chest (biological suDfacd) of the human body, and the main body portion derives a heart rate on the basis of the detected electro - cagSiac signal. eu4ther, among the heartbeat measurement devices, there is, for example, a device in which the main body portion is detachably provided to the strap from the viewpoint of maintenance such as cleaning of the strap. When the main body portion is mounted to the strap, the electrical connection portion provided to the strap and the electrical connection portion provided to the main body portion are mechanically connected to each other, and the detection circuit board and the electrode are electrically connected to FacM other (see, for example, Specification of U. S. Pat. No. 7, 526, 840 and U. S. Design Registration No. 603, 521 ).
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a biological information detection device that detects a biological signal by an electrode on the biological surface of the human body. 2. Background Art Among these kinds of biological information detection devices, there is, example, heartbeat measurement device that detects an electro-cardiac signal generated in association with a heartbeat, and measures heart rate from the biological surface. As such a heartbeat measurement there is, for example, a device which includes body portion having a detection circuit board the like built-in, and a strap for mounting the main portion to the human body, the strap being provided with a pair of electrodes. The main body portion and provided with an electrical connection portion for electrically connecting a detection board the main body portion an electrode of the Based on such a configuration, an electro-cardiac signal generated in with a heartbeat is detected by bringing a pair of electrodes into contact with the chest surface) of human body, and the main body portion derives a heart rate on the basis of detected signal. Further, among the heartbeat measurement devices, there is, for example, a device in which the main body portion is detachably provided to the strap from the viewpoint of maintenance as cleaning of the strap. When the main body portion mounted to the strap, the electrical portion to the and the electrical connection portion provided to the main body are mechanically connected to each other, and detection circuit board and the electrode are electrically connected to each other (see, for example, Specification of Pat. No. 7,526,840 and U.S. Design No. 603,521).
|
1. fIelD OF thE INVENtioN
the PRESent INVentIon rElateS to a biOLoGICAL INFormaTIoN DETECTiOn deViCE that DetEctS a bioLogIcaL SiGNAL by installInG aN eLectROdE ON ThE biOLOgIcaL surFAcE OF ThE HuMan BODY.
2. bacKGrOunD Art
AmoNg tHeSe kInDs OF BIOlOgICaL iNFoRMATiON DetECTioN DEVicEs, tHERE IS, foR EXAMPLE, A hEArtbeAt MEAsUREmENt device thAT DeteCTs AN eleCTRo-CArDIAc signAL genEraTEd iN asSOCiaTioN wiTH a hEarTbeAT, And mEaSUReS a HEarT rate fROm THe bIOlOGicAl SurFaCE. aS Such a HEartBeaT mEaSURemeNT DEViCe, THeRe iS, fOr ExAMPle, A dEvIce WhiCh incLUDes A mAiN BoDy PORTION haVIng a DEtectIOn cIRcuIt BoarD ANd The LiKe BuIlT-In, ANd a strAp FOr MountInG ThE MAIN BodY porTION tO thE hUMAN bODY, THE strap bEinG ProVIDED WITH A paiR Of eLEcTRodEs. THe mAin bODY poRtIon aNd thE sTrAp Are provIDEd WiTH aN eLecTRICaL CONNection pORtIOn foR eLeCTRicALlY ConnECTINg a DEteCTioN CiRCUit BoArD Of tHe mAin bOdY pORtioN to AN ELEcTroDE OF THe sTrAp.
baseD On sUCH a ConfIgUratIOn, aN ELecTrO-carDiaC SIgnAL gENErAtEd in assoCiATIOn WIth a heARtBEat Is deTecTeD by bRINGInG a paIR Of eLeCTRodEs iNTO cONtACT WiTh tHE chEST (BIoLOgICaL SurfAcE) of thE HuMAN bODy, aND THE main BODY PORTioN DerivEs A hEaRt rAtE ON tHE bASiS oF THe deTeCTed eLeCTrO-caRDIaC SiGnal.
fUrTher, amOnG THe hEarTBEAT mEaSureMent DeVIceS, theRE is, FOr ExAMPLe, a DeVIcE in wHICH THE mAin BOdY pORtIon IS dEtACHABLY PrOViDED tO The StraP From The VIewpOint OF maIntenancE SUCh As cLeAnING Of tHE StrAP. WHEN thE maIn BoDy POrTiOn IS MounTed TO the sTraP, thE eleCTRICal cOnNeCTIon portIon PRoviDed To thE STRap and the elECtRIcal ConNECTiON PORtIon ProViDED to THe main boDy pOrTioN arE mEchaNicaLlY coNNectEd to EaCH OTheR, ANd THe DEtECtIoN CiRcUIt boarD AND The EleCtrOdE ArE eLeCtRICAlLY ConnECtED TO Each OThEr (sEE, FOR ExAMPLE, sPecifiCATiON of u.S. PAt. NO. 7,526,840 ANd u.s. dEsIGn REGIstRaTion no. 603,521).
|
1.Field of theInvention The present invention relates to a biological information detection devicethat detects a biologicalsignal by installing an electrode onthe biological surface ofthe human body.2.Background Art Among these kindsofbiological information detection devices, there is, for example, a heartbeat measurementdevice that detects an electro-cardiac signal generated in association with aheartbeat, and measures a heart rate from the biological surface. As such a heartbeat measurement device,there is, for example, adevice which includes a main body portion having a detection circuit board and the like built-in, and a strap for mounting the main body portion to the human body,the strap being provided witha pair of electrodes. The main body portion and the strap are providedwith an electrical connectionportion for electrically connecting a detection circuit board of the main body portion toan electrode of the strap. Based on such a configuration, an electro-cardiac signalgenerated in association with a heartbeat is detected by bringing a pair of electrodes into contactwith the chest (biological surface) ofthe human body, and the main bodyportion derives a heart rate on the basis of the detected electro-cardiac signal. Further, amongthe heartbeatmeasurement devices, there is,for example, adevice in which the main body portion is detachably provided tothe strap from the viewpoint of maintenance suchas cleaning of the strap. When the main body portion is mounted to the strap, the electrical connection portion provided to the strap and the electrical connection portion provided to the main body portion aremechanically connected to each other,and thedetectioncircuit board and theelectrode are electrically connected to each other (see, for example, Specificationof U.S.Pat. No. 7,526,840and U.S. Design Registration No. 603,521).
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a biological information detection device that _detects_ _a_ biological signal _by_ installing an electrode on the biological surface _of_ the _human_ body. 2. Background Art Among these kinds of biological information detection _devices,_ there _is,_ for example, a _heartbeat_ _measurement_ device _that_ _detects_ an electro-cardiac signal generated _in_ association with a heartbeat, and measures a heart rate from the biological surface. _As_ such _a_ heartbeat measurement _device,_ there is, for example, _a_ _device_ which includes a _main_ body _portion_ _having_ a detection _circuit_ board and the _like_ _built-in,_ and a strap for mounting the _main_ body _portion_ _to_ the human body, the strap _being_ _provided_ with a pair _of_ _electrodes._ The main body portion and the strap are provided with an _electrical_ connection _portion_ for electrically _connecting_ a detection circuit board of the _main_ _body_ portion _to_ an electrode _of_ the strap. _Based_ _on_ such a _configuration,_ an electro-cardiac signal generated in association _with_ a heartbeat is detected by bringing _a_ pair of electrodes into contact with the chest _(biological_ surface) of _the_ human body, and the _main_ body portion derives _a_ heart rate on _the_ basis of _the_ detected electro-cardiac signal. Further, among the heartbeat measurement devices, there is, for example, a device in which the main body portion _is_ detachably provided to the strap from the viewpoint of maintenance such as cleaning of the strap. When the main body portion is mounted to the strap, _the_ _electrical_ connection portion provided _to_ the strap and _the_ _electrical_ connection portion _provided_ to the _main_ body _portion_ _are_ _mechanically_ connected _to_ each _other,_ and the _detection_ circuit board and the electrode _are_ _electrically_ connected to each other (see, for example, Specification of U.S. Pat. No. _7,526,840_ and _U.S._ Design _Registration_ No. 603,521).
|
In order to grow plants in greenhouses, a proper combination of light and heat is required. At times, the requisite light and heat are provided naturally from the sun. However, in most northern climates, it is often too cold during the winter to grow plants without some source of heat. Typically, heat is provided using forced air heaters. This does not prove to be entirely satisfactory, however, because much of the hot air is lost through the roof and walls of the greenhouse. As a result, during the winter days, the temperature in the greenhouse can be as low as 50.degree. F. even with the hot air heaters at full blast.
One solution to this problem has been to use insulating materials on the roof and walls of the greenhouse. Systems of this type are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,064,648 to Cary, 4,313,650 to Ward et al. and 4,375,232 to Heescher et al.
Cary discloses use of a flexible sheet of insulating material, wound in a roll, that can be installed near the roof of the greenhouse. The material can then be deployed at night to cover the roof and prevent heat loss. During the daytime, the insulation is retracted into the roll so that light may enter the greenhouse.
A similar system is disclosed in the Heescher patent. There, an insulative foil, made of two layers of plastic separated by air pockets, is selectively deployed over the roof and walls of the greenhouse to prevent heat loss. The foil is folded when stored and opens to form an insulative barrier. Both the Heescher and Cary references suggest that the foil might be coated with aluminum to increase the insulation effect.
In Ward et al., reflective and insulative slats are arranged venitian blind style below the greenhouse roof. This construction permits selective capture or reflection of heat or light.
Aluminized insulating materials, such as those disclosed in the Heescher et al. and Cary references, are also useful in summer months to prevent overheating from direct sunlight. By deploying the insulating material over the southern exposure of the greenhouse (in the Northern hemisphere), direct sunlight will be reflected out of the greenhouse. Diffuse light still enters the greenhouse through the northern exposure providing light for the plants.
While hot air systems, used in conjunction with insulating materials, can be effective to promoting plant growth during cold winter months, such systems are still relatively energy inefficient. One primary drawback to the use of forced air is that the hot air naturally rises to the roof. Thus, the plants do not receive the full benefit of the forced air output. Although the insulating layers prevent much of the heat from escaping, the air near the roof will be warmer than the air near the floor, an indication that the system is not energy efficient.
Greenhouses also require large amounts of water. The water is often taken straight from the outside and sprayed on the plants. This water is very cold, especially in winter and, when sprayed on the plants, it cools the plants, soil and surrounding air. Thus, the environment must be reheated to maintain proper growing conditions. In order to maintain a steady temperature in the greenhouse, the water is sometimes heated before spraying. This is typically accomplished using a large capacity water heater. Thus, separate air and water heating systems must be purchased and installed. The water heating systems in the prior art are not able to take advantage of the excess heat produced by the air heating systems and so efficiency is not maximized.
Further problems arise due to the build-up of snow and ice on the roof above the insulating material. The prior art has attempted to solve this problem using additional devices which either scrape off the snow or heat the roof. None of the additional devices make use of the excess heat in the heating system, however, so, again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
in order to grow plants in greenhouses, a proper combination of light and heat is required. at times, the requisite light and heat are provided naturally from the sun. however, in most northern climates, it is often too cold during the winter to grow plants without some source of heat. furthermore, heat is provided using forced air heaters. it does not prove to be entirely satisfactory, however, because much of the hot air is lost through the roof and walls of the greenhouse. as a result, during the winter days, the temperature in the greenhouse can be kept low as 50. degree. f. even with the hot air heaters at full blast. one solution to this problem has been to use insulating materials on the roof and walls of the greenhouse. systems of this type are disclosed in u. s. pat. nos. 4, 064, 648 to 1, 4, 313, 650 to ward et al. and 4, 375, 232 to heescher et al. cary discloses use of a flexible sheet of insulating material, wound in a roll, that can be secured near the roof of the greenhouse. the material can then be deployed at night to cover the roof and prevent heat loss. during the daytime, the insulation is retracted into the roll so that light may enter the greenhouse. a similar system is disclosed in the heescher patent. there, an insulative foil, made of two layers of plastic separated by air pockets, is selectively deployed over the roof and walls of the greenhouse to prevent heat loss. the foil is folded when stored and opens thus form an insulative barrier. both the heescher and cary references suggest that the foil might be coated with aluminum to increase the insulation effect. after ward et al., reflective and insulative slats are arranged as blind style below the greenhouse roof. this construction permits selective capture or reflection of heat or light. aluminized insulating materials, such as those disclosed in the heescher et al. and cary references, are also useful in summer months to prevent overheating from direct sunlight. by deploying the insulating material over the southern exposure of the greenhouse ( in the northern hemisphere ), direct sunlight will be reflected out of the greenhouse. diffuse light quickly enters the greenhouse through the northern exposure providing light for the plants. while hot air systems, used by conjunction with insulating materials, can be effective to promoting plant growth during cold winter months , such systems are still relatively energy inefficient. one primary drawback to the use of forced air is that the hot air naturally rises to the roof. thus, the plants do not receive the full benefit of the forced air output. although the insulating layers prevent much of the heat from escaping, the air near the roof will be warmer than the air near the floor, an indication that the system is not energy efficient. greenhouses also require large amounts of water. the water is often taken straight from the outside and sprayed on the plants. this water is very cold, especially in winter and, when sprayed on the plants, it cools the plants, soil and surrounding air. thus, the environment must be reheated to maintain proper growing conditions. in order to maintain a steady temperature in the greenhouse, the water is sometimes heated before spraying. this is typically accomplished using a large capacity water heater. thus, separate air and water heating systems must be purchased and installed. the water heating systems in the prior art are not able to take advantage of the excess heat produced by the air heating systems and so efficiency is not maximized. further problems arise due to the build - up of snow and ice on the roof above the insulating material. the prior art has attempted to solve this problem using additional devices which either scrape off the snow or heat the roof. none of the additional devices make use of the excess heat in the heating system, however, so, again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
In order to grow plants in greenhouses, a proper combination of light and heat is required. At times, the requisite light and heat are provided naturally from the sun. However, in most northern climates, it is often too cold during the winter to grow plants without some source of heat. TypicS,ly, heat is provided using forced air heaters. This does not prove to be entirely satisfactory, however, because much of the hot air is lost through the roof and walls of the greenhouse. As a result, during the winter WaHs, the temperature in the greenhouse can be as low as 50. degree. F. even with the hot air heaters at full blast. One solution to this problem has been to use insulating materials on the roof and walls of the greenhouse. Systems of this type are disclosed in U. S. Pat. Nos. 4, 064, 648 to Cary, 4, 313, 650 to Ward et al. and 4, 375, 232 to Heescher et al. darH discloses use of a flexible sheet of insulating material, wound in a roll, that can be installed near the roof of the greenhouse. The material can then be deployed at night to cover the roof and prevent heat loss. During the daytime, the insulation is retracted into the roll so that light may enter the greenhouse. A similar system is disclosed in the Heescher patent. There, an insulative foil, made of two layers of plastic separated by air pockets, is selectively deployed over the roof and walls of the greenhouse to prevent heat loss. The foil is folded when stored and opens to form an insulative barrier. Both the Heescher and Cary references suggest that the foil might be coated with aluminum to increase the insulation effect. In Ward et al. , reflective and insulative slats are arranged venitian blind style below the greenhouse roof. This construction permits selective capture or reflection of heat or light. Aluminized insulating materials, shsh as those disclosed in the Heescher et al. and Cary references, are also useful in summer months to prevent overheating from direct sunlight. By deploying the insulating material over the southern exposure of the greenhouse (in the Northern hemisphere ), direct s tnlLght will be reflected out of the greenhouse. Diffuse light still enters the greenhouse turougu the northern exposure providing light for the plants. While hot air systems, used in conjunction with insulating materials, can be effective to promoting plant growth during cold winter months, such systems are still relatively energy inefficient. One primary drawback to the use of forced air is that the hot air naturally rises to the roof. Thus, the plants do not receive the full benefit of the forced air output. Although the insulating layers prevent much of the heat from escaping, the air near the roof will be warmer than the air near the floor, an indication that the system is not energy efficient. Greenhouses also require large amounts of water. The water is often taken straight from the outside and sprayed on the plants. This water is very cold, especially in winter and, when sprayed on the plaMtQ, it cools the plants, soil and surrounding air. Thus, the environment must be reheated to maintain proper growing conditions. In order to maintain a steSdG temperature in the greenhouse, the water is sometimes heated before spraying. This is typically accomplished using a large capacity water heater. Thus, separate air and water heating systems must be purchased and installed. The water heating systems in the prior art are not aF;e to take advantage of the excess u#at produced by the air heating systems and so efficiency is not maximized. Further problems arise due to the build - up of snow and ice on the roof above the insulating material. The prior art has attempted to solve this problem using additional devices which either scrape off the snow or heat the roof. None of the additional devices make use of the excess heat in the heating system, however, so, again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
In order grow plants in greenhouses, proper combination of light and heat is required. At times, the requisite light and heat are provided naturally from the sun. However, in northern climates, it is often too cold during the winter grow plants without some source of heat. Typically, provided using forced air heaters. This does not prove to be entirely satisfactory, however, because much of hot air is lost through the roof walls of the greenhouse. As a result, the winter days, the greenhouse can be as low as 50.degree. F. even with the hot air heaters at full blast. One solution to this problem has been to use insulating materials on roof and of the greenhouse. Systems of this type are disclosed in U.S. Pat. 4,064,648 to 4,313,650 to Ward al. and 4,375,232 to Heescher et Cary discloses use of a flexible sheet of insulating material, wound in roll, that can be installed the roof of the greenhouse. The material can then be deployed at night to cover the roof and prevent heat loss. During the daytime, the insulation is retracted into the roll so that light may greenhouse. A similar system is disclosed in the Heescher patent. There, an insulative foil, made of two layers of separated air pockets, is selectively deployed over the roof and walls the to prevent heat loss. The foil is folded when stored and opens to form an insulative barrier. Both the Heescher and references suggest that foil might be with aluminum to increase the insulation effect. In Ward et al., reflective and insulative slats are arranged venitian blind style below the greenhouse roof. This construction permits selective capture or reflection of heat light. Aluminized insulating materials, such as those disclosed in the Heescher et al. and Cary references, are also useful in summer months to prevent overheating from direct By deploying the insulating material over southern exposure of the greenhouse (in the Northern hemisphere), sunlight will be reflected out of the greenhouse. still enters the greenhouse the exposure providing light for the plants. While hot air systems, used in conjunction with insulating materials, can be effective to promoting plant growth during cold winter months, such systems are still relatively energy inefficient. One primary drawback to the use of forced is that the hot air naturally rises to the roof. Thus, the plants do not receive the full of the forced air output. Although the insulating layers prevent much of heat from escaping, the air near the roof will be warmer than the air near the floor, an indication that system is not energy Greenhouses also require large amounts of water. The water is often straight the outside and sprayed on the plants. This water is very cold, especially in winter and, when on the plants, it cools the plants, soil and surrounding air. the environment must be reheated to maintain proper growing conditions. In order to a steady temperature in the the water is sometimes before spraying. is typically accomplished a large capacity water heater. Thus, separate air and heating systems must be purchased and installed. water systems in the prior are not able to take advantage of excess heat produced by the air systems so efficiency is maximized. Further problems due to the build-up of snow and ice on the roof material. The prior art has attempted to solve this problem using additional devices which either scrape the snow or the roof. None of the additional devices make use of the excess heat in the heating system, however, so, again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
In ordER TO gRoW plAntS iN GREEnHOUsES, a prOpEr CombInatioN of ligHT aND hEAt iS REQUiReD. aT tImES, tHE ReQuiSITe lIGhT aNd HeAT ARe pRoVidEd NaTuRALLy FrOm tHE Sun. hoWeVER, iN MOsT NoRtHeRn CLImAtes, it iS oFteN TOO cOLD DUrING The winTeR TO GRoW plAntS wIthOut SOME soUrCe Of hEaT. TypIcAlLy, hEaT Is prOvidED uSINg fORCEd aIR HeatErs. THIs dOES NOT pROvE tO BE eNTIReLy sAtIsfAcTOrY, HOWeVEr, bEcauSE Much oF THe hOt AIR is loSt ThROuGH thE rooF anD WALLs OF THE grEEnHOusE. aS a ReSUlt, dURIng The winTeR dayS, THe TemPeRATURe in The greENhOUSe cAn bE As LoW as 50.dEGrEe. f. evEn wITh the Hot Air HeAtErS at FUlL blaST.
oNe soLUtIoN To tHIs PRoBLEm HaS bEen tO USe iNsULatInG mATErIaLs On the rOOf and WAlLs of thE gReenhouSE. SysTemS of THiS tYpe aRe diSCLOSEd In U.S. pAT. Nos. 4,064,648 To CARy, 4,313,650 To WaRD eT AL. And 4,375,232 TO HeesCHer et Al.
cArY dISCLOsES UsE oF A flExiBle sHeeT OF iNsULatING MAteRIaL, WOUND iN A rOLL, tHat CaN bE instalLEd NeAr THe ROOf of thE gReEnHOusE. The MaTErIAL CAN THen be DEpLoYed aT nIgHT TO COvER THe RooF aND prEvEnt hEAt Loss. dUrinG The DAytImE, thE INSuLAtiOn Is RETRACTEd InTo tHE roll SO THat LiGhT maY enTEr ThE greenHoUSE.
A sIMIlAR SyStem Is DISCLOSEd IN tHE HEEsChEr PATenT. THEre, an iNSulAtIve FOiL, Made OF TwO lAyeRs OF PlastIc SeParaTeD BY AIr PoCKEtS, Is sElECtIvelY dEPLoyED OveR tHE roOf and walLS oF THE Greenhouse To PreVENT HEat loSS. tHE foIL is FOldeD WHen sTOrEd And oPEns TO FoRM an inSuLaTIVE BArrier. BOtH THe HeeScHer aNd CarY REFERenceS SUGGesT thaT tHe FoIl MiGht bE cOATED with aluMINUm To inCREasE ThE INsULatIOn EFFeCT.
IN WaRd et al., refLECtiVE AND iNSulatIvE sLaTS ArE ArrangED vENItiaN bLinD StYlE BeLOw thE GreEnHOusE rOof. THis ConsTruCtIoN pERmiTs SELeCTIVE CaptUrE or REfLECtioN oF heaT Or lIghT.
aLUMINIzED INsuLATING MATeRiALs, SuCH As ThOsE discLoSed in thE HEeSChER et AL. And CArY REfereNCes, are also USefuL iN summeR MoNTHs To PReVENt oVErhEATINg frOM direCT SuNLIght. by dEPlOyiNg tHe insuLaTIng MateriAL OVEr The SOuThERN exPoSure oF thE grEenhOuSe (In thE NorTherN hEmIspheRe), DirECt SuNligHT WILl Be ReFLecTEd Out OF the grEenhOusE. Diffuse lIght sTIlL entErs the GReeNhouSe thROugh tHE NOrtheRN ExposURe PrOVIdiNg LigHT FoR THe plantS.
whiLE hot aIr sysTEms, useD IN cONjUnCTiOn wIth INsUlatIng MatERiAlS, CAn BE efFeCTiVe To prOMOtING pLaNt GroWtH DurInG cOld winTeR mOntHs, SUCH syStems arE stiLL relatiVeLY enErGy iNeFfiCieNt. one primArY DrAWbacK To the USE OF FORcED aiR iS ThAT thE HoT Air NAtUrALLY riSes To ThE RooF. ThUS, thE PlANTS do NoT rEcEiVE thE Full BeNEFIT of THE foRCED Air OUtPUT. ALThOugH thE InSUlATINg LaYeRs prEVEnT MuCh Of thE HeAT FRoM EScaPINg, THe AIR NeAr tHE rOof WilL bE wARMEr thAn THE AiR neaR thE FlOOr, An IndIcaTiON tHAt tHe system is NOt eneRgy EfFICiEnT.
greenHOuseS aLso ReqUIRE LARge AMOunTs of waTer. tHe wAter iS OFtEN tAkeN STrAIghT froM ThE OutSIDE aND SPRAyEd oN tHe pLaNtS. ThIS Water IS veRY CoLD, ESpECiaLlY IN WiNTEr anD, WhEn sprAYeD oN tHE PLANts, IT cOoLS ThE PLaNts, sOiL ANd SUrrouNding aIR. thUs, The EnVIRonMeNT muST BE RehEaTeD To maIntAIN pRoPER GroWING CONdiTIons. in OrDeR tO mAinTAin a sTEADY TeMpERaTURe iN ThE grEeNhouSe, The WAtEr IS SoMEtimes heaTed bEfORe sprAying. thIS IS TypiCalLY ACCOmpLisHed USINg A larGE caPaCIty WaTEr hEatER. tHus, sEpARaTE AIr anD wAtEr hEaTing sysTEMs MUSt be pUrCHasEd aND InsTallED. the WaTeR hEatiNG systEMS In tHe PrIor ART ARE noT ABLe tO TAKe AdVAnTage of THE EXCEss heAT pRODUcEd By THE aiR HeATInG systeMs ANd so EFficiEncy IS nOt MaxIMiZed.
FUrTheR PRobLEms ARISE duE TO the BuilD-up oF snow aND Ice On tHe rOof abOVe tHE InSuLatiNG MATErIAl. THe pRIoR ArT haS aTtEMptED tO soLvE thIs PrOBlEm UsinG AddITionAl DEVICES WHIch eitHeR sCRAPE Off THe SNow OR HEAT tHe rooF. NoNe OF THE aDdItIonAL dEViCEs MAKe use of The EXcESs HeAt In THe HEAtIng SYsTEm, hoWEVER, So, AGAiN, MaxIMum EfficIency is not aCHiEVed.
|
In order to grow plants ingreenhouses, a propercombination of light and heat is required. At times, therequisite light and heat are providednaturally from the sun. However, in most northern climates, it is often toocold during the winter to grow plants without some source of heat. Typically, heat is provided using forced air heaters. This does not prove to be entirely satisfactory, however, because much of the hot airislost through the roof and walls of the greenhouse. As a result, during the winter days, the temperature in the greenhouse can be as low as 50.degree. F. evenwith the hot air heaters at full blast.One solutionto this problem has been to use insulating materials on the roof and walls of the greenhouse. Systems of this type are disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 4,064,648 to Cary, 4,313,650 to Ward et al. and 4,375,232 to Heescher et al. Cary discloses use of a flexible sheet of insulating material, wound in a roll, that can beinstalled near the roof of thegreenhouse. The material can then be deployed at night to cover the roof and prevent heat loss. During the daytime, the insulation is retracted into the roll so that light may enter the greenhouse.A similar system is disclosed in the Heescher patent. There, an insulative foil, made of two layers of plastic separated by air pockets, is selectivelydeployed over the roof and walls of the greenhouse to prevent heat loss.The foil is folded when stored and opens to form an insulative barrier. Both the Heescher and Cary references suggest that the foil might becoated withaluminum toincrease the insulation effect. In Ward et al., reflective and insulative slats are arranged venitian blind stylebelow the greenhouse roof. Thisconstruction permits selective capture or reflection of heat or light.Aluminizedinsulating materials, such asthose disclosed in the Heescher et al. and Cary references, are alsouseful insummer months to preventoverheating from direct sunlight. By deploying the insulating material over the southern exposure of the greenhouse (in the Northern hemisphere),direct sunlight will be reflected out of the greenhouse. Diffuse light still enters the greenhouse through the northern exposure providing light for the plants. While hot air systems, used in conjunction with insulating materials, can be effectiveto promoting plantgrowth during cold winter months, such systems arestill relatively energy inefficient. One primary drawback to the use of forcedair isthat the hot air naturally rises to the roof.Thus, the plants do not receive the full benefit ofthe forced air output. Althoughthe insulating layers prevent muchof the heat from escaping, the air neartheroofwill be warmer than the air near the floor, an indication that the system is not energy efficient. Greenhouses also require large amounts ofwater.The water is often taken straight from the outside and sprayed on the plants. This water is very cold,especially in winter and, when sprayed on the plants, it coolsthe plants, soil and surrounding air. Thus, the environment must be reheated tomaintain proper growing conditions. Inorder to maintain a steady temperature in the greenhouse, the wateris sometimes heatedbefore spraying. This is typically accomplished using a large capacitywater heater. Thus, separate airand water heating systems must be purchased and installed. The water heating systems in the prior artare not able totake advantage of the excess heat produced bythe air heating systems and so efficiency is not maximized. Further problems arisedue to the build-up of snow and iceon theroof above the insulating material. The prior art has attempted to solve this problem using additionaldevices which either scrape off the snow or heat theroof. None ofthe additional devices makeuse of theexcess heat in the heating system, however, so,again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
_In_ order to grow plants _in_ _greenhouses,_ a proper combination _of_ light and heat is _required._ At times, the requisite _light_ and _heat_ are provided _naturally_ from the sun. However, in _most_ northern climates, it is often too cold during the winter _to_ grow plants without _some_ _source_ of heat. Typically, heat is provided using _forced_ air heaters. This does not _prove_ _to_ be _entirely_ satisfactory, _however,_ because _much_ of the hot air is lost through the roof and walls _of_ the _greenhouse._ As _a_ result, during the winter days, the temperature in the greenhouse can _be_ _as_ _low_ as 50.degree. _F._ even with the hot air heaters _at_ full _blast._ One solution to this _problem_ _has_ been to _use_ insulating materials on _the_ roof and _walls_ of _the_ greenhouse. Systems of this type are disclosed _in_ U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,064,648 to Cary, 4,313,650 to _Ward_ et al. _and_ 4,375,232 to Heescher et _al._ _Cary_ discloses use _of_ a flexible sheet _of_ insulating material, wound in _a_ roll, that can be installed _near_ _the_ roof of _the_ greenhouse. The material _can_ then be deployed at night to _cover_ _the_ roof and prevent _heat_ loss. During the daytime, the _insulation_ is retracted into the roll so that light _may_ enter the greenhouse. A similar system is disclosed in the Heescher patent. There, an insulative foil, _made_ of two layers of plastic separated by _air_ pockets, _is_ _selectively_ _deployed_ over the roof and walls of the greenhouse to prevent heat loss. The foil _is_ _folded_ when stored and opens to form an _insulative_ barrier. Both _the_ _Heescher_ and _Cary_ references suggest _that_ the foil might be coated with aluminum to _increase_ the insulation effect. In _Ward_ _et_ al., reflective and insulative slats are arranged venitian blind style below the greenhouse roof. This construction permits selective capture or reflection of heat or light. Aluminized insulating _materials,_ such as those _disclosed_ in the _Heescher_ _et_ al. and Cary _references,_ are also useful in summer months _to_ prevent overheating from direct _sunlight._ By deploying the insulating material over the southern exposure of the greenhouse (in the Northern hemisphere), direct sunlight _will_ _be_ reflected out of the _greenhouse._ Diffuse light still enters the greenhouse through the northern exposure providing light for the _plants._ While _hot_ air _systems,_ used in conjunction with _insulating_ materials, can be effective to promoting plant growth during cold winter months, such systems _are_ still _relatively_ energy inefficient. _One_ primary drawback to the use of forced air is that the _hot_ air naturally rises to the roof. Thus, the plants _do_ _not_ _receive_ the full benefit of the forced air output. Although the insulating layers prevent _much_ of the heat from _escaping,_ the air near the _roof_ _will_ be warmer than the _air_ _near_ the floor, an indication that the system is not energy efficient. Greenhouses _also_ _require_ _large_ amounts _of_ water. The water is often taken _straight_ from the outside and sprayed on _the_ _plants._ This water is very cold, especially _in_ winter and, when sprayed on the plants, it cools the plants, soil _and_ surrounding air. Thus, the _environment_ must be reheated _to_ maintain proper _growing_ conditions. _In_ order to maintain _a_ steady temperature in the greenhouse, _the_ _water_ is sometimes _heated_ before spraying. This _is_ typically accomplished _using_ a large capacity water heater. Thus, _separate_ air and _water_ heating systems must be purchased and installed. The water heating _systems_ in the prior art are not able to _take_ _advantage_ of the excess _heat_ _produced_ _by_ _the_ _air_ heating systems and _so_ efficiency is not maximized. Further problems _arise_ _due_ to the _build-up_ of snow and ice on the roof above the insulating material. The prior _art_ has attempted to _solve_ this _problem_ using additional devices which either scrape off _the_ snow or _heat_ the roof. None of the additional devices _make_ use of the excess heat in _the_ heating system, however, so, again, maximum efficiency is not achieved.
|
A Linux server clustering system (Linux Virtual Server, LVS for short) is a virtual server clustering system, and is a way for achieving load balancing, in the Linux kernel, based on the Internet Protocol (IP for short) layer and the content-based request distribution.
A Tencent Gateway (TGW for short) project is developed from an LVS project. By using an IP tunneling (IP TUN for short) manner, a TGW can access a service on a Linux server efficiently and transparently. However, since a windows system does not support the IP TUN technology, it is hard to make the TGW access a windows service by using the IP TUN manner.
|
a linux server clustering system ( linux virtual server, lvs after short ) is a trusted server clustering system, and is a way for achieving load balancing, in the hp kernel, based on the internet protocol ( ip for short ) mechanism and the content - based request distribution. a tencent gateway ( tgw for short ) project is developed by an lvs project. by using an ip tunneling ( ip tun for short ) manner, a tgw can access a service on a linux server remotely and freely. however, since the windows server does not support the ip tun technology, it is easier to make the tgw access a windows service by using the ip tun manner.
|
A Linux server clustering system (;inuZ Virtual Ceever, LVS for short) is a virtual server clusterigH system, and is a way for achieving load balancing, in the Linux ke3hel, based on the Inge5net Protocol (IP for short) layer and the content - based request dist%ibut(on. A Tencent Gateway (TGW for zgort) project is developed from an LVS project. By using an IP tunneling (IP TUN for short) manner, a TGW can access a Zervicf on a Linux server efficiently and trahspqrently. However, since a windows system does not support the IP TUN technology, it is Jarw to make the TGW access a windows service by using the IP TUN manner.
|
A Linux server clustering system (Linux Virtual Server, LVS for short) system, is a way for achieving load balancing, in the Linux kernel, based on the Internet Protocol (IP for short) layer and the content-based request distribution. A Tencent Gateway (TGW short) project developed from an LVS project. By using an IP tunneling (IP TUN for short) manner, a TGW can access a service on a server efficiently and However, since a windows system does not support the IP TUN technology, it is hard to make the TGW access a windows service by using the IP TUN manner.
|
A LinUx SERvEr cLUSterINg sySTEM (LinUX ViRTUal sErver, lVs foR SHORt) is A viRtUal Server CLustErINg SYStem, And Is A Way fOr acHIeVING loAD bAlanCiNG, IN ThE LINUx KeRNEl, BAsED oN THe INterNET ProTOcOl (ip FoR shorT) lAYeR And thE cOnTenT-baseD REQUEsT distributIOn.
a tencenT gatEwaY (tgw For shORt) projEcT is dEvElopeD FrOM An LVs PrOJEcT. by uSING An iP tuNneLING (Ip tun FOr sHOrt) MAnNEr, a tGw CAn ACcEsS A Service On A linUx SeRvER eFFICIENtLY ANd TRAnSpArenTlY. HoWEvEr, SINcE A WinDows SYSTem DOES NoT suPpORt tHE iP tUN TEcHNOlOgY, It Is HARd TO MAKe The tgw aCcEsS A WINDoWS sERVIce BY USiNg tHe ip tUN MANNER.
|
A Linux serverclustering system (Linux Virtual Server, LVS for short)is a virtual server clustering system, and is a way for achieving load balancing, in the Linuxkernel, based on the Internet Protocol (IP for short) layer and the content-basedrequestdistribution. ATencent Gateway (TGW forshort) project is developed from an LVS project. By using an IP tunneling (IP TUN for short)manner, aTGW can accessa service on aLinux server efficiently and transparently. However, since a windows system doesnot support the IP TUN technology, it is hard to make theTGW access a windows service by using the IP TUN manner.
|
A _Linux_ server clustering system (Linux Virtual Server, LVS for short) _is_ _a_ virtual server clustering _system,_ _and_ _is_ _a_ way for achieving load balancing, in the Linux kernel, _based_ on the _Internet_ Protocol (IP _for_ short) layer and _the_ content-based request distribution. A Tencent _Gateway_ (TGW for short) project is developed from an LVS project. By using an IP tunneling (IP TUN for short) manner, a TGW can access a service _on_ a Linux _server_ efficiently and _transparently._ However, since a windows system _does_ not support the _IP_ TUN _technology,_ it is hard to make the TGW access a windows _service_ by _using_ the IP TUN manner.
|
As well-known, along with the trend toward the increase in the number and the size of a data center including a plurality of devices such as servers, storages and the like, a power consumed by the data center increases abruptly. In order to solve the problem of large power consumption, technical approach has made such as development of a server having high power conversion efficiency and low power consumption For example, servers in an idle state consume about 60% of the electricity energy. In a data center, servers run at efficiency of about 5% to 20% to cut server response time. To do so, about 10% of the servers in average place in a standby mode.
A method for managing loads such as servers in a cluster system evenly allocates the loads to the servers considering performance. Although this leads to improve the performance, the power consumption increases. Thus, the load allocation method is not suitable for reducing power consumption.
There is a technique to switch on/off a server on a single threshold basis by the amount of a load. However, this technique is disadvantageous in that a long period of switching on time of the server deteriorates performance of the cluster system and in that frequent on/off operations of the server results in large power consumption. Hence, such conventional technique cannot be used as a desirable load allocation method in view of performance and power consumption.
|
as well - known, along with the trend toward the increase in the number and installation size of a data center including a plurality of devices such as servers, storages and the like, a power consumed by the data grid increases abruptly. in order to solve the problem of large power consumption, technical approach has made limitations as limitations of a server having high power conversion efficiency and low power consumption for example, servers in an idle state consume about 60 % of the electricity energy. without a data center, servers run at ratios of about 5 % to 20 % to cut server response time. nodes do so, about 10 % of the servers in average place in a static mode. a method for managing loads such as servers in a cluster system evenly allocates the loads to the servers considering performance. although this leads to improve the performance, the power consumption increases. thus, the load allocation method is not suitable for reducing power consumption. there is a technique to switch on / off a server on a single threshold basis by the amount of a load. however, this approach is disadvantageous in that a long period of switching on time of the server deteriorates performance affecting the cluster system and in that frequent on / off operations of the server results in large power consumption. hence, such conventional technique cannot be used as a desirable load allocation method in view of performance and power consumption.
|
As 2el; - known, along with the trend towaeC the increase in the number and the size of a data center including a plurality of devices such as servers, storages and the like, a power consumed by the fwta center increases abruptly. In order to solve the problem of large p9wed consumption, technical apprlqch has made such as devel*pm@nt of a server having high power conversion efficiency and low power consumption For example, servers in an idle state consume about 60% of the electricity energy. In a data center, servers run at efficiency of about 5% to 20% to cut server response time. To do so, about 10% of the servers in average place in a standby mode. A method for managing loads such as servers in a cluster system evenly allocates the loads to the servers considering performance. Although this leads to improve the performance, the power consumption increases. Thus, the load allocation method is not suitable for rsdusing power consumption. There is a technique to switch on / off a server on a single threshold basis by the am9hnt of a load. However, this tecuniqu@ is disadvantageous in that a long period of switching on time of the server deteriorates performance of the cluster system and in that frequent on / off operations of the server results in large power consumption. Hence, x6ch conventional technique cannot be used as a desirable load allocation method in view of performance and power consumption.
|
As well-known, with the trend toward increase in the number and the size of a data center including a plurality of devices such as servers, storages and the like, a power consumed the center increases abruptly. order solve problem of large power consumption, technical approach has made such as development of a having high power conversion efficiency and low power consumption For example, in an idle state consume about 60% of the electricity energy. a data center, servers run efficiency of about 5% 20% to cut server response time. To do so, about 10% of the servers in average place in a standby mode. A for managing loads such as servers in a cluster system evenly allocates loads to the considering performance. Although this leads to improve the performance, the power consumption increases. Thus, the load allocation method is suitable for reducing power consumption. There is technique to switch on/off a server a single threshold basis by the amount of a load. However, this technique is disadvantageous in that a long period of switching time of the server deteriorates performance of the cluster system and in that on/off operations of the server results in large power Hence, conventional technique cannot be used as a desirable load allocation method in view of performance and consumption.
|
AS Well-kNOwn, AlONG wITH The TreND toWard ThE INcREASE In THe nUmbER aND The sIze OF a dAtA cENteR iNcLudING a pLURALITy of dEviCES SuCh AS seRVErS, storAGES aNd tHe lIKE, A PoWeR coNSumED By tHe DaTA CeNTER IncreaSEs AbrUPtlY. In orDEr tO SolVE THe prOBLEm of LaRgE poweR cONSUMption, tECHniCAl ApPROAcH has maDe SUCh aS dEVelOPMENt Of a SERVeR HaVing HiGH PoweR cOnvERSIoN effICIeNCY AND lOw PoweR conSUMPTiON FOR exAmpLe, seRvERs In AN IDle stATE cONsUme AbOut 60% oF the elEctRIcItY ENeRgY. In a dATa CENtER, sErveRS ruN AT EfFiCiEncy of AbOuT 5% tO 20% to Cut sERvEr rESPonse TiMe. tO do So, aBOUT 10% Of The SErvers In AveraGE PlaCe In a staNDby Mode.
A MEthOD FOr mANaging LOads sucH AS serVErs iN A CLusTeR SYSTem eVeNlY AlLocaTES tHe lOaDs To THe sErVErS cONSidEriNg PErFORmAnCE. aLThough THIS lEAds tO iMPrOVe tHE PERFORMaNce, ThE pOWeR coNsuMptioN InCReASEs. ThuS, tHe LOaD allOcation meThOD is noT SUitAbLe for REDuCInG POWeR cONSumpTIOn.
tHERe is a tECHNIQUe tO swItCH on/OFF A sERvEr On a SINglE tHResHolD baSiS BY THE aMouNT of A LoAd. HOWevEr, thIs tEChNIqUE IS diSaDVANtAgEOuS iN ThAt A LOng pERIOD oF SwItCHiNg on tIMe OF thE ServER detERiOrATeS PERforMAnCe of the cLUsTER SysTEm aND iN THat frEQUEnT on/OFf operatIonS oF THE SeRVEr resulTS In LarGE PoWer coNsUMptiOn. HEnce, sUcH coNVEntIONAL techNique cAnnOt Be uSEd aS a deSiRAblE lOAd aLLOcatION MeTHOD in viEW of pErFormAnCE AND PoWER cOnsuMptIOn.
|
As well-known, along with the trend toward the increase inthenumberand the size of a data center including a plurality of devices such asservers, storages and the like, a power consumed by the data centerincreases abruptly. In order to solve the problem of large power consumption, technical approach has made such as development of a server having high power conversion efficiency and lowpower consumptionFor example, servers inan idle state consume about 60%oftheelectricity energy. In a data center, serversrun at efficiency of about 5% to 20% to cut server response time.To do so, about 10%of the servers inaverage place inastandby mode. A method for managingloads such as servers ina cluster system evenly allocates the loads to the servers considering performance. Although thisleads to improve the performance, the power consumptionincreases.Thus, the load allocation method isnotsuitable for reducing power consumption. There is a technique to switch on/off a serveron asinglethreshold basis by the amount of a load. However, this technique is disadvantageous in that a long period of switching on time of the server deteriorates performance of the cluster systemand in that frequent on/off operations of the server results in large power consumption. Hence,such conventional technique cannot be used as a desirable load allocation method in view of performance and power consumption.
|
As well-known, along with the _trend_ toward the increase in the number _and_ the size of a data center _including_ a plurality of devices such as servers, _storages_ and the like, a power consumed _by_ the data center _increases_ abruptly. In _order_ to solve the problem _of_ _large_ power consumption, technical approach has made such as development of a _server_ having high power conversion efficiency and low _power_ _consumption_ For example, servers in an idle state consume _about_ 60% of the electricity energy. In a data center, servers run at efficiency of about 5% to 20% to cut _server_ _response_ _time._ To do so, about _10%_ of the _servers_ _in_ average place in a standby mode. A method for managing loads such as servers _in_ a cluster _system_ evenly allocates _the_ loads to the _servers_ considering performance. Although this _leads_ _to_ improve _the_ _performance,_ _the_ power consumption _increases._ Thus, the load _allocation_ method is not suitable for _reducing_ power consumption. There is a technique to switch on/off a server _on_ _a_ single threshold _basis_ by _the_ amount of _a_ load. However, this _technique_ _is_ disadvantageous in that a long period of switching _on_ time of the server deteriorates performance of the cluster system _and_ _in_ that frequent on/off operations of the _server_ results in large power consumption. Hence, such conventional technique cannot be used as a _desirable_ load allocation method in _view_ of performance and power consumption.
|
Heretofore, a linear actuator, for example, which is made up of a fluid pressure cylinder or the like, has been used as a means for transporting workpieces under the supply of a pressure fluid. As disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3795968, the present applicants have proposed a linear actuator, which is capable of transporting a workpiece that is mounted on a slide table by causing the slide table to move reciprocally in a straight line along a cylinder main body. However, with the aforementioned linear actuator, in recent years, there has been a demand to reduce manufacturing costs and to enhance ease of assembly by simplifying the structure of the linear actuator.
|
heretofore, a linear actuator, for example, which is made up around a fluid pressure cylinder or the like, has been envisioned in a means for transporting workpieces under the supply of a pressure fluid. as disclosed in japanese ieee 7. 3795968, the present applicants also proposed a linear actuator, which is capable of transporting a workpiece that is mounted on a slide table by enabling the slide table to move reciprocally in a straight line along a cylinder main body. however, with the aforementioned circular actuator, in recent years, there has been a demand to reduce manufacturing costs and to improve ease of assembly by simplifying the structure of an linear actuator.
|
Heretofore, a linear actuator, for example, which is made up of a fluid pressure cylinder or the l8>e, has been jaed as a means for transporting workpieces 7nde$ the supply of a prRsqure fluid. As disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3795968, the present applicants have proposed a linear actuator, which is capable of trandpo3ting a workpiece that is mounted on a slide table by causjnt the slide table to move reciprocally in a straight line along a cylinder main body. U9wever, with the aforementioned linear actuator, in recent years, tger@ has been a demand to reduce manufacturing Voste and to enhance eaa3 of assembly by simplifying the structure of the linear actuator.
|
Heretofore, a actuator, for example, which is made up of a pressure cylinder or the like, has been used as a means for transporting workpieces under the supply of a pressure fluid. As disclosed in Japanese Patent No. the present applicants have proposed a linear actuator, which is of transporting a workpiece that is mounted a slide table by causing slide table to in a line along a cylinder main However, with the aforementioned linear actuator, in recent years, there been a demand to reduce manufacturing costs and to enhance ease of assembly by simplifying the structure of the linear actuator.
|
HErEtoForE, A linEAr aCTuATOr, FOr EXamPLe, whIch iS mADE Up OF a FLUId pREssuRe CYlInDeR or ThE LIKe, Has beEn useD as a meAns fOr tRansPoRting WOrKpiEcES uNder THe sUpPLy oF a PREsSURe FLUiD. As dISCLoSed In JApANeSE PatENT nO. 3795968, ThE preSeNT aPPlIcANts HaVE pROposED a LIneAR aCTUAtOR, WhIcH Is CAPablE oF TraNspOrtIng A WorKPiecE tHAT is mOuNTED on A sliDE tABlE BY cAuSINg THE slIdE taBLe TO MovE ReCIPROcaLLy in A STRAigHt liNe AlonG a CyLiNdER mAin BOdY. hOweVeR, WIth thE aFOReMEntIoNED LINEaR aCTUaToR, IN REcENT YeARs, There hAS BeEN a dEmaND TO RedUcE manufaCtuRiNg CoSts ANd TO ENHANce easE oF asseMBLy BY SiMpliFyINg thE sTRUCTurE of THE lINeaR aCtuAtOr.
|
Heretofore,a linear actuator, forexample, whichismade up of a fluid pressure cylinder or the like, has been used as a means for transporting workpieces under thesupplyofa pressure fluid. As disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3795968,the present applicants have proposed a linear actuator, which is capable of transportinga workpiece thatis mounted on a slide table bycausing the slide table to move reciprocally in astraight line alonga cylinder main body. However, with theaforementioned linear actuator, in recent years, there has been a demand to reduce manufacturing costs and to enhance easeof assemblyby simplifying the structure of the linear actuator.
|
Heretofore, a linear actuator, for _example,_ which is made up of _a_ fluid pressure cylinder or the like, has been used as a means for transporting workpieces under the _supply_ of _a_ pressure fluid. As disclosed in _Japanese_ Patent No. 3795968, the present applicants have proposed a linear _actuator,_ which _is_ capable of transporting _a_ _workpiece_ _that_ is mounted on _a_ slide table by causing the _slide_ table to move reciprocally _in_ a straight line along _a_ cylinder main _body._ However, with the aforementioned linear actuator, in recent years, there has _been_ _a_ demand _to_ reduce _manufacturing_ costs _and_ _to_ enhance _ease_ of assembly _by_ simplifying _the_ structure of the linear actuator.
|
a) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a thin film transistor, a liquid crystal display substrate, a MIS type field effect transistor (MISFET), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly to a transistor having a lightly doped drain structure, a liquid display substrate having such transistors, and their manufacture methods.
b) Description of the Related Art
Thin film transistors (TFT) are used as switching elements of pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display device. A small off-current of TFT is necessary for holding electric charges accumulated by a pixel electrode. The off-current can be reduced by adopting a lightly doped drain (LDD) structure.
If both the source and drain regions of TFT have the LDD structure, an on-current reduces. In order to reduce the off-current and retain a sufficient on-current, it can be considered preferable if the LDD structure is formed only on the drain side.
For example, in order to form the LDD structure in only the drain region, first impurity ions are implanted into the drain and source regions at a low concentration. Thereafter, the area in the drain region at the low concentration is covered with a resist mask and impurity ions are implanted at a relatively high concentration. The source region is not covered with the resist mask. If the gate length is short, a high precision of position alignment is required when a resist mask is formed to cover the low concentration region on the drain side and expose the source region.
A TFT using a polysilicon thin film has a carrier mobility higher than a TFT using amorphous silicon. Therefore, by using polysilicon TFT, an image display area and its driver circuit can be formed on the same substrate. A larger on-current is required for TFT in the peripheral circuit than a switching TFT of each pixel. In this context, it may occur that the LDD structure is adopted for TFT in the pixel area and not for TFT in the peripheral circuit.
If the LDD structure is adopted for the source and drain regions of TFT in the pixel area and not adopted for TFT in the peripheral circuit, the number of photolithography processes increases more than if the LDD structure is adopted for all TFTs. An increase in the number of photography processes results in a higher manufacture cost and a lower manufacture yield.
|
a ) field of the invention the present invention belongs to a thin film transistor, a liquid crystal display substrate, a mis type field effect transistor ( misfet ), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly to a transistor having a lightly doped drain structure, a liquid display substrate having such transistors, and their manufacture methods. b ) description of the related art thin film transistors ( tft ) are used as switching elements of pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display device. having smaller off - current of tft is necessary for holding electric charges accumulated by a pixel electrode. the off - current can be reduced by adopting a lightly doped drain ( ldd ) structure. if both the source and drain regions of tft have the ldd structure, an on - current reduces. in order to reduce the off - current and retain a sufficient on - current, it can be considered preferable if the ldd structure be formed only inside the drain side. for this, in order to form the ldd structure in only the drain region, first impurity ions are implanted into the drain electrode source regions at a low concentration. thereafter, the area in the drain region at the low concentration is covered with a resist mask and impurity ions are implanted at a relatively high concentration. the source region is not covered with the resist mask. if the gate length is short, a high precision of position alignment is required when a resist mask is formed to cover the low concentration region on the drain side and expose the source region. a tft using a polysilicon thin film has a carrier mobility better than a tft using amorphous silicon. therefore, by using polysilicon tft, an image display area and its driver circuit can be formed on the same substrate. a larger on - current is required for tft in the peripheral circuit than a switching tft of each pixel. in this context, it may occur that the ldd structure is adopted for tft in the pixel area and not for tft in the peripheral circuit. if the ldd structure is adopted for the source and drain regions of tft beyond the pixel area and not adopted for silicon in the peripheral circuit, the number of photolithography processes increases more than if the ldd structure is adopted for all tfts. an increase in the number of photography processes results in a higher manufacture cost and a lower manufacture yield.
|
a) Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a thin film transistor, a luqukd crystal display substrate, a MIS type field effect transistor (MISFET ), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly to a transistor having a lightly dkprd drain structure, a liquid display substrate having such transistors, and their manufacture methods. b) Description of the Related Art Thin film transistors (TFT) are used as switching elements of pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display device. A small off - current of TFT is necessary for holding electric charges accumulated by a pixel electrode. The off - current can be reduced by adopting a lightly doped drain (LDD) structure. If both the qourxe and drain regions of TFT have the LDD sYruct Tre, an on - current reduces. In order to reduce the off - current and retain a sufficient on - current, it can be considered preferable if the LDD structure is formed only on the drain side. For example, in order to form the LDD structure in only the drain region, first impurity ions are implanted into the drain and source regions at a low condenRration. Thereafter, the area in the drain region at the low concentration is covered with a resist haXk and impurity ions are implanted at a relatively high consentrqtion. The source region is not covered with the resist mask. If the gate length is short, a high precision of position alignment is required when a resist mask is formed to cover the low concentration region on the drain side and expose the source region. A TFT using a polysilicon thin film has a carrier mobility higher than a TFT using amorphous silicon. Therefore, by using polysilicon TFT, an image display area and its driver circuit can be formed on the same substrate. A larger on - current is required for TFT in the peripheral circuit hhQn a switching TFT of each pixel. In this context, it may occur tUSt the LDD structure is adopted for TFT in the pixel area and not for TFT in the peripheral circuit. If the LDD structure is adopted for the source and drain regions of TFT in the pixel area and not adopted for TFT in the peripheral circuit, the number of photolithography processes increases more yNan if the LDD structure is adopted for all TFTs. An increase in the number of photography processes results in a higher manufacture cost and a lower manufacture yield.
|
a) Field the Invention The present relates to a thin film transistor, a crystal display substrate, a MIS type field effect transistor (MISFET), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly a transistor having a lightly doped drain a liquid display substrate having such transistors, and their manufacture methods. b) Description of Related Art Thin film transistors (TFT) are used as switching elements of pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display device. A small off-current of TFT is necessary for holding electric charges accumulated by a electrode. The off-current can be reduced by adopting a lightly doped drain (LDD) structure. If both source and drain regions of TFT have the LDD structure, an on-current reduces. In order to reduce the off-current and retain a sufficient on-current, it can be considered if LDD structure is formed only on the drain side. For example, in order to form the LDD structure in only the drain region, first impurity ions are implanted the source regions at a low concentration. Thereafter, area in the drain region at the low is with a resist mask and impurity ions are implanted at a relatively high concentration. The source region is not covered with the mask. If the gate length is short, a high precision of position alignment is required when a resist mask is formed to cover low concentration region on the drain side and expose the source region. A TFT a polysilicon thin film has carrier mobility higher than a TFT using amorphous silicon. Therefore, by using polysilicon TFT, an image display area and driver circuit can be formed on the same substrate. larger on-current is required for TFT in the peripheral circuit than a switching TFT of pixel. In this context, may occur that LDD structure adopted for TFT in the pixel area and not for TFT in the peripheral circuit. If the LDD is adopted for the regions of TFT in the pixel area and not adopted TFT in the peripheral circuit, the number increases more than the LDD structure is all TFTs. An increase in number of photography processes results in a higher manufacture and a lower manufacture yield.
|
a) FIELd Of ThE iNvEnTiON
THE PreseNT inVeNTiON relateS to A tHIN FilM TRaNSIStOR, A LiQuId crYstaL DIsPLaY SubSTRaTE, A mis tYpE fIELD EfFeCT trAnSistOR (miSFET), And tHeIr MaNUfAcTURE METhOds, AnD morE partICuLarLy To a tRaNSIstor HAVIng A LIgHTLy dOpEd DRAIN STrucTUrE, A liQUID DisPLAY SuBsTratE hAviNG SUCh TRaNsistORs, aND THEIr maNUfacTure MEtHoDS.
B) descrIpTiOn OF tHe RelatED ART
ThiN FiLm TransiSToRs (tFt) arE UseD as SWiTCHINg ELeMenTs oF pIxeLs of an ACTiVe MAtRix tYpe lIQUID CRYsTaL dIsPlay deVice. A SmaLL ofF-cuRrenT OF tFt IS NECEsSarY FoR HOlDINg ElecTRIc CHarGeS AccumUlAted bY A piXeL ELecTroDe. ThE OfF-cUrrENt cAN be reDuCEd By adopTiNG a lightlY DOpED draIn (lDD) sTrUcTure.
IF bOtH tHe soURce ANd draiN ReGIONs OF TFT hAve THe ldd StRuCTURE, AN on-CURREnT REDUces. in orDER To rEDucE THe Off-CuRREnT anD rEtAin a SUFFiCiEnT oN-CuRrENt, It cAN bE ConsiDErEd PreFerAblE if the ldD strUcturE IS FoRMED ONLy oN The DraIN siDE.
fOr EXampLe, iN oRDER TO FORM ThE lDD STrucTUre IN Only THE dRAIn rEGIoN, fIRst imPuRitY IOnS aRE iMPLAnTED IntO tHE DRAiN AnD Source REgIOns AT a Low CONCeNTRATION. tHereafTer, ThE aREa iN THE DRAin REGIoN At THe LoW CONCenTRAtIon is CoveRED wITH A rEsISt mASK AnD iMPurITY iOns ArE IMpLANTeD At a RelAtIvElY High COnCEntratIon. ThE soUrcE reGion is NOt CovEReD wITH the ResIsT MASK. If The gaTe lengTh Is ShORT, a HiGh pRecIsion OF pOsItiON aligNment IS ReQUIreD wHen a ReSIst mAsk is FOrMEd tO CoVeR ThE LOW cOnceNtrAtIon regiOn On tHe drAiN side AND eXPose tHE SoURcE REgion.
a Tft USINg a PoLYSiLICoN ThIn FiLM has a cARRier mobilITy HIgHEr thAn A tFT UsiNG amORPHoUS SiLiCON. tHEREfOre, By uSInG poLYsiLIcoN TFT, aN ImAGE DiSPlAY ArEA AnD iTS DrivER CIRcuiT CAN bE formED ON THE SAmE SUBStRatE. A LARGER ON-cuRrENt iS ReQUirED fOr TfT in tHe peripHeRAL ciRcUit ThAn a SWItCHInG tFt OF EaCH PIXEl. in thIS conTeXT, It MAY ocCUR thAt thE LdD sTrUcTurE iS aDOpTed FoR TFT IN tHe pIxEL ArEa AnD nOT fOr TFt in tHe pEriphEraL CIRCUIt.
iF THE LdD sTRuCTuRE iS ADOpTED fOr ThE sOurCe AND DrAIN rEgIONS of tFt IN thE pixEl Area anD NOt aDOpTed FOR TFt In ThE PerIPHerAL CirCuIT, tHE NUmBER Of phOTOlIthoGraPHY PROcESsEs INCreasES morE THan IF the LDD strUCTUre Is ADoPtED FoR AlL TftS. aN iNCreASE IN tHe nUmbeR oF PhotogRAPHy PROcEssES ReSuLTS In A HIgHer maNUFacTURe cost AnD a LOwEr manUfACtURe Yield.
|
a) Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates to a thinfilm transistor, a liquid crystal displaysubstrate, aMIS typefield effect transistor (MISFET), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly to a transistor having a lightlydoped drain structure, aliquid display substrate having such transistors, and their manufacture methods. b) Descriptionof the Related Art Thin film transistors (TFT) are used as switching elements of pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display device. A small off-current ofTFT isnecessary for holding electric charges accumulatedby a pixel electrode. The off-currentcan be reduced by adopting a lightly doped drain (LDD) structure. If both the source anddrainregions of TFThave the LDD structure, an on-current reduces. Inorder to reduce the off-current and retain a sufficient on-current, it can be considered preferable if the LDD structure is formed only on the drain side. For example, in ordertoform the LDD structure in only the drain region, first impurity ions are implanted into the drain and source regions ata low concentration. Thereafter, the area inthedrain region atthe low concentration is covered with a resist mask and impurity ions are implantedat a relatively high concentration. The source region is not covered withthe resist mask.If the gate length is short, a high precision of position alignmentis required when a resist mask is formed tocover the low concentration region on the drainside and expose the source region. A TFT usinga polysilicon thin film hasa carrier mobility higher than a TFT using amorphous silicon. Therefore, by using polysilicon TFT, an imagedisplay area and its drivercircuit can be formedon the same substrate. A largeron-currentisrequired forTFT in the peripheral circuit than a switching TFT of each pixel. Inthis context,it may occur that theLDD structureis adopted forTFT in the pixel area and notfor TFT inthe peripheralcircuit. If the LDD structureis adopted for the source and drain regions of TFT in thepixel area and notadopted for TFTin the peripheral circuit, thenumber of photolithography processes increases more than if the LDD structure is adopted for all TFTs. An increase in the number of photography processesresults in a highermanufacture cost and alowermanufactureyield.
|
_a)_ Field of the Invention The _present_ invention _relates_ to a thin film transistor, a liquid crystal display _substrate,_ a MIS _type_ field effect _transistor_ (MISFET), and their manufacture methods, and more particularly to a _transistor_ having a lightly doped drain structure, _a_ liquid display _substrate_ having such transistors, _and_ their manufacture _methods._ b) Description of the Related Art Thin film _transistors_ (TFT) are used _as_ switching elements _of_ pixels of an active matrix type liquid crystal display _device._ _A_ small off-current _of_ TFT is necessary _for_ _holding_ electric charges accumulated _by_ a pixel electrode. The off-current can be reduced by adopting a lightly _doped_ drain (LDD) structure. _If_ both the source and drain regions _of_ TFT have the LDD structure, an _on-current_ reduces. _In_ _order_ to reduce the off-current and retain _a_ sufficient on-current, it can be considered preferable if the _LDD_ _structure_ is formed only on _the_ _drain_ _side._ _For_ example, in _order_ to form the LDD structure in only the _drain_ region, first impurity ions _are_ _implanted_ into the drain and source regions _at_ a low concentration. Thereafter, the area _in_ the drain region at the _low_ concentration is covered _with_ a _resist_ mask and impurity _ions_ are implanted at a relatively high concentration. The source region is not covered with the resist mask. If the _gate_ _length_ is short, a _high_ precision of position alignment is required when a resist mask _is_ formed to _cover_ the _low_ concentration _region_ on _the_ _drain_ side and expose _the_ source region. A TFT using a polysilicon _thin_ film has _a_ carrier _mobility_ higher _than_ a TFT _using_ amorphous silicon. Therefore, _by_ using polysilicon TFT, _an_ image display area and its driver circuit can _be_ _formed_ on the same _substrate._ A larger on-current is required for TFT in the peripheral circuit than a switching TFT of each pixel. In this context, it may occur _that_ the LDD structure is _adopted_ _for_ _TFT_ in the pixel area and not for TFT in the peripheral circuit. If the LDD structure _is_ adopted for _the_ source _and_ _drain_ regions of TFT in the pixel area and _not_ adopted _for_ TFT in the peripheral circuit, the number of photolithography processes _increases_ more than if the LDD structure is adopted _for_ all TFTs. An increase in the _number_ of photography processes results in _a_ higher manufacture cost _and_ a lower manufacture yield.
|
As is known in the art, medical image analysis plays an increasingly prominent role in Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and therapy planning. As a preliminary stage of the analysis, segmentation of structures from medical images and reconstruction of these structures are difficult due to the large volume of the data involved and the complexity of the anatomic shapes of interest.
Three-dimensional (3D) visualization and labeling of rib structures, for example, in a CAD system provide important information for radiologists since they need to report any pathology pertaining to bones in a chest CT scan. The ribs have valuable properties common to bone tissues, i.e., they are rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities in CT data. Further, rib structures are highly ordered and symmetrical. Because of these features, rib feature group can be used for reliable registration and reference. To make full use of the structural advantages of the ribs, they should be extracted and labeled individually. There are 12 pairs of rib structures in a human body with 8-11 pairs visible in a chest CT volume dataset. They are connected at one end with the spine, and the upper pairs are also connected to the sternum.
Since 1970s, there have been many methods to detect and label ribs automatically in 2D chest radiographs, see an article by M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), pp. 1021-1031; an article by F. Vogelsang, F. Weiler, J. Dahmen, M. Kilbinger, B. Wein and R. Gunther, entitled “Detection and compensation of rib structures in chest radiographs for diagnose assistance”, Proceedings of SPIE, vol. 3338, p. 774-785, 1998; and an article by De. Souza P, entitled “Automatic rib detection in chest radiographs”, Computer Vision Graphics and Image Processing. Vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 129-61, August 1983.
D. Kim, H. Kim and H. S. Kang, in a paper entitled “An object-tracking segmentation method: Vertebra and Rib segmentation in CT images”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 4684 (2002), pp. 1662-1671 proposed an object-tracking segmentation method to segment vertebra and ribs from 3D, CT images. But their goal was to remove vertebra and ribs for better visualization of some interested organs. Therefore, the focus of their method is to detect and prevent a leakage from propagation. The vertebra and ribs are removed as a whole.
M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, in a paper entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), pp. 1021-1031. The paper describes an attempt to make rib edges clear by producing an expiration lung field using a hemi-elliptical cavity. Based on the expiration lung field, the paper describes extracting the rib edges using canny edge detector and a connectivity method, referred to as “4 way with 10-neighbors connectivity”, to detect clavicle and rib edge candidates. Once the edge candidates are formed, the process selects the “best candidates” using knowledge-based constraints such as a gradient, length and location. The edges are paired and labeled as superior rib edge and inferior rib edge. Then the system uses the clavicle, which is obtained in a same method for the rib edge detection, as a landmark to label all detected ribs. This method is, however, for a two-dimensional (2D) chest x-ray system as distinguished from a 3D CT scanning system.
Efforts have also been spent on eliminating the ribs and other connected bone structures from the data by region-based approaches, see for example, a paper by G. Bohm, C. J. Knoll, M. L. Alcaniz-Raya, and S. E. Albalat, entitled “Three-dimensional segmentation of bone structures in CT images”, Proceedings of Medical Imaging on Image Processing, pp 277-286, 1999. Although the intensity of rib bone is much higher than the surrounding tissues, the region growing method discussed therein may not provide satisfying results in many cases because: 1) It is very difficult to determine the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the fact that rib bones in different CT data have different intensity ranges and an adaptive threshold method does not work because of the complexity of the local surrounding structures. 2) The lowest bone intensity and the highest tissue intensity levels are quite close. With noise and partial volume effect, there is no clear-cut intensity threshold between bone and other tissues. 3) The region growing method cannot control its growing path and therefore results in leakage. 4) The intensity range of trabecular bones (interior layer of a rib) is much lower than that of cortical bones (exterior layer) which results in hollowness inside each rib. Also, the intensity of this dark region is non-uniform. Aside from the fact that all ribs and vertebras are connected as one piece, the bones are over-segmented, with many holes in each rib. The surfaces are also far from smooth. These are due to the non-uniform internal intensities of the bone. In short, the above work is only remotely associated with this application. The goal of this application is to individually and precisely segment the rib structures, not roughly removing all the bones as one piece.
|
as is known in the art, medical image analysis played an increasingly prominent role in computer aided diagnosis ( cad ) and therapy planning. as a secondary stage of the analysis, segmentation of structures from medical images and reconstruction of these structures are preferred due to the large volume of the data involved and the complexity of the anatomic shapes of interest. three - dimensional ( 3d ) visualization and labeling of rib structures, for example, in a cad system provide important information for radiologists since they need to report any pathology pertaining to bones in a chest ct scan. the ribs have valuable properties common to bone tissues, i. e., they are rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities in ct data. further, rib structures are highly ordered and symmetrical. because with these features, rib feature group can be used for reliable registration and reference. to make full use of the structural advantages of the ribs, they should be extracted and labeled individually. there are 12 pairs of rib structures in a human body with 8 - 11 pairs visible in a chest ct volume dataset. they are connected at one end with the spine, and the upper four are also connected to the sternum. since 1970s, there have been many methods to detect and label ribs automatically in 2d chest radiographs, see an article by m. park, j. s. jin, and r. s. wilson, entitled “ detection and labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs ”, proceedings of spie vol. 5030 ( 2003 ), pp. 1021 - 1031 ; an article by f. vogelsang, f. weiler, j. dahmen, m. kilbinger, b. wein and r. gunther, entitled “ detection and compensation of rib structures involving chest radiographs for diagnose assistance ”, proceedings of spie, vol. 3338, p. 774 - 785, 1998 ; and an article by de. souza oliveira, entitled “ automatic rib detection in chest radiographs ”, computer vision graphics and image processing. vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 129 - 61, august 1983. d. kim, h. kim and h. s. kang, in a paper entitled “ an object - tracking segmentation method : vertebra and rib segmentation in ct images ”, proceedings of spie publication. 4684 ( 2002 ), pp. 1662 - 1671 proposed an object - capture segmentation method to segment ve ##rtebra and ribs from 3d, ct images. but their goal was to remove vertebra and ribs for better visualization of some interested organs. therefore, the focus of their method is to detect and prevent a leakage from propagation. the vertebra and ribs are removed as a whole. m. park, j. s. jin, and l. s. wilson, in a paper entitled “ detection and labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs ”, proceedings of spie vol. 5030 ( 2003 ), pp. 1021 - 1031. the paper describes an attempt to make rib edges clear by producing an expiration lung field using a hemi - elliptical cavity. based on the expiration lung field, the paper describes extracting the rib edges using canny edge detector and a connectivity method, referred to as “ 4 way with 10 - neighbors connectivity ”, to detect clavicle and rib edge candidates. once the edge candidates are formed, the process selects the “ best candidates ” using knowledge - based constraints such as a gradient, length and location. the edges are paired and labeled as superior rib edge and inferior rib edge. then the system uses the clavicle, which is obtained in a same method for the rib edge detection, as a landmark to label all detected ribs. this method is, however, for a two - dimensional ( 2d ) chest x - ray system as distinguished from a 3d ct scanning system. efforts have also been spent on eliminating the ribs and other connected bone structures from the data by region - based approaches, see for example, a paper by g. bohm, c. j. knoll, m. l. alcaniz - raya, and s. e. albalat, entitled “ three - dimensional segmentation of bone structures in ct images ”, proceedings of medical imaging on image processing, pp 277 - 286, 1999. although the intensity of rib bone is much higher than the surrounding tissues, the region growing method discussed therein may not provide satisfying results in many cases because : 1 ) it is very difficult to determine the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the fact that rib bones in different ct data have different intensity ranges and an adaptive threshold method does not work because of the complexity of the local surrounding structures. 2 ) the lowest bone intensity and the highest tissue intensity levels are quite close. with noise and partial volume effect, there is no clear - cut intensity threshold between bone and other tissues. 3 ) the region growing method cannot control its growing path and therefore results in leakage. 4 ) the intensity range of trabecular bones ( interior layer of a rib ) is much lower than that of cortical bones ( exterior layer ) which results in hollowness inside each rib. also, the intensity of this dark region is non - uniform. aside from the fact that all ribs and vertebras are connected as one piece, the bones are over - segmented, with many holes in each rib. the surfaces are also far from smooth. these are due to the non - uniform internal intensities of the bone. in short, the above work is only remotely associated with this application. the goal of this application is to individually and precisely segment the rib structures, not roughly removing all the bones as one piece.
|
As is known in the art, medical image analysis plays an increasingly prominent role in Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and therapy planning. As a preliminary stage of the analysis, segmentation of structures from medical images and reconstruction of these structures are difficult due to the large volume of the data involved and the complexity of the anatomic shapes of interest. Three - dimensional (3D) visualization and labeling of rib structures, for example, in a CAD system provide important information for radiologists since they need to report any pathology pertaining to bones in a chest CT scan. The ribs have valuable properties common to bone tissues, i. e. , they are rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities in CT watS. Further, rib structures are highly ordered and symmetrical. Because of these features, rib feature group can be used for reliable registration and reference. To make full use of the structural advantages of the ribs, they should be extracted and labeled individually. There are 12 pairs of rib structures in a human body with 8 - 11 pairs visible in a chest CT volume dataset. They are connected at one end with the spine, and the upper pairs are also connected to the sternum. Since 1970s, there have been many methods to detect and label ribs automatically in 2D chest radiographs, see an article by M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, entitled “ Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs ”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003 ), pp. 1021 - !03@; an article by F. Vogelsang, F. Weiler, J. Dahmen, M. Kilbinger, B. Wein and R. Gunther, entitled “ Detection and compensation of rib structures in chest radiographs for diagnose assistance ”, Proceedings of SPIE, vol. 3338, p. 774 - 785, 1998; and an article by De. Souza P, entitled “ Automatic rib detection in chest radiographs ”, Computer Vision Graphics and Image Processing. Vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 129 - 61, August 1983. D. Kim, H. Kim and H. S. Kang, in a paper entitled “ An object - tracking segmentation method: Vertebra and Rib segmentation in CT images ”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 4684 (q001 ), pp. 1662 - 1671 proposed an object - tracking segmentation method to segment vertebra and ribs from 3D, CT images. But their goal was to remove vertebra and ribs for better visualization of some interested organs. Therefore, the focus of their method is to detect and prevent a leakage from propagation. The vertebra and ribs are removed as a whole. M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, in a paper entitled “ Detection and Labeling rlbx on expiration chest radioNrSphs ”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003 ), pp. 1021 - 1031. The paper describes an at$em)t to make rib edges Dl$ar by producing an expiration lung field using a hemi - elliptical cavity. Based on the expiration lung field, the paper describes extracting the rib edges using canny edge detector and a connectivity method, referred to as “ 4 way with 10 - neighbors connectivity ”, to detect clavicle and rib edge candidates. Once the edge cZjdidates are formed, the process selects the “ best candidates ” using knowledge - based cojstra*nts such as a gradient, length and location. The edges are paired and labeled as superior rib edge and inferior rib edge. Then the system uses the clavicle, which is obtained in a same method for the rib edge detection, as a landmark to label all detected ribs. This method is, however, for a two - dimensional (2D) chest x - ray system as distinguished from a 3D CT scanning system. Efforts have also been spent on eliminating the ribs and other connected bone structures from the data by region - based approaches, see for example, a paper by G. Bohm, C. J. Knoll, M. L. Alcaniz - Raya, and S. E. Albalat, entitled “ Three - dimensional segmentation of bone structures in CT images ”, Proceedings of Medical Imaging on Image Processing, pp 277 - 286, 1999. Although the intensity of rib bone is much higher than the surrounding tissues, the region growing method discJzsed therein may not provide satisfying results in many cases because: 1) It is very difficult to determine the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the fact that rib bones in different CT data have different intensity ranges and an adaptive threshold method does not work because of the complexity of the local surrounding structures. 2) The lowest bone intensity and the highest tissue intensity levels are quite close. With noise and partial volume effect, there is no clear - cut intensity threshold between bone and other tissues. 3) The region growing method cannot control its growing path and therefore results in leakage. 4) The intensity range of trabecular bones (interior layer of a rib) is much lower than that of cortical bones (exterior layer) which results in hollowness inside each rib. Also, the intensity of this dark region is non - uniform. Aside from the fact that all ribs and vertebras are connected as one piece, the bones are over - segmented, with many holes in each rib. The surfaces are also far from smooth. These are due to the non - uniform internal intensities of the bone. In short, the above work is only remotely associated with this application. The goal of this application is to individually and precisely segment the rib structures, not roughly removing all the bones as one piece.
|
As is known the art, medical image an increasingly prominent role in Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and therapy planning. As a preliminary stage of the analysis, segmentation of structures from medical images and reconstruction of structures are difficult due the large volume of the involved and the complexity of the anatomic shapes of Three-dimensional (3D) visualization and labeling of rib for in a CAD system provide important information for radiologists since they need to report pathology pertaining to bones in a chest CT scan. The have valuable properties common to bone i.e., they are rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities in CT data. Further, rib are highly ordered and symmetrical. Because of these features, rib feature can be used for reliable registration and reference. To make full use of the structural advantages of the ribs, they should be extracted and labeled individually. There are 12 pairs of rib structures in human body with 8-11 pairs visible in a chest CT volume They connected at one end with spine, the upper pairs are also connected to the sternum. Since 1970s, there have been many methods to detect and label in 2D chest radiographs, see by M. Park, S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), pp. 1021-1031; by F. Vogelsang, F. Weiler, Dahmen, M. Kilbinger, B. Wein and R. Gunther, “Detection and of rib structures in chest radiographs for diagnose Proceedings of vol. 3338, p. 774-785, 1998; and an article by De. Souza P, entitled “Automatic rib detection in chest Computer Vision Graphics and Image Processing. Vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 129-61, August 1983. D. Kim, H. Kim and S. Kang, in a paper entitled “An segmentation method: Vertebra and segmentation in CT images”, of SPIE Vol. 4684 pp. 1662-1671 proposed an object-tracking segmentation method to segment vertebra and ribs from 3D, CT images. But their goal was to remove and ribs for visualization of some interested organs. Therefore, the focus of their method is to detect and prevent a leakage from propagation. The and ribs are removed as a whole. Park, J. S. and L. S. Wilson, in a entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), pp. 1021-1031. The paper describes an attempt make rib edges clear by producing an expiration lung field using a hemi-elliptical cavity. Based on the expiration lung field, the paper describes extracting rib edges using canny edge detector a connectivity method, referred to as “4 way with 10-neighbors connectivity”, to detect clavicle and rib edge Once the candidates are formed, the process selects the “best candidates” using knowledge-based constraints such as a gradient, and location. The and labeled as rib edge and inferior rib edge. Then the system the clavicle, which is in same method for the rib edge detection, as a landmark to label all detected ribs. This method is, however, (2D) chest x-ray system as distinguished from a 3D CT scanning system. Efforts have also been spent on eliminating the ribs and connected structures the data by region-based approaches, see for example, a paper by G. Bohm, C. J. Knoll, M. L. Alcaniz-Raya, E. Albalat, “Three-dimensional segmentation of bone structures in CT images”, of Medical Imaging on Image Processing, pp Although the intensity of rib bone is much higher than the surrounding tissues, the region growing method therein may not provide satisfying results in many because: 1) It is very difficult to determine the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the that rib bones in different CT data have different intensity ranges and an threshold method not work because of the complexity of the local surrounding structures. 2) The lowest bone intensity and the highest tissue intensity are quite close. With noise and partial volume effect, there is no clear-cut intensity threshold between bone and other tissues. 3) The region growing cannot control its growing path and therefore results in leakage. 4) The intensity range trabecular bones (interior layer a rib) is much lower than that of cortical bones (exterior layer) which results in hollowness inside each rib. Also, the intensity of this dark region is non-uniform. Aside from the fact that all ribs and vertebras are connected as one piece, the bones are with many holes in each rib. The also far from smooth. These are due to the non-uniform internal intensities of the bone. In short, above work is only remotely associated with this application. The goal of application to individually and precisely segment rib structures, not removing all the bones as one piece.
|
AS iS KNOWn in The ArT, Medical ImAge aNAlYSIs PlAYS AN IncrEasIngly ProMINENT rOLe IN comPuTEr AIDED DiAgnOsIs (Cad) And tHErApY PLaNNInG. AS a PRElimINary STaGe oF THE ANALYSIS, SeGmeNTATiOn of sTRuCTureS frOM meDIcaL imAgES And rECOnStrucTIoN OF These sTRucTUrES aRe DifFIcult dUe TO thE LArge Volume oF THe DATA InVolveD aND The cOMplEXitY oF ThE Anatomic sHApES Of inTERESt.
tHREe-dIMENsioNal (3d) visuALIzatIoN anD LabEling OF rIb strUcTUreS, foR EXAmPLE, In A CAD SYStEm PRovIdE iMpoRTANT InfOrmatION fOR RadiolOgisTS sincE TheY neEd to repoRt aNY pathOlogY perTAIniNG TO BOnes IN a cHeSt cT sCan. The RIbS Have vaLuablE PRoPerTiES commOn to boNE tIsSueS, I.E., THeY aRe rigId And STABle iN sHAPe, AnD mAP to PrOMiNENt intenSitieS in cT datA. FUrtHer, riB structUREs Are HIGHLy OrdeRED AND SymmEtrICAl. bECAUse of thESe FeatUrEs, RIB fEaTURe group CAn Be usED fOR relIaBlE RegiSTrATIon AnD REFereNce. TO MAKe FULL use Of tHe StRuCTuraL AdvanTAGES of ThE riBs, TheY shoUlD bE eXTRACTed And labelED IndiViDuaLLy. tHEre ARE 12 PaiRS oF Rib stRUCtURes iN a hUMaN bODy With 8-11 PaIrS visIblE IN A CHeSt Ct volumE dataset. TheY ARE connecTED aT oNe enD witH tHE SpINE, And tHE upPer paIRs ArE also connEcTed To tHe SteRNuM.
siNce 1970s, tHeRe HAve BEEN MaNy mEThoDS tO dETect AND LaBEl RiBS AUtOmATicALly In 2D chEst raDIOgRAPhs, SEe AN artICle By m. pArK, J. S. jIN, and l. S. WIlsOn, eNtiTlEd “DEteCtiOn and LaBELinG RibS on eXpirAtiOn cHeST radiOGraPhs”, prOCEEdinGs oF SPiE voL. 5030 (2003), pP. 1021-1031; aN ARticle By f. vOGelSang, f. WeiLEr, J. DAhmEN, m. kilbIngeR, B. WEIN anD r. GuntHeR, entITlED “DEtecTiON anD compeNSAtION oF riB sTrUcTUrEs In ChESt RaDiOgrAPhs FoR DiagNoSe AssIStAnce”, PROceEdiNGS Of sPiE, voL. 3338, P. 774-785, 1998; And an ArTiClE BY De. sOUZa p, entITLed “AutomatIC riB deTEctIOn iN CHeSt RadIOGrAPHS”, cOmPUTEr VIsIOn GraphIcS aND imagE ProcESsing. VOl. 23, no. 2, pP. 129-61, augUST 1983.
d. KIM, H. kiM and H. s. kAng, IN a PAPeR eNtITled “An oBject-TraCKIng sEGmENTatIon MeThOD: vERtEBRA aNd rIB SeGMENTatIon IN CT imagES”, pRoCeeDinGs OF sPie VOL. 4684 (2002), Pp. 1662-1671 pRoPosed AN object-TraCkIng sEGmEnTATioN METhoD To segmEnt vErtebrA aND Ribs from 3D, CT iMAGES. But ThEir gOal waS To ReMoVe VertEbRA AND RiBs for BETtEr VIsUAlizATIOn OF sOME INtEReSTed OrgAns. THEReFoRe, THe focuS of ThEir MEtHOd iS To dETeCt And preVeNt a LeaKage fROM ProPagatIoN. THe VERTebRA AnD RIBS aRE rEmoVEd AS A WhoLe.
M. PArk, j. s. jIn, aND L. s. WiLsoN, in A paPeR eNTitLeD “DEtEcTION And LABElInG rIbS ON expiRATioN CHEST raDiogrAphs”, prOcEEDinGS Of SPIe vOl. 5030 (2003), pP. 1021-1031. the PApEr DESCriBES aN aTTempt tO MAKe rIB EDGEs clear BY pRODUcing an EXpiraTION lUnG fIeLd USiNG A hEmi-elliPTicaL caVIty. baSEd On the EXPiraTION Lung FIeld, ThE PApEr DEScRiBEs exTRAcTINg tHE Rib eDges usinG CanNy edGe DEtEcTOR and A CONneCTiViTY methOd, ReFErRED tO as “4 waY with 10-NeIgHBoRs cOnNEctIvITY”, tO deTEcT ClavIcLE and rib EDgE CAnDidates. onCe ThE edge CANdiDaTeS aRe FORMED, ThE proCeSs sELECTS the “bEST CaNdIDatES” uSIng KNowLeDgE-bASED ConSTRAINts SUCh aS a grAdiENt, LENgtH AND locatioN. thE eDGES arE PairEd and lAbEled aS sUPerIor rIb EDgE AND InfeRiOR RIb EdGE. Then ThE SYSteM UsES the cLaViclE, WhICH is obTaIned in A Same meThod FOR thE RIB Edge DETeCtion, as A LanDmaRk to lAbeL ALL dETECted rIbs. tHis MethoD is, HoweVeR, foR a TWo-diMENSIonAl (2D) ChesT X-raY sySTEm AS DISTINgUISHED fRom a 3d Ct sCaNNing SYsTem.
EFfORts HAVe AlSO BEEn spENT On ELImINaTINg THe RIBS aND OtHEr CONNEctED BOnE STRUCTUres fRom The DATa by RegioN-baseD aPPROachEs, SeE fOr eXAmpLe, A PaPer By G. bOHM, c. j. kNoll, m. L. AlcaNiZ-raya, anD S. e. alBalaT, enTiTlED “ThREe-dIMENsionAL SeGmENtAtIon OF bone sTRuCTurES IN ct imAGeS”, proceEDInGS of MEDical IMaginG ON imAGe pROCESSing, pP 277-286, 1999. ALthOugh tHE iNtEnsity OF RiB BonE iS MUCH HIgHeR ThAn THe SUrrouNDing TIsSUes, tHe REgIOn GrOwInG MEtHOD dISCusSED thereiN MAY NoT PROVIDe SATISfyiNG rEsUltS IN Many cAseS bEcaUse: 1) iT iS VErY dIfFiCULT to dETErminE thE iNtENSiTY tHREsHoLd FOR the rEGion grOWINg MethOD dUE tO the fACT thaT rIb bONes iN DIffeRent Ct DaTa have dIffereNt iNteNSity RAnGeS ANd AN AdaptIVe THrEshoLD MethOD dOES NOt woRK bECAUSE oF THe COMpLExItY Of tHE Local sURROUNdiNG sTRUctuReS. 2) THE LOWeSt BonE intenSiTy anD ThE higHeSt TissUe IntenSITY LevEls Are Quite ClosE. wITH nOiSe And PARTIal VOLUmE effecT, THeRe iS no clEaR-cUt iNTEnsity thReshOLD BEtWeeN boNe AND otHEr Tissues. 3) The rEGIoN gRoWIng mETHOd canNOt contrOL iTS GROWIng patH AnD THereFore rEsULts iN lEakAgE. 4) the INTeNSiTY RAnGe OF trABecular bONEs (INtERioR LAYer oF a rib) is mUCh lOWEr ThaN tHAt Of CoRtiCal Bones (EXTerIor LaYER) wHIch rEsUlTs IN hOllOwNEss inSide EAch rIb. ALso, THe inTEnSiTy of tHis daRk REgiOn is non-uNIFORM. aSiDe froM ThE fACt ThAt all RIbs aND vERTEBras Are CONnEcteD aS One pIECe, thE BoNes Are oVer-seGMEnTed, WItH mANy HOlEs IN EacH RIB. tHe SuRfAceS arE ALso Far from SMOOTh. TheSE are Due TO THE NoN-UnIForM iNTeRNAl iNtEnSITIes of ThE BOnE. IN SHOrT, thE aBoVe WOrk Is OnLY rEMotely aSsOciaTeD With thIs APpLicATiOn. tHE goAL oF thIS APPLIcation Is To indiVIDUALLY And PrEciSEly sEgmeNT thE RIB sTRuCtUrEs, noT rOuGhly reMoViNG ALl ThE boNEs As ONe Piece.
|
As is known in theart, medical image analysis plays an increasingly prominent rolein ComputerAided Diagnosis (CAD) and therapyplanning.As a preliminary stageof the analysis, segmentationof structures from medicalimages and reconstruction of these structures are difficult due to the large volume of the data involved and the complexity of the anatomic shapes of interest. Three-dimensional (3D) visualization and labeling of rib structures, for example, in a CAD system provide importantinformation for radiologists since they need to report any pathology pertainingto bones in a chest CT scan. The ribs have valuable properties commonto bone tissues, i.e., theyare rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities in CT data. Further, rib structures are highly ordered andsymmetrical. Because of these features, rib feature group can be used for reliable registration andreference. To make full use ofthe structural advantages of the ribs,they should beextracted andlabeledindividually.There are12pairs of rib structures in a human body with 8-11 pairs visible in a chest CT volume dataset. They are connected at one end with the spine, and the upper pairs are also connectedto the sternum. Since 1970s, there have beenmany methods to detect andlabel ribs automatically in 2D chest radiographs, see an article by M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson,entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003),pp.1021-1031; an article by F. Vogelsang, F.Weiler, J. Dahmen, M. Kilbinger,B. Wein and R. Gunther, entitled “Detection and compensationof rib structures in chestradiographsfor diagnose assistance”,Proceedings of SPIE, vol.3338,p.774-785, 1998; and an article by De. Souza P, entitled “Automatic rib detectionin chest radiographs”, Computer Vision Graphics and ImageProcessing. Vol. 23, no. 2, pp.129-61, August 1983.D. Kim, H. Kim and H. S. Kang, in a paper entitled “An object-trackingsegmentation method:Vertebra andRib segmentation in CT images”, Proceedings ofSPIE Vol. 4684 (2002), pp. 1662-1671 proposed an object-tracking segmentation method to segment vertebra andribs from3D, CT images. But their goal was toremove vertebra and ribs for better visualization of some interested organs. Therefore, the focus oftheirmethod is to detect andprevent a leakage from propagation.The vertebra and ribsare removedasa whole. M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, ina paperentitled “Detection andLabeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), pp. 1021-1031. The paper describes an attempt to make rib edges clear by producing an expiration lung field using a hemi-elliptical cavity. Based on the expiration lung field, the paper describes extracting therib edgesusing canny edge detector anda connectivity method, referred to as “4 waywith 10-neighbors connectivity”, to detect clavicle and rib edge candidates. Once the edgecandidates are formed, the processselects the “best candidates” using knowledge-basedconstraints such as a gradient, length and location. The edges are paired and labeledas superior rib edge and inferior rib edge. Then thesystemuses theclavicle, which is obtained in a samemethod for the rib edge detection, as alandmark to label all detected ribs. This method is,however, for a two-dimensional (2D) chest x-ray system as distinguished from a 3D CT scanning system. Efforts have also been spent on eliminating the ribs andother connected bone structures from the data by region-based approaches, see for example, apaper by G. Bohm, C. J. Knoll, M.L. Alcaniz-Raya, and S. E. Albalat, entitled “Three-dimensional segmentation of bone structures in CT images”, Proceedings of Medical Imaging on Image Processing, pp 277-286, 1999. Although the intensity of ribbone is much higher thanthe surrounding tissues, the region growing methoddiscussed therein may not provide satisfying results in many cases because: 1)It isvery difficultto determine the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the fact that rib bones in different CT data have different intensityranges and an adaptive threshold method does not work because of thecomplexity of the local surrounding structures. 2) The lowest bone intensityand the highesttissue intensity levels are quite close. Withnoiseand partial volume effect, there is no clear-cut intensitythreshold between bone and other tissues. 3)The region growing method cannot control its growing pathand therefore results in leakage. 4) The intensity range of trabecular bones (interior layer of a rib) ismuchlower than that of cortical bones (exterior layer) which results in hollowness inside eachrib. Also, the intensity of this dark region is non-uniform. Aside from the fact that all ribs and vertebras areconnected as one piece, the bones are over-segmented, withmany holes in each rib.The surfaces are also far from smooth. These are due to the non-uniform internal intensities of the bone. In short, the above work is only remotely associated with this application.The goal of this applicationis to individually and precisely segment the rib structures, not roughlyremoving all the bones as onepiece.
|
As is known in _the_ _art,_ medical image _analysis_ plays an increasingly _prominent_ role in Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and therapy planning. As a preliminary stage _of_ the analysis, _segmentation_ of structures from medical _images_ and _reconstruction_ _of_ these structures are _difficult_ due to the large _volume_ _of_ the data _involved_ and the complexity _of_ the anatomic shapes of interest. _Three-dimensional_ (3D) visualization and labeling of rib _structures,_ for example, in a CAD system _provide_ _important_ information for radiologists since they need to _report_ _any_ pathology _pertaining_ to _bones_ in _a_ _chest_ CT _scan._ _The_ ribs have _valuable_ properties common to bone tissues, _i.e.,_ they are rigid and stable in shape, and map to prominent intensities _in_ _CT_ data. Further, rib structures are highly ordered _and_ symmetrical. Because of these features, rib _feature_ group can be used _for_ reliable registration and reference. To make full _use_ _of_ the structural advantages of the ribs, they should _be_ extracted and labeled _individually._ _There_ are _12_ pairs of rib structures in a human body with 8-11 pairs visible in a chest CT volume dataset. _They_ are connected at one end with the spine, and the upper pairs _are_ also connected to the sternum. Since _1970s,_ there have been many _methods_ to detect and label ribs automatically in 2D chest radiographs, see an article by M. Park, J. S. Jin, and L. S. Wilson, entitled “Detection and Labeling ribs on expiration chest radiographs”, Proceedings of _SPIE_ Vol. 5030 (2003), _pp._ 1021-1031; an article by F. Vogelsang, F. Weiler, J. Dahmen, M. _Kilbinger,_ B. _Wein_ _and_ R. Gunther, entitled “Detection and compensation of _rib_ _structures_ in chest radiographs for diagnose assistance”, _Proceedings_ of SPIE, _vol._ 3338, _p._ 774-785, _1998;_ _and_ an article _by_ De. _Souza_ P, _entitled_ “Automatic rib detection _in_ chest radiographs”, Computer Vision Graphics _and_ Image Processing. Vol. 23, no. 2, _pp._ 129-61, August 1983. D. Kim, H. _Kim_ and H. S. Kang, in a paper entitled “An object-tracking segmentation method: Vertebra and Rib segmentation in _CT_ images”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 4684 (2002), pp. 1662-1671 proposed an object-tracking segmentation method to segment vertebra and ribs from 3D, CT _images._ _But_ their goal was to remove vertebra _and_ ribs for _better_ visualization _of_ _some_ _interested_ organs. Therefore, the focus _of_ their _method_ is to detect and prevent _a_ leakage from propagation. The vertebra and ribs are removed as a whole. M. Park, J. S. Jin, and _L._ _S._ _Wilson,_ in _a_ paper entitled “Detection and Labeling _ribs_ on _expiration_ chest radiographs”, Proceedings of SPIE Vol. 5030 (2003), _pp._ 1021-1031. The paper describes an attempt to make rib edges clear _by_ producing an expiration lung field using a hemi-elliptical cavity. Based on the expiration _lung_ _field,_ _the_ paper describes extracting the rib _edges_ using canny edge detector and a _connectivity_ method, _referred_ to as _“4_ way with 10-neighbors _connectivity”,_ to detect clavicle and rib edge candidates. _Once_ the edge candidates are formed, the process selects _the_ “best candidates” using knowledge-based constraints such _as_ a gradient, length and _location._ The edges are paired and labeled as _superior_ rib edge _and_ _inferior_ rib edge. Then the system _uses_ _the_ clavicle, which _is_ _obtained_ in a same method _for_ the _rib_ _edge_ _detection,_ _as_ _a_ _landmark_ to label all _detected_ _ribs._ This method is, _however,_ _for_ a two-dimensional (2D) chest x-ray system _as_ _distinguished_ from _a_ 3D CT scanning _system._ Efforts _have_ also _been_ spent on eliminating the ribs and _other_ _connected_ bone _structures_ from the data by region-based approaches, see for example, a paper by _G._ _Bohm,_ C. J. _Knoll,_ M. L. Alcaniz-Raya, and S. E. Albalat, entitled “Three-dimensional segmentation _of_ bone structures _in_ _CT_ images”, Proceedings of _Medical_ Imaging on Image _Processing,_ _pp_ 277-286, 1999. Although the intensity of rib bone is much higher than the _surrounding_ _tissues,_ the region growing method discussed therein may not provide _satisfying_ results in many cases because: _1)_ It is very difficult to _determine_ the intensity threshold for the region growing method due to the fact that _rib_ bones in different CT data have different intensity _ranges_ and an adaptive threshold method does not _work_ because of the complexity of the local surrounding structures. 2) The lowest bone intensity and the highest tissue intensity _levels_ _are_ _quite_ close. With noise and partial _volume_ effect, there _is_ no clear-cut _intensity_ threshold between bone _and_ other _tissues._ 3) The region growing _method_ cannot control its _growing_ path and therefore results in leakage. _4)_ The intensity range of trabecular bones (interior layer _of_ a rib) is much lower _than_ that of _cortical_ bones (exterior layer) which results _in_ hollowness _inside_ _each_ rib. _Also,_ the intensity of _this_ dark region is non-uniform. Aside from _the_ fact that _all_ ribs _and_ vertebras are _connected_ as one piece, _the_ bones are over-segmented, with many holes in each rib. The surfaces are also far from smooth. _These_ are due to the non-uniform _internal_ intensities of the bone. In short, the above work is only remotely associated with this application. The goal of this application is to individually and _precisely_ segment _the_ rib structures, not roughly _removing_ all _the_ bones as one piece.
|
Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration containing at least two memory cell arrays. In each of the memory cell arrays, memory cells are provided at the crossovers between word lines and bit lines, at least one line type containing the word lines and bit lines is provided with line driver circuits.
As is known, the memory effect of MRAMs is based on a variable resistance of the individual memory cells of the memory. A MRAM memory cell is situated at the crossover point of two lines, namely in particular between a word line and a bit line. The memory cell itself contains two magnetic layers isolated from one another by a thin dielectric layer.
The value of the electrical resistance of such an MRAM memory cell depends, then, on the polarization of the magnetic layers. If both layers are polarized in the same direction, a low value resistance is present in the memory cell, whereas a high value resistance of the electrical resistance is obtained in the event of mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. In other words, depending on the polarization of the magnetic layers, a high (↑) or low (↓) resistance results for the memory cell containing the two magnetic layers and the intervening dielectric layer.
Of the magnetic layers, one layer is composed of a soft-magnetic material, whereas the other layer is produced from a hard-magnetic material. The soft-magnetic material is chosen such that its polarization can be reversed by a writing current on the word line and the bit line while such polarization reversal by the writing currents is not intended to be possible in the case of the hard-magnetic material.
In order, then, that the magnetic layer made of soft-magnetic material can be polarized in two opposite directions, it is necessary that at least one of two programming currents through the bit line or through the word line can flow in both directions through the respective line. For only then can it be ensured at the crossover point between the word line and the bit line that, given correspondingly directed programming currents at the crossover point, the magnetic field for polarization reversal in the magnetic layer made of the soft-magnetic material is strong enough for the polarization reversal.
The currents which flow through the memory cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, so that a xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why the MRAM memory cell is also referred to as a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) memory cell.
In the MRAM configuration, high parasitic currents occur on a selected word line or bit line, the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between a selected word line, for example, and the bit lines that cross it. On account of these high parasitic currents, therefore, a large MRAM configuration can only be constructed from a plurality of smaller memory cell arrays. Therefore, however, that, for each memory cell array containing, for example, m word lines and n bit lines, a total of 2m+n or 2n+m line driver circuits are required. For the MPAM configuration in its entirety, containing 1 memory cell arrays for example, 1(2m+n) or 1(2n+m) line driver circuits are then required. For the line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on a chip containing the MRAM configuration, which is extremely undesirable.
It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a MRAM configuration which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices of this general type, in which the area requirement for the line driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, thereby obtaining a space-saving architecture.
With the foregoing and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration. The MRAM configuration contains at least two memory cell arrays. Each of the memory cell arrays has word lines, bit lines crossing the word lines, and memory cells disposed at crossover points between the word lines and the bit lines. Connecting nodes are provided, and one of the connecting nodes is disposed between and connecting each of the memory cell arrays to each other. Line driver circuits are connected to at least one of the word lines and the bit lines. The line driver circuits are respectively connected to the connecting nodes between the memory cell arrays. Switching transistors are provided. One of the switching transistors is disposed between one of the memory cell arrays and one of the connecting nodes so that the line driver circuits are respectively assigned to different ones of the memory cell arrays.
In the case of the MRAM configuration of the type mentioned in the introduction, the object is achieved according to the invention by virtue of the fact that the line driver circuits are respectively connected to connecting nodes between two memory cell arrays and a respective switching transistor is present between the connecting node and the two memory cell arrays.
In principle, the configuration of the MRAM configuration effects a departure from an obvious solution to the above problems which is based on respectively placing a current source or current sink at each end of a memory cell array. Rather, in the MRAM configuration according to the invention, the line driver circuits are disposed in such a way that they can be assigned to different memory cell arrays, which results in that the line driver circuits required in total are approximately halved compared with the prior art. Equally, it is possible to reduce the outlay for the current sources in the line driver circuits since a current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the present invention.
A development of the invention provides for the connecting node between two memory cell arrays to be connected to ground potential via an element having an adjustable voltage drop. As a result, a writing current, having traversed a memory cell array, readily passes to the ground potential via the output side connecting node of the memory cell array and the element having an adjustable voltage drop. By way of example, the adjustable voltage drop can be produced by a variable resistor, a variable transistor diode or an adjustable voltage source. The resulting adjustable voltage ensures that parasitic currents through the memory cells connected to the selective word or bit line can be minimized.
A respective series circuit containing a current source and a writing driver transistor is advantageously used for the line driver circuits. In this manner, the current source is assigned to two of the memory arrays. By way of example, an n-channel MOS field-effect transistor may be chosen for the writing driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the switching transistor and the transistor diode.
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 MRAM configuration, 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.
|
field of the design the invention relates to a magneto - resistive random array memory ( mram ) configuration containing at least two memory cell arrays. in each of the memory cell arrays, memory cells are provided at the crossovers between word lines and bit cells, at least one line type containing the word lines and transmission lines is provided with line driver circuits. as is known, the memory effect of mrams is based on a variable orientation of the individual memory cells of the memory. a mram processor cell is situated at the crossover point within two lines, namely in particular between a word line and a bit line. the memory cell itself contains two magnetic layers isolated from one another by a thin dielectric layer. the value of the electrical resistance of such an mram memory cell depends, then, on the polarization of the magnetic layers. although both layers are polarized in the same direction, a low value resistance is present in the memory cell, whereas a high value resistance of the electrical resistance is obtained in the event of mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. in other words, depending on the polarization of the magnetic layers, a high ( ↑ ) or low ( ↓ ) resistance results for the memory cell containing the two magnetic layers and the intervening dielectric layer. of the magnetic layers, one layer is composed of a soft - magnetic material, whereas the other layer is produced from a hard - magnetic material. the soft - magnetic material is chosen such that its polarization can be reversed by a writing current on the word line and the bit line while such polarization reversal by the writing currents is not intended to be possible in the case of the hard - magnetic material. in order, then, since the magnetic layer made of soft - magnetic material can be polarized in two opposite directions, it is necessary that at least one of two programming currents through the bit line or through the word line can flow in both directions through the respective line. for only then can it be detected at the crossover point between the word line and the bit line that, given correspondingly directed programming currents at the crossover point, the magnetic field for polarization reversal in the magnetic layer made of the soft - magnetic material is strong enough for the polarization reversal. the currents which flow through the memory cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, so that a xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x ##80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why the mram memory cell is also referred to as a magnetic tunnel junction ( mtj ) memory cell. in the mram configuration, high parasitic currents occur on a selected word line or bit line, the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between a selected word line, for example, and the bit lines that cross it. on account of these high parasitic currents, therefore, a large mram configuration can only be constructed from a plurality of smaller memory cell arrays. therefore, however, that, for each memory cell array containing, for example, m word lines and n bit lines, a total of 2m + n or 2n + m line driver circuits are required. for the mpam configuration in its entirety, containing 1 memory cell arrays for example, 1 ( 2m + n ) or 1 ( 2n + m ) line driver circuits are then required. for the line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on a chip containing the mram configuration, which is extremely undesirable. it is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a mram configuration which overcomes the above - mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices of this general type, in which the area requirement for the line driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, thereby obtaining a space - saving architecture. with the foregoing and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a magneto - resistive random access memory ( mram ) configuration. the mram configuration contains at least two memory cell arrays. each of the memory cell arrays has word lines, bit lines crossing the word lines, and memory cells disposed at crossover points between the word lines and the bit lines. connecting nodes are provided, and one of the connecting nodes is disposed between and connecting each of the memory cell arrays to each other. line driver circuits are connected to at least one of the word lines and the bit lines. the line driver circuits are respectively connected to the connecting nodes between the memory cell arrays. switching transistors are provided. one of the switching transistors is disposed between one of the memory cell arrays and one of the connecting nodes so that the line driver circuits are respectively assigned to different ones of the memory cell arrays. in the case of the mram configuration of the type mentioned in the introduction, the object is achieved according to the invention by virtue of the fact that the line driver circuits are respectively connected to connecting nodes between two memory cell arrays and a respective switching transistor is present between the connecting node and the two memory cell arrays. in principle, the configuration of the mram configuration effects a departure from an obvious solution to the above problems which is based on respectively placing a current source or current sink at each end of a memory cell array. rather, in the mram configuration according to the invention, the line driver circuits are disposed in such a way that they can be assigned to different memory cell arrays, which results in that the line driver circuits required in total are approximately halved compared with the prior art. equally, it is possible to reduce the outlay for the current sources in the line driver circuits since a current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the present invention. a development of the invention provides for the connecting node between two memory cell arrays to be connected to ground potential via an element having an adjustable voltage drop. as a result, a writing current, having traversed a memory cell array, readily passes to the ground potential via the output side connecting node of the memory cell array and the element having an adjustable voltage drop. by way of example, the adjustable voltage drop can be produced by a variable resistor, a variable transistor diode or an adjustable voltage source. the resulting adjustable voltage ensures that parasitic currents through the memory cells connected to the selective word or bit line can be minimized. a respective series circuit containing a current source and a writing driver transistor is advantageously used for the line driver circuits. in this manner, the current source is assigned to two of the memory arrays. by way of example, an n - channel mos field - effect transistor may be chosen for the writing driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the switching transistor and the transistor diode. 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 mram configuration, 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.
|
Field of the Invention The inv3Mtion relates to a magneto - resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration containing at least two memory cell arrays. In each of the memory cell arrays, memory cells are provided at the crossovers between word lines and bit lines, at least one line type VontaiGing the word lines and bit lines is provided wK6h line driver circuits. As is known, the memory effect of MRAMs is based on a variable resistance of the individual memory cells of the memory. A MRAM memory cell is situated at the crossover point of two lines, namely in particular between a word line and a bit line. The memory cell itself contains two magnetic layers isolated from one another by a thin dielectric layer. The value of the electrical resistance of such an MRAM memory cell depends, then, on the polarization of the magnetic layers. If both layers are polarized in the same direction, a low value resistance is 9r4sent in the memory cell, whereas a high value resistance of the electrical resistance is obtained in the event of mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. In other words, depending on the polarization of the magnetic layers, a high (↑) or low (↓) resistance results for the memory dwll containing the two magnetic layers and the intervening dielectric layer. Of the magnetic layers, one layer is composed of a soft - magnetic material, whereas the other layer is produced from a hard - magnetic material. The soft - magnetic material is chosen such that its polarization can be reversed by a writing current on the word line and the bit line while such polarization reversal by the writing currents is not intended to be possible in the case of the hard - magnetic material. In order, then, that the magnetic layer made of soft - magnetic material can be polarized in two opposite directions, it is necessary that at least one of two programming currents through the bit line or through the word line can flow in both directions through the respective line. For only then can it be ensured at the crossover point between the word line and the bit line that, given correspondingly directed programming currents at the crossover point, the maBgetic field for polarization reversal in the magnetic layer made of the soft - magnetic material is strong enough for the polarization reversal. The currents which flow through the memory cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, so that a xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why the MRAM memory cell is also referred to as a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) memory cell. In the MRAM configuration, high parasitic currents occur on a selected word line or bit line, the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between a selected word line, for example, and the bit lines that cross it. On account of these high parasitic currents, therefore, a large MRAM configuration can only be constructed from a plurality of smaller memory cell arrays. Therefore, however, that, for each memory cell array containing, for example, m word lines and n bit lines, a total of 2m + n or 2n + m line driver circuits are required. For the MPAM configuration in its entirety, containing 1 memory cell arrays for example, 1 (2m + n) or 1 (2n + m) line driver circuits are then required. For the line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on a chip containing the MRAM configuration, which is extremely undesirable. It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a MRAM configuration which overcomes the above - mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices of this general type, in which the area requirement for the line driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, thereby obtaining a space - saving architecture. With the foregoing and other objects in view there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a magneto - resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration. The MRAM configuration contains at least two memory cell arrays. Each of the memory cell arrays has word lines, bit lines crossing the word lines, and memory cells disposed at crossover points between the word lines and the bit lines. Connecting nodes are provided, and one of the connecting nodes is disposed between and connecting each of the memory cell arrays to each other. Line driver circuits are connected to at least one of the word lines and the bit lines. The line driver circuits are respectively connected to the connecting nodes between the memory cell arrays. Switching transistors are provided. One of the switching transistors is disposed between one of the memory cell arrays and one of the connecting nodes so that the line driver circuits are respectively assigned to different ones of the memory cell arrays. In the case of the MRAM configuration of the type mentioned in the introduction, the object is achieved according to the invention by virtue of the fact that the line driver circuits are respectively connected to connecting nodes between two memory cell arrays and a respective switching transistor is present between the connecting node and the two memory s2ll arrays. In principle, the configuration of the MRAM configuration effects a departure from an obvious solution to the above problems which is based on respectively placing a current source or current sink at each end of a memory cell array. Rather, in the MRAM configuration according to the invention, the line driver circuits are disposed in such a way that they can be assigned to different memory cell arrays, which results in that the line driver circuits teqiired in total are approximately halved compared with the prior art. Equally, it is possible to reduce the outlay for the current sources in the line driver circuits since a current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the present invention. A development of the invention provides for the connecting node between two memory cell arrays to be connected to ground potential via an element having an adjustable voltage drop. As a result, a writing current, having traversed a memory cell array, readily passes to the ground potential via the output side connecting node of the memory cell array and the element having an adjustable voltage drop. By way of example, the adjustable voltage drop can be produced by a variable resistor, a variable transistor diode or an adjustable voltage source. The $Rsulting adjustable voltage ensures that parasitic currents through the memory cells connected to the selective word or bit line can be minimized. A respective series circuit containing a current source and a writing driver transistor is advantageously used for the line driver circuits. In this manner, the current source is assigned to two of the memory arrays. By way of example, an n - channel MOS field - effect transistor may be chosen for the writing driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the switching transistor and the transistor diode. 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 MRAM configuration, 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 opera6Uon 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.
|
Field of the Invention The invention relates to a magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration containing at least two memory cell arrays. each of memory cell arrays, memory are provided at the crossovers between word lines and bit lines, at least one line type containing the lines and bit lines provided with line driver circuits. As is known, the memory effect of MRAMs is based on a resistance of the individual memory cells of the A MRAM memory cell is situated at the crossover point of two lines, namely in particular a word line and a bit The memory cell itself contains two layers isolated from one another by a thin dielectric layer. value of the electrical resistance of such an MRAM memory cell depends, on the polarization the magnetic layers. If both layers are polarized in the direction, a low value resistance is present in the memory cell, whereas a high resistance of the electrical resistance is obtained in the event mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. In other words, depending on the of the magnetic layers, a high (↑) or low (↓) resistance results the memory cell containing the two magnetic layers the intervening layer. Of the magnetic layers, layer is composed of a soft-magnetic material, whereas layer is produced from material. The material chosen such that its polarization can be reversed by a writing current on the word and the line while such polarization reversal the writing currents is not intended to be possible in the case of the hard-magnetic material. In order, then, that the layer made of soft-magnetic material be polarized in two opposite directions, is necessary at least one two programming through the bit line or through the word line can flow in both directions through the respective line. For only then can it be ensured at the crossover point between the word line the bit line that, directed programming currents at the crossover point, the magnetic field for polarization reversal in the magnetic layer made the soft-magnetic material is strong enough for reversal. currents which flow through cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, so that a xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why MRAM memory cell is referred to as a magnetic tunnel junction memory cell. the MRAM configuration, high parasitic on a selected or bit line, the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between a word line, for example, and the bit lines cross it. On account of these high parasitic currents, therefore, a large MRAM configuration can only be constructed a plurality of smaller memory cell arrays. Therefore, however, that, for each cell array for m word lines and n bit lines, a of 2m+n or 2n+m line driver circuits are required. For the MPAM configuration in its entirety, containing 1 memory cell for example, 1(2m+n) or 1(2n+m) line driver circuits are then required. For the line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on a chip containing the MRAM configuration, extremely undesirable. It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a MRAM configuration which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices general type, in which the area for line driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, thereby obtaining space-saving architecture. With the foregoing and other objects in view is provided, in accordance with the invention, a magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration. MRAM configuration contains at two memory arrays. of the memory cell arrays has word lines, bit lines crossing the word lines, and memory cells disposed at crossover points between word lines and the bit lines. Connecting nodes are provided, and one of the connecting nodes is disposed between and connecting each of the memory arrays to each other. Line driver circuits are connected to least one of the word lines and the bit lines. The line driver circuits are respectively connected to the connecting nodes between the memory cell arrays. Switching transistors are provided. One of the switching transistors is disposed between one of memory cell arrays and one of the connecting nodes so the line driver circuits are respectively assigned to different ones of the memory cell arrays. In the of the MRAM configuration of the type mentioned in the introduction, the object achieved according to the invention by virtue of the that line driver circuits are respectively connected to connecting nodes between two memory cell arrays and respective switching transistor is present between the connecting node and two memory arrays. In principle, configuration of the configuration effects a departure from an obvious solution to the above problems which is based respectively a current source or current sink at each end of a memory cell array. Rather, the MRAM configuration the invention, line driver circuits are disposed in such a way that they can be assigned to different memory cell arrays, which results in that the line driver circuits required in total are approximately halved compared with the prior art. Equally, it is possible to reduce the outlay for the current sources in the line a current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the present invention. A development of the invention provides for between two memory cell arrays to connected ground potential element an voltage As a result, a writing current, having traversed a memory cell array, readily passes to the ground potential via the output side connecting node of the memory cell and the element having adjustable voltage drop. By way of example, the voltage drop can be produced by a variable resistor, a variable transistor or an adjustable voltage The resulting adjustable voltage ensures that parasitic currents through the memory cells connected to the selective word or bit line can be minimized. A respective series circuit containing a current source and a writing driver transistor is used for the line driver circuits. In this manner, the current source is assigned to two of the memory arrays. By way of example, an n-channel MOS field-effect transistor may be chosen for the writing driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the switching and the diode. Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention forth in the appended claims. Although the invention is illustrated described herein as embodied in a MRAM 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 of equivalents of the claims. The construction method of operation of however, with additional objects and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in connection the accompanying drawings.
|
fIELd OF tHE INvENTioN
The INvENTION rElaTeS to A mAgnEto-ResisTIvE rANDoM ACCESs MeMoRY (MrAm) cONFIguraTiON cONtaiNINg AT leAsT Two meMory celL arRAYs. in eaCh Of tHE MeMoRy cELL ArraYS, mEMorY CELls ARE pRovideD AT THE CroSsoveRS BeTwEEN WoRd lINeS And bIT LINEs, At lEasT One liNe TyPE contAINinG The WoRD LIneS aND Bit liNes Is prOviDeD WiTh LiNE drIVeR cIrCuits.
aS is knOwn, tHe mEMORY effEct Of mRAMs iS bASeD on A VaRiabLe REsIstANcE of ThE InDividUal MEmORy cElLS OF tHe mEmOrY. a MrAM mEMORy CelL Is SItUAtEd At THE CROssovER poInT of tWO LINeS, NAmELY in parTIcuLAR bEtweEN a WOrd LINe AND a bit liNE. tHE memoRy cell itsElF ConTaIns twO maGNeTic LAYeRs iSOLatEd FRom onE anOtHer by A THiN dIELeCTRiC layer.
THE valUe of ThE ELeCTRICal rEsIsTAnCE of SuCh an MRam MEMOry CELl dEpENDS, TheN, on thE polArIZAtION Of THe MAgNeTIc LaYErS. iF bOtH laYErS aRE PolaRIzED in ThE SAMe diRectiOn, A lOW VAluE resisTanCE is prESeNT IN The MEMOrY ceLL, WHeREas a HiGH ValUE ResIStAncE oF THE eLeCtrICaL RESiStAnce Is OBtAINED IN tHe eVENt of MUtUallY opPosite pOLarizAtiOn Of tHE TwO magNETiC Layers. IN OTheR wOrDS, dEpEndiNG ON THE polaRizatiOn of THe maGneTiC layerS, A high (↑) Or low (↓) rEsistANCE ReSUltS For tHe meMORy cEll CONtaINIng the tWo MaGnEtiC LAyeRs ANd tHe INterVEnING DIelecTriC laYEr.
oF THe mAGnetic LaYERS, oNe lAYEr is CoMpOSED Of A sOft-mAGNetic MAtErIaL, wheReAs the OtHeR layER Is PRoDUCED FroM A Hard-MaGneTIc mateRiAL. ThE SofT-mAgNeTIC material iS chOSEn suCh ThAt itS POlaRIzAtioN CaN Be reVersED by a wrItInG CUrReNT On tHE wORd Line aND the biT LiNE wHILE sUcH PoLarIzAtIon rEvErSAL BY the wrItiNG cUrrEnts iS NoT inTendeD To BE poSSiBLE in THe CAsE OF tHE HARD-mAgNETIc MATERIAl.
iN oRdER, ThEn, ThAt ThE magneTiC lAYEr MADe oF SoFt-mAGnEtiC mateRIAL cAn Be PolaRizED In two OpPOSite DirectioNS, It iS NeCESSAry ThAT at LEast One of TwO PRoGrAmMINg CURrENTs thrOugh the bIt liNE OR ThRouGH THe WOrd Line cAn FLOw In BOTh direcTionS ThRougH tHE RESPeCTivE LINE. FoR oNLY ThEn CAn It Be EnsUREd at tHe cROSSoVeR POINT bETWEeN The WORD lINE AnD ThE BIT liNe ThaT, gIven CorrespoNDInglY DiReCtEd progrAmming CURreNtS at The CrOSSOVEr poINt, ThE maGNetiC fiEld for polaRiZATIon revErsal in tHe mAgnetic LaYEr MaDE OF thE SOFT-magnETiC MatErIAl Is StronG ENOuGh fOr THE POlarIzATIoN rEVERSaL.
The CurRENts WHIch fLow THroUGH thE MEMORY Cell aRE TunneliNG cURRenTs THroUgH tHE THiN DiELEctRIC Layer, so THaT a XE2x80x9CMAGnEtIC TUnneL jUncTIonxE2x80x9D Or xe2x80X9CTuNNeL juNCTiOnxe2X80x9D is prEseNt, wHICh is wHy tHE MRam mEMORy cell Is aLsO rEfERRed To aS A MaGNETIc tUnNEL JUnCtIon (mtj) memORY cELL.
In the MraM ConfIGURaTiON, hIGH pArASiTiC CURrEntS oCCur on A sELected WoRd LiNE OR bIT LInE, tHe CurRENts UlTiMatElY bEIng BrouGhT abOuT BY thE nUmerOuS CrossoVEr Points bEtweEN A SELECtEd wORD LIne, foR EXaMPLE, AND ThE bIT liNES that cRoSs iT. oN acCOUnT OF tHesE HiGH paRasitiC cURREnTs, tHEREFOrE, a lARGE mraM conFIGuRATiOn can onlY bE cONSTrUCtED from a PLuRAlItY oF SMaller mEMorY cell aRrAYS. thErefoRe, HoWevER, THat, FOr Each MemORY cEll ArrAy cOnTaINiNg, FoR ExAmPle, M wOrD liNES anD n BiT lINES, a tOTaL oF 2M+n Or 2N+m LiNE DrivEr cIRcUits aRE REQUiRED. for thE mpaM CoNFigUraTIon In itS EnTiREtY, CoNtaINING 1 mEmoRY CelL aRRayS foR EXaMPLE, 1(2m+N) Or 1(2n+M) lINE drIVEr CircUItS ArE tHEN rEQuiRed. fOR ThE LinE DRIvEr ciRcUItS, hOWever, a lArGe ARea IS ReQUireD on A ChIp cOntaiNiNg tHE MRAm CONfigurAtiON, whIch is ExTremeLY UNdesiRable.
IT Is aCCoRdiNGly An obJect Of the InveNtIoN tO PRovIdE a mRAM cOnfIGUrATioN wHich oVeRCOmeS the AbOVE-MENtIOnEd DiSaDVanTAGES OF tHe prIoR ARt devIcES oF ThiS GEnErAl TYPE, IN WhICH the AREA reQuIremENt for THE liNE DRIveR CIrcUiTS is reDuceD bY EFFecTIve assignMeNt OF tHE LATTER, tHerEbY OBtAiniNG A spACE-SaVIng arChitectUrE.
wiTH The forEGoInG anD OtheR OBJecTs In VIEW TheRe is prOViDED, in accOrDance WITh The iNvEnTIon, a MAgnETo-rESISTIvE raNdOm aCCesS MEMorY (MrAm) coNfiGuRaTioN. the MrAM conFIgUratiON CoNtAinS AT leaST TWO MEMORy CElL aRraYS. EaCh of the mEMoRy CELl ArRaYs hAS worD linES, bIt LinES croSsiNg The WorD LiNes, AnD mEMOry CeLlS DIspOSEd aT croSsOVEr pOints BetwEEn ThE WoRd lines AnD ThE Bit linEs. cONNEcTing NodEs arE ProViDed, aNd oNe oF The CONNecTinG noDes IS DispoSed BetwEEN And CoNneCting eaCh of THE memOry cEll arRaYs TO eACH OTher. liNE Driver ciRCuIts aRe coNneCtEd TO aT lEaST oNE of The wOrd Lines anD tHe bIt LINES. THE LiNe dRIver CirCuITS ArE ResPeCtivEly CoNneCted TO The CoNNectIng nOdES BEtWEEn THe MEMoRy CELL ARRaYs. Switching TrAnsIStOrS are PROViDeD. ONe Of ThE SWitcHIng tRanSistOrS IS DispOSeD BeTWEeN OnE oF THE mEMOry CeLL ARraYS ANd onE oF ThE cOnnECTiNg nodes So thaT tHe LiNE DRIVEr CIrcuITS ArE ResPEctively ASSiGneD to dIFfEREnT OnEs OF tHE MEMOry CELl arrAyS.
In tHE CAsE of thE mram cONFiguRaTiON OF THE TyPE mEntIONed IN tHe InTRODuCtion, The oBJEcT IS aCHIevEd aCCoRDINg to thE InVeNTIOn By vIrtUe oF The FACt tHat THe lIne DRiVeR ciRCUiTs ARE ReSPECtIVELY CONNEcTed TO COnneCTing nOdEs BETWEEn tWo mEmORy CEll arraYs anD a reSPeCtivE SwitchiNg TraNsisTOR is PREseNt beTWEEN The cOnNECtING Node aND THe Two memoRY CeLl ArrAYs.
IN PRIncIPLe, tHe conFigUraTIOn oF the MRam cOnfigUratIoN effECTS a depaRTURE FROM An oBvIouS SOLuTioN To the aBOve PrOBlEmS wHIch iS bASED on REspeCtIVEly PlaCinG a CuRReNt soUrce oR CuRrent siNK at EAcH eND OF A memory cEll aRrAY. RAtheR, in the mRAm conFigURaTiOn aCcordInG to THE inVEntION, THE lINE driVER CIRcUitS Are disPOsEd in SUcH a WAy ThAT tHeY CAn bE AssIGNed tO differEnt mEMoRy CELL aRRayS, whicH ResuLTS IN ThAt THe line driVer CiRcUIts requiRed in total aRE aPpROxIMAtELY haLveD comPArED wItH tHE prIor Art. EquAlLY, IT iS PosSIBle TO REdUcE The OUTlAy foR the CUrrenT SoUrcES iN THe lINe dRiVER circUits SINcE A CurreNT SOUrcE IS alLocAtED TO tWo mEmORy Cell ArRAys iN The PresEnT INvenTIoN.
a DEVelOpMeNT of tHe INVeNTIOn pRoVidEs fOr THE cONnECTing noDe BetweEn tWO mEmOry Cell ARrAyS tO Be cONnecteD TO groUnD PotENtiAl via an eLEmeNt haViNg An AdJUstaBle VoLtaGE dROp. As A reSult, A WrITINg currenT, HaViNG TRAVeRSEd a MEMORy ceLL arRAy, REadIlY PAsSeS To thE GROUnD potentIAL via thE oUtpuT SIde connEcting nODE of THe MeMORy CELL ARraY AnD tHE eLeMenT havInG AN ADJuSTaBle VOlTaGE drOp. bY wAy Of EXAmPlE, thE AdjUstABle VoLTagE dROP cAN be Produced BY A vaRiAbLe reSisToR, a vArIaBLE TRAnSiStor dIOdE oR AN AdJUSTAbLe vOlTAGe SOurCE. THe REsuLtINg ADjusTAblE vOlTaGE eNsurEs that paRaSITiC cUrReNtS ThrOuGH THe mEmORy CeLLs COnnECTed To THE sElECTIVE wORd Or bit LiNE can BE minIMIZEd.
a RESPEcTivE serIES ciRCuiT CONTaiNiNG a CurrEnt SOUrCe And A WRiting driVER TransisTOR Is ADvANtaGeOuslY uSeD foR tHe LiNe Driver cIrcuItS. IN tHiS MaNneR, tHe CurRent souRce iS asSIGnED TO TWo of thE MemOry arrAYs. BY wAY OF ExAMPlE, An n-chANNEL MoS FIEld-EFfecT TraNsIsToR May BE cHOsEN FOR tHE WrITIng dRIVER tRAnsiStOr, and, mOReOveR, this ALsO aPpLIes to THe sWITcHinG trANsIsTor and THE TRaNSiSTor dIoDe.
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 MRAM cOnfiguratION, 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.
|
Field of theInventionThe invention relates to a magneto-resistive random accessmemory (MRAM) configuration containing at least two memory cell arrays. In each of the memorycell arrays, memory cells are provided at the crossovers between word lines and bit lines,at least one line type containing the word lines andbit lines is provided with linedriver circuits. As is known, the memory effect ofMRAMs is basedona variable resistance of the individual memory cells of the memory.AMRAM memory cell is situated atthecrossover point of two lines,namelyin particular between a word line and a bit line. The memory cell itself contains two magnetic layers isolated from one another by a thindielectric layer. Thevalue of the electrical resistance of such an MRAM memorycell depends,then, on the polarization ofthe magnetic layers. If bothlayers are polarized in thesame direction, alow value resistanceis present in the memorycell, whereas a high value resistance of the electrical resistance is obtained in the event of mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. In other words,depending on the polarization of the magnetic layers, a high (↑) or low(↓) resistanceresults for the memory cell containing the two magnetic layers and the intervening dielectriclayer. Of the magnetic layers,one layer is composed of asoft-magneticmaterial, whereas the otherlayer is produced from a hard-magnetic material. The soft-magnetic material is chosen such that its polarization can be reversedby a writing current on theword line and the bit line while such polarization reversal by the writing currentsis not intendedto be possible in the case of the hard-magnetic material. Inorder, then, that the magnetic layer made of soft-magnetic materialcan be polarized in two opposite directions, it is necessary that atleast oneof two programming currents through the bitline or through the word line can flow in both directions through the respective line. For only then can it be ensured at the crossover point betweenthe word line and the bit line that,given correspondingly directed programming currents at the crossover point, the magnetic fieldfor polarization reversalin themagneticlayer made of the soft-magnetic material is strong enoughfor the polarization reversal. The currents whichflowthrough the memory cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, sothat a xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why the MRAM memory cell is also referred to as a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) memory cell. In the MRAM configuration, highparasitic currents occur on a selected word line or bit line, the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between aselected word line, for example,andthe bit lines that cross it. Onaccount of these high parasiticcurrents, therefore, a large MRAM configuration can only be constructedfrom a plurality of smaller memory cell arrays. Therefore, however, that, for each memory cell array containing, forexample, m word lines andn bit lines, a total of 2m+n or 2n+m line driver circuits are required. For the MPAM configuration in its entirety, containing 1 memorycell arrays forexample, 1(2m+n) or 1(2n+m) line drivercircuitsare then required. Forthe line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on achip containing the MRAM configuration, which is extremely undesirable. It is accordingly an object of the inventionto provide a MRAM configuration which overcomes theabove-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art devices of this general type, in which the area requirement for theline driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, thereby obtaining aspace-saving architecture.With the foregoing and other objects in view thereis provided, in accordance with theinvention, a magneto-resistiverandom access memory(MRAM) configuration. The MRAM configuration contains atleast two memorycellarrays. Each of the memory cell arrays has word lines,bit lines crossing the wordlines,and memorycells disposed at crossover points between the word lines and the bit lines. Connecting nodesare provided, and one of the connecting nodes is disposed between and connecting each of the memory cell arrays toeach other. Line driver circuits areconnected to at least one of theword lines and the bit lines. The linedriver circuitsare respectively connected to the connecting nodes between the memory cell arrays. Switchingtransistors are provided. One ofthe switching transistors is disposed between one of the memory cell arrays and one of the connecting nodes so that the line driver circuits are respectively assigned to different onesof the memory cell arrays. In the case of the MRAMconfiguration of the type mentioned in the introduction, the object is achieved according to the invention by virtue ofthefact that theline drivercircuits are respectivelyconnected to connecting nodes between two memory cell arrays and a respective switching transistor is present between the connecting node and the two memory cellarrays. In principle,theconfiguration of the MRAM configurationeffects a departure from anobvious solution to the above problems which is based on respectivelyplacing a current source or current sinkateach end of a memory cell array. Rather, in the MRAM configuration accordingto the invention,the line driver circuits are disposed in such a way that they can be assignedto different memory cell arrays, which results in that the line driver circuits required intotal are approximately halvedcompared with the prior art. Equally, it is possibleto reduce the outlay for the current sources intheline drivercircuitssince a current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the present invention. A development of the invention provides forthe connecting nodebetween two memory cell arrays to be connectedtogroundpotentialvia an element having an adjustable voltage drop. As a result, a writing current, havingtraversed a memory cell array, readily passesto the groundpotential viathe output side connecting node of the memory cell array and the elementhaving an adjustablevoltage drop. By way of example, the adjustable voltage drop can be produced by avariableresistor, a variable transistor diode or an adjustable voltage source. The resultingadjustable voltage ensures that parasitic currents through the memorycells connectedto the selective word or bit line canbe minimized. A respective series circuit containing a current source and a writing driver transistor is advantageously used fortheline driver circuits.In this manner, the current source is assigned totwo of the memoryarrays. By way ofexample, an n-channel MOS field-effect transistor may be chosen for thewriting driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the switching transistor and the transistor diode. Other features which are considered as characteristicfor the invention are set forth in the appended claims. Althoughthe invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a MRAM configuration, it is nevertheless not intended to be limitedto the details shown, since various modifications andstructuralchanges may bemade therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scopeand range of equivalents of the claims. The construction and method of operation ofthe invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereofwill be best understood from the followingdescription of specific embodiments whenread in connectionwith the accompanying drawings.
|
Field of the _Invention_ The invention _relates_ to a magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM) configuration containing at least _two_ memory cell arrays. In each of the memory cell arrays, memory _cells_ are _provided_ at the crossovers between word lines and _bit_ lines, at _least_ one _line_ _type_ containing the word lines _and_ bit lines is _provided_ with line driver _circuits._ _As_ is known, the memory _effect_ of MRAMs is based on _a_ variable resistance _of_ _the_ individual memory cells _of_ the memory. A MRAM memory cell _is_ situated at the crossover point _of_ two lines, namely in _particular_ between a word line and a bit line. The memory cell itself contains two magnetic layers isolated _from_ one another by a thin dielectric _layer._ _The_ value of the electrical resistance of _such_ an MRAM memory cell depends, then, on the polarization _of_ the magnetic _layers._ If both layers are polarized in the same direction, _a_ low value resistance is _present_ _in_ the _memory_ cell, whereas a high value resistance of the electrical _resistance_ is _obtained_ in _the_ event of mutually opposite polarization of the two magnetic layers. In other _words,_ _depending_ on _the_ polarization of the magnetic layers, a high (↑) or low (↓) resistance results _for_ the memory cell containing the two magnetic layers and the _intervening_ dielectric _layer._ Of the _magnetic_ layers, one _layer_ is composed of a soft-magnetic _material,_ whereas the other layer is produced from a hard-magnetic material. The soft-magnetic material _is_ chosen such that its polarization _can_ be _reversed_ by a writing _current_ on the word line and the bit _line_ while such polarization reversal by the writing currents is _not_ _intended_ to be possible in the case of the hard-magnetic _material._ In order, then, that the _magnetic_ layer made of _soft-magnetic_ material can be polarized in _two_ opposite _directions,_ it _is_ necessary that at _least_ one _of_ _two_ programming currents through _the_ _bit_ line or through the word line can flow _in_ both directions _through_ _the_ respective line. _For_ only then _can_ it be ensured at the crossover point between the word _line_ and _the_ bit line that, given correspondingly directed programming _currents_ at _the_ _crossover_ point, _the_ _magnetic_ field for _polarization_ reversal in the magnetic layer _made_ of _the_ soft-magnetic material is strong enough for the _polarization_ reversal. The currents which flow through _the_ memory cell are tunneling currents through the thin dielectric layer, so that _a_ xe2x80x9cmagnetic tunnel junctionxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctunnel junctionxe2x80x9d is present, which is why the MRAM _memory_ cell is _also_ referred to as a _magnetic_ tunnel junction (MTJ) memory cell. In _the_ MRAM configuration, _high_ parasitic _currents_ occur _on_ _a_ selected word line or _bit_ _line,_ the currents ultimately being brought about by the numerous crossover points between _a_ selected _word_ line, _for_ _example,_ and the bit lines that cross it. On account of these high parasitic currents, therefore, a _large_ MRAM configuration can only be constructed from a _plurality_ of smaller _memory_ cell arrays. Therefore, however, that, for each memory cell array containing, for example, _m_ word lines _and_ _n_ _bit_ _lines,_ _a_ total of 2m+n _or_ _2n+m_ line driver circuits are _required._ _For_ the MPAM _configuration_ _in_ its entirety, _containing_ 1 _memory_ cell arrays for example, 1(2m+n) or _1(2n+m)_ line driver circuits are then _required._ For the line driver circuits, however, a large area is required on _a_ chip _containing_ the _MRAM_ configuration, which _is_ extremely undesirable. _It_ is accordingly an object of the invention _to_ provide a _MRAM_ _configuration_ which overcomes the above-mentioned _disadvantages_ of the prior art devices of this general type, in which the _area_ requirement for the line driver circuits is reduced by effective assignment of the latter, _thereby_ obtaining a space-saving architecture. With the foregoing and other _objects_ _in_ view there is provided, _in_ _accordance_ with the invention, a magneto-resistive _random_ access memory _(MRAM)_ configuration. _The_ MRAM configuration contains at least two memory _cell_ arrays. _Each_ of the memory _cell_ arrays has word lines, bit _lines_ _crossing_ the word lines, and memory _cells_ disposed at crossover points between the word lines and the bit lines. Connecting nodes are provided, and one of _the_ connecting nodes is disposed _between_ and _connecting_ each _of_ the memory cell arrays to each other. _Line_ driver _circuits_ are connected _to_ at least _one_ of _the_ word _lines_ _and_ the bit lines. The line driver _circuits_ _are_ respectively connected _to_ the connecting nodes between the _memory_ cell arrays. _Switching_ transistors _are_ provided. One of _the_ switching transistors is disposed between one _of_ the _memory_ cell arrays _and_ _one_ _of_ the connecting nodes so that the line _driver_ _circuits_ are respectively _assigned_ to different _ones_ of the memory cell arrays. In _the_ case of the MRAM configuration of _the_ type mentioned _in_ the introduction, the object is achieved according to the invention by virtue of the fact that the line driver circuits are respectively connected to connecting nodes between two memory _cell_ arrays _and_ a respective switching _transistor_ is present _between_ the _connecting_ node and the two _memory_ cell arrays. _In_ principle, _the_ _configuration_ of _the_ _MRAM_ configuration _effects_ a departure _from_ an obvious _solution_ to _the_ above problems which is based on respectively placing _a_ current source or current sink at _each_ end _of_ a _memory_ cell array. Rather, _in_ _the_ MRAM _configuration_ according to the _invention,_ the line driver circuits _are_ disposed in such a way _that_ they can be assigned to different memory cell arrays, which results in that _the_ _line_ driver circuits required in total _are_ approximately halved compared _with_ the prior art. Equally, it is possible to reduce the outlay _for_ the current sources in the _line_ driver circuits since _a_ current source is allocated to two memory cell arrays in the _present_ invention. A development of the invention provides _for_ the _connecting_ node between _two_ memory _cell_ arrays to be connected _to_ ground potential via an element having an adjustable voltage drop. As a result, _a_ writing current, having traversed a memory cell array, _readily_ passes to the ground potential via the output side _connecting_ node _of_ _the_ _memory_ cell array and the element having an adjustable _voltage_ _drop._ By _way_ of example, the adjustable voltage drop can be _produced_ by a variable _resistor,_ a variable _transistor_ diode or an adjustable voltage source. The resulting adjustable voltage ensures _that_ parasitic _currents_ through _the_ _memory_ cells connected to the selective word _or_ bit line _can_ _be_ minimized. A respective series circuit _containing_ a current source and a writing driver transistor is advantageously used _for_ _the_ line driver _circuits._ In this manner, the current source _is_ assigned to two _of_ the _memory_ arrays. By way _of_ example, an n-channel MOS field-effect transistor may be chosen for the writing driver transistor, and, moreover, this also applies to the _switching_ transistor and the _transistor_ diode. 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 MRAM configuration, 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.
|
1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to a catalyst composition for selective catalytic reduction of exhaust gases and a process for its preparation. More specifically, such a catalyst composition may be used in catalyst application for the removal of NOx, especially in exhaust gas after treatment of diesel- and lean burn engines of automotive. In addition the catalyst composition may also be used in stationary applications (e.g. removal of NO in power plant stations).
2. Related Technology
The most widely employed technology for removal of NOx out of exhaust gases is S(elective) C(atalytic) R(eduction), e.g. O. Kröcher, Chapter 9 in <<Past and Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P. Granger et al., published by Elsevier 2007. Accordingly, NOx is removed by Ammonia into Nitrogen and water according to the reaction:4NO+4NH3+O2=4N2+6H2O
For the stationary application mainly V2O5 doped TiO2/WO3 compositions are used commercially since 1970 to remove nitrogen oxide emissions of fossil fuel power plants.
Already 15 years ago, the idea was discussed to apply SCR also on mobile diesel engines, which is now an emerging technology for the NOx reduction from heavy duty diesel vehicles, passenger cars and off road machines.
A typical SCR system consists of a reduction catalyst, urea injection and dosing components, pipes and a storage tank. A huge number of modern catalysts are extruded substrates or coated substrates with Vanadium Pentaoxide (V2O5) as the catalytically active component.
Catalytic coatings of zeolite based SCR are currently being developed because of the limited temperature stability of the vanadium catalysts and the fact that Vanadium Pentaoxide (V2O5) has been classified as a health risk in some countries. Increased temperature stability is especially important in SCR catalysts installed downstream a particulate filter since relatively high temperatures are generated during filter regeneration (M. Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008)
There are further reports on the commercially applied well known V2O5/WO3—TiO2 material for exhaust gas aftertreatment of automotives by O. Kröcher in Chapter 9, p. 267f in <<Past and Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P. Granger et al.
According to the presentation given by Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) Titania-tungsten oxide based catalysts containing V2O5 as active component are applied for making automotive catalysts in a huge number (approx. 4 Mio. Catalysts/year).
The preparation of V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2/WO3 which additionally may contain oxides out of transition metals, Rare Earths and other elements and the application in SCR is widely disclosed in numerous publications, patent applications and patents. For example GB 1 495 396 describes a catalyst composition containing as active ingredients oxides from titanium, at least one of molybdenum, tungsten, iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium and uranium, and as optional component(s) tin and/or at least one of silver, beryllium, magnesium, zinc, boron, aluminium, yttrium, rare earth metal, silicon, niobium, antimony, bismuth, manganese, thorium and zirconium, which oxides are present as an intimate mixture.
EP 787 521 describes the preparation of several V-containing catalysts based on TiO2/WO3 containing additional dopants such as Y2O3, B2O3, PbO, SnO2 the vanadium being present as Vanadiumpentaoxide V2O5.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,221,768 reports on V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2 as a support material and additional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. Additional SCR-Materials which contains V2O5 supported on TiO2 are also described in GB 1 430 730.
V2O5 containing materials which contain TiO2, SiO2, S and Oxides of Ce, Sn, Mo and W are reported in UK Appl. GB 2 149 680.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,466,947 describes V-containing denitration catalysts in which the vanadium is present in form of an oxide or a sulfate.
EP 1 145 762 A1 describes a process for the preparation of a vanadia SCR-catalyst supported on titania.
The main disadvantage of the V-based catalyst type is the limited stability at temperatures above 600° C.
A report on the stability of a SCR system based on TiO2/WO3/V2O5 is given by Jan M T et al. in Chemical Engineering & Technology, Vol. 30, No 10, 1440-1444, 2007. Accordingly a deactivation of the catalyst occurs since V2O5 melts at approx. 650° C.
A TiO2/WO3/V2O5 suitable SCR catalyst for NOx removal of Diesel-powered vehicles is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,849 B1, column 2. Although such a catalyst has shown good performance it was found that sustained high temperature operation can cause catalyst deactivation. Heavy duty diesel engines, which are almost exclusively charged, can produce exhaust gases at greater than 500° C. Under conditions of high load and/or high speed, and such temperatures deactivation of the catalyst may occur.
In the presentation of Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) there were reported maximum operation temperatures for a TiO2/WO3/V2O5 catalyst of 550° C. and 580° C. for short term basis.
In view of the application under EURO 6 an improvement in thermal stability of a V2O5 containing TiO2/WO3 based catalyst was reported in the presentation of Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008). Accordingly a catalyst containing V2O5 as active component and a support material consisting of TiO2/WO3 and additionally containing Si may be operated at max. temp. of 600° C. and 650° on a short term basis.
Vanadium based systems with improved thermal stability are also reported by James. W. Girard et al., “Technical Advantages of Vanadium SCR Systems for Diesel NOx Control in Emerging Markets”, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008. After ageing at 600° C./50 hrs the catalyst is still active. However, because of high exhaust gas temperatures possible during active Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration, vanadium SCR catalysts are usually not considered for these applications.
With increasingly stringent automobile exhaust emission regulations for Diesel vehicles (US 2010 and EURO 6 regulations) aftertreatment systems containing a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) as well as a SCR catalyst will be required in future. Such systems will demand a higher temperature stability of the SCR catalyst and V2O5 based systems are not considered to be viable for such an application as additionally to the problem of heat stability V2O5 may be exhausted also to the environment (J. Munch et al “Extruded Zeolite based Honeycomb Catalyst for NOx Removal from Diesel Exhaust, SAE Paper 2008-01-1024). Since the activity of SCR catalysts in the temperature range of 180-350° C. is important in the diesel application there have been established systems to improve catalytic activity in the low temperature range.
For example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) attached in front of the SCR system (NO being present as a majority (=more than 90%) in the raw emission of the diesel engine) is oxidized to form NO2. The NO2 can be used to burn up particulates and to improve the low temperature activity (in the range 180-350° C.), see M. Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008.
In the same publication there are summarized the design parameters of two engine/aftertreatment scenarios for US 2010/Euro 6. One concept will lead to high particulate matters/low NOx with active regeneration of the PM-filter. The SCR catalyst proposed for the described scenario is a zeolite. Zeolites must be used since higher heat resistance of the SCR system is required due to the active regeneration of the PM filter.
The second concept comprises an engine concept which will lead to low concentrations of PM and low NOx concentrations. The SCR catalyst may consist of a vanadium based material or a zeolite. Both concepts will use a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) prior to the SCR treatment. The problem of low temperature activity of SCR catalysts is also addressed in US 2008/0234126 A1. It is described a method for the preparation of a vanadium/titania based catalyst with enhanced
|
1. field of invention the present invention applies to a catalyst composition for selective catalytic reduction of exhaust gases and a solvent for its preparation. more specifically, such a catalyst composition may be used in catalyst application for the removal of nitrogen, especially in exhaust gas fuel treatment of diesel - and lean burn engines of automotive. in addition the catalyst composition may also be used in stationary applications ( e. g. removal of no in power plant stations ). 2. related technology the most widely relevant technology for removal of nox out of exhaust gases is s ( elective ) c ( active ) r ( eduction ), e. g. o. krocher, chapter 9 in < < past and present in denox catalysis > >, edited by e. granger et al., published by elsevier 2007. accordingly, nox is removed by ammonia into nitrogen and water according to the reaction : 4no + 4nh3 + o2 = 4n2 + 6h2o for the stationary application mainly v2o5 doped tio2 / wo3 compositions are used commercially since 1970 to remove nitrogen oxide emissions of fossil fuel power plants. already 15 years ago, the idea was discussed to apply scr also towards mobile diesel engines, which is now an emerging technology for the nox reduction from heavy duty diesel vehicles, passenger cars and off road machines. a typical scr system consists of catalytic reduction catalyst, urea injection and dosing components, pipes and a storage tank. a huge number of modern catalysts are extruded substrates or coated substrates with vanadium pentaoxide ( v2o5 ) as the catalytically active component. catalytic coatings of zeolite based scr are currently being developed because of the limited temperature stability of the vanadium catalysts and the fact that vanadium pentaoxide ( v2o5 ) has been classified as a health risk in some countries. increased temperature stability is more important in scr catalysts installed downstream a particulate filter since relatively high temperatures are generated during filter regeneration ( m. rice, r. mueller at al., development of an integrated nox and pm reduction aftertreatment system : scri for advanced diesel engines, sae technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, sae world congress detroit, mich. apr. 14 - 17, 2008 ) there are further reports on the commercially applied well known v2o5 / wo3 — tio ##2 material for exhaust gas aftertreatment of automotives by o. krocher in chapter 9, p. 267f in < < past and present in denox catalysis > >, edited by p. granger et al. according to the presentation given by dirk vatareck ( catalysts automotive applications, argillon ) at the 3rd cti forum scr systems ( bonn 9 apr. 2008 ) titania - tungsten oxide based catalysts containing v2o5 as active component are applied for making automotive catalysts in a huge number ( approx. 4 mio. catalysts / year ). the preparation of v2o5 containing materials based on tio2 / wo3 which additionally may contain oxides out of transition metals, rare earths and other elements and the application in scr is widely disclosed in numerous publications, patent applications and patents. for example gb 1 495 396 describes a catalyst composition containing as active ingredients oxides from titanium, at least one of molybdenum, tungsten, iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium and uranium, and as optional component ( s ) tin and / or at least one of silver, beryllium, magnesium, zinc, boron, aluminium, yttrium, rare earth metal, silicon, niobium, antimony, bismuth, manganese, thorium and zirconium, which oxides are present as an intimate mixture. ep 787 521 describes the preparation of several v - containing catalysts based on tio2 / wo3 containing additional dopants such as y2o3, b2o3, pbo, sno2 the vanadium being present as vanadiumpentaoxide v2o5. u. s. pat. no. 4, 221, 768 reports on v2o5 containing materials based on tio2 as a support material and additional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. additional scr - materials which contains v2o5 supported on tio2 are also described in gb 1 430 730. v2o5 containing materials which contain tio2, sio2, s and oxides of ce, sn, mo and w are reported in uk appl. gb 2 149 680. u. s. pat. no. 4, 466, 947 describes v - containing denitration catalysts in which the vanadium is present in form of an oxide or a sulfate. ep 1 145 762 a1 describes a process for the preparation of a vanadia scr - catalyst supported on titania. the main disadvantage of the v - based catalyst type is the limited stability at temperatures above 600° c. a report on the stability of a scr system based on tio2 / wo3 / v2o5 is given by jan m t et al. in chemical engineering & technology, vol. 30, no 10, 1440 - 1444, 2007. accordingly a deactivation of the catalyst occurs since v2o5 melts at approx. 650° c. a tio2 / wo3 / v2o5 suitable scr catalyst for nox removal of diesel - powered vehicles is described in u. s. pat. no. 6, 805, 849 b1, column 2. although such a catalyst has shown good performance it was found that sustained high temperature operation can cause catalyst deactivation. heavy duty diesel engines, which are almost exclusively charged, can produce exhaust gases at greater than 500° c. under conditions of high load and / or high speed, and such temperatures deactivation of the catalyst may occur. in the presentation of dirk vatareck ( catalysts automotive applications, argillon ) at the 3rd cti forum scr systems ( bonn 9 apr. 2008 ) there were reported maximum operation temperatures for a tio2 / wo3 / v2o5 catalyst of 550° c. and 580° c. for short term basis. in view of the application under euro 6 an improvement in thermal stability of a v2o5 containing tio2 / wo3 based catalyst was reported in the presentation of dirk vatareck ( catalysts automotive applications, argillon ) at the 3rd cti forum scr systems ( bonn 9 apr. 2008 ). accordingly a catalyst containing v2o5 as active component and a support material consisting of tio2 / wo3 and additionally containing si may be operated at max. temp. of 600° c. and 650° on a short term basis. vanadium based systems with improved thermal stability are also reported by james. w. girard et al., “ technical advantages of vanadium scr systems for diesel nox control in emerging markets ”, sae technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, sae world congress detroit, mich. apr. 14 - 17, 2008. after ageing at 600° c. / 50 hrs the catalyst is still active. however, because of high exhaust gas temperatures possible during active diesel particulate filter ( dpf ) regeneration, vanadium scr catalysts are usually not considered for these applications. with increasingly stringent automobile exhaust emission regulations for diesel vehicles ( us 2010 and euro 6 regulations ) aftertreatment systems containing a diesel particulate filter ( dpf ) as well as a scr catalyst will be required in future. such systems will demand a higher temperature stability of the scr catalyst and v2o5 based systems are not considered to be viable for such an application as additionally to the problem of heat stability v2o5 may be exhausted also to the environment ( j. munch et al “ extruded zeolite based honeycomb catalyst for nox removal from diesel exhaust, sae paper 2008 - 01 - 1024 ). since the activity of scr catalysts in the temperature range of 180 - 350° c. is important in the diesel application there have been established systems to improve catalytic activity in the low temperature range. for example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst ( doc ) attached in front of the scr system ( no being present as a majority ( = more than 90 % ) in the raw emission of the diesel engine ) is oxidized to form no2. the no2 can be used to burn up particulates and to improve the low temperature activity ( in the range 180 - 350° c. ), see m. rice, r. mueller at al., development of an integrated nox and pm reduction aftertreatment system : scri for advanced diesel engines, sae technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, sae world congress detroit, mich. apr. 14 - 17, 2008. in the same publication there are summarized the design parameters of two engine / aftertreatment scenarios for us 2010 / euro 6. one concept will lead to high particulate matters / low nox with active regeneration of the pm - filter. the scr catalyst proposed for the described scenario is a zeolite. zeolites must be used since higher heat resistance of the scr system is required due to the active regeneration of the pm filter. the second concept comprises an engine concept which will lead to low concentrations of pm and low nox concentrations. the scr catalyst may consist of a vanadium based material or a zeolite. both concepts will use a diesel oxidation catalyst ( doc ) prior to the scr treatment. the problem of low temperature activity of scr catalysts is also addressed in us 2008 / 0234126 a1. it is described a method for the preparation of a vanadium / titania based catalyst with enhanced
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention relates to a catalyst composition for selective catalytic reduction of exhaust gases and a process for its preparation. More specifically, such a catalyst composition may be used in catalyst application for the removal of NOx, especially in exhaust gas after treatment of diesel - and lean burn engines of automotive. In addition the catalyst composition may also be used in stationary applicWtjons (e. g. removal of NO in power plant stations ). 2. Related Technology The most widely employed technology for removal of NOx out of exhaust gases is S (elective) C (atalytic) R (eduction ), e. g. O. Kröcher, Chapter 9 in << Past and Present in DeNOx Catalysis> >, edited by P. Granger et al. , published by Elsevier 2007. Accordingly, NOx is removed by Ammonia into Nitrogen and water according to the reaction: 4NO + 4NH3 + O2 = 4N2 + 6H2O For the stationary application mainly V2O5 doped TiO2 / WO3 compositions are used commercially since 1970 to remove nitrogen oxide emissions of fossil fuel power plants. Already 15 years ago, the idea was discussed to apply SCR also on mobile diesel engines, 1hkch is now an emerging technology for the NOx reduction from heavy duty diesel vehicles, passenger cars and off road machines. A typical SCR system consists of a reduction catalyst, urea injection and dosing components, pipes and a storage tank. A huge number of modern catalysts are extruded substrates or coated substrates with Vanadium Pentaoxide (V2O5) as the catalytically active component. Catalytic coatings of zeolite based SCR are currently being developed because of the limited temperature stability of the vanadium catalysts and the fact that Vanadium Pentaoxide (V2O5) has been clxsslfied as a health risk in some countries. Increased temperature stability is especially important in SCR catalysts installed downstream a particulate filter since relatively high temperatures are generated during filter regeneration (M. Rice, R. Mueller at al. , Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14 - 17, 2008) There are further reports on the commercially applied well known V2O5 / WO3 — TiO2 material for exhaust gas aftertreatment of automotives by O. Kröcher in Chapter 9, p. 267f in << Past and Present in DeNOx Catalys*c> >, edited by P. Granger et al. According to the presentation given by Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) Titania - tungsten oxide based catalysts containing V2O5 as active component are applied for making automotive catalysts in a huge Bumbe# (approx. 4 Mio. Catalysts / year ). The preparation of V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2 / WO3 which additionally may contain oxides out of transition metals, RZfe Earths and other elements and the application in SCR is widely disclosed in numerous publications, patent applications and patents. For example GB 1 495 396 describes a catalyst composition containing as active ingredients oxides from titanium, at least one of molybdenum, tungsten, iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium and uranium, and as optional component (s) tin and / or at least one of silver, beryllium, magnesium, zinc, boron, aluminium, yttrium, rare earth metal, silicon, niobium, antimony, bismuth, manganese, thorium and zirconium, which oxides are present as an intimate mixture. EP 787 521 describes the preparation of several V - containing catalysts based on TiO2 / WO3 containing additional dopants such as Y2O3, B2O3, PbO, SnO2 the vanadium being present as Vanadiumpentaoxide V2O5. U. S. Pat. No. 4, 221, 768 reports on V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2 as a support material and additional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. Additional SCR - Materials which contains V2O5 supported on TiO2 are also described in GB 1 430 730. V2O5 containing materials which contain TiO2, SiO2, S and Oxides of Ce, Sn, Mo and W are reported in UK Appl. GB 2 149 680. U. S. Pat. No. 4, 466, 947 describes V - containing denitration catalysts in which the vanadium is present in Vo$m of an oxide or a sulfate. EP 1 145 762 A1 describes a process for the preparation of a vanadia SCR - catalyst supported on titania. The main disadvantage of the V - based catalyst type is the limited stability at temperatures above 600 ° C. A report on the stability of a SCR system based on TiO2 / WO3 / V2O5 is given by Jan M T et al. in Chemical Engineering & Technology, Vol. 30, No 10, 1440 - 1444, 2007. Accordingly a deactivation of the catalyst occurs since V2O5 melts at approx. 650 ° C. A TiO2 / WO3 / V2O5 suitable SCR catalyst for NOx removal of Diesel - powered vehicles is described in U. S. Pat. No. 6, 805, 849 B1, column 2. Although such a catalyst has shown good performance it was found that sustained high temperature operation can cause catalyst deactivation. Heavy duty diesel engines, which are almost exclusively charged, can produce exhaust gases at greater than 500 ° C. Under conditions of high load and / or high speed, and such temperatures deactivation of the catalyst may occur. In the presentation of Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) there were reported maximum operation temperatures for a TiO2 / WO3 / V2O5 catalyst of 550 ° C. and 580 ° C. for short term basis. In view of the application under EURO 6 an improvement in thermal stability of a V2O5 containing TiO2 / WO3 based catalyst was reported in the presentation of Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008 ). Accordingly a catalyst containing V2O5 as active component and a support material consisting of TiO2 / WO3 and additionally containing Si may be operated at max. temp. of 600 ° C. and 650 ° on a short term basis. Vanadium based systems with improved thermal stability are also reported by James. W. Girard et al. , “ Technical Advantages of Vanadium SCR Systems for Diesel NOx Control in Emerging Markets ”, SAE technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14 - 17, 2008. After ageing at 600 ° C. / 50 hrs the catalyst is still active. However, because of high exhaust gas temperatures possible during active Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration, vanadium SCR catalysts are usually not considered for these applications. With increasingly stringent automobile exhaust emission regulations for Diesel vehicles (US 2010 and 2URI 6 regulations) aftertreatment systems containing a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) as well as a SCR catalyst will be reAuir$d in future. Such systems will demand a higher temperature stability of the SCR catalyst and V2O5 based systems are not considered to be viable for such an application as additionally to the problem of heat stability V2O5 may be exhausted also to the environment (J. Munch et al “ Extruded Zeolite based Honeycomb Catalyst for NOx Removal from Diesel Exhaust, SAE Paper 2008 - 01 - q023 ). Since the activity of SCR catalysts in the temperature range of 180 - 350 ° C. is important in the diesel application there have been established systems to improve catalytic activity in the low temperature range. For example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) attached in front of the SCR system (NO being present as a majority (= more than 90%) in the raw emission of the diesel engine) is oxidized to form NO2. The NO2 can be used to burn up particulates and to improve the low temperature activity (in the range 180 - 350 ° C. ), see M. Rice, R. Mueller at al. , Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical paper 2008 - 01 - 132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14 - 17, 2008. In the same publication there are summarized the design parameters of two engine / aftertreatment scenarios for US 2010 / Euro 6. One concept will lead to high particulate matters / low NOx with active regeneration of the PM - filter. The SCR catalyst proposed for the described scenario is a zeolite. Zeolites must be used since higher heat resistance of the SCR system is required due to the active regeneration of the PM filter. The second concept comprises an engine concept which will lead to low concentrations of PM and low NOx concentrations. The SCR catalyst may consist of a vanadium based material or a zeolite. Both concepts will use a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) prior to the SCR treatment. The problem of low temperature activity of SCR catalysts is also addressed in US 2008 / 0234126 A1. It is described a method for the preparation of a vanadium / titania based catalyst with enhanced
|
1. Field The present invention relates to a catalyst composition for selective catalytic reduction of exhaust gases and a process for its preparation. More specifically, such a catalyst composition be used in catalyst for the removal of NOx, especially in exhaust gas after treatment of diesel- and lean burn engines automotive. In addition the catalyst composition may also be used in stationary applications (e.g. removal of NO in power stations). 2. Related most widely technology for removal of NOx out of exhaust gases is S(elective) C(atalytic) R(eduction), e.g. O. Kröcher, Chapter 9 in <<Past and Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P. Granger et al., published by Elsevier 2007. NOx is by Ammonia into Nitrogen and water according to the reaction:4NO+4NH3+O2=4N2+6H2O For the application V2O5 doped TiO2/WO3 compositions are used commercially since 1970 to remove nitrogen oxide emissions of fossil fuel power plants. Already 15 years ago, the idea was discussed to apply SCR also on mobile diesel engines, is now an emerging technology for the NOx reduction from heavy duty diesel vehicles, cars and off road machines. A typical SCR system consists of a reduction catalyst, urea injection and components, pipes and a tank. A huge number of modern catalysts extruded substrates or coated substrates with Vanadium (V2O5) as the catalytically active component. Catalytic coatings of SCR are currently being developed because of the limited temperature of the vanadium catalysts and the fact that Vanadium Pentaoxide has been classified risk in some countries. Increased temperature stability is especially SCR catalysts installed downstream a particulate filter relatively high temperatures are generated during filter regeneration (M. Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of an Integrated NOx PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008) There are further on the commercially applied well known V2O5/WO3—TiO2 material for exhaust gas aftertreatment of automotives by O. Kröcher in 9, 267f in and Present in DeNOx edited by P. Granger et al. According to the presentation given by Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) Titania-tungsten oxide based catalysts containing V2O5 as active component are applied for making automotive catalysts in huge number (approx. 4 Mio. The preparation of V2O5 materials based on TiO2/WO3 which additionally may contain oxides out of transition metals, Rare and other elements and the application in is widely disclosed in numerous publications, patent applications and patents. For example GB 1 495 396 a catalyst composition containing as active ingredients from titanium, at least one of molybdenum, tungsten, iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium and and as component(s) tin and/or least one of silver, beryllium, magnesium, boron, aluminium, yttrium, rare earth metal, silicon, niobium, antimony, bismuth, manganese, thorium and zirconium, which oxides are present as an intimate mixture. EP 787 521 the preparation of several V-containing catalysts TiO2/WO3 containing additional dopants such as Y2O3, B2O3, PbO, SnO2 the vanadium being as Vanadiumpentaoxide V2O5. U.S. Pat. No. 4,221,768 reports on V2O5 materials based on TiO2 as a support material and additional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. Additional SCR-Materials which contains supported on are also described in GB 430 730. V2O5 containing materials which contain SiO2, S and Oxides of Ce, Sn, Mo and W are reported in UK Appl. GB 2 680. U.S. Pat. No. 4,466,947 describes V-containing denitration catalysts in which the vanadium is present in form of an oxide or a sulfate. EP 1 145 762 A1 describes for the preparation of a vanadia supported titania. The main of the V-based catalyst type is the limited stability at above C. report stability of a SCR system based on TiO2/WO3/V2O5 is given by M T et al. in Chemical Engineering & Technology, Vol. 30, No 10, 1440-1444, 2007. Accordingly a deactivation of the catalyst occurs V2O5 melts at approx. C. A TiO2/WO3/V2O5 suitable catalyst for NOx removal of vehicles is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,849 B1, column 2. Although such a catalyst has shown good it was found that sustained high temperature operation can cause catalyst deactivation. Heavy duty diesel engines, which are almost exclusively charged, can produce exhaust gases at greater than 500° Under conditions of high load and/or speed, and such temperatures deactivation of the catalyst may occur. In the presentation of Dirk (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) the 3rd CTI Forum Systems 9 2008) there were reported maximum operation temperatures for a TiO2/WO3/V2O5 catalyst of 550° C. and 580° C. for short term basis. In view of the application under EURO 6 an improvement in thermal stability of a V2O5 containing TiO2/WO3 based catalyst was reported in the presentation of Vatareck Automotive Argillon) at 3rd Forum SCR Systems 9 Apr. 2008). Accordingly a catalyst containing V2O5 as active component support material consisting of TiO2/WO3 and additionally containing Si may be operated at max. temp. of 600° C. and 650° on a short term basis. Vanadium based systems with improved thermal stability also reported by James. W. Girard et al., “Technical Advantages of Vanadium SCR Systems for Diesel NOx in Emerging Markets”, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008. After ageing at 600° C./50 hrs the catalyst is still active. However, because of high exhaust gas temperatures possible active Diesel Particulate regeneration, vanadium SCR catalysts are usually not considered for these With increasingly automobile exhaust emission regulations for Diesel vehicles (US 2010 and EURO 6 aftertreatment systems containing a Diesel Filter (DPF) well as a SCR catalyst will be required in Such systems will demand a higher temperature stability of SCR catalyst and V2O5 based systems are not considered to viable such an application additionally the problem of heat stability V2O5 may be exhausted also to the (J. Munch et al “Extruded based Honeycomb Catalyst for NOx Removal from Exhaust, SAE Paper Since the activity of SCR catalysts in the temperature range of 180-350° C. is important the diesel application there have been established systems improve catalytic the low temperature range. For example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) attached in front of the SCR system (NO being present as a majority (=more than 90%) in the raw emission of the diesel is oxidized to form NO2. The NO2 can be used to burn up particulates and to improve the temperature activity (in range 180-350° C.), see Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008. In same publication there are the design parameters two scenarios for US 2010/Euro 6. One concept will lead to high particulate matters/low NOx with active regeneration of the PM-filter. The SCR catalyst proposed for the described scenario is a zeolite. Zeolites must used since higher heat resistance of the SCR system required the active regeneration of PM filter. The second concept comprises an engine concept will to low of PM and low NOx The SCR catalyst may consist a vanadium based material or a zeolite. Both concepts will use a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) prior to the SCR treatment. The problem of low temperature activity of SCR catalysts is also addressed in US 2008/0234126 A1. It is a method for the preparation of a vanadium/titania based catalyst with enhanced
|
1. fIeld Of InVEnTion
the presENt inventIoN ReLatEs to A CaTalyst comPOsITION fOr sELEctiVE CatalYtiC REdUcTioN OF eXHausT gaseS AND A PRoCesS FOr iTs PreparatioN. mORe spEcIfiCalLy, suCH a CaTaLysT ComPoSitiON MaY BE USEd In CatalYst apPlICATIoN FOr tHe rEmOVal of nOx, esPeCiallY in eXHAuSt gAS afTER TreAtmENT OF DIEsEL- ANd lEaN bUrN enGiNeS OF auTOMoTIVE. iN aDdItION THe cataLYst COMpoSiTiOn mAy aLso be UsEd iN sTAtiONAry APPlIcATionS (e.G. RemOVAl Of NO iN POweR PlAnt StatIonS).
2. RELAted technOlOGy
tHe MoST WiDely emPloYeD TechNOLOgY for REmoVAL Of NoX OUT oF ExhAUST gAseS IS s(elECtIVe) C(AtaLYtIC) R(edUCTiOn), E.G. o. KRÖcHer, ChaptER 9 In <<pAst And prESENt iN deNOx CaTAlysIs>>, EditED BY p. GRAnGER ET al., PuBLiSHeD by eLSEviER 2007. acCoRdINGLy, nOX is RemoVeD BY AmmOniA inTO NITROGEN ANd WaTEr accoRdinG To THE REaCtiON:4no+4Nh3+O2=4n2+6h2o
foR thE stAtionarY aPPlicATIon mAiNly v2o5 Doped tiO2/wo3 COmPoSItIONs ARE UseD CoMmERciAlLy sINCe 1970 TO remOVE nItroGen oXiDE emIsSiONs of foSsil FuEL powEr PLAnTs.
aLrEADy 15 YEaRs ago, THE IDEa WAS DIscussEd to APply Scr alSO ON MobIlE DIeseL eNgINes, WhiCh is NoW AN EmErgING tEchNologY for ThE Nox RedUcTiON FroM HEavY DUty dieSEl VeHIcles, PASseNgeR CarS anD Off ROad maChInEs.
a tYPical sCR sYStEM coNSiSts of A ReduCTION CaTALYSt, urea INjEcTIon AnD dOsing COmponentS, PIpeS and a SToragE tanK. a HUGe nuMBeR of mODErN CaTaLysTs are ExTRuDEd sUBStraTeS oR COATeD suBstrATES wiTH vanadIuM penTaOxIdE (v2O5) as ThE CATALytICAlLy ActIVE cOmPoNent.
caTALYtic cOATingS Of zEOLIte Based Scr Are curRenTLy Being DeVeLOped BeCAUSe OF THe LimiTEd teMpErATUre stabIlIty OF tHe VAnadiUm cATALYSts aND THe FACT that VanaDiuM PeNTaOXIde (V2O5) hAS bEen cLassiFIEd aS a hEaLth riSk IN Some couNTRieS. iNCreaSed TeMPerAtuRe staBILity iS ESPEcialLY iMpoRTANt in sCR CaTALYsTs InSTalled DOWNStREAM a pArTiCulAte fiLTEr sINce rELATIvELY high tEMpeRATureS aRe gEneratED During FILtER regENeRATIOn (m. rICE, R. MuEllER aT al., DeVEloPMEnT Of aN iNTEgRatEd NoX aND pM rEductION AFtertREaTmeNT sYstem: sCrI FOr aDvAnCED dIESEl eNgineS, sAe technICAL pAPeR 2008-01-132, sAe world coNgrEss DEtROIT, mICh. APr. 14-17, 2008)
ThERE aRe fURtheR rEPORTs on tHE CoMmERciAlly aPpLIED WEll KNoWN V2o5/WO3—TIO2 maTERIAL fOR EXhaUst GAs aFterTreATMenT Of automOTIvEs By o. krÖcheR iN CHApter 9, P. 267F in <<pAST and PREseNt in DENox CATALYSIS>>, edITeD bY p. gRAnGER eT AL.
ACCORdinG to The preSENtaTIon gIVen bY dIRK vATARECk (cATaLYsTs AUtoMoTIVE APPlIcaTIONs, aRgIlLon) AT THe 3RD CtI forUM sCR sysTemS (BOnN 9 aPR. 2008) tITanIa-TUNgsTen OXIdE baSed CaTaLysts CONtAINiNg V2o5 aS aCtiVE cOmPoNenT arE apPliEd fOr MaKING aUToMotive CaTALySTs iN A hugE nuMBEr (APPRox. 4 mio. caTAlysTs/yeAr).
tHE pREpaRATIOn of v2o5 CONTAIniNG mATERIaLs BaseD oN TIo2/wO3 WHICH adDItIoNAllY MaY cONtaiN OXIDes OUT oF TranSITIOn meTALs, rArE earths And OTHER elEmENTS and The aPPLicAtiOn IN scR iS wIdeLY DisCLoSED iN NUmErous PubliCATIoNs, pAteNT APpLicAtiOnS AND paTEntS. foR eXAMPlE GB 1 495 396 DeSCribEs a CATaLYSt coMPoSitiON cOntAINiNG AS actIvE InGrEdIeNTs OXIdEs frOM titaniUM, aT lEAsT oNe OF MOLYbdENum, TUnGSten, iRON, vAnADium, NickEL, CoBaLt, copPeR, cHrOMiUm AnD uraNIUm, AND As OPTiOnaL ComPONeNt(S) TiN And/oR At LEAST oNE of SILvEr, BERyllIum, mAgnESiUM, ZInc, borON, ALUMiNium, YTtriUm, RAre earTH MetaL, silIcOn, niOBIum, anTImONy, biSmUTh, maNganeSE, THoRiUM AnD ZircoNIuM, WHIch OxIdES are PReSEnT aS AN iNtIMaTe miXtURE.
eP 787 521 DEsCRiBEs tHe PREPARaTioN of SeVeRAL v-cOntaiNiNg caTALYStS bAsed ON TIo2/wo3 conTAiNInG AdditiONAL DOPaNTS SucH As Y2o3, B2o3, pBO, sNo2 THE vAnadiuM bEinG PReSEnt as VanADiUmpeNtaOXIdE v2o5.
u.s. Pat. NO. 4,221,768 rEPorts On v2O5 CoNtaiNInG mATeriAls bAsEd oN tiO2 AS A SUPPoRt mateRiaL AnD AdDiTionAl oXiDEs oUt OF TRANsitioN MeTals As dopAnts. ADdITIonal sCr-matErIALS WhIch COntaINs v2o5 SUpPORtED ON Tio2 Are ALsO dEscrIbED in GB 1 430 730.
V2o5 contAinINg MAteRIaLS whIch ConTAin TiO2, sio2, s AND OXidES Of cE, sn, mo AND w ARe reporTED in UK appL. gb 2 149 680.
u.S. PAt. No. 4,466,947 deScRiBes v-COnTaiNINg dENiTRatiON cAtAlYStS in wHicH tHE vaNadiuM IS pRESENt In forM oF AN oxIdE OR A sulfaTE.
Ep 1 145 762 a1 deSCRibeS A PROcesS fOr thE PrepaRation oF A VANAdia scR-CaTALyst SUppoRTed On titanIa.
The mAIN DISaDvaNtAgE oF THe v-bAsED caTaLYSt TYpE Is thE limITeD StabiliTy At TeMPeRATUREs aBOVE 600° C.
a rEpOrt on THe stABILITy Of a SCR SYsTem bASeD on tIo2/Wo3/V2o5 IS GIVEN bY jan M t Et Al. iN CHemiCAl ENGIneeRIng & teCHnolOgy, voL. 30, nO 10, 1440-1444, 2007. ACcORDiNglY a deACTiVaTIoN Of THE CaTALYST occurs sinCE v2O5 meltS At Approx. 650° c.
A tIO2/wo3/v2o5 suiTABlE sCR catalyst For noX remoVal of DIEsEL-poweReD VEhICLes is dEScrIBed in U.S. Pat. no. 6,805,849 b1, cOlumN 2. AltHOUGh sUCh a cAtalYST HAS SHoWn Good PErfoRManCe IT wAS FOUnD ThAt suSTainEd HiGH tEmpEratURE oPeraTIon CAn CaUse CaTaLYsT dEACtIVAtiON. heavy duTy DIEseL ENgIneS, WhICh arE almoSt eXclUsivEly ChaRGED, cAn ProDucE EXhAuST gAses aT grEatEr ThAN 500° C. unDeR cONDiTIONs of hiGH lOAd aND/Or High SPeed, AND sucH teMPerATuRES DEActivatIOn oF The cATAlysT MaY ocCur.
IN the PReSEnTATioN OF DiRK vATAREck (caTalyStS auTOmotiVE APplIcatioNs, aRGIlLon) at thE 3RD Cti FOrum SCr SySTEms (bONn 9 Apr. 2008) THeRE werE RePoRTED MAximUm opErATion TeMperaTuRes FoR A tio2/wo3/V2o5 CATALySt Of 550° C. ANd 580° c. For sHOrT TErm BASis.
in ViEW OF the aPPlicATiOn Under EUro 6 An iMprovemENT In thErmaL staBiLITY OF A V2o5 CoNtaInINg tIO2/wo3 BASeD CAtALYSt wAS rEpoRTed In The pRESentATiON OF diRK vATaReCk (CaTalySts aUtOMOtIVe APPlICAtIONs, aRGIllON) At tHE 3Rd cTI FoRuM scr syStEMs (bOnn 9 apr. 2008). ACcORdINGLy a CataLYSt CoNtaiNInG v2o5 aS ACtIVE COmpONEnt And A suppOrt mAterIAl CoNSIsTiNG OF Tio2/wo3 ANd aDditiONaLly COntAInING sI MAY be opeRATed aT mAX. Temp. Of 600° C. And 650° on a Short tErm BaSiS.
vanADium baseD SYStemS wITH iMprOVed tHermaL stabilItY aRE alSO RepOrteD by jaMeS. w. gIRArd eT Al., “tECHNiCAl AdVANTaGES of vAnADiUM scR SYsTEMs fOR dIESeL NOx COntROl in EmERgInG maRKETs”, SAE tEChNICAl pAPER 2008-01-132, Sae wORld cONGress DETrOIT, MIcH. Apr. 14-17, 2008. afTeR AgEiNg aT 600° c./50 Hrs THE CATalyst is stIll ActIVe. HoWEvEr, beCaUSE of HigH ExHaUsT gAs temPERatURES POssIbLe DURiNg ACtivE dIeseL paRTICuLaTe FIlTER (dPf) reGeNEraTIon, VanaDIUm SCR cATALYSts ArE USuallY NoT COnsIdEReD FOr thEse aPpLiCaTiOnS.
WIth iNCrEAsiNgLY StRiNGENT AUtoMObilE exHAusT emISsiON reGulAtIONS fOR dIeseL vehIclES (Us 2010 AnD EurO 6 REgUlATIoNs) aFTERtReATMeNT SYsteMs cOnTaIniNG a diESeL PartiCulATe Filter (dPf) AS wELl AS a SCR CAtaLyst wiLl bE rEqUIred In fuTURe. suCh sysTemS wILl dEMaND A hIghEr tEmpErAtURe STabILITy of The sCR caTALYsT and V2o5 bAsEd SysTEms ArE Not COnSIderEd tO be ViAbLe fOr SuCh an APpliCatIon as AddITiOnAlLY TO THe ProBlEM oF HeAt STaBiLiTy V2O5 mAY Be EXHAUsTeD AlSO tO ThE ENvironmEnT (J. munch eT Al “ExTrudED zEOLITE BasEd hoNeYcOmB CatAlYst fOR NOx rEMOVaL FROM dIeSEL ExHAuSt, SAe paPER 2008-01-1024). sincE The ACtIvity OF scR cATALysts IN The TemPeraTUre rANge oF 180-350° c. Is IMpOrtAnt IN the DiEsel appLicaTIOn THEre hAvE BeEn eSTaBliSHED SYsTEms tO imPrOVe CatAlYtic AcTiviTY in THe LOW temPeRatuRe rAnGe.
FoR ExaMPLE wiTH ThE aId OF a dIEsel oXIdATion CATaLYST (Doc) aTtAchEd In FrOnt Of The SCr systEM (no BEinG presENT AS A maJoRItY (=More ThAN 90%) in The Raw emIsSioN Of thE DIESEl engIne) Is oxidIZEd tO FoRm no2. THe No2 cAn Be USed to BURn UP paRTIcULATEs ANd To iMPRoVe tHe low TeMpERAtuRe ACtiViTY (IN ThE Range 180-350° C.), See M. riCe, R. MUeLleR at AL., DeveLopmeNt oF aN InteGrAteD NoX AND PM REductIon AfterTrEATmenT sYsTeM: scRI FOR advaNCed DIeSEL ENGINeS, sae TeCHnICAL Paper 2008-01-132, saE world cOngrEss DetRoit, mIch. aPR. 14-17, 2008.
In the SamE PUBliCATIOn THere aRe sUMmarizeD THe DesIGn paRamETeRs of TWo enGInE/afTErTreATMENT sCenAriOS for us 2010/EuRO 6. onE CoNCEpt wilL LEAD To HIgh PARtICuLate MatteRs/Low NoX WIth acTIVe rEGENEraTion oF the PM-FIltEr. tHE sCR caTAlySt prOPoSed fOR the desCRIBeD SCeNarIO Is A zeOliTe. ZeoLites mUST BE USEd Since highEr HEaT rESistAnce Of the scr SySTem is ReqUIRED DUe to tHE ACTIvE rEGENerATiON OF THE PM FiLTER.
ThE SeCond cONcePt ComPrIsES An EngIne COnCEpT wHich will lEaD to lOW concenTRATioNS Of PM and loW NOx COncenTRaTionS. THe sCR CatalyST MaY CONSisT Of A VanAdIuM based MaterIal or a ZEoliTe. BOTh cONcePts wilL uSE a dieSel OxiDaTioN CAtalyST (dOC) PriOR TO THE Scr TreatMent. ThE prOBLem Of Low TeMPeratuRE aCtiVITY Of ScR caTAlYSTS is ALSo AddrEsSed In Us 2008/0234126 A1. it IS DeScrIbEd a METHod FoR THE prEPAratiON Of a VANAdIUm/TItaNia BASed CAtALYSt With Enhanced
|
1.Field of Invention The presentinventionrelates to acatalyst composition for selective catalyticreduction of exhaust gases and a process forits preparation. Morespecifically, such a catalyst composition maybe used in catalyst application for the removal of NOx, especially in exhaustgas after treatment ofdiesel- and lean burn engines of automotive. In addition the catalyst composition may also beused instationary applications (e.g. removal of NO in power plant stations). 2. Related TechnologyThe most widely employed technology for removal of NOx out of exhaust gases is S(elective) C(atalytic) R(eduction), e.g. O. Kröcher, Chapter 9 in <<Pastand Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P.Granger et al., published by Elsevier 2007. Accordingly, NOx is removed by Ammoniainto Nitrogen and water according to thereaction:4NO+4NH3+O2=4N2+6H2O For the stationary application mainly V2O5 doped TiO2/WO3 compositions are used commercially since 1970 to remove nitrogen oxide emissions of fossil fuel power plants. Already 15 years ago,the idea was discussed to apply SCR also on mobile diesel engines, which is now an emerging technology for the NOx reduction from heavy duty diesel vehicles, passenger cars and off road machines. A typicalSCR system consistsof a reduction catalyst,urea injection and dosing components, pipes and a storage tank. A huge numberof modern catalysts are extruded substrates or coatedsubstrates with VanadiumPentaoxide (V2O5) as the catalytically active component. Catalytic coatings of zeolite based SCR are currently being developed because of the limited temperature stability of the vanadium catalysts and the fact thatVanadiumPentaoxide (V2O5) has been classified as a health risk in some countries. Increased temperaturestabilityis especially important in SCR catalysts installed downstream aparticulate filter since relatively hightemperatures are generated during filter regeneration (M. Rice, R. Mueller at al.,Development of an Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines,SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008) There are furtherreports on the commerciallyapplied well known V2O5/WO3—TiO2material for exhaust gas aftertreatment of automotives by O. Kröcher in Chapter9, p. 267f in <<Past and Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P. Granger et al. Accordingtothe presentation given byDirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCRSystems (Bonn 9Apr. 2008)Titania-tungsten oxide basedcatalysts containing V2O5 as active componentare appliedfor making automotive catalysts in ahugenumber(approx. 4 Mio. Catalysts/year).The preparation ofV2O5 containing materials based on TiO2/WO3 which additionally maycontain oxides out of transition metals, Rare Earths and otherelements and the application in SCR is widely disclosed in numerouspublications, patent applications and patents. For exampleGB 1495 396 describes a catalyst composition containing as active ingredients oxides from titanium, at least one of molybdenum,tungsten,iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium anduranium, and as optional component(s) tin and/or at leastone of silver,beryllium, magnesium, zinc,boron, aluminium,yttrium, rare earthmetal, silicon,niobium, antimony, bismuth, manganese, thorium and zirconium, which oxides are presentasan intimate mixture.EP 787521 describes the preparation of several V-containing catalystsbased on TiO2/WO3 containingadditional dopants suchas Y2O3, B2O3, PbO, SnO2 the vanadium beingpresent as VanadiumpentaoxideV2O5. U.S. Pat. No.4,221,768 reports on V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2 as asupport material andadditional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. Additional SCR-Materials whichcontainsV2O5 supported on TiO2 are also described in GB 1 430 730. V2O5 containing materials which contain TiO2, SiO2, Sand Oxides of Ce, Sn, Mo and W are reported in UK Appl. GB 2 149 680. U.S.Pat.No. 4,466,947 describes V-containing denitration catalysts in which the vanadium is present in form ofan oxide or a sulfate. EP 1 145 762 A1 describes a process for the preparation ofa vanadia SCR-catalyst supported on titania. The main disadvantage of the V-based catalyst type isthelimitedstability at temperatures above 600° C. A report on the stabilityof a SCR system based on TiO2/WO3/V2O5is givenby JanM T et al. inChemical Engineering & Technology, Vol. 30, No 10, 1440-1444, 2007. Accordingly adeactivation of the catalyst occurs since V2O5 melts at approx. 650° C.ATiO2/WO3/V2O5suitable SCR catalyst for NOx removal of Diesel-powered vehicles isdescribed inU.S. Pat. No.6,805,849 B1, column 2. Although such a catalyst has shown good performance itwas found that sustained high temperatureoperation can cause catalyst deactivation. Heavy duty diesel engines,which are almost exclusively charged, can produceexhaust gases atgreater than 500° C. Underconditions of high load and/or high speed,and such temperaturesdeactivation of the catalyst mayoccur. In the presentationof Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI ForumSCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) therewere reported maximum operation temperatures for a TiO2/WO3/V2O5 catalystof 550° C. and 580° C. for short term basis. In view of the application underEURO 6 an improvementin thermal stability of a V2O5containing TiO2/WO3basedcatalyst was reported inthe presentation ofDirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) atthe 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn 9Apr. 2008). Accordingly a catalyst containing V2O5 as active component and a support material consistingof TiO2/WO3 and additionally containing Si may be operated at max. temp.of 600° C.and 650° on a short term basis. Vanadium based systems with improved thermal stability are also reported by James. W. Girard et al., “Technical Advantages of Vanadium SCR Systems forDiesel NOx Controlin Emerging Markets”, SAE technicalpaper 2008-01-132, SAEWorld Congress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008. After ageing at 600°C./50 hrs the catalyst is stillactive. However,because of high exhaust gas temperatures possible during active Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration, vanadium SCR catalysts are usuallynot considered for theseapplications. With increasingly stringent automobile exhaust emission regulations for Diesel vehicles (US 2010 and EURO 6 regulations) aftertreatment systems containing a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) as well as a SCRcatalyst will be required infuture. Suchsystems will demand a higher temperature stability of the SCRcatalyst and V2O5 based systems are not considered to be viable for suchanapplication as additionallyto the problem of heat stability V2O5 may be exhausted also to the environment (J. Munch etal “ExtrudedZeolite based HoneycombCatalyst for NOx Removal from Diesel Exhaust, SAE Paper2008-01-1024). Since the activity of SCR catalysts in the temperature range of 180-350° C.is important in the diesel application there have been established systems to improve catalytic activity in the lowtemperature range. For example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) attached in front of the SCRsystem (NO being present as a majority (=more than 90%) in the raw emission of the diesel engine) is oxidized to form NO2. TheNO2 canbe used to burn up particulatesandto improve the low temperatureactivity (in the range 180-350° C.), see M. Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of an Integrated NOx and PM ReductionAftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced DieselEngines, SAE technical paper 2008-01-132, SAE WorldCongress Detroit, Mich. Apr. 14-17, 2008. In the same publication there are summarized the designparameters of two engine/aftertreatmentscenarios for US 2010/Euro 6.One concept will lead to high particulate matters/lowNOx with active regeneration of the PM-filter. The SCR catalyst proposed for the described scenario is azeolite. Zeolites must be used sincehigher heat resistance of the SCR system is required due to the active regeneration of the PM filter. The secondconcept comprisesan engine concept which will lead to low concentrations of PM and low NOxconcentrations. The SCR catalyst mayconsist of avanadium based material or a zeolite. Both concepts will use a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) prior to the SCR treatment. The problemof low temperature activity of SCR catalysts is also addressed in US 2008/0234126 A1. It is described a method for thepreparation of a vanadium/titaniabasedcatalyst with enhanced
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention relates _to_ a catalyst composition for selective catalytic reduction of exhaust gases and a process for its preparation. More _specifically,_ such a catalyst composition may be _used_ in catalyst _application_ for the removal of NOx, especially in exhaust _gas_ after _treatment_ of diesel- and lean _burn_ engines of automotive. In addition the _catalyst_ composition _may_ also be used _in_ _stationary_ _applications_ (e.g. removal _of_ NO in power plant stations). _2._ Related Technology The most widely employed technology for removal of NOx out _of_ exhaust gases is S(elective) C(atalytic) R(eduction), e.g. _O._ Kröcher, Chapter 9 in <<Past and Present in _DeNOx_ Catalysis>>, edited by _P._ Granger _et_ al., published by Elsevier 2007. Accordingly, NOx is removed by Ammonia into Nitrogen and water according to _the_ _reaction:4NO+4NH3+O2=4N2+6H2O_ _For_ _the_ stationary application mainly V2O5 doped TiO2/WO3 compositions are _used_ commercially since 1970 _to_ _remove_ _nitrogen_ oxide emissions of fossil fuel power _plants._ Already 15 years ago, the idea _was_ discussed to apply SCR also on _mobile_ diesel engines, which is now _an_ emerging technology _for_ _the_ NOx reduction from heavy duty diesel _vehicles,_ passenger cars _and_ off road machines. A typical SCR system consists of a reduction _catalyst,_ urea _injection_ and dosing _components,_ _pipes_ and _a_ storage tank. A huge number of modern catalysts _are_ extruded _substrates_ _or_ coated substrates with Vanadium _Pentaoxide_ (V2O5) as the catalytically active _component._ Catalytic coatings of _zeolite_ based SCR are currently _being_ developed because of the limited temperature stability of the _vanadium_ catalysts and the _fact_ that _Vanadium_ _Pentaoxide_ (V2O5) _has_ been _classified_ as a health risk in some _countries._ Increased temperature _stability_ is especially important in SCR catalysts installed downstream a particulate filter _since_ relatively high temperatures are generated during filter _regeneration_ (M. Rice, R. Mueller _at_ al., Development of an Integrated NOx _and_ _PM_ _Reduction_ _Aftertreatment_ _System:_ SCRi _for_ Advanced Diesel Engines, _SAE_ technical _paper_ 2008-01-132, _SAE_ World Congress _Detroit,_ Mich. _Apr._ 14-17, 2008) There are further reports on _the_ commercially _applied_ _well_ known V2O5/WO3—TiO2 material for exhaust _gas_ aftertreatment of automotives by O. Kröcher in Chapter 9, p. _267f_ _in_ _<<Past_ and Present in DeNOx Catalysis>>, edited by P. Granger _et_ al. According _to_ the presentation given by Dirk _Vatareck_ (Catalysts Automotive _Applications,_ Argillon) at the 3rd CTI _Forum_ SCR Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) Titania-tungsten oxide based catalysts _containing_ _V2O5_ as active component are applied for making automotive catalysts _in_ _a_ huge number (approx. 4 Mio. _Catalysts/year)._ The preparation of V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2/WO3 which additionally may contain oxides out _of_ transition _metals,_ _Rare_ Earths and other elements and the application in SCR is widely disclosed in _numerous_ publications, patent applications and _patents._ For example GB 1 495 _396_ _describes_ a _catalyst_ _composition_ containing _as_ active ingredients oxides from _titanium,_ at least one of molybdenum, tungsten, iron, vanadium, nickel, cobalt, copper, chromium and uranium, _and_ _as_ _optional_ component(s) tin _and/or_ at least one of _silver,_ beryllium, magnesium, zinc, boron, aluminium, _yttrium,_ _rare_ earth metal, _silicon,_ niobium, antimony, _bismuth,_ manganese, thorium _and_ zirconium, which _oxides_ are present as an intimate _mixture._ EP _787_ _521_ describes the preparation of several V-containing catalysts based _on_ TiO2/WO3 containing additional dopants such _as_ Y2O3, _B2O3,_ PbO, _SnO2_ the vanadium being present _as_ Vanadiumpentaoxide V2O5. _U.S._ Pat. _No._ 4,221,768 reports on V2O5 containing materials based on TiO2 as a support material _and_ additional oxides out of transition metals as dopants. Additional SCR-Materials which contains V2O5 supported on TiO2 are also _described_ in GB 1 430 730. V2O5 containing materials which contain TiO2, SiO2, _S_ and Oxides of _Ce,_ Sn, _Mo_ and W are reported in UK Appl. GB 2 149 680. U.S. Pat. No. _4,466,947_ describes V-containing denitration catalysts _in_ _which_ _the_ vanadium _is_ _present_ in form _of_ an oxide or _a_ _sulfate._ _EP_ 1 145 _762_ A1 describes a process for the preparation of _a_ vanadia SCR-catalyst _supported_ on titania. The main disadvantage _of_ _the_ V-based catalyst type _is_ the _limited_ _stability_ at temperatures _above_ _600°_ C. A report on the stability of a SCR system based _on_ _TiO2/WO3/V2O5_ is given by Jan M _T_ et al. in Chemical Engineering & _Technology,_ Vol. 30, No 10, _1440-1444,_ 2007. Accordingly a deactivation of the catalyst occurs since V2O5 melts at approx. 650° _C._ A TiO2/WO3/V2O5 suitable SCR catalyst for NOx removal of Diesel-powered _vehicles_ is described _in_ _U.S._ Pat. No. 6,805,849 B1, column 2. _Although_ _such_ a catalyst has shown _good_ performance it was found that sustained _high_ temperature _operation_ _can_ _cause_ catalyst deactivation. Heavy duty _diesel_ engines, which are _almost_ exclusively charged, can produce exhaust gases at greater than 500° _C._ _Under_ conditions of high load and/or high speed, and such _temperatures_ deactivation of the _catalyst_ may occur. In the presentation of Dirk Vatareck _(Catalysts_ Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the _3rd_ _CTI_ Forum _SCR_ Systems (Bonn 9 Apr. 2008) there were reported maximum operation temperatures for a TiO2/WO3/V2O5 _catalyst_ of _550°_ _C._ and 580° C. for short term basis. In view of the application _under_ EURO 6 an improvement in thermal stability of a V2O5 containing TiO2/WO3 based catalyst was reported in _the_ presentation _of_ Dirk Vatareck (Catalysts Automotive Applications, Argillon) at the 3rd CTI Forum SCR Systems (Bonn _9_ Apr. _2008)._ _Accordingly_ a catalyst containing V2O5 as active component and a support _material_ consisting _of_ TiO2/WO3 and additionally containing Si may be operated at max. temp. of 600° C. and 650° on a _short_ term basis. _Vanadium_ _based_ systems with improved thermal stability are also reported by James. W. Girard _et_ al., “Technical Advantages _of_ Vanadium SCR _Systems_ for Diesel NOx Control in Emerging Markets”, SAE _technical_ paper _2008-01-132,_ SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. _Apr._ 14-17, 2008. After ageing at 600° C./50 hrs _the_ _catalyst_ is still active. However, because of high exhaust gas temperatures _possible_ during _active_ Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration, _vanadium_ SCR catalysts are usually not considered for these applications. With increasingly stringent automobile exhaust emission regulations for _Diesel_ vehicles (US 2010 and _EURO_ 6 _regulations)_ _aftertreatment_ _systems_ containing a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) as well _as_ a SCR catalyst _will_ be required _in_ future. Such systems will demand a higher temperature stability _of_ the SCR catalyst and V2O5 based systems are not considered to be viable _for_ such _an_ application _as_ additionally to _the_ problem of heat _stability_ _V2O5_ may be exhausted also to the environment (J. Munch et al “Extruded Zeolite based Honeycomb Catalyst _for_ NOx Removal from Diesel Exhaust, SAE Paper _2008-01-1024)._ Since the activity of SCR _catalysts_ in the _temperature_ range of 180-350° _C._ is _important_ in the diesel _application_ there have been established _systems_ to improve _catalytic_ _activity_ _in_ the low temperature range. For example with the aid of a diesel oxidation catalyst _(DOC)_ attached in front of the SCR system (NO being _present_ as a _majority_ (=more than 90%) in the raw emission of the _diesel_ engine) _is_ oxidized to form NO2. _The_ NO2 can _be_ used to burn up particulates and to improve the low temperature activity (in _the_ range 180-350° C.), see M. Rice, R. Mueller at al., Development of _an_ Integrated NOx and PM Reduction Aftertreatment System: SCRi for Advanced Diesel Engines, SAE technical _paper_ 2008-01-132, SAE World Congress Detroit, Mich. _Apr._ 14-17, _2008._ In the _same_ _publication_ there are summarized the design parameters of two engine/aftertreatment scenarios for US _2010/Euro_ 6. One concept will lead to high _particulate_ matters/low _NOx_ with active _regeneration_ of the PM-filter. The SCR catalyst proposed for the described scenario is a zeolite. Zeolites must be used since higher _heat_ resistance of the _SCR_ system is required due to the active regeneration of the PM filter. The second concept comprises an _engine_ concept which _will_ _lead_ to low _concentrations_ of PM and low NOx concentrations. _The_ SCR catalyst may _consist_ _of_ a vanadium based _material_ or a zeolite. Both concepts will _use_ a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) prior to the SCR _treatment._ The problem of low temperature _activity_ of SCR catalysts _is_ _also_ addressed _in_ US 2008/0234126 A1. It _is_ described a method for the preparation of a vanadium/titania based catalyst with enhanced
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to an extruded film processing system, and in particular to control systems utilized in extruded film processing systems.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Blown film extrusion lines are used to manufacture plastic bags and plastic sheets. A molten tube of plastic is extruded from an annular die, and then stretched and expanded to a larger diameter and a reduced radial thickness by the action of overhead nip rollers and internal air pressure. Typically, ambient air is entrained by one or more blowers. The ambient air provides a cooling medium, which absorbs heat from the molten material. This speeds up the change in state from a molten material back to a solid material.
Additionally, the ambient air entrained by the blowers is used to provide air pressure, which is utilized to control the size and thickness of the film tube. One type of blown film extrusion line utilizes air flow on the exterior surface of the film tube in order to absorb heat. A different, and more modern, type of blown film extrusion line utilizes both an external flow of cooling air and an internal flow of cooling air in order to cool and size the film tube. Whether the blown film tube is cooled from the interior surface, the exterior surface, or some combination of the two, one common problem in blown film extrusion lines is that of obtaining precise control over the diameter of the extruded film tube. Tight control over the diameter ensures uniform product dimensions, which includes the size of the extruded product, as well as the thickness of the plastic material.
Acoustic sensors may be utilized to gauge the diameter of the product. When such acoustic sensors are utilized, a feedback loop is established to alter dynamically one or more controllable variable of the process, such as blower speed, and/or temperature control over the cooling air stream.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates in general to an extruded film processing system, and in particular to control systems utilized in extruded film processing systems. 2. description of the prior art blown film extrusion lines are used to manufacture plastic bags and plastic sheets. a molten tube of plastic is extruded from either annular die, and then stretched and expanded to a larger diameter and a reduced radial thickness by the action of overhead nip rollers and internal air pressure. typically, ambient air is entrained by one or both blowers. the ambient air provides a cooling medium, which absorbs heat from the molten material. this speeds up the change in state from a molten material back to a solid material. additionally, the ambient air entrained by the blowers is used to provide air pressure, which is utilized to control the size and thickness of the film tube. one type in blown film extrusion line utilizes air flow on the exterior surface of the film tube in conjunction to absorb heat. a different, and more modern, type of blown film extrusion line combines both an external flow of warm air and an internal flow of cooling air in order to cool and size the film tube. whether the blown plastic tube is cooled from the interior surface, surrounding exterior surface, or some combination of the two, one common problem in blown film extrusion lines is that of obtaining precise control over the diameter of the extruded film tube. tight control over the diameter ensures uniform product dimensions, which includes the size or the extruded product, as well as the thickness of the plastic material. acoustic sensors may be utilized to gauge the diameter of the tube. when such acoustic sensors are utilized, a feedback loop is established to alter dynamically one or more controllable variable of the process, such as blower speed, and / or temperature control over the cooling air stream.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates in general to an extruded film pdocessjng s%ctem, and in particular to control systems utilized in extruded film processing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Blown film extrusion lines are used to manufacture plastic bags and plastic sheets. A molten tube of plastic is extruded from an annular die, and then stretched and expanded to a larger diameter and a reduced radial thickness by the action of overhead nip rollers and intedna< air pressure. Typically, ambient air is entrained by one or more blowers. The ambient air provides a cooling medium, which absorbs heat EroK the molten material. This speeds up the change in state from a molten material back to a solid material. Additionally, the ambient air entrained by the blowers is used to provide air pressure, which is utilized to control the size and thickness of the film tube. One type of blown film extrusion line u$&lizes air flow on the #xteroor surface of the film tube in order to absorb heat. A different, and more modern, type of blown film extrusion line utilizes both an external flow of cooling air and an internal flow of cooling air in order to cool and size the film tube. Whether the blown film tube is cooled from the interior surface, the exterior surface, or some combination of the two, one common problem in blown film extrusion lines is that of obtaining precise control over the diameter of the extruded film tube. Tight control over the diameter ensures uHiforj product dimensions, which includes the size of the extruded product, as #e/l as the thickness of the plastic material. Acoustic sensors may be utilized to gauge the diameter of the product. qheB such acoustic sensors are utilized, a fredhack loop is established to alter dynamically one or more controllable variable of the process, such as blower speed, and / or temperature control over the cooling air stream.
|
1. Field the Invention The present invention relates in general to an extruded film processing system, and in particular to control systems in extruded film processing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Blown film extrusion lines are used to manufacture plastic bags and plastic sheets. A molten tube plastic is extruded from annular and stretched and expanded to a larger diameter and a reduced thickness by the action of overhead nip rollers and internal air pressure. Typically, ambient air is by one or more blowers. The ambient air provides cooling medium, which absorbs heat from the molten material. This up the change in state from a molten material back to a solid material. the ambient air the is used to provide air pressure, which is utilized to the and thickness of the film tube. One type of blown film extrusion line utilizes air flow on the exterior surface of the film tube in order to absorb heat. A different, and more modern, type of blown film extrusion line utilizes both an flow of cooling air an internal flow cooling air in order to cool and size the film tube. the blown film tube is cooled from the interior surface, the exterior surface, or some combination of the one common problem in blown film extrusion lines is that of obtaining precise control over the diameter of the extruded film tube. control over the diameter ensures uniform product dimensions, which the size of the extruded product, as as the thickness of the plastic material. Acoustic sensors may be utilized gauge the diameter of the product. When sensors are utilized, loop is established to alter dynamically one or more controllable of the such as blower speed, and/or temperature control over the air stream.
|
1. FiEld Of tHE InVeNtIon
the PreSEnT INvENTION ReLatEs iN GENERAL To aN ExtrUDED FIlm prOcessiNg sySTem, and In pArTIcUlAr to COnTROl SyStEms UTILizEd in ExTruDED fIlM ProCEsSIng sYstEmS.
2. DescriptiOn oF thE PRIor ARt
bLoWN fILM EXtrUsIon LINEs aRe usEd TO maNUFaCTurE plasTiC bAGS anD plasTIC sHEets. a molTEn TubE of plAStIc Is EXTruDED FroM an annULAr DiE, And ThEN stReTched and expandEd to a larGeR DIAmeter And a rEduCED rADial thIckness By tHE ACTION OF OVeRHeAd nIp RoLLErS aNd iNtErnAl aiR prEssuRE. tyPicaLLy, AMbient aIR is ENtrAiNEd by ONe Or moRE BLOwerS. The AmbienT AIr pRoVideS a CoolInG MeDiuM, WHICh AbSORbs heAT FrOm The moLten maTeRIaL. THIS SpeeDS Up tHe CHaNGe iN StATe froM A mOLten MATeRiaL BaCK To a sOLiD MatErIAL.
ADDItIONALLy, ThE AmbiEnT Air EntRAiNEd by The BLoWErS is uSeD To pRovide Air pReSSUre, WhICh iS UTILiZEd TO cOntROL the SiZE aNd THicKNEss Of THe FIlM Tube. oNE TypE Of BLOWn FILm exTRuSiON LinE UTIlIzeS AiR FLoW ON the exterIOR SUrFACe OF the fILM tUbE iN ORDER to aBsORb HEaT. a DIfFEREnt, AnD MoRe mODern, tYPe oF BlOwn fILM EXTRUsioN LiNe UTilIZEs boTh aN eXTErnal floW OF cooLinG aiR AnD aN INtERnAL FlOw OF cOoliNg AiR IN oRDer TO CoOL and size THe FiLm TuBE. wHEthER THe BLOwN fIlm TubE is cOOled FRoM The INTERIoR surFaCe, ThE eXterIOr SUrFAcE, oR SOmE ComBINATIOn oF THE tWo, onE COmMoN PrObLEm In BLowN fIlm extrUSioN LInes iS THAt oF OBtAiNinG PReCise coNtRol oVeR The dIamETER oF ThE extrudeD FIlM TUbe. tigHT cOntRol oVeR ThE DiaMeteR ENSURES unIfORM pRoDUct dIMEnsIonS, whICH INCludes tHE SIZe oF the ExTruDEd prODUct, as WeLl AS the thICknEss oF THe plasTiC MATerIAL.
acOuStic sensOrS MAY be UtilIZeD to gAuGe tHE DIamETER OF THE PrODUct. When suCh AcoustIC sENSOrS aRE UTIlIzED, A FeeDBack LOop IS estaBLiSHED To Alter dYnamICALLY OnE oR morE CONTroLLABLe vArIable OF the PROcesS, sucH as Blower sPEeD, ANd/oR TempERATuRE CONtroL oVER THE cOoLIng aiR sTream.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relatesingeneral to an extruded film processingsystem, and inparticular to control systems utilized in extruded film processing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Blown film extrusion lines are used to manufacture plastic bagsand plastic sheets.A molten tube of plastic is extruded from an annular die, and then stretched andexpanded toa larger diameter anda reduced radial thickness by the action ofoverhead nip rollers and internal air pressure. Typically,ambient air is entrained by one ormore blowers.The ambient airprovides a cooling medium,which absorbs heat from the molten material.Thisspeeds up the changeinstate from a molten material backto a solid material. Additionally, the ambientair entrained by theblowers is used to provide air pressure, which isutilizedto control the sizeandthickness of the film tube. One type of blown film extrusion lineutilizes air flow on the exterior surface of the film tube in order to absorb heat.A different, andmore modern, type of blown film extrusion line utilizesboth an external flow ofcooling airand aninternalflow ofcooling airin orderto cool and size the film tube. Whether the blown film tube is cooled from the interior surface,the exterior surface, or somecombination of thetwo, one commonproblemin blown filmextrusion lines is thatofobtaining precise controloverthediameter of theextruded film tube. Tight controlover the diameter ensures uniform product dimensions, whichincludes the size of the extruded product, as well as thethickness of the plastic material. Acoustic sensors maybe utilized to gauge the diameter of the product. When such acousticsensors areutilized, a feedbackloop is established to alter dynamically one or more controllable variable of the process,such asblower speed, and/or temperature control over the cooling airstream.
|
1. Field of _the_ Invention _The_ present invention relates in general to _an_ extruded _film_ processing system, and in particular _to_ control systems utilized _in_ _extruded_ film processing systems. 2. Description of the _Prior_ Art Blown film extrusion _lines_ are used to _manufacture_ plastic bags and plastic _sheets._ _A_ molten tube of plastic _is_ extruded _from_ _an_ annular die, and then stretched and expanded _to_ _a_ larger diameter and a reduced radial thickness by the action _of_ overhead nip rollers and internal air pressure. _Typically,_ _ambient_ air is entrained by one or more _blowers._ The ambient air provides _a_ cooling _medium,_ which _absorbs_ heat _from_ the molten material. This speeds _up_ the change in state _from_ a molten material back to _a_ solid material. Additionally, the ambient air entrained by the blowers is used to provide air pressure, which is utilized to control the size and thickness of the film tube. One type of blown film extrusion line utilizes air _flow_ on the exterior surface of the _film_ _tube_ _in_ order _to_ absorb heat. A different, and more modern, type of blown film extrusion line _utilizes_ both an external flow _of_ _cooling_ _air_ _and_ an internal flow _of_ _cooling_ _air_ in order _to_ cool and size the _film_ tube. _Whether_ the blown _film_ tube is cooled from _the_ _interior_ surface, the exterior surface, or _some_ combination of the two, one common problem _in_ blown _film_ extrusion _lines_ is that of obtaining precise control _over_ _the_ diameter of the _extruded_ film tube. _Tight_ _control_ _over_ the diameter ensures uniform product dimensions, which includes _the_ size of the extruded product, as _well_ as _the_ thickness of the plastic material. Acoustic sensors _may_ be utilized to gauge _the_ diameter of the product. When _such_ _acoustic_ sensors are utilized, a _feedback_ loop is _established_ to alter dynamically one or more controllable _variable_ of the process, such as blower _speed,_ and/or temperature _control_ _over_ the cooling air _stream._
|
A typical example of the flexible display includes a film which is made of a synthetic resin such as polyimide (hereinafter, referred to as “plastic film”), and elements supported by the plastic film, such as TFTs (Thin Film Transistors) and OLEDs (Organic Light Emitting Diodes). The plastic film functions as a flexible substrate. The flexible display is encapsulated with a gas barrier film (encapsulation film) because an organic semiconductor layer which is a constituent of the OLED is likely to deteriorate due to water vapor.
Production of the above-described flexible display is carried out using a glass base on which a plastic film is formed over the upper surface. The glass base functions as a support (carrier) for keeping the shape of the plastic film flat during the production process. Elements such as TFTs and OLEDs, a gas barrier film, and the other constituents are formed on the plastic film, whereby the structure of a flexible OLED device is realized while it is supported by the glass base. Thereafter, the flexible OLED device is delaminated from the glass base and gains flexibility. The entirety of a portion in which elements such as TFTs and OLEDs are arrayed can be referred to as “functional layer region”.
According to the prior art, a sheet-like structure including a plurality of flexible OLED devices is delaminated from a glass base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents are mounted to this sheet-like structure. Thereafter, the sheet-like structure is divided into a plurality of flexible devices. This dividing is realized by, for example, laser beam irradiation.
Patent Document No. 1 discloses the method of irradiating the interface between each flexible OLED device and the glass base with laser light (lift-off light) in order to delaminate each flexible OLED device from the glass base (supporting substrate). According to the method disclosed in Patent Document No. 1, after irradiation with the lift-off light, respective flexible OLED devices are divided from one another, and each of the flexible OLED devices is delaminated from the glass base.
|
a typical example of the flexible display includes a film which is made of a synthetic resin such as polyimide ( hereinafter, referred to as “ plastic film ” ), and elements supported by the resin film, such as taps ( thin film transistors ) and oleds ( organic light emitting diodes ). the plastic film functions as a flexible substrate. the flexible display is encapsulated with a gas thin film ( encapsulation film ) forming an organic semiconductor layer thus is a constituent of the oled is likely to deteriorate due to water vapor. production of the above - described flexible display is carried out using a rubber base on which a plastic film is formed over the upper surface. the glass base functions as a support ( carrier ) for keeping the shape of the plastic film flat during the production process. elements such as tfts and oleds, a gas barrier film, and the other constituents are formed on the plastic film, whereby the structure of a flexible oled device is realized while it is supported by the glass base. thereafter, the flexible oled device is delaminated from the glass base and gains flexibility. the entirety of a portion in which elements such as tfts on oleds are arrayed can be referred to as “ functional layer region ”. according to the prior art, a sheet - like structure including a cluster of flexible oled devices is delaminated from a glass base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents are mounted to this sheet - like structure. thereafter, the sheet - like structure is divided into a plurality of flexible devices. this dividing is realized by, for example, vacuum beam irradiation. patent document no. 1 discloses the method of irradiating the interface between this flexible oled device and the glass base with laser light ( lift - off light ) in order to delaminate each flexible oled device from the glass base ( supporting substrate ). according to the method disclosed in patent document no. 1, after irradiation with the lift - off light, respective flexible oled devices are divided from one another, and each of the flexible oled devices is delaminated from the glass base.
|
A typical example of the flexible display includes a film which is made of a synthetic rSsiH such as polyimide (hereinafter, referred to as “ plastic film ” ), and elements supported by the plastic film, such as TFTs (Thin Film Transistors) and OLEDs (Organic Light Emitting Fioxes ). The llQstic film func6ionE as a flexible substrate. The flexible display is encapsulated with a gas barrier film (encapsulation film) because an organic semiconductor layer which is a constituent of the PLEX is li,el5 to deteriorate due to water vapor. Production of the above - described fleCib?e display is carried out using a glass base on which a plastic film is formed over the upper surface. The glass base functions as a support (carrier) for keeping the shape of the plastic fUlN flat during the production process. Elements such as TFTs and OLEDs, a gas barrier film, and the other constituents are formed on the plastic film, whereby the structure of a flexible OLED device is realized while it is supported by the glass hasW. Thereafter, the flexible OLED device is delaminated from the glass base and gains flexibility. The entirety of a portion in which elements such as TFTs and OLEDs are arrayed can be referred to as “ functional layer region ”. According to the prior art, a sheet - like structure including a plurality of flexible OLED devices is delaminated from a glass base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents are mounted to this sheet - like structure. Thereafter, the sheet - like structure is divided into a plurality of flexible devices. This d(v9ding is realized by, for example, laser beam irradiation. Patent Document No. 1 discloses the method of irradiating the interface between each flexible OLED device and the glass base with laser light (lift - off light) in order to delaminate each flexible OLED device from the glass base (supporting substrate ). According to the method disclosed in Patent Document No. 1, after irradiation with the lift - off light, respective flexible OLED devices are divided from one another, and each of the flexible OLED devices is delaminated from the glass base.
|
A typical example of the flexible includes a film which is made of a synthetic resin such polyimide (hereinafter, referred as film”), and elements by the plastic film, such as TFTs (Thin Film Transistors) OLEDs (Organic Light Emitting Diodes). The plastic film functions as a flexible substrate. The flexible display is encapsulated with a gas barrier film (encapsulation film) because an organic layer which is a constituent of the OLED likely deteriorate due to water Production of the above-described flexible display is carried out using a glass base on which a plastic film is over the upper surface. The glass base functions as a support (carrier) for keeping the shape of the plastic flat the production process. Elements such TFTs and OLEDs, a gas barrier film, and the other constituents are the film, whereby the structure of a flexible OLED is realized while it is supported by the glass Thereafter, the flexible OLED device is delaminated from the glass base and gains flexibility. The entirety a portion in which elements such as TFTs OLEDs are arrayed can referred to “functional layer According to the prior art, a sheet-like structure including a plurality of flexible OLED devices is delaminated a base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents to this sheet-like structure. Thereafter, the sheet-like structure is divided into a plurality of flexible devices. This dividing is realized by, for example, laser beam irradiation. Patent No. 1 discloses the method of irradiating the interface between each flexible OLED and the glass base with laser light (lift-off light) in order to delaminate each flexible OLED device from the glass base (supporting substrate). According to the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, after irradiation with the lift-off light, respective flexible devices are divided from one another, each of the flexible OLED devices is delaminated from the glass base.
|
A typIcAL ExAMple of The FLExibLe DisPLaY iNcluDes a FILm whICh iS maDE Of A SyntHeTic ReSIn SUcH aS PolYimiDe (HEREinaFtEr, RefErrED To AS “pLaStIC FilM”), aNd EleMents SUpPORTed By the PlaSTIc FiLM, sucH as Tfts (tHiN Film TraNSiStorS) ANd OLeDs (OrGAniC lIGHt EMitTiNG dIoDeS). THE PLaStIc fiLM fUNctIoNS aS A flexIbLE Substrate. tHe FLexIBLE diSpLay iS eNcAPsUlATeD wITh A GaS bArRiEr fIlM (eNCapsuLAtioN fILM) bECAUSe AN orGaniC semicONdUCtOR laYEr WHiCh is A coNstITuent OF thE oLEd is liKELy tO DEtErioRatE duE TO WAter VaPOR.
pRodUCtION of ThE aBOVE-DEsCribeD FLEXIBle dISPlaY Is CarRiEd OUT USiNg A glaSS Base ON WhICH A PlASTiC FILM IS forMEd oVer The uppER SUrFacE. tHE gLASs bASE FunCtioNs as a sUPpOrt (CarrIER) FOr kEEpINg The ShAPe of thE plasTiC FilM fLaT DurIng THE prODUctIoN ProCesS. elemENts such As tFTS anD oLeds, A GaS BArrIer FIlM, ANd the OTHer coNsTiTuENtS ARe fOrmEd on the plAStic fiLm, wherebY THE sTRUcTURE Of A FlExiBlE oLeD DevicE Is Realized WHiLE It Is SuPpoRteD bY tHE gLaSs baSe. THeREaFtEr, tHE FlExIBlE OLed DEviCe is DELAMinATED fROm THe glASS Base AND Gains flExibiLity. thE enTIrETY of a PORTioN in whiCh eLemeNtS SUch aS TFtS aNd oLeds arE aRrAyEd caN be rEFERred to AS “fUnCTIoNAl lAYEr regioN”.
aCCORdIng To tHE PRIor ART, a shEEt-LiKe STRuCTURe InClUdiNG A PluRAliTY of flExibLe OleD devIceS IS DeLAmInateD FrOm a GlAss bASe, aND Thereafter, optiCal PARts AnD otHeR CoNStITuENts arE moUnTed tO thiS ShEeT-liKE STRuctUre. thereaFTER, THE sheeT-LIkE sTRUcTuRe is dIvIdEd INtO A pLuRAlitY Of FLexibLE dEVICES. ThiS DIvIding IS rEaLized by, FOr exaMpLE, LASEr BEam iRradiatIoN.
paTeNt DocUMeNT No. 1 DISClOSES tHe MEtHoD of iRrADiAtinG THE iNTErfACE beTWEen EAch flEXiBle oleD deVIcE aND THe glAsS basE wITH LAser ligHT (lIfT-OFF LighT) iN oRDEr TO DELamINate Each fLeXIblE OlED DEVIcE FROm The GlASs BASe (sUpporTInG SuBStRaTe). aCcOrdINg to THe metHOD diSCLOsEd in PatENt dOcumEnt no. 1, AfTer iRraDIaTIOn wiTH THE LIFT-oFF liGht, ReSPeCtiVe FLexIBle olEd DEvicEs ARe dividEd fRoM One ANOtHER, aNd EaCh oF The FleXibLe OleD DeViCEs iS DELAMinATEd from thE glasS bASe.
|
Atypical example of the flexible display includes a film which is madeofa syntheticresin suchas polyimide (hereinafter, referred to as “plastic film”), and elements supported by the plasticfilm, such as TFTs (Thin Film Transistors) andOLEDs (OrganicLight Emitting Diodes). The plastic film functions as a flexiblesubstrate. The flexible display is encapsulated witha gas barrier film (encapsulation film) because an organic semiconductor layer which is a constituent of the OLED is likely to deteriorate due to water vapor. Production ofthe above-described flexible displayis carried out using a glass base on which a plastic film is formed over the uppersurface. The glassbase functions as a support (carrier) for keepingtheshapeof the plastic filmflat duringthe production process. Elements such as TFTs and OLEDs, a gas barrier film, and the other constituents are formed on the plastic film, whereby the structure of a flexible OLED device is realizedwhile it is supported by the glass base. Thereafter, the flexible OLEDdevice is delaminatedfrom the glass base and gainsflexibility. The entirety of a portion in whichelements suchas TFTs and OLEDs are arrayed can be referred to as “functional layer region”. According to the prior art, a sheet-like structure including a plurality of flexible OLED devices is delaminated from a glass base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents are mounted to this sheet-like structure. Thereafter, the sheet-like structure isdivided into a pluralityof flexible devices. This dividing is realizedby, for example, laser beam irradiation.Patent Document No. 1 discloses the methodof irradiatingthe interface between each flexible OLED device and the glass base with laser light (lift-off light) in order to delaminate each flexible OLED device from the glass base (supporting substrate). According to the methoddisclosed inPatent Document No. 1, after irradiation with the lift-off light, respectiveflexible OLED devices are divided from one another, andeach of the flexible OLED devices is delaminated from the glass base.
|
_A_ typical example _of_ the _flexible_ display includes a film which is _made_ of a synthetic resin such as polyimide _(hereinafter,_ referred _to_ as “plastic _film”),_ and elements supported _by_ _the_ plastic film, such as TFTs (Thin Film Transistors) and OLEDs _(Organic_ Light Emitting Diodes). The _plastic_ _film_ _functions_ as a flexible substrate. The _flexible_ _display_ _is_ _encapsulated_ with a gas barrier film (encapsulation film) because an _organic_ semiconductor layer which is a constituent of _the_ OLED _is_ likely to deteriorate _due_ to water vapor. Production of the _above-described_ flexible display _is_ carried out using a _glass_ base _on_ which a plastic film is formed _over_ _the_ _upper_ surface. The glass base _functions_ as a support (carrier) for keeping the shape of the plastic film flat during the production process. Elements such as TFTs and OLEDs, a _gas_ barrier film, and _the_ other constituents are _formed_ _on_ the plastic film, whereby _the_ structure _of_ a flexible OLED device is realized while it is _supported_ by the glass base. Thereafter, _the_ flexible OLED device is delaminated _from_ _the_ glass base and gains _flexibility._ The entirety of a portion in _which_ elements such as TFTs and OLEDs are arrayed can be referred to as “functional layer region”. _According_ to the prior art, a _sheet-like_ structure including a plurality _of_ flexible _OLED_ devices is _delaminated_ _from_ a glass base, and thereafter, optical parts and other constituents are _mounted_ to _this_ sheet-like structure. _Thereafter,_ _the_ sheet-like structure _is_ divided into _a_ plurality of flexible devices. _This_ dividing is realized by, for _example,_ _laser_ _beam_ irradiation. Patent Document _No._ 1 discloses the method _of_ irradiating the interface between each _flexible_ OLED device and the glass base with laser light _(lift-off_ light) in order to delaminate each flexible _OLED_ _device_ _from_ _the_ glass base (supporting substrate). According to the method disclosed in Patent Document _No._ 1, after _irradiation_ _with_ _the_ _lift-off_ light, respective _flexible_ OLED devices are divided from _one_ another, and each of the flexible OLED devices is delaminated from the glass _base._
|
Computer numerical control or “CNC” milling machines often must be precisely “leveled” in a manner which causes the vertical orientations of support contact points upon the undersurface of the machine's base or chassis to coincide with a horizontal plane. Ideally, leveling procedures performed upon such machines eliminate any warping, deflection, or distortion of any of such support contact points away from the horizontal plane. Such machine leveling is known to be facilitated or accomplished by adapting a milling machine's floor contacting feet or pedestals to function as vertically extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinders. Operation of such cylinder pedestals through selective injections and ejections of hydraulic fluid to and from the cylinders' interior fluid filled volumes is known to align a machine's base with the horizontal plane. Where such cylinder pedestals are arranged beneath a heavy milling center machine in a support matrix, operation of the cylinder pedestals either individually or in groupings gives rise to significant difficulties, complexities, and challenges. In such leveling operations, various groupings of cylinder pedestals or individual cylinder pedestals are alternatively raised, lowered, locked against fluid flow, and opened for equipment “floating” interchange of fluid volumes. In any such equipment leveling task, a multitude of such alternative operations directed to the cylinder pedestals may be required to be performed. Known assemblies, machinery and equipment which facilitate such a operations are cumbersome in use and time consuming.
The instant inventive assembly for hydraulic fluid actuated machine leveling solves or ameliorates such difficulties and challenges by providing and associating with a machine supporting matrix of hydraulic cylinder configured pedestals a specialized network of hydraulic fluid carrying conduits wherein hydraulic fluid flow and pressure is controlled by incorporation of a specialized combination of shutoff valves and a variable relief valve.
|
computer numerical control or “ cnc ” milling machines often must be precisely “ leveled ” in a bearing this causes the vertical orientations of support contact points upon the undersurface approaching the machine ' s base or chassis to coincide with a horizontal plane. ideally, leveling procedures performed upon such machines eliminate any warping, deflection, or distortion of any of such support contact points away from the horizontal plane. such machine leveling is known to be facilitated or accomplished by adapting a milling machine ' s floor contacting feet or pedestals to function as vertically extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinders. operation of such cylinder pedestals through selective injections and ejections of hydraulic fluid streams and from the cylinders ' interior fluid filled volumes is known to align a machine ' s base with the horizontal plane. where such cylinder pedestals are arranged beneath a heavy milling center machine in a support matrix, operation of the cylinder pedestals either together or in groupings gives rise to significant difficulties, complexities, and challenges. in such leveling operations, various groupings of cylinder pedestals or individual cylinder pedestals are alternatively raised, lowered, locked against fluid flow, and stabilized for equipment “ floating ” interchange of fluid volumes. in any such equipment a task, a multitude of such alternative operations directed to the cylinder pedestals may be required to be performed. known assemblies, machinery and equipment which facilitate such a operations are cumbersome in use and time consuming. the instant inventive technique for hydraulic fluid actuated machine leveling solves or ameliorates such difficulties and challenges by providing and associating with a machine supporting matrix of hydraulic cylinder configured pedestals a specialized network of hydraulic fluid carrying systems wherein hydraulic fluid flow and pressure is controlled by incorporation of a specialized combination of shutoff valves and a variable pressure valve.
|
ComOuRer numeeicai control or “ CNC ” milling machines often must be precisely “ leveled ” in a manner which causes the vertical orientations of support contact points upon the undersurface of the machine ' s base or chassis to coincide with a horizontal plane. Ideally, leveling procedures performed upon such machines eliminate any warping, deflection, or distortion of any of such support contact points away from the horizontal plane. Such machine leveling is known to be facilitated or accomplished by adSptjng a milling machOns ' s floor contacting feet or pedestals to function as vertically extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinders. Operation of such cylinder pedestals through selective injections and ejections of hydraulic fluid to and from the cylinders ' interior fliiX filled volumes is known to align a machine ' s base with the horizontal plane. Where such cylinder pedestals are arrangRE beneath a heavy milling center machine in a support matrix, operation of the cylinder pedestals either individually or in groupings gives rise to significant difficulties, complexities, and challenges. In such leveling operations, variL6s groupings of cylinder pedestals or individual cylinder pedestals are alternatively raised, lowered, locked against fluid flow, and opened for equipment “ floating ” interchange of fluid volumes. In any such equipment leveling task, a multitude of such alternative operations directed to the cylinder pedwsta/s may be required to be performed. Known assemblies, machinery and equipment which facilitate such a operations are cumbersome in use and time consuming. The instant inventive assembly for hydraulic fluid actuated mafhinf leveling solves or ameliorates such difficulties and challenges by providing and associating with a machine supporting matrix of hydraulic cylinder configured pedestals a specialized network of hydraulic fluid carrying conduits wherein hydraulic fluid flow and pressure is controlled by incorporation of a specialized X8mbination of shutoff valves and a variable relief valve.
|
Computer numerical control or “CNC” milling machines often must be precisely “leveled” in a manner which the vertical orientations of support points upon the undersurface the base or chassis to a horizontal plane. Ideally, leveling procedures upon such machines eliminate any warping, deflection, or distortion of any of such support contact points away the horizontal plane. machine leveling is known to be facilitated or accomplished adapting milling floor contacting feet or pedestals to as vertically extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinders. Operation of such cylinder pedestals through selective injections and ejections hydraulic fluid to and from the cylinders' interior fluid filled volumes is known to align a machine's base with the horizontal plane. Where such cylinder pedestals are beneath a heavy milling center machine in a support matrix, operation of the cylinder pedestals either or in groupings gives rise to significant difficulties, complexities, and challenges. In such leveling various groupings of cylinder pedestals or individual cylinder are alternatively raised, lowered, locked fluid flow, and opened equipment “floating” interchange of fluid volumes. In any such equipment leveling task, a multitude of such alternative operations directed to the cylinder pedestals may be required to be performed. Known assemblies, and equipment which facilitate such operations are cumbersome in use and time consuming. The instant inventive assembly for fluid actuated machine leveling solves or ameliorates such difficulties and challenges by providing and associating with a machine supporting of hydraulic cylinder configured pedestals specialized network of hydraulic carrying wherein fluid flow and pressure is controlled by incorporation of a specialized combination of shutoff and a variable relief valve.
|
COmPUTER NuMErICal cONtROL Or “CNC” MIlLING MacHINEs ofteN musT Be pREcISeLy “LeVelED” iN A mANNER wHich CAUses The VerTicAl OrIENTATIONs Of sUpPOrT cOntact POinTS UPon tHe UNderSurFAcE of the MaChine'S baSE or chaSSis To cOInCidE With a hOrIzONTaL PlANE. idEAlLY, LEVelING ProCeDUReS PErFORmeD UpOn sucH MAChinES eLImiNAtE any warpInG, DEFLECTIon, oR DISTorTIOn of ANY of SucH SUpPort contaCt pOInTs aWAY fROm ThE hoRizontAl pLaNe. SUcH MAchiNe LeVELInG iS knOwN to Be faciLitAteD oR accOMpLIsHED by adapTING a miLLInG MACHiNE'S fLOOR CONTAcTing fEet Or pEdEStaLS to fUNctION As vErTICalLy ExTeNDaBLe AND RetRactaBLe hYDraULiC cYLinDers. opErAtiON of sUch CyliNDer pEDEStaLS ThRough SEleCTiVe iNjectiONS aNd eJECTiONS of HYDraULIC FLUID TO and FRom The cyliNDeRS' IntEriOR fLUiD fillEd VOlUMeS IS KNoWN tO aLIGn A MACHINe'S baSE witH The HOriZONtaL PlAnE. WheRe SuCh cyLIndER pEDEStaLS ARE arrangeD bEnEaTh A heAvY mILLINg cEnTER MACHiNE In A SUpPoRt mAtriX, OpeRaTIon OF tHe CylIndER peDeStALs eiTheR INDIViDUAllY OR In GROuPinGS gIVEs rIse tO signIFICANt DiffICultieS, ComPlExiTiES, AND CHAlLengEs. In sUCH lEVelING oPeRaTions, vARioUS gRoUpIngS Of cyliNdER PEdestAls OR indiVIdual cyLinDeR pEdeSTALs ARE ALtERNaTiVeLy raISed, LowerEd, LOcKed AGAINST FluID FLOw, AND OPeNED fOR eQUIPMENT “FlOATInG” inteRChanGE of FLuId voLumEs. in Any SUcH eQUIpMeNt LevelINg taSk, a mUlTiTuDe Of suCh ALTERnative opEratIonS diReCTeD TO THE CyliNDER pEDesTAlS MAy bE REQuirED TO BE PerfOrMed. kNowN AsSEmblIes, mAChIneRY ANd eqUIpMenT WHich FacilitaTE SUch a OPeRAtIONS ARE cumbErsoMe in uSe And TIme ConsumiNG.
tHe INSTaNt INVEnTivE AsSEMbly foR hYDrAuLiC fluId ActUAtEd macHiNe lEVELIng sOLVeS or AmeliORaTES sucH DIFFIcULtIES and CHAlLeNgeS BY pROVIDing And ASSoCiatIng with a maCHiNE SUPpoRTinG maTRix of HyDRAUlIC cylinDEr confIgUreD PedeStALs a sPEcIaLIzed NETWork of HYDRaULic flUId cARRyIng CondUItS WHErein hYdRaulic fLuiD fLoW AND pREssuRe Is coNTRoLLed BY INCoRPORaTIoN Of A SpEcIalIZeD ComBInaTIOn Of SHUTOFf ValVeS AnD a vaRiABLE reLIEF vALvE.
|
Computer numerical control or “CNC” milling machines often must be precisely “leveled” in a manner which causes the verticalorientations of support contactpoints upon theundersurface of the machine'sbase or chassis to coincidewith a horizontal plane. Ideally, leveling procedures performedupon such machineseliminate any warping, deflection,ordistortion of any of such support contact pointsaway from the horizontal plane. Such machine leveling is known to be facilitated or accomplished by adapting a millingmachine's floor contacting feet or pedestals to functionas vertically extendable and retractable hydrauliccylinders. Operation of suchcylinder pedestals through selective injections and ejectionsof hydraulic fluid to andfrom the cylinders' interior fluid filledvolumes is known to align a machine's base with the horizontal plane.Wheresuch cylinder pedestals are arranged beneath a heavy millingcenter machinein a support matrix, operation ofthe cylinder pedestals either individually or ingroupings gives rise to significantdifficulties, complexities, andchallenges.In such levelingoperations, various groupings of cylinder pedestals or individual cylinder pedestalsare alternatively raised, lowered, lockedagainst fluid flow, andopened forequipment “floating” interchange offluid volumes. In any such equipment leveling task, amultitude of such alternative operations directed to the cylinder pedestals maybe required to be performed. Known assemblies, machinery and equipment which facilitate sucha operations are cumbersome in use and time consuming. The instant inventive assembly for hydraulic fluid actuated machine leveling solves or ameliorates suchdifficulties and challenges by providing and associating with a machine supporting matrix of hydrauliccylinderconfiguredpedestals a specializednetwork of hydraulic fluid carrying conduits whereinhydraulic fluid flow and pressure is controlled by incorporation of a specialized combination ofshutoff valves and a variable relief valve.
|
Computer numerical control or _“CNC”_ _milling_ machines _often_ must be precisely “leveled” in _a_ manner which causes _the_ vertical orientations of support contact points upon _the_ undersurface of the machine's base or chassis _to_ coincide with a horizontal plane. Ideally, leveling _procedures_ _performed_ upon such machines eliminate any _warping,_ deflection, or _distortion_ of any of such _support_ contact points away from the horizontal plane. _Such_ machine _leveling_ _is_ known to be facilitated or accomplished by adapting a milling machine's floor contacting feet or pedestals to _function_ _as_ vertically extendable and retractable hydraulic cylinders. Operation of such cylinder pedestals _through_ selective injections and ejections of hydraulic _fluid_ _to_ _and_ _from_ the cylinders' interior _fluid_ filled _volumes_ is known to _align_ a machine's base _with_ the horizontal plane. Where _such_ cylinder _pedestals_ are arranged beneath _a_ heavy _milling_ _center_ machine in a support matrix, _operation_ of the cylinder pedestals _either_ individually or in _groupings_ _gives_ rise to significant difficulties, complexities, and _challenges._ In such _leveling_ _operations,_ various _groupings_ of _cylinder_ pedestals or individual cylinder pedestals are _alternatively_ raised, lowered, _locked_ _against_ _fluid_ flow, and opened for equipment “floating” interchange of fluid volumes. In any such _equipment_ _leveling_ task, a multitude _of_ such alternative operations _directed_ to the cylinder _pedestals_ may be required to be performed. Known _assemblies,_ machinery and equipment which facilitate _such_ a operations are cumbersome in _use_ and time _consuming._ The instant _inventive_ assembly _for_ hydraulic fluid actuated machine leveling _solves_ _or_ _ameliorates_ such difficulties and challenges by providing and _associating_ _with_ a machine supporting _matrix_ _of_ hydraulic cylinder configured pedestals _a_ specialized network of hydraulic fluid carrying conduits wherein _hydraulic_ _fluid_ flow and pressure is controlled _by_ incorporation of a _specialized_ combination of shutoff valves and a _variable_ relief valve.
|
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus of video encoding/decoding, and more particularly, to a method that performs intra prediction by using interpolation filtering while encoding and decoding.
Discussion of the Related Art
In general, a residual signal is generated by using intra prediction and inter prediction while video coding. The reason for acquiring the residual signal is that when the residual signal is coded with the residual signal, the quantity of data is small and a data compression rate increases and as the prediction is better, a signal of the residual signal is small.
In an intra prediction method, data of a current block is predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. A difference between an actual value and a prediction value is referred to as a residual signal block. In the case of HEVC, in the intra prediction method, 9 prediction modes used in the existing H.264/AVC increases to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in FIG. 1 to be more subdivided, and as a result, the prediction is performed (however, a planar prediction mode and a DC prediction mode are not shown in FIG. 1).
In the case of the inter prediction method, the current block is compared with blocks in contiguous pictures to find a most similar block. In this case, positional information (Vx, Vy) of the found block is referred to as a motion vector. A difference of pixels in the block between the current block and the prediction block predicted by the motion vector is referred to as the residual signal block (motion-compensated residual block).
As described above, a video encoding and decoding method is required, in which the intra prediction and the inter prediction are subdivided to decrease the quantity of data of the residual signal and a calculation quantity is small without degradation of codec performance by using efficient transform.
|
field of the invention the present invention relates to a method and apparatus of video encoding / decoding, and more particularly, to a method that performs intra prediction by using interpolation filtering while encoding and decoding. discussion of the related art in general, a residual signal is generated by using intra prediction and inter prediction while video coding. the reason for acquiring the residual signal is that when the residual signal has coded with each residual signal, the quantity of data is small and a data compression rate increases and as the prediction is better, a signal of the residual signal has selected. in an intra prediction method, data of a current block was predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. a difference between an actual value and a prediction value is referred to as a residual signal path. in the case of hevc, in the intra prediction method, 9 prediction modes used in the existing h. 264 / avc increases to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in fig. 1 to be more subdivided, and as a result, the prediction is performed ( however, a planar prediction mode and a dc prediction mode are not shown at fig. 1 ). in the case of the inter prediction method, the current block is compared with blocks in contiguous pictures to find a most similar block. in this case, positional information ( vx, vy ) of those found block is referred to as a motion vector. a difference of pixels along the block between the current block and the prediction block predicted by the motion vector is referred to as the residual signal block ( motion - compensated residual block ). as described above, a video encoding and decoding method is required, in which the intra prediction and the inter prediction are subdivided to decrease the dimension of data of the residual signal and a calculation quantity is small without degradation of codec performance by using efficient transform.
|
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method and apparatus of video encoding / ffcoding, and more particularly, to a method that performs intra prediction by using interpolation filtering while enD*ding and decoding. Discussion of the Related Art In general, a residual signal is generated by using intra prediction and inter prediction while video coding. The reason for acquiring the residual signal is that when the residual signal is coded with the residual signal, the quantity of data is small and a data compression rate increases and as the prediction is better, a signal of the residual slgnZl is small. In an intra prediction method, data of a current block is predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. A difference between an actual value and a predKcti9n value is referred to as a residual signal block. In the case of HEVC, in the intra prediction method, 9 prediction modes used in the existing H. 264 / AVC incgeasws to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in FIG. 1 to be more subdivided, and as a result, the prediction is (erf8rmed (however, a planar prediction mode and a DC prediction mode are not shown in FIG. 1 ). In the case of the inter prediction method, the c7rrenG block is compared with blocks in contiguous pictures to find a most similar block. In this case, positional information (Vx, Vy) of the found block is referred to as a motion vector. A difference of pixels in the block between the cu3ren5 block and the prediction block predicted by the motion vector is referred to as the residual signal block (motion - compensated residual bloDJ ). As described above, a video encoding and decoding method is required, in which the intra (reEiction and the inter prediction are subdivided to decrease the quantity of data of the residual signal and a calculation quantity is small without degradation of codec performance by using efficient transform.
|
Field of the Invention present invention relates to a method apparatus of video and more particularly, to a method that performs intra prediction by using interpolation filtering while and decoding. of the Related Art In general, a residual signal is generated by using intra prediction inter prediction while coding. The reason for acquiring the residual signal is that when the signal is with the residual signal, the quantity of data is small and a data compression rate increases and as the prediction is better, a signal of the residual signal is small. In an intra method, data of a block is predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. A difference between an value and a prediction value is referred to as a residual signal block. In the case of HEVC, in the intra prediction method, 9 modes used in the existing H.264/AVC increases to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in FIG. 1 to more subdivided, and as result, the prediction is performed (however, a planar prediction mode and a DC prediction mode are not shown FIG. 1). In the case of the inter prediction method, the current block is compared with blocks in contiguous pictures to find a most block. In this positional information (Vx, Vy) the found is referred to as a motion vector. difference of in the block between the current block and the prediction block predicted by the motion vector is referred to as the signal block (motion-compensated residual block). As described above, a video encoding and decoding method is required, in which the intra prediction and inter prediction are to the of of residual and a calculation quantity is small without degradation of codec performance by using transform.
|
fIeLD oF THe INVeNtION
ThE PrEsent InVEntion reLateS tO a MetHOD anD APpArAtUs of ViDeO encoDinG/deCODInG, And mORE pArtiCulaRlY, to a METHOD tHaT pERforMS Intra PREDiCtiON By usinG iNterpOLaTIoN fIlTeRinG whILE ENcOdiNg AnD decodiNG.
DIScUSSioN OF thE reLaTED ART
In GEnERAL, a resIdual siGnAL iS GENEraTEd bY USINg INtRa PRedIctiOn and INTER PrEDIcTIon WhIle vIdEO coding. thE REASON fOr ACQUiRING THE REsiDual sigNAl Is that WhEN thE reSIDuAL SIgNaL IS cODeD wItH The reSIduAL sIGnaL, tHE QUANTITY of DaTa IS SmalL aNd a dATa CoMpREssIOn RATe INcREASeS AND as tHe PREDIctiOn Is BETter, a SIgNAL Of ThE RESiduaL SIgNal IS smaLL.
In aN InTRa prEdICtioN mEthOD, DaTA OF a cURRENt BlOck IS PReDiCteD By UsiNg cONTIGuoUS PiXeLS of The Current block. A DIffereNce bETwEen An ACTuAl ValUe ANd a predIcTion vALUE Is REfeRRed tO AS A reSIDuAl signAl BlOcK. in THE cASE oF hevc, in The InTra prEdiCTion MEthod, 9 pRedIcTION MODes UsED IN ThE exIsTINg h.264/avc incReASEs To 35 preDictIons ModeS As ILlUstRAteD iN FIG. 1 TO BE morE SUbdIVidED, and as a ResulT, the PreDiCTIon is peRfoRMED (HOWeveR, A PLAnAr PReDICTiOn Mode and a dC prEdICTiON MODe Are nOT shoWN IN FiG. 1).
IN tHe Case OF The InTER pREdiCTION METhOd, thE cUrRenT BLock iS CompARed WiTH BLOckS IN contiguous piCTurEs to Find A mOsT siMIlAr BLOCK. IN THiS cASE, PoSItIonaL InForMAtIOn (Vx, vy) of ThE FOund BLocK is rEFERRED tO As A MotiOn VeCtOr. A DIfFEREncE OF PiXels In The BlOCk BEtween The CurreNT BLock aND ThE PredICTIOn BlOck prEdIctED By tHe mOtiON veCTor iS RefeRrED TO As THe REsIdUAl SIGNAl BlOCk (MotIon-CoMpENSaTed rEsIdUAL BlOcK).
As DEsCRibEd ABOVe, A videO eNCoDiNg and DecoDing mEtHod iS ReQuirED, in whiCH the INtRA prEDiCtION aND tHe intER PrEdiCtIOn ARE SUBDIVIDEd tO deCReaSE tHe qUaNTiTy oF datA Of thE ResiDUAl sIGNaL anD A calculATIon QuANTITy Is smALl wIthOUT deGrADatiOn of CoDec PeRFORMAnCE bY UsinG EFFicIeNT TransFORm.
|
Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates to a method and apparatus of video encoding/decoding, andmore particularly, to a method that performs intrapredictionby using interpolation filtering while encoding and decoding.Discussion of the Related Art In general, a residual signalis generated by using intra prediction and inter prediction while video coding. The reason for acquiring the residualsignal is thatwhen the residual signaliscoded with the residualsignal,the quantity of data is smalland adata compression rate increases and astheprediction is better, a signal of the residual signal is small. In an intra prediction method,data of a current block is predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. A difference between an actual valueand a prediction value is referredto asa residual signal block.In thecase of HEVC, in the intra prediction method,9 prediction modesused in the existing H.264/AVC increases to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in FIG. 1 to bemoresubdivided, and as a result, the prediction is performed (however, a planar prediction mode and a DCprediction mode are notshown in FIG. 1). In the case of the inter prediction method,thecurrent block is compared withblocks in contiguous pictures to find a mostsimilar block. In this case, positional information (Vx, Vy) of the found block is referred to as a motion vector. A differenceof pixels in the block between the current block and the prediction blockpredictedby the motion vector is referred to as theresidualsignal block (motion-compensatedresidual block). As described above, a video encoding and decoding methodis required, in whichthe intra prediction and the interprediction are subdividedtodecrease the quantity of dataof theresidual signal and a calculation quantity issmall without degradation of codec performance by using efficient transform.
|
Field of the _Invention_ The present invention relates _to_ a method and apparatus of video encoding/decoding, _and_ more particularly, to a method that performs _intra_ prediction by using interpolation filtering while encoding _and_ decoding. Discussion of the Related Art In general, _a_ residual signal is generated _by_ using intra prediction and _inter_ prediction while video coding. The _reason_ _for_ acquiring the residual signal _is_ _that_ when the residual signal is coded with _the_ residual _signal,_ the quantity of data is small and a data compression rate increases and as the prediction _is_ _better,_ _a_ signal of the _residual_ signal is small. In an intra prediction method, data of a current block _is_ predicted by using contiguous pixels of the current block. A difference between an actual value _and_ a prediction value is referred to as a residual signal _block._ In the case of HEVC, in the _intra_ prediction method, 9 _prediction_ modes used _in_ the existing H.264/AVC _increases_ to 35 predictions modes as illustrated in FIG. _1_ to be _more_ subdivided, and as _a_ result, the prediction is performed (however, a _planar_ prediction mode and a DC prediction mode _are_ not shown in FIG. 1). In the case of _the_ inter prediction _method,_ the current _block_ is _compared_ with blocks _in_ contiguous _pictures_ to find a most similar _block._ _In_ this case, positional information (Vx, Vy) of the _found_ block is referred to as a motion vector. A difference of pixels in the block between the current _block_ and the prediction block predicted by the motion vector is referred to as the residual signal _block_ (motion-compensated residual block). As described above, a video encoding and decoding method is required, _in_ which the _intra_ prediction and the inter prediction _are_ subdivided to decrease _the_ _quantity_ _of_ data _of_ the residual _signal_ and a _calculation_ quantity is _small_ without degradation _of_ codec performance _by_ using efficient transform.
|
The present invention relates to an improved tarnish remover. More particularly this invention relates to a tarnish remover/metal polish containing as essential ingredients a metal iodide such as potassium iodide, an acid, and water. The tarnish removers/metal polishes of this invention are effective, safe, and low in cost.
In the prior art many formulations have been proposed for removing tarnish and oxides from silver, copper, brass, and other metals. "Tarnish," as the term is used herein, embraces a film discoloration of the metal surface which occurs as a result of a chemical change in the metal as opposed to a mere physical soiling. An example is the formation of a sulfide or oxide film which is from all indications integral with the metal surface and similar to metal corrosion. The prior art formulations which have been proposed have been designed to either only remove the tarnish, etc., or to remove the tarnish, etc., and additionally repress the tendency of metal surfaces to re-tarnish or stain upon exposure to ordinary atmospheric conditions, thereby eliminating at least partially a periodic, time-consuming cleaning problem and to prevent a deterioration of the metal surfaces.
The prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain conventionally comprise an abrasive material and a carrier such as water, a hydrocarbon solvent, or glycerine, either with or without a soap or an emulsified agent. Tarnish removers and metal polishes designed to repress tarnish and stain have included a film-forming material in the compositions such as waxes and resins so as to leave behind a thin coating, and in addition the use of anti-tarnish components such as a mercaptan or thiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. Exemplary prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes include the compositions described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,628,199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip-type silver and copper cleaning composition; U.S. Pat. No. 2,691,593 which discloses silver cleaning compositions in paste or liquid form containing abrasives, an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon carrier and, if desired, a mercaptan or thiourea; and U.S. Pat. No. 2,841,501 which discloses a silver polish containing a mild abrasive and a long chain alkyl mercaptan as an anti-tarnishing agent. The mercaptan apparently forms a thin protective film upon the silver and prevents retarnishing.
The aforesaid silver and copper cleaners and polishes are useful and have met with substantial approval. However, each has disadvantages and limitations. It has been found that certain of the acidic dip type formulations have a deleterious effect upon silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishing after the silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causing removal of the silver surface. The compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide little or no protective coating. On the other hand, polishing compositions of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,691,593, because of the hydrophobic carrier employed, are relatively difficult to wash off the silver after polishing. There is also an indication that the silver tarnishes more easily after initial cleaning. The rapid retarnishing may be a result of more exposed silver surface due to scratches on the silverware. Some polish-type formulations are believed to remove some of the metal surface when used. Additionally, a number of the prior art polishes or tarnish removers containing chemicals, such as thiourea, have toxic characteristics, some suspected to be carcinogenic, and for that reason are not well received.
|
the present invention relates to an improved tarnish remover. more particularly this invention relates to improved tarnish remover / metal polish containing as essential ingredients a metal iodide such as potassium iodide, an oxide, and water. the tarnish removers / metal polishes of this invention are effective, safe, and low in cost. in the prior art many formulations have been proposed for removing tarnish and oxides from silver, copper, brass, and other metals. " tarnish, " as the term is used herein, embraces a film discoloration of the metal surface which occurs as a result of a chemical change in the metal as opposed to a mere physical soiling. an example is the formation of a sulfide or oxide film which is from all indications integral with the metal surface and similar to metal corrosion. the prior art formulations which have been proposed have been designed to either only remove the tarnish, etc., or to remove the stains, etc., and additionally repress the tendency among metal surfaces to re - tarnish or stain upon exposure to ordinary atmospheric conditions, thereby eliminating at least partially a periodic, time - consuming cleaning problem and to prevent a deterioration of the metal surfaces. the prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain conventionally comprise an abrasive material and a carrier such as water, a hydrocarbon solvent, or glycerine, either with or without a soap or an emulsified agent. tarnish removers and metal polishes designed to repress tarnish and stain have included a film - forming material in the compositions such as waxes and resins so as to leave behind a thin coating, and in addition the use of anti - tarnish components such as a mercaptan or thiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. exemplary prior art tarnish solutions or metal polishes include the compositions described in u. s. pat. no. 2, 628, 199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip - type silver and copper cleaning composition ; i. s. sen. no. 2, 691, 593 which discloses silver metallic compositions in paste or liquid form with abrasives, an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon carrier and, if desired, a mercaptan or thiourea ; and u. s. pat. no. 2, 841, 501 more disclose ##s a silver polish containing a mild abrasive and a long chain alkyl mercaptan as an anti - tarnishing agent. the mercaptan apparently forms a thin protective film upon the silver and prevents retarnishing. the aforesaid silver and copper cleaners and polishes are useful and have met with substantial approval. however, each has disadvantages and limitations. it has been found that certain of the acidic dip type formulations have a deleterious effect upon silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishing after the silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causing removal of the silver surface. the compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide little or no protective coating. on the other hand, polishing compositions of the type described in u. s. pat. no. 2, 691, 593, because of the hydrophobic carrier employed, are relatively difficult to wash off the silver after polishing. there is also an indication that the silver tarnishes more easily after initial cleaning. the rapid retarnishing may be a result of more exposed silver surface due to scratches on the silverware. some polish - type formulations are believed to remove some of the metal surface when used. additionally, a number of the prior art polishes or tarnish removers containing chemicals, such as thiourea, have toxic characteristics, some suspected to be carcinogenic, and for that reason are not well received.
|
The present invention relates to an improved tarnish remover. More particularly this invention relates to a tarniDg remover / metal polish containing as essential ingredients a metal iodide Dush as potassium iodide, an acid, and water. The tarHich removers / metal polishes of this invention are effective, safe, and low in cost. In the prior art many formulations have been proposed for removing tarnish and oxides from silver, copper, brass, and other metals. " Tarnish, " as the twr, is used herein, embraces a film discoloration of the metal surface which occurs as a result of a chemical change in the metal as opposed to a mere 9hysixal soiling. An example is the formation of a sulfide or oxide film which is from all indications integral with the metal surface and similar to metal corrosion. The prior art formulations which have been proposed have been designed to either only remove the tarnish, etc. , or to remove the tarnish, etc. , and additionally re(rwss the tendency of metal surfaces to re - tarnish or stain upon exposure to ordinary atmospheric conditions, thereby eliminating at least partially a periodic, time - consuming cleaning problem and to prevent a deterioration of the metal surfaces. The prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain conventionally comprise an abrasive material and a carrier such as water, a hydrocarbon solvent, or glycerine, either with or without a soap or an emulsified agent. Tarnish removers and metal polishes designed to repress tarnish and stain have included a film - forming material in the compositions such as waxes and resins so as to leave behind a thin coating, and in addition the use of anti - tarnish components such as a mercaptan or thiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. Exemplary prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes include the compositions described in U. S. Pat. No. 2, 628, 199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip - type silver and copper cleaning composition; U. S. Pat. No. 2, 691, 593 which discloses silver cleaning compositions in paste or liquid form containing abrasives, an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon carrier and, if desired, a mercaptan or thiourea; and U. S. Pat. No. 2, 841, 501 which discloses a silver polish containing a mild abrasive and a long chain alkyl mercaptan as an anti - harnidhing agent. The mercaptan apparently forms a thin protective film upon the silver and prevents retarnishing. The aforesaid silver and copper cleaners and polishes are useful and have met with substantial approval. However, each has disadvantages and limitations. It has been found that certain of the acidic dip type formulations have a deleterious effect upon silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishing after the silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causing removal of the silver surface. The compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide little or no protective coating. On the other hand, polishing compositions of the type described in U. S. Pat. No. 2, 691, 593, because of the hydrophobic carrier employed, are relatively difficult to wash off the silver after polishing. There is also an indication that the silver tarnishes more easily after in7tiwl cleaniBV. The rapid retarnishing may be a result of more exposed silver surface due to scratches on the silverware. Some polish - type formulations are believed to remove some of the metal surface when used. Additionally, a number of the prior art polishes or tarnish removers containing chemicals, such as thiourea, have toxic characteristics, some suspected to be carconoTenic, and for that reason are not well received.
|
The present invention relates to an improved tarnish remover. More particularly this invention relates to a tarnish remover/metal polish containing as essential ingredients a metal iodide such as potassium iodide, acid, and water. The tarnish removers/metal polishes of this invention are effective, safe, and in cost. In the prior art many formulations have been proposed removing tarnish and from silver, copper, brass, and other metals. "Tarnish," the is used herein, a film discoloration the metal surface which occurs as a result of a chemical change in the metal as opposed to a mere An example is the formation of a sulfide oxide which is from all indications integral with the metal surface and similar to metal corrosion. The prior art formulations which have been have been designed to either only remove the tarnish, etc., or to remove the tarnish, etc., additionally repress tendency metal to re-tarnish or stain upon exposure to ordinary atmospheric conditions, thereby at least partially a periodic, time-consuming cleaning to prevent a deterioration of metal surfaces. The prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain comprise abrasive material and a carrier such as water, a hydrocarbon solvent, glycerine, either with or without a soap or an emulsified agent. Tarnish removers and metal polishes designed to repress tarnish and stain have included film-forming material in the compositions as waxes and resins so as to leave behind a thin coating, and in addition the use of components such as a mercaptan or thiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. prior art tarnish removers or polishes include the compositions described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,628,199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip-type silver and copper cleaning composition; Pat. No. 2,691,593 which discloses silver cleaning compositions in paste or liquid containing abrasives, an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon carrier and, if desired, a mercaptan or thiourea; and U.S. Pat. No. 2,841,501 which discloses a silver polish containing a abrasive and a long chain alkyl mercaptan as an agent. The mercaptan forms a thin protective film upon the silver and prevents retarnishing. The aforesaid silver and cleaners and polishes are useful and have met with substantial approval. However, each disadvantages and limitations. It has been that certain of the acidic dip type formulations have a deleterious effect silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishing the silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causing removal the silver surface. The compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide little no coating. On the other hand, of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. because the hydrophobic carrier employed, are relatively difficult to wash off the silver after polishing. There is also an that the silver tarnishes more easily after initial cleaning. The retarnishing may be a of more silver surface due scratches on the silverware. Some polish-type formulations believed to remove some of the metal surface when used. Additionally, of the prior art polishes or tarnish removers containing chemicals, such as have toxic characteristics, some suspected to carcinogenic, and for that reason are not well received.
|
ThE PREseNt INVenTioN rElaTES TO AN iMProvED TaRNISh REmovEr. MorE partiCULARLY thiS InVEntIOn RELatES TO A TaRnIsH rEmover/MEtal PolIsh cOnTAINinG AS eSseNtIAL ingrEdIENts A MEtAl IoDiDE SuCH As POtaSSIuM iodIdE, An AciD, ANd WATer. tHE taRniSH reMOVerS/meTAL POLiShES of This INVeNtIoN are efFECTIVe, SAFe, AND Low IN CoST.
iN THe PRiOR aRt MaNy foRmulATIoNs HAvE bEEn pRoPOSEd fOR ReMOVinG tArNISH AND oxideS FROm SIlVEr, COPper, BraSs, And OTHer MetALS. "TaRNISH," AS tHE tErm Is usED HEREIN, eMbraceS A FiLm DIsCoLOrAtiOn OF THE metAL sURfAcE whiCH OccurS aS a reSulT oF A cheMical CHANGE in thE metaL AS OPposeD TO A mERe pHYSical soILinG. AN exampLE is the FORmATion Of a SUlfide or OXide fiLm whICH IS froM aLl inDIcatIONs IntEGral wIth The MEtaL SurFACE AND similAr to METal CORrOsiON. thE PrIOR art forMuLAtIonS whIch HAVE bEeN propOsED HAvE bEen DEsigNed to EIThEr ONLy RemOVe THE TaRnisH, Etc., oR TO ReMOvE THE TARnIsH, etc., And AdditioNAllY rePRESS the TENdENCy OF MetAL suRfACEs To re-TARNiSH oR sTAiN UPon eXpOSUrE To oRDiNarY ATMOSPHEriC coNditIons, tHEReby eliminaTing aT lEaSt PArtIAlly A periODiC, timE-coNSuMING cLEAning pRobLEM anD TO PreVeNt a deteriORAtIOn OF the mEtal SUrfaCeS.
thE PrIor Art tARNISh remoVeRS oR MeTAl pOlIsHES DesiGneD pRImArIly TO rEmove tArNiSH anD StaIn cONvENtionAlly ComPrisE AN abRaSiVE mATEriAL anD A CARrieR sUCH as water, a HYdroCarboN solvEnt, OR GlYceRinE, EItHer with Or wiThoUt A SoAP oR An emULSifiEd aGEnT. TaRNISh RemOVers and mETAl PolisHeS DESIGned TO rEprEss tarnisH anD sTaIN HaVE incLUdeD a fILm-FoRmiNG mAtERiaL IN THe coMposITIONs sucH AS WaxES aND resiNS sO AS to lEavE behIND a THIn CoAtING, AND in ADDITiON tHE uSe oF ANTI-TaRnIsh coMpONeNTs SucH AS a meRcApTan or THIouREA fOR tHe PrevENtIoN of ReTArnIsHing. EXEmPlarY pRioR Art tARnisH ReMOvERS OR MEtAL PolISHES inCluDE the CoMPOsItiOnS DEsCribed in u.s. PAt. no. 2,628,199 which UtIlizE THIoUreA in An AcIdIC dIp-typE sILver anD COpPeR CleAning comPoSiTION; U.s. PaT. nO. 2,691,593 wHiCH dIsCLosEs SiLver clEAnInG coMPoSitionS in Paste oR lIQUid FORM CONTaiNIng abrasIVes, AN eMUlSIFyINg aGeNt, a hyDroCARBoN CArriER ANd, if DESIrEd, a mERcaptAn or THiOuReA; And u.S. PAT. No. 2,841,501 WhIch diScLOsES A sIlVER poLiSh conTaiNInG a mILd ABrASiVE and a LoNG CHain aLKYL meRCAptaN AS aN ANTI-tARNISHING AGEnT. tHE MErCAptAn AppareNtly Forms A thiN PrOTeCTIVE fILM upon tHE SiLvEr aNd prEvEntS retarnIshiNG.
thE afoReSaid sIlvER and copPeR CLeAneRS anD pOLIShEs arE uSEfuL aNd havE MeT wITh SuBsTANTiAL aPprOvAL. howeVEr, eACh hAS dISadVANTAgES and liMItatiONs. it HAS beeN FoUnD That CeRTaiN of thE acIdic diP TYpe formuLatIoNs haVe a DEleTERIoUS efFecT upON sIlVERWare, PoSSIbly reSultiNG in MorE rApId RetARNIshING aFTeR THE silVeR IS aGaIN ExPosED to NORMAL uSe And POssiBlY CaUSinG rEMoVaL OF tHE silVer sURfACE. tHe COmpOSItIoNS APPArENtLY fuNCTIOn PriMArIly aS A CLeaNEr AND prOvIde LItTlE OR No pROTECTive cOAtIng. ON tHE OthER hAND, POliSHiNG composiTions oF ThE TYPe DEScRIbed IN u.s. Pat. no. 2,691,593, BECausE oF THE hYDROphobic CarRIER EmPLOYed, aRe rElAtively DifficulT to WAsh oFf THe SILVer after POlISHiNg. ThEre Is aLsO AN IndiCaTiON thAt THe SiLVer tARNishes moRE eAsily afTEr iNItIaL cLEaNING. tHe rApID rETArNiSHInG MaY bE A resUlt of mORe exPOsED sILVEr SUrfAce dUe tO SCRaTCHes ON the SiLvErWARE. some polIsH-TYpE foRMulAtiONs aRE BElIEvEd TO REmoVE somE Of THe mETal suRface WHen usEd. adDiTIOnALly, a NUmber oF tHE priOR ART poLiShES or TarNiSh ReMOverS CoNtAIniNG cHEMicaLs, SuCh AS THIOurEA, HAVE TOXic cHaRaCTERiStics, some SUsPEcTed to bE cArcinOGENIc, aNd FOr tHaT REaSOn ArE nOT weLL rECEIved.
|
Thepresent invention relates to an improved tarnish remover. More particularly this invention relates to a tarnish remover/metal polishcontaining asessential ingredients a metal iodide such as potassium iodide, an acid,and water. The tarnish removers/metal polishes of this invention are effective,safe, and lowin cost. In the prior art many formulations have been proposed for removing tarnish and oxidesfrom silver, copper, brass, and othermetals. "Tarnish," asthe term is used herein,embraces a film discolorationof the metal surface whichoccurs as a result of a chemical change in the metal as opposed to amere physical soiling. An example is the formationof a sulfide or oxide film which is from allindications integral with the metalsurface and similar to metal corrosion. The priorart formulations which have been proposed have been designed to either only remove the tarnish, etc., or to remove the tarnish, etc., and additionally repressthe tendency ofmetal surfaces to re-tarnish or stain upon exposure to ordinary atmospheric conditions, thereby eliminating atleastpartially a periodic, time-consuming cleaning problem and to prevent adeterioration of the metal surfaces. The prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain conventionallycomprise an abrasive material and acarrier such as water, a hydrocarbonsolvent, or glycerine,either with or without a soap oran emulsified agent.Tarnishremoversand metal polishes designed torepress tarnish and stain haveincluded afilm-forming material in the compositions suchas waxes and resins so as to leave behind athin coating, andin addition the use ofanti-tarnish componentssuch as a mercaptan orthiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. Exemplary prior art tarnish removers or metal polishes include thecompositions described in U.S.Pat.No. 2,628,199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip-type silver and coppercleaning composition; U.S. Pat. No.2,691,593 which discloses silver cleaning compositions in paste or liquid formcontaining abrasives,an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon carrier and, if desired, a mercaptan or thiourea;and U.S.Pat. No. 2,841,501 which discloses a silver polish containing a mild abrasive and a long chain alkylmercaptanas an anti-tarnishing agent. The mercaptan apparently forms a thin protective film upon the silverand prevents retarnishing. The aforesaid silver andcopper cleaners and polishes are useful and havemet withsubstantial approval. However, each has disadvantages and limitations. It has been found thatcertain of the acidic dip type formulations have a deleterious effect upon silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishingafter the silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causingremoval of the silver surface. The compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide littleor no protective coating. On the other hand, polishing compositionsofthe typedescribed in U.S.Pat. No. 2,691,593,because of the hydrophobic carrier employed, are relatively difficultto wash offthe silver afterpolishing. There is also an indication that thesilver tarnishes more easily after initial cleaning. The rapid retarnishing may be a result ofmore exposed silver surface due to scratches on the silverware. Some polish-type formulations are believedto remove some of the metal surface whenused.Additionally, anumber of the prior artpolishes or tarnish removers containing chemicals, such as thiourea, have toxic characteristics,somesuspected to be carcinogenic,andfor that reason are notwellreceived.
|
_The_ present invention relates _to_ an improved tarnish remover. More particularly this _invention_ relates to _a_ tarnish remover/metal polish containing as essential ingredients a metal iodide such _as_ potassium iodide, an acid, _and_ _water._ The tarnish removers/metal polishes of this invention are _effective,_ safe, _and_ _low_ in cost. In the prior _art_ many formulations have been proposed for _removing_ tarnish and _oxides_ from silver, copper, brass, and other _metals._ "Tarnish," as the _term_ _is_ used herein, embraces a film discoloration of _the_ metal _surface_ which _occurs_ as a result _of_ a chemical change in the metal as opposed to a mere physical soiling. _An_ _example_ is the formation of a _sulfide_ or oxide film _which_ is _from_ all _indications_ integral with _the_ _metal_ surface and _similar_ to metal corrosion. The prior _art_ formulations which have been proposed _have_ been _designed_ _to_ either only remove the tarnish, etc., or to _remove_ the tarnish, etc., and additionally repress the tendency of _metal_ surfaces to re-tarnish or _stain_ upon _exposure_ to _ordinary_ atmospheric conditions, thereby eliminating at least partially a periodic, time-consuming _cleaning_ problem and _to_ prevent a deterioration of the metal surfaces. _The_ prior art tarnish _removers_ _or_ metal polishes designed primarily to remove tarnish and stain conventionally comprise an abrasive material _and_ a _carrier_ such as water, a hydrocarbon solvent, or glycerine, either with _or_ without _a_ soap or an emulsified agent. Tarnish _removers_ and metal _polishes_ designed to repress tarnish and stain have included a film-forming _material_ in the compositions such as waxes and _resins_ _so_ _as_ to leave behind _a_ thin _coating,_ _and_ in addition the use of anti-tarnish components such as a mercaptan _or_ thiourea for the prevention of retarnishing. Exemplary prior art tarnish removers _or_ metal _polishes_ include the compositions described in U.S. Pat. _No._ 2,628,199 which utilize thiourea in an acidic dip-type silver and _copper_ cleaning composition; U.S. Pat. No. 2,691,593 which discloses silver cleaning compositions in paste or _liquid_ _form_ containing abrasives, an emulsifying agent, a hydrocarbon _carrier_ and, if desired, a _mercaptan_ or thiourea; and U.S. Pat. No. 2,841,501 _which_ _discloses_ a silver polish _containing_ a mild abrasive and a long chain _alkyl_ mercaptan as an anti-tarnishing agent. The mercaptan _apparently_ forms a thin protective film _upon_ the silver and prevents retarnishing. _The_ aforesaid _silver_ and copper cleaners and polishes are useful and have met with substantial approval. However, each has disadvantages and limitations. It has been found _that_ certain of the _acidic_ dip type formulations have _a_ deleterious effect upon silverware, possibly resulting in more rapid retarnishing after _the_ silver is again exposed to normal use and possibly causing removal of the _silver_ surface. The compositions apparently function primarily as a cleaner and provide little _or_ no protective coating. On the other hand, polishing compositions of the _type_ described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,691,593, because of the _hydrophobic_ carrier employed, are _relatively_ difficult to wash _off_ the _silver_ after polishing. There is also an indication that the _silver_ tarnishes more _easily_ after initial cleaning. The rapid retarnishing _may_ be a result of more exposed silver surface due to _scratches_ on the _silverware._ Some polish-type formulations are believed to _remove_ some of the _metal_ _surface_ when used. Additionally, _a_ number of the prior art _polishes_ or tarnish _removers_ containing chemicals, _such_ as _thiourea,_ have _toxic_ characteristics, some suspected to _be_ carcinogenic, _and_ for that reason are not well received.
|
This application claims the benefit of the People's Republic of China Application No. 201110212538.5, filed on Jul. 22, 2011.
|
this application claims great benefit of the founder ' s republic of tibet application no. 201110212538. 5, filed on jul. 22, 2001.
|
FMis aLpl8cation c,Aims the ndnefit of the PePp>e ' s Re( tblic of Ch8nW Application No. 201110212538. 5, Bi:ed on Jul. 22, 101w.
|
This application claims the benefit of the People's Republic China Application No. 201110212538.5, filed on Jul. 22, 2011.
|
THis APPLIcATIon cLaImS the benEfiT oF THe PEoPLe's republIc oF chINa APPlIcaTIOn nO. 201110212538.5, fiLeD On JUl. 22, 2011.
|
This applicationclaimsthe benefit of the People'sRepublicof China Application No. 201110212538.5, filedon Jul. 22, 2011.
|
_This_ application _claims_ the benefit of the _People's_ Republic of China Application No. 201110212538.5, filed _on_ _Jul._ _22,_ 2011.
|
The present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage. The present invention more specifically relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial brew time which is stored in a controller can be adjusted relatively easily.
Some automatic brewers which brew hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, provide that the length of a brewing cycle can be programmed into the brewer so that each time the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally the same volume of beverage is brewed.
For example, some automatic brewers provide a controller which generally controls the brewing operation and the length of the brewing cycle. Additionally, a warmer switch, a brew button and a run/program switch are provided on the brewer. To initially set the length of the brewing cycle of the brewer, a user switches on the warmer switch causing a warmer in the brewer to turn on, then switches the run/program switch from a "run" setting to a "program" setting. Then, the user presses the brew button to begin brewing, and after allowing the brewing to continue until the desired amount of beverage has been brewed by the brewer, the user turns off the warmer switch or presses the brew button a second time. The controller programs the brewing cycle to be the length of time between the beginning of the brewing and the switching off of the warmer switch or the pressing of the brew button a second time by the user.
Subsequently, should the user wish to initiate a brewing cycle of the same length of time, the user switches the warmer switch on, switches the run/program switch from the "program" setting to the "run" setting and presses the brew button.
Should the user wish to adjust the length of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into the brewer, the user may repeat the entire above-described process, i.e. switches the warmer switch on, switches the run/program switch to a "program" setting, presses the brew button, and then either switches the warmer switch off or presses the brew button a second time.
Alternatively, on some automatic brewers, the user may turn an analog knob on the brewer to set the length of the brewing cycle. Then, after the brewer completes the brewing cycle, the user may adjust the setting of the analog knob depending on whether or not the previous setting had resulted in the desired volume of beverage being brewed. Using the analog knob on the brewer to adjust the brewing cycle often results in much trial and error where the user first sets the knob, and then waits to see if the setting provides the desired volume of beverage. If not, the user adjusts the knob before starting another brewing cycle.
Therefore, while one method of adjusting the brewing cycle requires a user to repeat the entire process of programming the length of brewing cycle into the brewer, the other method may require a user to go through much trial and error. In brewers which have multiple batch settings, the user may have to repeat either process with regard to more than one brewing cycle setting of the brewer.
|
the present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for controlling a length within a brewing cycle during which time a brewery brews a beverage. the present invention more specifically relates to an analogy and method for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial brew time which is stored in a controller can be adjusted relatively easily. some automatic brewers which brew hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, provide that the length of a brewing cycle can be programmed into the brewer so that each time the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally the same volume of beverage is brewed. for example, some automatic brewers provide a controller which generally controls the brewing operation and the length of the brewing cycle. additionally, a warmer switch, a brew button and a run / program switch are provided on the brewer. to initially set the length of the brewing cycle of one brewer, a user switches on the warmer switch causing a warmer in the brewer to turn on, then switches the run / program switch from a " program " setting to a " program " setting. then, the user presses the brew button to begin brewing, and after allowing the brewing to continue until the desired amount of beverage has been brewed by the brewer, the user turns off the warmer switch or presses the brew button a second time. the controller programs the brewing cycle to be the length of time between the beginning of the brewing and the switching off of the warmer switch or the pressing of the brew button a second time by the user. subsequently, should the user wish to initiate a brewing cycle of the same length of time, the user switches the warmer switch on, switches the run / application switch from the " program " setting to the " run " setting and presses the brew button. should either user wish to adjust the length of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into the brewer, the user may reset the entire above - described process, i. e. switches the warmer switch on, switches the run / program switch to a " program " setting, presses the brew button, but then either switches the warmer switch off or presses the brew button a second time. alternatively, on some automatic brewers, the user may turn an analog knob on the brewer to set the length of the brewing cycle. then, after the brewer completes the brewing cycle, the user may adjust the setting of the analog knob depending on whether or not the previous setting had resulted in the desired volume of beverage being brewed. using an analog knob on the brewer to adjust the brewing cycle often results in much trial and error where the user first sets the knob, and then waits to see if the setting provides the desired volume of beverage. if not, the user adjusts the knob before starting another brewing cycle. therefore, while one method of adjusting the brewing cycle requires a user to repeat the entire process of programming the length of brewing cycle into the brewer, the other method may require a user to go through much trial and error. in brewers which have multiple batch settings, the user may have to repeat either process with regard to more than one brewing cycle setting of the brewer.
|
The present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage. The present incent8on more specifically relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial brew time which is stored in a controller can be adjusted relatively easily. Some automatic brewers which brew hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, provide that the length of a brewing cycle can be programmed into the brewer so that each time the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally the same volume of beverage is brewed. For example, some automatic brewers provide a controller which generally controls the brewing operation and the length of the brewing cycle. Additionally, a warmer switch, a brew button and a run / program switch are provided on the brewer. To initially set the length of the brewing cycle of the brewer, a user switches on the warmer switch causing a warmer in the brewer to turn on, then switches the run / program switch from a " run " setting to a " program " setting. Then, the user presses the brew button to begin brewing, and after allowing the brewing to continue until the desired amount of beverage has been brewed by the brewer, the user turns off the warJed switch or presses the brew button a second time. The coGtro;ler programs the brewing cycle to be the length of time between the beginning of the brewing and the switching off of the warmer switch or the pressing of the brew button a second time by the user. Subsequently, should the user wish to initiate a brewing cycle of the same length of time, the user swkrches the warmer switch on, switches the run / program switch from the " program " setting to the " run " setting and presses the brew b6t6on. Should the user wish to adjust the Ienyth of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into the brewer, the user may repeat the entire above - described process, i. e. switches the warmer switch on, switches the run / program switch to a " program " setting, presses the brew button, and then either switches the warmer switch off or presses the brew button a second time. Alternatively, on some automatic brewers, the user may turn an analog knob on the brewer to set the length of the brewing cycle. Then, after the brewer completes the brewing cycle, the user may adjust the setting of the analog knob depending on whether or not the pr2vioux setting had resulted in the desired volume of beverage being brewed. Using the analog knob on the brewer to adjust the brewing cycle often results in much trial and error where the user first sets the knob, and then waits to see if the setting provides the desired DoluJe of beverage. If not, the user adjusts the knob before starting another brewing cycle. Therefore, while one mffhod of adjusting the brewing cycle requires a user to repeat the entire process of programming the length of brewing cycle into the brewer, the other method may require a user to go through much trial and error. In brewers which JaGe multiple batch settings, the user may have to repeat either process with regard to more than one brewing cycle setting of the brewer.
|
The present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methods for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer brews a beverage. The present invention more specifically relates to an apparatus method for controlling a length of a brewing during time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial brew time which is stored in a controller be relatively easily. Some automatic brewers which brew beverages, as coffee or tea, provide that length of a brewing cycle can be into the brewer so each the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally volume of beverage is brewed. For some automatic brewers a controller which generally controls operation and the length of the cycle. Additionally, a warmer switch, a and a run/program switch are provided on the brewer. To initially length of the brewing cycle of the brewer, a user switches on the warmer causing a warmer in the brewer to turn on, then switches the run/program switch from a "run" setting a "program" setting. Then, the user presses the brew button to begin brewing, and after allowing the brewing to continue until the desired of beverage has been brewed by the brewer, the user turns off the switch or presses the brew button a second time. The controller programs the brewing to be length of time between the beginning of the brewing and the switching off of warmer switch or the pressing of the button a by the user. Subsequently, should the wish to initiate a brewing cycle the same length of time, the user the warmer switch on, switches the run/program from the "program" setting to the setting and presses the button. Should the user wish to adjust the of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into the brewer, the user may repeat the entire above-described process, i.e. switches the warmer switch on, switches the run/program switch to a "program" setting, presses the brew button, and then either switches the warmer switch off or the brew button a second time. Alternatively, on some automatic brewers, may an analog knob the brewer set the length of the cycle. Then, after the brewer completes the brewing cycle, the user may adjust the setting of the analog knob depending on whether or not the previous setting had resulted in the desired volume of beverage brewed. Using the analog knob on the brewer to the brewing cycle often results in much trial and error where the user first sets the knob, and then waits to see if the setting provides the desired volume of beverage. If not, the user adjusts the knob before starting cycle. Therefore, while one method of adjusting the brewing cycle a user to repeat the entire process of programming the length of brewing cycle into the brewer, the other may require a user to through much trial and error. In brewers which have multiple settings, the user may have to repeat either process with to more than one brewing cycle setting of the brewer.
|
The pReseNt InVenTiON relATeS geneRaLlY To aPPAratusEs aND mEtHoDS FOR cOnTROLlInG a lENGTH oF a bREWING cyClE duriNg WHICH TIMe A breWER bREwS A bEveragE. ThE PreSEnT INVEnTioN MOre spECIFicaLly RElATEs to aN apPaRatuS And MeTHod foR conTROlLinG A lENGTh Of a BrEWING CyCle DuRInG wHICh TimE A BREWer brEWS a bevErAgE, whERE an INitIAL bREw tiMe wHIcH iS stOred In a CoNtROLlER cAn BE adjusteD rElatIveLy easIlY.
SoME AuTOmAtIc bREwerS WHIcH bReW hOT BEveRAGeS, suCh As cOFfeE oR tEA, PROvIDe ThAt THE leNGth Of A brewINg CYCLe CaN Be prOgRAmMeD inTO tHE BREwER SO that eACH TIme The bRewEr perFORMS a bREwING CYcLE, gEnERALLy THE saMe voLume oF bEvEraGE iS brEwEd.
for eXampLE, SOMe aUTOmaTiC BREWeRs pRoviDE a cOnTroller WHiCH GeneRally CoNTrols thE bReWing opeRATion And The LEnGtH of tHE BRewInG Cycle. aDditIONaLLy, A waRmER SWiTcH, A BrEW BUTtOn aNd A RUN/prOgRAM switCh ArE PrOvided ON THe brEWEr. tO initiAlly set The lengTH oF the BrewiNG cYcLE Of THE BreWeR, A uSer sWITcheS ON THE WaRMeR SWITCh cAusiNg A WarMer iN tHE bREwER tO tuRn On, tHEN SWITcHeS THE rUN/PrOGRam SWitCh FroM a "Run" sETTInG tO a "PRograM" sEttinG. ThEN, THE USer prEsSEs The brEW buttON TO BegIn BrEwING, AND afteR AlLOWing THE bRewIng tO cONtINue untIL THE deSIReD AMOUNt Of bEvErAge hAS BEEn brEWEd by the BrEweR, the UsEr tURNS OfF tHE wARMEr swiTCh oR PResses THe brEw BUttON A SeCoNd tImE. THE conTrOller PRoGraMs the bReWiNG CycLe tO be The lenGTh of tiME between ThE beGiNNing of ThE brewIng anD thE sWiTChing oFF oF thE warMER sWitCH oR thE PrESSIng oF tHE BReW buTTon A sECONd tIME By tHe User.
SUbsEqUentLY, SHOULd the uSeR wiSh to InitIate A BRewING cyCle Of The sAme LEnGth Of TIME, THE UsER sWitchES the wARmeR sWItcH On, swItChES THE RuN/pRograM sWItcH FrOM ThE "prOGRaM" SEtTiNg TO The "run" sETtING aNd PRESSeS tHE BREW ButtOn.
shouLD the usEr wISH to ADJUsT thE LENGTH OF thE bReWing cyclE whIcH HAS bEEN previOusLy PrOGRaMMEd Into THe BreweR, tHe uSEr mAy Repeat ThE eNTIRE abOVe-DEscribed PRoCeSS, i.e. switchEs tHE WArMEr swItcH on, sWITcHEs The RuN/proGrAM swiTCH tO a "PROGRaM" SetTiNg, PREsSeS THE Brew BuTtOn, ANd thEn eIther SwitChes THE wARMeR swiTcH OFf OR PRessES thE bREW bUTTon a SEcoNd tImE.
aLtErnaTIVElY, oN somE aUtomatiC bREWErs, THE UsEr MAy tURn aN ANAloG knob ON THe BREWER tO sEt thE LenGtH oF thE BREWIng cyCLE. THEN, AfTeR The bREWeR CoMpLETes The BrewINg Cycle, the USEr MAY ADjuST tHE sEtTIng OF tHe AnALoG KNob DepENDiNG ON wheTher Or NoT THe preVIouS SeTtIng HAD ResultED IN ThE dEsiREd volUmE Of BEVErAge Being BREWEd. USiNg THe analog knOB ON the brEwER to AdJust tHe BRewinG cyclE OFteN rEsults IN MUCH TRiAL aND ERROR WHerE THe uSEr FIrST Sets ThE knob, aND THen WAITS to SEE IF THe setTInG PrOvIDeS THe dESiReD VOLUme OF bEVeRAGE. If nOT, tHe useR adJuSts ThE KNoB bEFORe sTARtiNG ANOThEr BREWinG cYCle.
THeReFOrE, whiLE oNE MetHOD Of ADJustINg tHE brewIng cyclE ReQuirEs a uSEr TO REPEat THE eNtiRe PrOCeSS OF pROgRammiNG thE lenGTh OF BrEWinG cYCLe iNTo The BrEweR, THe othEr mEtHOD mAy rEquire A usEr to GO ThRougH MUcH tRiAL And ErRoR. In BrEwErS whICH HAVe MULtipLE BAtCh settings, tHE USer mAy HAVe to RePeat eItheR pROceSS wItH rEgarD to MoRE tHAn OnE BReWINg cYcle SEtTinG of The BReWEr.
|
The present invention relates generallyto apparatuses and methods for controlling a length of a brewing cycleduring which time a brewer brews a beverage. The present invention more specifically relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a length ofa brewing cycleduring which time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial brew time which is stored in a controller can be adjusted relatively easily. Some automatic brewers which brew hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, provide that thelength of a brewing cycle can be programmed intothe brewer so that eachtime the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally the same volume of beverageisbrewed. For example, some automatic brewers provide a controller which generally controls the brewing operation and the lengthof the brewing cycle. Additionally, a warmer switch, a brew button and a run/program switch are provided on the brewer. To initially set the length of the brewing cycle of the brewer, a user switches on the warmer switch causing a warmer in the brewerto turn on, then switches the run/program switch from a "run" setting to a "program" setting. Then, theuser pressesthe brew button to begin brewing, and after allowing the brewing to continue until the desired amount of beverage has been brewed by the brewer, the userturns off the warmer switch or presses the brew button a second time. The controller programs the brewing cycle to be the length of time between the beginning of the brewing and the switching offof thewarmerswitch or the pressing of the brew button asecond time by the user. Subsequently, should the userwish to initiate abrewing cycleof thesame lengthof time, the user switches thewarmer switch on, switches the run/program switchfrom the "program" setting to the"run" setting and presses the brew button. Shouldtheuserwish to adjust the length of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into the brewer, the user may repeat the entire above-described process, i.e. switches the warmer switch on, switchesthe run/program switch to a "program" setting,presses thebrew button, and then either switches thewarmer switch off or presses the brew button a second time. Alternatively, on some automatic brewers,the user may turn an analogknob on the brewer to set the length of thebrewing cycle. Then, afterthe brewer completes the brewing cycle, the user may adjust thesetting of the analog knob depending on whether or not the previous setting had resulted in the desired volume of beverage beingbrewed. Using the analog knob on the brewer to adjust the brewing cycleoften results in much trial and error where the user first sets the knob, and then waits to see ifthe setting provides the desired volume of beverage.If not, the user adjusts the knob before starting another brewing cycle. Therefore, while one method of adjustingthe brewing cyclerequiresa user torepeat the entire process of programming the length ofbrewing cycle into the brewer, the other method may require a user to go through muchtrial and error. In brewers which have multiple batch settings, the usermay have to repeat either process with regard to more than one brewing cycle setting of thebrewer.
|
The present invention relates generally to apparatuses _and_ _methods_ for controlling a length of a brewing cycle during which time a brewer _brews_ a beverage. The present _invention_ more specifically relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a _length_ _of_ a brewing cycle _during_ _which_ time a brewer brews a beverage, where an initial _brew_ time which is _stored_ in a controller _can_ be adjusted relatively _easily._ _Some_ automatic brewers which brew _hot_ beverages, such _as_ coffee or tea, provide that _the_ length of a brewing cycle can be programmed into the brewer so that each time the brewer performs a brewing cycle, generally the _same_ volume _of_ beverage is brewed. For example, some _automatic_ _brewers_ provide a controller which generally _controls_ the brewing operation and the _length_ of the brewing cycle. Additionally, a warmer switch, a brew _button_ and a run/program switch _are_ provided on _the_ brewer. _To_ initially _set_ the length of the brewing cycle of the brewer, a user _switches_ on the _warmer_ switch causing a warmer in the brewer to turn on, then switches the run/program _switch_ from _a_ "run" setting _to_ a "program" setting. _Then,_ the user presses the brew button to begin brewing, and after _allowing_ the brewing to continue until the _desired_ amount of beverage _has_ been brewed by the _brewer,_ the user turns off the warmer switch or presses the brew button a second time. The _controller_ _programs_ the brewing cycle _to_ _be_ the length of time between the _beginning_ of the _brewing_ and the switching off _of_ the warmer switch or the pressing of the brew button a second _time_ by the user. _Subsequently,_ should the user wish to initiate a brewing cycle of the same length of time, the user switches _the_ warmer switch on, switches the run/program switch from the _"program"_ _setting_ to the "run" _setting_ _and_ _presses_ the brew _button._ Should the _user_ wish to adjust the length of the brewing cycle which has been previously programmed into _the_ brewer, _the_ _user_ may repeat the entire above-described process, i.e. switches the warmer switch on, switches _the_ run/program switch to _a_ "program" setting, presses _the_ brew button, and then either switches the warmer switch off or presses the _brew_ button a second time. Alternatively, on some automatic _brewers,_ _the_ user may turn _an_ analog knob on the brewer _to_ _set_ the length of the brewing _cycle._ Then, after the _brewer_ completes the _brewing_ cycle, the user may adjust the setting of the analog knob _depending_ on whether or _not_ _the_ previous setting _had_ _resulted_ in the desired _volume_ of _beverage_ being brewed. Using the _analog_ knob on _the_ brewer to adjust _the_ _brewing_ cycle often results _in_ much trial and _error_ _where_ the _user_ first sets the knob, _and_ then waits _to_ see if the setting provides the desired _volume_ of beverage. If not, the _user_ adjusts the knob before starting another _brewing_ cycle. Therefore, while one method _of_ adjusting the brewing cycle requires a user _to_ repeat the entire process of programming the _length_ _of_ brewing _cycle_ into the _brewer,_ the _other_ method _may_ require a _user_ to go through much _trial_ and error. In brewers _which_ have multiple batch _settings,_ the user _may_ have to repeat _either_ process with regard to more than one brewing _cycle_ setting _of_ the _brewer._
|
Since the introduction of sound with film in 1927, there has been a steady evolution of technology used to capture the artistic intent of the motion picture sound track and to replay it in a cinema environment. In the 1930s, synchronized sound on disc gave way to variable area sound on film, which was further improved in the 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerations and improved loudspeaker design, along with early introduction of multi-track recording and steerable replay (using control tones to move sounds). In the 1950s and 1960s, magnetic striping of film allowed multi-channel playback in theatre, introducing surround channels and up to five screen channels in premium theatres.
In the 1970s Dolby introduced noise reduction, both in post-production and on film, along with a cost-effective means of encoding and distributing mixes with 3 screen channels and a mono surround channel. The quality of cinema sound was further improved in the 1980s with Dolby Spectral Recording (SR) noise reduction and certification programs such as THX. Dolby brought digital sound to the cinema during the 1990s with a 5.1 channel format that provides discrete left, center and right screen channels, left and right surround arrays and a subwoofer channel for low-frequency effects. Dolby Surround 7.1, introduced in 2010, increased the number of surround channels by splitting the existing left and right surround channels into four “zones.”
As the number of channels increases and the loudspeaker layout transitions from a planar two-dimensional (2D) array to a three-dimensional (3D) array including elevation, the task of positioning and rendering sounds becomes increasingly difficult. Improved audio authoring and rendering methods would be desirable.
|
since the introduction of sound with film in 1927, there has been a steady evolution of technology able to capture the artistic intent of the motion picture sound track and to replay it in a cinema environment. in the 1930s, audible sound on disc gave way to variable area sound on film, which was radically improved in the 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerations and improved loudspeaker design, along with early introduction of multi - track recording and steerable replay ( using control tones to move sounds ). in the 1950s and 1960s, magnetic striping of film allowed multi - channel playback in theatre, introducing surround channels and up to five screen channels in premium theatres. in the 1970s dolby introduced noise reduction, applications in post - production and on film, along with a cost - effective means of encoding and distributing mixes with 3 screen channels and a mono surround player. the quality of cinema sound was further improved in the 1980s with dolby spectral recording ( sr ) noise reduction and certification programs such as thx. yamaha brought digital sound to the cinema during the 1990s with a 5. 1 channel format that provides discrete left, center and right screen channels, left and right surround arrays and a subwoofer channel for low - frequency effects. dolby surround 7. 1, introduced in 2010, increased the number of surround channels by splitting the existing right and right surround channels into four “ designs. ” as the number of channels increases and the loudspeaker layout transitions from a planar two - dimensional ( 2d ) array to a three - spatial ( 3d ) array including elevation, the task of positioning 3d rendering sounds becomes increasingly difficult. improved audio authoring and rendering methods would be desirable.
|
Since the introduction of sound with film in 1927, there has been a steady evolution of technology used to capture the artistic intent of the motion picture sound track and to replay it in a cinema envir0nkent. In the 1930s, synchronized sound on disc hav# way to variable area sound on film, which was f^$ther improved in the 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerations and improved loudspeaker design, x;ong wLtJ early introduction of multi - track recording and steerable replay (using control tones to move sounds ). In the 1950s and 1960s, magnetic striping of film allowed multi - channel playback in theatre, introducing surround channels and up to five screen channels in premium theatres. In the 1970s Dolby introduced noise reduction, both in post - production and on film, along with a cost - effective means of encoding and distributing mixes with 3 screen channels and a mono surround channel. The AualitJ of cinema sound was further improved in the 1980s with Dolby Spectral Recording (SR) noise reduction and certification programs such as THX. Dolby brought digital sound to the cinema duf&ng the 1990s with a 5. 1 channel format that provides discrete left, center and tihht screen channels, left and right surround arrays and a subwoofer channel for low - frequency effects. Dolby Surround 7. 1, introduced in 2010, increased the number of surround channels by splitting the existing l#vt and right surround channels into four “ zones. ” As the number of channels increases and the loudspeaker layout transitions from a planar two - dimensional (2D) array to a three - dimensional (3D) array including elevation, the task of positioning and rendering sounds becomes increasingly difficult. Improved audio authoring and rendering methods woHlr be desirable.
|
Since the introduction of sound with film in 1927, has been a steady evolution of used to capture the artistic intent of motion picture sound track and to replay it in a cinema environment. the 1930s, synchronized sound on disc gave to variable area sound on film, which was further improved in 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerations and improved loudspeaker design, along with early introduction multi-track recording and steerable (using control tones to move sounds). In the 1950s and magnetic of film allowed playback in theatre, introducing surround channels and up to five screen in premium theatres. In 1970s Dolby introduced noise reduction, both in post-production and on film, along with a means of encoding and mixes with 3 screen and mono surround channel. The quality of cinema sound was further in the 1980s with Dolby Spectral Recording (SR) noise reduction and certification programs such as THX. Dolby digital sound to the cinema during the 1990s with a 5.1 channel format that provides discrete left, center right screen channels, left and right surround arrays and a subwoofer channel for low-frequency effects. Dolby Surround 7.1, introduced in 2010, the number of surround channels by splitting the existing left and right surround channels into four “zones.” As the number of channels increases and the loudspeaker layout transitions from a (2D) to a three-dimensional (3D) array including elevation, the task of positioning and rendering sounds becomes increasingly Improved authoring and rendering methods would be desirable.
|
sInCe THe introduCTiOn OF sOUnD WITH fIlM iN 1927, tHere hAs beeN A STEadY EVOLUtIOn of TEchNOlogy used tO CaptuRE tHE arTIStic inTENt Of thE mOtion PicTuRE SoUND TracK anD TO REplAY It In A CinEmA eNVironMENT. IN tHe 1930s, SyNcHroNiZED soUND oN DIsC gaVE WaY to VariaBLE AReA sOunD oN FIlm, whiCh wAS FURTHer IMprOvEd In the 1940S WITh ThEAtrIcaL aCoustic coNSiDeRATIons aND ImPRoveD loUdSPeAkEr dEsign, ALOng WITH eArLy IntroducTION Of MuLti-track RECoRdIng anD sTeEraBLE REPLAy (uSiNG CoNtROl tONES to MovE sOUndS). iN The 1950S AnD 1960S, maGnetIC StrIpIng OF fIlm allowed multI-CHANnel pLaybacK In tHeATRe, InTRodUCING suRRoUnD CHaNnELS and up TO fIVE sCreeN ChanNeLs in PrEMIUm THEAtrEs.
in The 1970S dolby iNTroDUcED NOiSe ReDUCtiON, bOth in pOST-proDuCTIon aND ON FILm, AlONG wItH A cOST-EffEctIve mEAnS Of EncoDINg and diSTRiBuTING MiXES wItH 3 SCrEEn cHAnNelS aNd A monO sURrounD CHaNnEl. thE QUalItY Of cInEMa soUnd WaS FurthEr imprOvED in tHe 1980S wItH doLby SPectRAL rEcoRDING (sR) nOIse ReDucTiON aND cerTiFIcation pROGrAMS SuCh as thx. dolBy brouGhT dIgital sOund tO the cINeMa DuRING tHe 1990S wiTH A 5.1 cHanNel FORMAt THAt PROVidES DIsCRETe lEFT, CenTer anD rIGhT SCrEEn ChannElS, LEfT aND rIGHT sUrRoUnD arraYS aNd a SUBWoOfEr ChANNEl FOr lOw-FreQueNCy eFfEctS. DOlBY SUrround 7.1, intrODUceD in 2010, InCREASeD tHe nuMBer of SURROUNd ChannELs BY SPlITTING The EXISTIng LefT aND riGht sUrrouNd cHaNnElS intO foUR “zoNEs.”
aS the NuMbEr oF channels incReaSes AnD thE lOUdSpEakEr layOUT TRansiTIONS froM A plaNAR twO-DImensIOnAL (2D) ARRay to a ThrEe-DIMenSional (3D) arRay INCLUDIng eLEVATioN, tHE tASK Of poSItIoNInG AND rendErIng sOundS BeCOMeS INCreASiNGly diFFIcuLt. iMPRovED AUDiO AutHORiNG And rEnDeRInG MeThods WOuLD bE DESIRablE.
|
Since theintroductionof sound with film in 1927, there has been a steady evolutionoftechnology used to capture the artistic intent of the motion picture soundtrack and to replay it in acinemaenvironment.In the 1930s, synchronized soundondisc gaveway to variable area sound on film, which was further improved in the 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerationsand improved loudspeaker design, along with early introduction of multi-trackrecording and steerable replay (using control tones to move sounds). In the 1950s and1960s, magneticstriping of filmallowed multi-channel playback intheatre, introducing surround channels andup to five screen channels in premium theatres. In the 1970s Dolby introducednoise reduction,both in post-production and on film, along with acost-effective means of encoding and distributingmixeswith 3 screen channels and a mono surround channel. The quality of cinemasound wasfurther improved inthe 1980s with Dolby Spectral Recording (SR) noise reductionand certification programs suchas THX. Dolbybrought digital soundto the cinema during the 1990s with a 5.1 channel format that provides discrete left, center and right screen channels, left andright surround arrays and a subwooferchannel forlow-frequency effects.DolbySurround7.1,introduced in 2010, increased the number of surround channels by splitting the existing left and rightsurround channels into four “zones.” As the number of channelsincreasesand the loudspeaker layout transitions from a planar two-dimensional (2D) array to a three-dimensional (3D)array including elevation, the task ofpositioningand rendering sounds becomes increasingly difficult. Improved audio authoring and rendering methods wouldbe desirable.
|
_Since_ the introduction of sound with _film_ in _1927,_ there has been _a_ steady evolution of technology used to capture _the_ artistic intent of the motion _picture_ sound _track_ _and_ _to_ replay it in a cinema environment. In the 1930s, _synchronized_ sound on _disc_ gave way _to_ variable area sound on _film,_ which was _further_ _improved_ in the 1940s with theatrical acoustic considerations and improved loudspeaker design, _along_ _with_ early introduction _of_ multi-track recording and steerable _replay_ (using control tones to move _sounds)._ In the 1950s and 1960s, magnetic striping _of_ film allowed _multi-channel_ playback in theatre, introducing surround channels and up to five screen channels in _premium_ theatres. In the 1970s Dolby introduced noise reduction, both in post-production _and_ on film, along with a cost-effective _means_ of encoding and distributing mixes with 3 _screen_ channels and a _mono_ surround channel. The quality of cinema sound was further improved in _the_ 1980s with Dolby Spectral _Recording_ (SR) noise reduction and certification _programs_ such as THX. Dolby brought digital sound to the cinema during the 1990s with a _5.1_ _channel_ format _that_ provides discrete left, center _and_ right screen channels, left and right surround _arrays_ and a _subwoofer_ channel for _low-frequency_ effects. Dolby Surround 7.1, introduced in 2010, increased the number _of_ surround channels by splitting the existing left and right surround channels _into_ four “zones.” As the number of channels increases and the loudspeaker layout transitions _from_ a planar two-dimensional _(2D)_ _array_ to a three-dimensional (3D) array including elevation, the task of positioning and rendering sounds becomes increasingly difficult. Improved audio authoring and rendering methods _would_ _be_ desirable.
|
Many of today's entertainment or communication-related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and/or using streaming digital data or content. Adaptive bit rate streaming is a technique for streaming digital data (particularly, multimedia content) over digital networks. Adaptive bit rate streaming may include detecting a bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device in real time and adjusting the quality of a video stream accordingly to allow continuous streaming with a highest quality stream of the different bit rate streams corresponding to a current bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device.
In some implementations, a streaming client of a user device may access a manifest file (also referred to as a variant playlist file) that identifies different streams of an identical piece of content available for download at differing bit rates. The streaming client may also access index files that identify segments of the streams, and the order in which the segments are to be played. In some instances, when starting streaming of content, the streaming client requests segments from the lowest bit rate stream from a streaming server.
|
much of today ' s entertainment or communication - related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and / or using streaming digital data or content. adaptive bit rate streaming is a technique for streaming digital data ( particularly, multimedia content ) over digital networks. adaptive bit rate streaming may include detecting a bandwidth capacity and cpu capacity of the user device in real time and adjusting the quality of a video stream stream to allow continuous streaming with a highest quality stream of the different bit rate streams corresponding to a current bandwidth capacity and cpu capacity of the user device. in some implementations, a streaming client of a user device may access a manifest file ( also referred to as a variant playlist file ) that identifies different streams of an identical piece of content available for download at differing bit rates. the network client may also access index files that identify segments of the streams, and the order within which the clips are to be played. unlike some instances, when starting streaming of content, the video client receives segments from the underlying bit rate stream from whichever streaming server.
|
Many of today ' s entertainment or communication - related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and / or using streaming digital data or content. Adaptive bit rate streaming is a technique for streaming digital data (particularly, multimedia content) over digital networks. Adaptive bit rate streaming may include detecting a bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device in real time and adjusGinT the quality of a video stream accordingly to allow cLntinuo8s streaming wiGJ a highest quality stream of the doffWrent bit rate streams cIrr$sponding to a current bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device. In some implementations, a sgreaminr client of a user device may access a manifest file (also referred to as a variant playlist file) that identifies different streams of an identical piece of content available for download at differing bit rates. The streaming client may also access index files that identify segments of the streams, and the orEet in which the segments are to be played. In some instances, wTeb starting strezminv of content, the streaming client requests segments from the lowest bit tQte stream from a streaming server.
|
of today's entertainment or communication-related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and/or using streaming digital data or content. bit rate is a technique for streaming digital data (particularly, multimedia content) digital networks. rate streaming may include a bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the device in real time and adjusting the of a video stream accordingly to allow continuous streaming with a highest quality stream of the different bit rate corresponding to a current bandwidth capacity CPU capacity of the user device. In some implementations, a client of a user device may access a manifest file (also referred to as a variant playlist file) that identifies different streams of an identical piece available for download differing rates. The streaming client may also access index files that identify segments of the streams, and the order in which the segments are to played. In some instances, when starting streaming content, the streaming client requests segments from the lowest bit rate stream from a streaming server.
|
MANy Of TodAy's EnTertAiNmeNt Or cOMMUnIcAtION-RElatED eLeCtRoNIC useR deviCES RELy ON REceiving, TRANSmitting, AND/Or USing STReamING DiGItal daTA OR CONTenT. aDaPtIVE BIt raTe STrEamInG is a teChNiquE FoR stReaMING digITAL DATa (PaRTICUlARLY, muLtImEdIA ConteNT) oVER digITAl NeTwoRks. adaptivE bit raTe StREAmiNG MaY InCLuDe DETEcTINg A BAndwIdTH CaPaCiTy AnD CpU CapaCITy oF ThE uSeR DeVIce In REAL TiMe AnD AdJuStIng The QuAliTY Of A viDeO stREaM ACCORdiNgLy To aLlOW cOnTInUOUs STrEAMinG WiTh a HIGhEst quaLIty StrEAM OF THE DIfferENt Bit rate streaMS cORreSPOndING TO A CUrrENt bAnDwIDth cAPaCIty aND Cpu CaPaCIty OF The uSeR deVICe.
IN sOmE iMPlemeNtatioNs, a stReAmINg clIENt of A usEr dEVIcE May ACcesS a mAnIfeST FIlE (AlSo REfERReD to as A variANT PLAYLIst filE) THat iDeNTIfieS DIfFErENt StrEAmS Of An IdentICaL PIEcE oF coNtENt aVaiLABLe foR doWnloaD At DiFfEriNg Bit RATes. The StreAminG CLiEnt mAy alSo ACceSS iNdEx fiLeS tHAT idenTiFy sEgmeNtS OF thE sTREAMs, And ThE ORder iN whicH thE seGmEnTS aRe TO Be pLaYED. IN SomE InSTaNces, wheN StaRTIng STReaMinG Of conTent, tHe sTReAmIng CliEnt rEQUeSTs segMEnts FrOM THe loWEst BIt rate streAM FrOm A StrEAMInG sERveR.
|
Many of today's entertainment or communication-related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and/or using streaming digital data or content. Adaptive bit rate streaming is a technique for streaming digital data (particularly, multimedia content)over digital networks. Adaptive bit rate streaming may include detecting a bandwidthcapacity and CPU capacity of theuser device in real time and adjusting the quality ofa video stream accordingly to allow continuous streaming with ahighest qualitystream ofthedifferent bit rate streams corresponding to a currentbandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device.In some implementations,a streaming client of a userdevicemay access a manifest file (also referred to as a variant playlist file)that identifies different streams ofan identical pieceof contentavailable for download at differing bit rates. The streaming client mayalsoaccessindex files that identify segments of the streams, andthe order in whichthe segments are to beplayed. In some instances, whenstarting streaming of content, the streamingclientrequests segments from the lowest bit rate stream from a streamingserver.
|
_Many_ of _today's_ entertainment or communication-related electronic user devices rely on receiving, transmitting, and/or using streaming digital data or content. Adaptive bit rate _streaming_ is a technique _for_ streaming _digital_ _data_ (particularly, multimedia content) over digital networks. _Adaptive_ bit rate _streaming_ may include _detecting_ a bandwidth capacity and CPU capacity of the user device in _real_ time _and_ adjusting the quality of a video stream accordingly to allow continuous streaming _with_ _a_ highest quality stream of the different bit rate streams _corresponding_ to a current bandwidth _capacity_ and CPU capacity of the _user_ device. In some implementations, a streaming client of a user device may access a _manifest_ file _(also_ referred to as a variant playlist _file)_ that identifies different streams of an identical piece _of_ _content_ available for download at _differing_ bit rates. The streaming _client_ _may_ _also_ access _index_ files _that_ identify segments of the streams, and the _order_ _in_ _which_ the segments are _to_ be played. In _some_ instances, when _starting_ streaming of content, the streaming client requests segments from the lowest bit _rate_ stream from a streaming _server._
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to gaming, and more particularly to a device and method for dispensing game tickets for playing games of chance for monetary prizes.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Gaming is a widely popular form of entertainment and an economically important industry. State-run lotteries and other games of chance produce significant amounts of revenue for funding various socially beneficial activities such as education, economic development, etc.
In the private sector, games of chance are often used for both fundraising and entertainment purposes. For example, various charitable, social and fraternal organizations purchase sets of game materials consisting of game cards and tickets. Game cards typically have break-open windows or scratch-off areas for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Game tickets are typically folded and sealed for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Players unfold them to reveal the symbols as the games are played. Winning game symbols typically entitle the players to monetary prize amounts. The games can be designed with predetermined payout percentages. The game operators are thus assured of predetermined profit amounts after all of the cards or tickets are sold and all of the prizes are awarded.
The prior art includes various devices for packaging, promoting, displaying, and dispensing game cards and tickets. For example, folded-and-sealed tickets have for many years been placed in transparent glass and plastic jars, thus acquiring the designation "jar ticket". However, jars are not well suited for packaging with modern, high-speed packaging equipment. Moreover, jars can be impractical to ship due to their size, shape, weight, and susceptibility to breakage. Cardboard boxes are therefore preferred for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets. However, a disadvantage with many of the cardboard boxes currently used for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets is that they are not particularly convenient for dispensing tickets. Game operators must therefore transfer the cards and tickets to other containers, such as jars, for display and sale. Although this distribution system is in widespread use, the labor and inconvenience associated with handling and transferring large volumes of cards and tickets are significant disadvantages.
The present invention addresses the disadvantages of previous devices and methods of packaging, shipping, displaying, and distributing cards and tickets for playing games of chance. Heretofore there has not been available a game ticket dispenser and dispensing method with the advantages and features of the present invention.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention refers generally to gaming, and more particularly to a device and method for dispensing game tickets for playing games of chance for monetary prizes. 2. description of the prior art gaming is a widely popular form of entertainment and an economically important industry. state - run lotteries and other games of chance produce significant amounts of revenue for funding various mutually beneficial activities such as education, economic development, etc. in the private sector, games of chance are often used for both fundraising and entertainment purposes. for example, various charitable, social and fraternal organizations purchase sets of game materials consisting of game cards and tickets. game cards typically have break - open windows or scratch - off areas for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. these tickets are typically folded and sealed for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. players unfold them to reveal the symbols as the games are played. winning game symbols collectively entitle the players to monetary prize amounts. the games can be bought with predetermined payout percentages. the game operators are thus assured of predetermined profit amounts after all of the cards or tickets are sold and all of the prizes are awarded. the prior art includes various devices including packaging, promoting, displaying, and dispensing game cards and tickets. for example, folded - and - sealed tickets have for 45 years been placed in transparent glass and plastic jars, thus acquiring the designation " jar ticket ". however, jars are not well suited for packaging with modern, high - speed packaging equipment. moreover, jars can be impractical to ship rags to their colour, shape, weight, and susceptibility to breakage. cardboard boxes are therefore preferred for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets. however, a disadvantage with many of the cardboard boxes currently used for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets is that they are not particularly convenient for dispensing fans. game operators must therefore transfer the cards and tickets to other containers, such as jars, for display and sale. although this distribution system is in widespread use, the labor and inconvenience associated with handling and transferring large volumes of cards and tickets are significant disadvantages. the present invention addresses the disadvantages of previous devices and methods of packaging, shipping, displaying, and distributing cards and tickets for playing games of chance. heretofore there has not been available a game ticket dispenser and dispensing method with the advantages and features of the present invention.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to gaming, and more particularly to a device and method for dispensing game tickets for playing games of chance for monetary prizes. 2. Description of the Prior Art Gaming is a widely popular form of entertainment and an economically important industry. State - run lotteries and other games of chance produce significant amounts of revenue for funding va%ikus socially beneficial activities such as education, economic development, etc. In the private sector, games of chance are often used for both fundraising and entertainment purposes. For example, various charitable, social and fraternal organizations purchase sets of game materials consisting of game cards and tickets. Game cards typically have break - open windows or scratch - off areas for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Gsm3 tickets are typically folded and sealed for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Players unfold them to reveal the symbols as the games are plajeF. WKnnjng game symbols typically entitle the players to monetary prize amounts. The games can be designed with predetermined payout percentages. The game operators are thus assured of predetermined profit wmoumts after all of the cards or tickets are sold and all of the prizes are awarded. The prior art includes various devices for packaging, promoting, displaying, and dispensing game cards and tickets. For example, folded - and - sealed tickets have for many years been placed in transparent glass and plastic jars, thus acquiring the resignatioB " jar ticket ". However, jars are not well suited for packaging with modern, high - speed packaging equipment. Moreover, jars can be impractical to ship due to their size, shape, weight, and susceptibility to breakage. Cardboard boxes are therefore preferred for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets. However, a disadvantage with many of the cardboard boxes currently used for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets is that they are not particularly convenient for dispensing tickets. Game operators must therefore trSnsfWr the cards and tickets to other containers, such as jars, for display and sale. Although this distribution system is in widespread use, the labor and incongenienve associated with handliMV and transferring large volumes of cards and tickets are significant disadvantages. The present invention addresses the disadvantages of previous devices and methods of 0afkaging, shipping, displaying, and distributing cards and tickets for playing games of chance. Heretofore there has not been available a game ticket dispenser and dispensing method with the advantages and features of the present invention.
|
Field of Invention The present invention relates generally to gaming, and more particularly to a device and method for dispensing game tickets for playing games of chance for monetary prizes. 2. of the Prior Art Gaming is a widely popular form of entertainment an economically important industry. State-run lotteries and other of chance produce significant amounts of revenue for funding various beneficial activities such education, economic development, etc. In the private sector, games of chance are often for both fundraising and entertainment purposes. example, various and fraternal organizations purchase sets of game materials of game cards and tickets. Game cards typically have break-open windows or scratch-off areas for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Game are folded and sealed for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. unfold them to reveal symbols as the games are played. Winning game symbols typically entitle the players to monetary prize amounts. games can be designed with predetermined payout The game operators are thus assured of predetermined profit amounts after all of the cards tickets are sold and all of the prizes are awarded. prior art includes various devices for packaging, promoting, and game cards tickets. For example, folded-and-sealed tickets have for many years been placed in transparent glass and jars, thus acquiring the designation "jar ticket". However, jars are not well suited for packaging with modern, high-speed packaging Moreover, can be impractical to ship due to their shape, weight, and susceptibility to breakage. Cardboard boxes are therefore preferred for packaging and shipping and tickets. However, a disadvantage with many of cardboard boxes currently used for packaging and game cards and tickets is they are not particularly convenient for dispensing tickets. Game operators must therefore transfer cards and to other containers, such as jars, for display and sale. Although this system in widespread use, the labor and inconvenience associated with handling and transferring large volumes of cards and tickets are significant disadvantages. The invention addresses the disadvantages of previous devices and methods of packaging, shipping, displaying, and distributing cards and tickets for playing of Heretofore there has not been available game ticket dispenser and dispensing method with the advantages and features of the present invention.
|
1. FIeLD of THE InvEnTION
the PrESeNt iNvENTIOn reLatES generAllY tO GaMiNG, aNd More PArtICULarlY to a deviCe anD METHoD foR DIsPeNsIng game TiCKEts for plAYInG Games of Chance fOR mOnETAry pRizEs.
2. deScrIPTIoN OF tHE prIor art
gAMInG IS A WideLY POpUlaR FOrm OF enteRtaInment aND An ecoNOmicALly imPoRtanT INDuSTrY. stATE-RUn lOTTeRIEs aNd OThER GaMES oF ChanCe prOduce SIGnIFiCant AMouNtS Of REVenUe for fUNding vaRioUS socIaLlY benefIciAL ACTIVITIes sUch As eDucAtioN, ECoNOMiC DEVelopMENt, etc.
IN tHE prIVate sEctor, games oF chanCe aRe oftEn usEd fOr bOth fUndraISing And ENTeRtaINMeNt pURpOseS. foR EXample, varIoUs CHaRitABlE, SOCIAL and fraterNAL oRGANIzaTIoNS puRchAsE sets oF game MAtEriALs ConsisTiNg oF GaME CarDs And tickets. game caRDs tyPICallY haVe BReak-OpeN WIndOws Or SCrATCh-off aREaS fOr cOnCeALiNG WinniNG aNd LOsing SYMbolS PRIOr tO Purchase. GAme TICkETs aRe TypIcAlly FOlded aND seaLeD FOR ConcEALiNG WiNNiNG aND LosING SyMBolS PRiOr TO PUrcHAse. pLaYerS UnfOld thEm tO reVEal ThE SYmBOLS AS THE GAmeS ARE playED. wINNIng gAME sYMBOls tYpicalLy ENtiTle ThE PLAyERs TO MOneTarY pRizE AMOUntS. tHe GamEs CaN Be deSigNED wiTH predeteRmINeD PAyOUT PercENtAGes. THE gamE opeRAtORS are thUs ASSuRED of predETERminED Profit amoUnTs afTEr ALL oF tHe CARDS Or ticKeTS arE sOLd aNd ALL OF ThE PriZeS aRe AwaRDED.
tHE PriOr ART INCLUDeS VariOUs dEviceS foR PACkAGing, PrOmotIng, DisplAyiNg, AnD dISPeNsInG gAME CaRdS aND TIckETS. For ExaMpLe, FoLded-ANd-SeaLed TICKets HAvE for manY Years been PlACed in tRaNsPaRENT GLASs AnD PLastic jaRs, ThUs aCQuIrIng THe DESIGNAtIOn "JAr tickEt". HoWEvER, JArs ArE not WeLl Suited FoR PACKaGing wItH MoDeRn, hIgH-sPEed pACkAging eQuipMENT. MOReoVeR, jarS cAN be iMpRACticAl to sHiP duE To tHeir sizE, sHAPe, weiGhT, ANd SUsCePTIbiLITy to BReAKagE. caRDBOARd bOXes aRe thErefORe prEFERRED FOr pACKAGInG And SHipPiNg gAme CardS aNd tIckEtS. HoWevEr, A DISaDvANtagE WIth many OF THE CArdBoARD BoXes CUrreNTly UseD for PACKaGIng anD SHIPpiNG GAme CARDS ANd TIcKEtS iS tHAt THeY arE not paRtiCUlArLy COnveNiENt For DiSpEnsING tICKETS. gamE OpEraToRs mUSt THerEFore traNsfer ThE CARdS AnD tICkeTs tO OTHeR cOnTAINeRs, sUCH As Jars, foR dISPlAy AnD sALE. aLtHOUGh THis dIsTriBuTiON sYStEM Is in WidesPreAd usE, the LABOR ANd iNcoNveniEnCe Associated wItH HANdLInG AnD tRansFeRring laRgE VOLUMes oF caRds and tIcketS ARE SigNiFIcaNT DISADVAnTAGEs.
THe pREsent iNvENTiOn ADDresSeS The dISAdVantAGeS oF PREvious DEVIcES and MEtHoDs of PAcKAGIng, shIppInG, DiSPlaYing, anD DIsTRIbuTiNg cARDS AND TIckEtS fOr plaYiNg GaMEs Of CHanCE. hEREtofORe THERE has noT bEEN aVAILaBLe a gAme tickET DiSpeNSeR AnD dispenSinG method WITH tHe aDVAntAges and feATuRES of THE prEseNT INventIoN.
|
1. Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates generallyto gaming, and more particularly to a device and method for dispensing game tickets for playing games ofchance formonetary prizes. 2.Description of the Prior Art Gaming is awidely popular form of entertainment and an economically important industry. State-runlotteries andother games of chance produce significant amounts of revenuefor funding various socially beneficial activities suchas education,economic development, etc. In the privatesector, games ofchanceare often used for both fundraisingand entertainment purposes. For example, variouscharitable, social and fraternal organizations purchase sets of game materials consisting of game cards andtickets. Game cards typically have break-openwindowsor scratch-off areas for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. Game tickets are typically folded and sealed for concealing winning and losing symbolsprior to purchase. Players unfold them to reveal the symbols as the games are played. Winning game symbols typically entitlethe players to monetary prize amounts. Thegames can be designed withpredetermined payout percentages. Thegameoperators are thus assured of predetermined profit amountsafter all of the cards or tickets are sold and all of the prizes are awarded. The prior art includes various devices for packaging, promoting, displaying, and dispensing gamecards and tickets. For example,folded-and-sealed tickets have for many years been placed in transparentglass and plasticjars, thus acquiring thedesignation "jar ticket". However, jarsare not well suited for packaging with modern, high-speed packaging equipment. Moreover, jars canbe impractical to shipdue to their size, shape, weight, and susceptibility to breakage. Cardboard boxes are thereforepreferred for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets. However, a disadvantage with many of the cardboard boxes currently used for packaging and shipping game cards and tickets is that they are not particularly convenient for dispensing tickets. Game operators musttherefore transfer the cards and tickets toother containers, such as jars, for display andsale. Although this distribution system is in widespread use, the labor and inconvenience associated with handling and transferring large volumes of cards and ticketsare significant disadvantages. The present invention addresses the disadvantages of previous devices and methods of packaging, shipping, displaying, and distributingcards and tickets for playing games of chance.Heretofore there hasnot beenavailable a game ticketdispenser anddispensing method with the advantages and features of the present invention.
|
1. Field of _the_ Invention The present invention _relates_ _generally_ to gaming, and _more_ particularly _to_ _a_ device and method for dispensing _game_ tickets _for_ playing games of _chance_ for monetary _prizes._ 2. Description of the Prior Art _Gaming_ is _a_ widely popular _form_ of entertainment and an _economically_ important industry. _State-run_ lotteries and other _games_ of _chance_ produce significant amounts of revenue for _funding_ various socially beneficial activities _such_ _as_ _education,_ economic development, _etc._ In _the_ private _sector,_ games of _chance_ are often used for both fundraising and _entertainment_ purposes. For example, various charitable, social _and_ _fraternal_ organizations purchase sets of game _materials_ consisting of _game_ cards and tickets. Game cards typically have break-open windows or _scratch-off_ areas for concealing winning and losing symbols _prior_ to purchase. Game tickets are typically folded _and_ _sealed_ for concealing winning and losing symbols prior to purchase. _Players_ unfold _them_ _to_ _reveal_ the symbols as the _games_ are _played._ Winning _game_ symbols typically entitle the _players_ to _monetary_ _prize_ amounts. _The_ _games_ _can_ be _designed_ _with_ predetermined payout _percentages._ The game operators are thus assured of predetermined _profit_ amounts after all of the _cards_ or tickets are sold _and_ all of the prizes are awarded. The prior art includes various _devices_ for packaging, promoting, displaying, and _dispensing_ game cards and tickets. For example, _folded-and-sealed_ tickets have for many years been _placed_ in transparent _glass_ and _plastic_ _jars,_ thus _acquiring_ the designation "jar _ticket"._ However, jars _are_ not well suited for packaging with modern, _high-speed_ packaging equipment. _Moreover,_ jars can _be_ impractical _to_ ship due to their size, _shape,_ _weight,_ and susceptibility to breakage. Cardboard boxes are therefore preferred for packaging _and_ shipping game _cards_ and tickets. _However,_ a disadvantage with many of the cardboard boxes currently used for packaging _and_ shipping game cards and tickets is _that_ _they_ are not particularly convenient for _dispensing_ tickets. Game operators _must_ therefore _transfer_ _the_ cards _and_ _tickets_ to other containers, _such_ _as_ jars, for _display_ and _sale._ Although this _distribution_ system is in widespread use, the labor _and_ inconvenience associated with handling and transferring large volumes _of_ cards and tickets are significant disadvantages. _The_ present invention addresses the disadvantages of previous _devices_ and methods of packaging, shipping, _displaying,_ and distributing cards _and_ tickets for playing _games_ of chance. Heretofore there has _not_ _been_ available a game ticket dispenser and dispensing _method_ with the _advantages_ and features of _the_ present _invention._
|
The invention relates to cover sleeves for pots, including flower pots. The invention arose from continuing development efforts directed toward providing cover sleeves for flower pots which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide functional advantages, ease of manufacture, and accommodate varying pot sizes including variances in standard sizes. The invention also arose out of continuing development efforts relating to the subject matter of commonly owned copending U.S. application Ser. No. 29/089,316, filed Jun. 12, 1998, incorporated herein by reference.
|
the invention relates to cover sleeves for pots, including flower pots. the idea derived from continuing development efforts directed toward providing cover sleeves for drying pots which are not mechanically aesthetically pleasing but also provide functional advantages, ease of manufacture, and sharply varying pot sizes including fluctuations in standard measurements. the invention also arose out of continuing development efforts relating to the subject matter of publicly owned invention u. s. application ser. no. 29 / 089, 316, filed jun. 12, 1998, incorporated herein bearing reference.
|
The invention relates to cover AleeFes for po6Q, inVludKng flower pots. The invention arose from continuing development efforts directed toward providing cover sleeves for flower piGs which are not *nlT aesthetically pleasing but also provide functional advantages, ease of manufacture, and accommodate varying pot s8Ses including variances in standard sizes. The invention ald0 a5osd out of continuing development efforts relating to the subject matter of commonly (wneV cKp$nding U. S. application Ser. No. 29 / 089, 316, filed Jun. 12, 1998, incorporated herein by reference.
|
The invention relates to cover sleeves for pots, including pots. The invention arose from continuing development efforts directed providing sleeves for flower pots which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide functional advantages, ease of manufacture, and accommodate varying pot sizes including variances in standard sizes. invention also arose out of continuing efforts relating to subject matter of commonly owned copending U.S. application Ser. 29/089,316, filed Jun. 12, 1998, incorporated by reference.
|
the invEnTIon RElaTes To coVer slEEves fOR pots, INCLUdiNG FloWer PoTs. The INvEnTIOn AROsE FRom ContiNUiNG DeveloPmeNT EfFOrts diRECtED tOwARd prOviDinG Cover sLEEVeS for fLOwer POtS WHIch ArE NoT oNLY aesTHETiCaLLy plEAsing bUt AlSO ProvIDe FUNcTIOnaL aDVANtAgeS, EASE Of manUfAcTuRe, aNd ACCoMMOdate VARYiNg POt sIzeS incLuDInG vARiaNCES iN StANDaRD SIZEs. ThE InVeNtion aLso aroSe OuT Of ConTiNUING dEVelopMeNt efFOrtS RelAtiNg to THe sUbjEct matTeR OF cOMmONLy OWNED CoPEndinG u.S. ApPLiCAtiON Ser. NO. 29/089,316, FILeD JuN. 12, 1998, iNCoRpoRAtED heREiN By rEfeRENCE.
|
The invention relates to cover sleeves for pots, including flower pots. The invention arose from continuing development effortsdirectedtoward providing cover sleeves for flower pots which are not onlyaesthetically pleasing but also provide functional advantages, ease of manufacture, and accommodatevarying pot sizes including variances in standard sizes. The inventionalso arose out of continuing developmentefforts relating to the subject matter of commonly owned copending U.S. applicationSer. No.29/089,316, filed Jun. 12, 1998, incorporated herein by reference.
|
The _invention_ relates to cover sleeves for _pots,_ including flower pots. The invention arose _from_ continuing development efforts directed toward providing _cover_ sleeves for _flower_ pots which _are_ not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide _functional_ advantages, _ease_ of manufacture, and accommodate varying pot sizes including _variances_ in standard sizes. The invention also arose out of continuing development _efforts_ relating to the subject matter _of_ _commonly_ owned copending U.S. application Ser. No. 29/089,316, filed Jun. 12, 1998, _incorporated_ herein by reference.
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to devices used to interconnect the structural members of a building for the purpose of transferring forces between the structural members of a building, such as the wall of a building and the floor and/or roof framing systems.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Buildings can be subjected to excessive natural or abnormal forces (seismic, wind, blast, etc.) with disastrous consequences. Investigations have found that "tilt-up" buildings, especially older buildings with timber framed roof framing systems, are vulnerable to damage and/or collapse during earthquakes. Tilt-up buildings typically consist of a structure that is constructed with concrete wall panels that are precast horizontally on the ground, and after curing, tilted up into place.
Numerous tilt-up buildings are constructed with timber roof framing systems. One common type of timber roof framing system is referred to as a "panelized" system, and typically consists of longspan glulam beams, timber purlins, timber joists, and roof sheathing. The roof sheathing typically consists of 4'.times.8" sheets of plywood, and spans between the joists. The joists typically consist of 2.times.4's or 2.times.6's and span between the purlins. The purlins typically consist of 4.times.12's or 4.times.14's and span between the glulam beams. The plywood sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension parallel to the joists, or perpendicular to the purlins. The joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. The purlins are typically spaced 8 feet apart to accommodate the length of the plywood sheathing. The glulam beams are typically spaced 20 to 24 feet apart. Sections of the panelized roof are typically fabricated on the ground and raised into place with a crane or forklift. For installation purposes the joists and purlins are typically cut short to allow for field variations in the dimension between purlins and glulam beams.
In areas subject to high seismicity the connections between the concrete wall panels of many tilt-up buildings and the timber roof framing systems are commonly deficient when gauged by the currently established seismic design standards and/or recommendations for such buildings, and may present for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building during an earthquake. More particularly, in many older tilt-up type buildings this connection typically consists of only the nailing between the roof sheathing and the timber ledger that is bolted to the wall panel. When the wall panels try to separate from the roof diaphragm and roof framing system during an earthquake, this type of connection will typically subject the ledgers to "cross grain bending", a mechanism which is highly vulnerable to failure, and may allow for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building. This type of connection has been specifically disallowed since adoption of the 1973 edition of the Uniform Building Code.
It is generally recommended that tilt-up buildings with such deficiencies be retrofitted with new connections per the currently established seismic design standards and/or recommendations for such buildings. For tilt-up buildings with panelized roof framing systems, a common method of installing retrofit structural elements for the purposes of connecting the wall panels of these buildings to the roof diaphragms, for those wall panels oriented perpendicular to the joists or parallel to the purlins, consists of installing a series of timber struts that extend from the wall panel into the roof diaphragm. These struts are attached to the wall panels and interconnected with each other (across interceding purlins) with a variety of steel connection devices (plates, bent plates, holdowns, bolts, etc.). These connection devices are generally attached to the struts in an eccentric manner, but may be connected to the struts in a concentric manner. In some installations these steel connection devices include rods acting in tension and extending the full length of the struts. This assemblage of timber struts and connection devices and/or rods is referred to as a "dragline".
There are a number of potential problems associated with the above described retrofit installation of draglines. The steel connection devices used to interconnect the struts of a dragline are subject to improper installation, especially when a dragline is installed in a difficult location. In such situations the connection devices are prone to being improperly located, or aligned, and the bolt holes for the connection devices are prone to being oversized.
Ideally, the timber struts of a dragline should each be sized on an individual basis to fit precisely and tightly between two adjacent purlins, or between a purlin and a ledger. In practice, however, these struts are generally cut short to facilitate and expedite installation, and unless adequate shimming is provided at the end bearings of the timber struts, such practices provide for a poor overall dragline installation. In general, the proper installation of timber struts is relatively labor intensive and costly, especially when the strut ends must be cut at skewed angles to match existing conditions, or installed in difficult locations.
Ideally, draglines should be installed with nailing between the timber struts and the roof diaphragm (plywood sheathing). Such installations provide for a direct transfer of the seismic loads generated by a wall panel to the roof diaphragm during an earthquake. Typically, due to the costs and potential leakage problems associated with the removal and replacement of roofing, the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts is often omitted.
When draglines are installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts, the seismic loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to the draglines. In order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings of the timber struts must be tight. If the timber struts have been cut short and the end bearings have not been shimmed tight, then the purlins may be subjected to rotation, and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins may be subjected to unintended forces. This condition may potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
In practice, the timber struts of a dragline are frequently cut short, the end bearings are not shimmed tight, and the timber struts are not nailed to the diaphragm, resulting in a dragline installation that may not provide for the adequate transfer of seismic forces between a wall panel and a roof diaphragm.
Even if the timber struts are initially installed with tight end bearings, it is frequently the case that the timber struts are installed "green" and later shrink, leaving a gap at the end bearings, as they dry out. This can be avoided by using timber struts that have been pre-dried (kiln dried), or are non-shrink (Parallams), however the cost of these materials is significantly greater than that of green timber.
Typically, draglines are only designed for tension loads, and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. Recent investigations and studies of earthquake damaged tilt-up type buildings have recommended that draglines be designed for both tension and compression forces, and interconnected concentrically. Such recommendations intend to provide for a positive means of transferring the compression loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake to the roof diaphragm, and eliminate problems associated with eccentric interconnections. The installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are capable of resisting compression loads, incurs additional costs due to added steel connection devices, added shimming of strut end bearings, and added installation time.
In summary, the above described dragline installation is difficult to install, labor intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject to significant variation.
In practice, draglines are typically installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. For this condition the seismic tension loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm by mobilizing the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins attached to the dragline, and the roof joists adjacent to the dragline. In order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins must be tight, or must be shimmed tight.
Generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to the purlins or ledgers are inadequate in resisting and transferring the seismic design forces associated with a dragline. Unless the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins, as well as the end bearings between the roof joists and the purlins, are tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjected to unintended rotation and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and purlins may be subjected to unintended forces, and thus potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
|
1. field of the invention this invention relates to devices used to interconnect the structural members of a building for the purpose of connecting forces between the structural members of a building, such as the wall of a building and the floor and / or roof framing systems. 2. description of the prior art buildings can be subjected to excessive natural or abnormal vibration ( seismic, wind, blast, etc. ) with disastrous consequences. investigations have found that " tilt - up " buildings, especially older buildings with timber framed roof framing systems, are vulnerable to damage and / or collapse during earthquakes. tilt - up buildings normally consist of a structure that is constructed with concrete wall panels that are precast horizontally on the ground, and after curing, tilted up into place. numerous tilt - up buildings are constructed with timber roof framing systems. one common type of timber roof framing system is referred to as a " panelized " system, and typically consists of longspan glulam beams, timber purlins, timber joists, and roof sheathing. the roof sheathing typically consists of 4 '. times. 8 " sheets of plywood, and spans between the joists. the joists typically consist of 2. times. 4 ' s or 2. times. 6 ' s and span between the purlins. the purlins typically consist of 4. times. 12 ' s or 4. times. 14 ' s and span between the glulam beams. the plywood sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension parallel to the joists, or perpendicular to their purlins. the joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. the purlins are typically spaced 8 centimeters apart to accommodate the length of the plywood sheathing. the overhead beams are normally spaced 20 to 24 feet apart. sections of the panelized roof are typically fabricated on the ground and raised into place with a crane or forklift. for installation purposes the joists and purlins are typically cut short to allow for field variations in the dimension between purlins and glulam beams. in areas subject relatively high seismicity exist connections between the concrete wall panels of many tilting - up buildings and the timber roof framing systems are commonly deficient when gauged by the currently established seismic design standards and / or recommendations for such buildings, and may present for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building during an earthquake. more particularly, in many older tilt - up type buildings this connection typically consists of only the nailing between the roof sheathing and the timber ledger that is bolted to the wall panel. when the wall panels try to separate from the roof diaphragm and roof framing system during an earthquake, this type of connection will typically subject the ledgers to " cross grain bending ", a mechanism which is highly vulnerable to failure, and may allow for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building. this type of connection has been specifically disallowed since adoption of the 1973 edition of the uniform building code. it is generally recommended that tilt - up buildings with such deficiencies be retrofitted with new connections per the currently established seismic design standards and / or recommendations for such buildings. for tilt - up buildings with panelized roof framing systems, a common method of installing retrofit structural elements for the purposes of connecting the wall panels of these buildings to the roof diaphragms, for those wall panels oriented perpendicular to the joists or parallel to the purlins, consists of installing a series of timber struts that extend from the wall panel into the roof diaphragm. these struts are attached to the wall panels and interconnected with each other ( across interceding purlins ) with a variety of steel connection devices ( plates, bent plates, holdowns, bolts, etc. ). these connection devices are generally attached to the struts in an eccentric manner, but may be connected to the struts in a concentric manner. in some installations these steel connection devices include rods acting in tension and extending the full length of the struts. this assemblage of timber struts and connection devices and / or rods is referred to as a " dragline ". there are a number of potential problems associated with the above described retrofit installation of draglines. the steel connection devices used to interconnect the struts of a dragline are subject to improper installation, especially when a dragline is installed in a difficult location. in such situations the connection devices are prone to being improperly located, or aligned, and the bolt holes for the connection devices are prone to being oversized. ideally, the timber struts of a dragline should each be sized on an individual basis to fit precisely and tightly between two adjacent purlins, or between a purlin and a ledger. in practice, however, these struts are generally cut short to facilitate and expedite installation, and unless adequate shimming is provided at the end bearings of the timber struts, such practices provide for a poor overall dragline installation. in general, the proper installation of timber struts is relatively labor intensive and costly, especially when the strut ends must be cut at skewed angles to match existing conditions, or installed in difficult locations. ideally, draglines should be installed with nailing between the timber struts and the roof diaphragm ( plywood sheathing ). such installations provide for a direct transfer of the seismic loads generated by a wall panel to the roof diaphragm during an earthquake. typically, due to the costs and potential leakage problems associated with the removal and replacement of roofing, the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts is often omitted. when draglines are installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts, the seismic loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to the draglines. in order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings of the timber struts must be tight. if the timber struts have been cut short and the end bearings have not been shimmed tight, then the purlins may be subjected to rotation, and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins may be subjected to unintended forces. this condition may potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins. in practice, the timber struts of a dragline are frequently cut short, the end bearings are not shimmed tight, and the timber struts are not nailed to the diaphragm, resulting in a dragline installation that may not provide for the adequate transfer of seismic forces between a wall panel and a roof diaphragm. even if the timber struts are initially installed with tight end bearings, it is frequently the case that the timber struts are installed " green " and later shrink, leaving a gap at the end bearings, as they dry out. this can be avoided by using timber struts that have been pre - dried ( kiln dried ), or are non - shrink ( parallams ), however the cost of these materials is significantly greater than that of green timber. typically, draglines are only designed for tension loads, and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. recent investigations and studies of earthquake damaged tilt - up type buildings have recommended that draglines be designed for both tension and compression forces, and interconnected concentrically. such recommendations intend to provide for a positive means of transferring the compression loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake to the roof diaphragm, and eliminate problems associated with eccentric interconnections. the installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are capable of resisting compression loads, incurs additional costs due to added steel connection devices, added shimming of strut end bearings, and added installation time. in summary, the above described dragline installation is difficult to install, labor intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject to significant variation. in practice, draglines are typically installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. for this condition the seismic tension loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm by mobilizing the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins attached to the dragline, and the roof joists adjacent to the dragline. in order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins must be tight, or must be shimmed tight. generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to the purlins or ledgers are inadequate in resisting and transferring the seismic design forces associated with a dragline. unless the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins, as well as the end bearings between the roof joists and the purlins, are tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjected to unintended rotation and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and purlins may be subjected to unintended forces, and thus potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to devices used to interconnect the structural members of a building for the purpose of transferring forces between the structural members of a building, such as the wall of a building and the floor and / or roof framing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Buildings can be subjected to excessive natural or abnormal forces (seismic, wind, blast, etc.) with disastrous consequences. Investigations have found that " tilt - up " buildings, especially older buildings with timber framed roof framing systems, are vulnerable to damage and / or collapse during earthquakes. Tilt - up buildings typically consist of a structure that is constructed with concrete wall panels that are precast horizontally on the ground, and after curing, tilted up into place. Numerous tilt - up buildings are constructed with timber roof framing systems. One common type of timber roof framing system is referred to as a " panelized " system, and typically consists of longspan glulam beams, timber 9uDlins, timber joists, and roof sheathing. The roof sheathing typically consists of 4 '. times. 8 " sheets of plywood, and spans between the joists. The joists typically consist of 2. times. 4 ' s or 2. times. 6 ' s and span between the purlins. The purlins typically consist of 4. times. 12 ' s or 4. times. 14 ' s and span between the glulam beams. The plywood sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension parallel to the joists, or perpendicular to the purlins. The joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. The purlins are typically spaced 8 feet apart to accommodate the length of the plywood sheathing. The glulam beams are typically spaced 20 to 24 feet apart. Sections of the panelized roof are typically fabricated on the ground and raised into place with a crane or forklift. For installation purposes the joists and puflind are typically cut short to allow for field variations in the dimension between purlins and glulam beams. In areas subject to high seismicity the connections between the concrete wall panels of many tilt - up buildings and the timber roof framing systems are commonly deficient when gauged by the currently established seismic design standards and / or recommendations for such buildings, and may present for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building during an earthquake. More particularly, in many older tilt - up type buildings this connection typically consists of only the nailing between the roof sheathing and the timber ledger that is bolted to the wall panel. When the wall panels try to separate from the roof diaphragm and roof framing system during an earthquake, this type of connection will typically subject the ledgers to " cross grain bending ", a mechanism which is highly vulnerable to failure, and may allow for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building. This type of connection has been specifically disallowed since adoption of the 1973 edition of the Uniform Building Code. It is generally recommended that tilt - up buildings with such deficiencies be retrofitted with new connections per the currently established seismic design standards and / or recommendations for such buildings. For tilt - up buildings with panelized roof framing systems, a common method of installing retrofit structural elements for the purposes of connecting the wall panels of these buildings to the roof diaphragms, for those wall panels oriented perpendicular to the joists or parallel to the purlins, consists of installing a series of timber struts that extend from the wall panel into the roof diaphragm. These struts are attached to the wall panels and interconnected with each other (across interceding purlins) with a variety of steel connection devices (plates, bent plates, holdowns, bolts, etc. ). These connection devices are generally attached to the XYruts in an eccentric manner, but may be connected to the struts in a concentric manner. In some installations these steel connection devices include rods acting in tension and extending the full length of the struts. This assemblage of timber struts and connection devices and / or rods is referred to as a " dragline ". There are a number of potential problems associated with the above described retrofit installation of draglines. The steel connection devices used to interconnect the struts of a dragline are subject to improper installation, especially when a dragline is installed in a difficult location. In such situations the connection devices are prone to being improperly located, or aligned, and the bolt holes for the connection devices are prone to being oversized. Ideally, the timber struts of a dragline should each be sized on an individual basis to fit precisely and tightly between two adjacent purlins, or between a purlin and a ledger. In practice, however, these struts are generally cut short to facilitate and expedite installation, and unless adequate shimming is provided at the end bearings of the timber struts, such practices provide for a poor overall dragline installation. In general, the proper installation of timber struts is relatively labor intensive and costly, especially when the strut ends must be cut at skewed angles to match existing conditions, or installed in difficult locations. Ideally, draglines should be installed with nailing between the timber struts and the roof diaphragm (plywood sheathing ). Such installations provide for a direct transfer of the seismic loads generated by a wall panel to the roof diaphragm during an earthquake. Typically, due to the costs and potential leakage problems associated with the removal and replacement of roofing, the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts is often omitted. When draglines are installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts, the seismic loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to the draglines. In order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings of the timber struts must be tihhH. If the timber struts have been cut short and the end bearings have not been shimheE tjggt, then the purlins may be subjected to rotation, and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins may be subjected to unintended forces. This condition may potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins. In practice, the timber struts of a dragline are frequently cut short, the end bearings are not shimmed tight, and the timber struts are not nailed to the diaphragm, resulting in a dragline installation that may not provide for the adequate transfer of seismic forces between a wall panel and a roof diaphragm. Even if the timber struts are initially installed with tight end bearings, it is frequently the case that the timber struts are installed " green " and later shrink, leaving a gap at the end bearings, as they dry out. This can be avoided by using timber struts that have been pre - dried (kiln dried ), or are non - shrink (Parallams ), however the cost of these materials is significantly greater than that of green timber. Typically, draglines are only designed for tension loads, and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. Recent investigations and studies of earthquake damaged tilt - up type buildings have recommended that draglines be designed for both tension and comprRssJon forces, and interconnected concentrically. Such recommendations intend to provide for a positive means of transferring the compression loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake to the roof diaphragm, and eliminate problems associated with eccentric interconnections. The installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are capable of resisting compression loads, incurs additional costs due to added steel connection devices, added shimming of strut end bearings, and added installation time. In summary, the above described dragline installation is difficult to install, labor intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject to significant variation. In practice, d%aglKnes are typically installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. For this condition the seismic tension loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm by mobilizing the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins attached to the dragline, and the roof joists adjacent to the dragline. In order to properly transfer these loads through the dragline, the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins must be tight, or must be shimmed tight. Generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to the purlins or ledgers are inadequate in resisting and transferring the seismic design forces associated with a dragline. Unless the end bearings between the timber struts of the Fragl&ne and the purlins, as well as the end bearings between the roof joists and the purlins, are tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjected to unintended rotation and the nailing between the roof diaphragm and purlins may be subjected to unintended forces, and thus potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacjtt of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
|
1. Field of Invention This invention relates to used to interconnect the structural of a building for the of transferring forces between the structural members of a building, such the wall of a building and the floor and/or roof framing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Buildings can be subjected to excessive natural abnormal forces (seismic, wind, etc.) with disastrous consequences. Investigations have found that buildings, especially older buildings with timber roof framing systems, are vulnerable to damage and/or collapse during earthquakes. Tilt-up buildings consist of a structure that is with wall panels that precast horizontally on the ground, and after curing, tilted up into place. Numerous tilt-up buildings constructed with timber roof framing systems. One common type of timber roof system is referred to as a "panelized" system, and typically consists longspan glulam beams, timber purlins, timber joists, roof sheathing. The roof sheathing typically consists of 4'.times.8" sheets of plywood, spans between joists. The joists typically consist of 2.times.4's or 2.times.6's and span between the purlins. The purlins typically consist of 4.times.12's or 4.times.14's and span the glulam beams. The sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension parallel to the or perpendicular to the purlins. The joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. The purlins are typically spaced 8 feet apart to accommodate the length the plywood The glulam beams are typically spaced 20 to apart. Sections of panelized roof are typically fabricated on the ground and raised into place with a crane or forklift. For installation purposes the joists and purlins are typically cut short for field variations in the dimension between purlins and glulam beams. In areas subject to high seismicity between the concrete wall of many tilt-up buildings and the timber roof framing systems are commonly when gauged by the currently established seismic design standards and/or recommendations for such may present for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building during an earthquake. More particularly, in many tilt-up type buildings this connection typically consists of only the nailing between the roof sheathing the ledger that bolted to the wall panel. When wall panels try to separate from the roof diaphragm and roof framing system during an this type of will typically subject the ledgers to "cross grain bending", a mechanism is highly vulnerable to failure, and may allow for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building. This of connection has been specifically disallowed since adoption edition of the Uniform Building Code. It is recommended that tilt-up buildings with such deficiencies retrofitted with new connections per the currently established seismic design and/or recommendations for such buildings. For tilt-up buildings with panelized roof framing common method of installing retrofit structural elements for the purposes of connecting the wall panels of buildings to the roof for those panels perpendicular to the joists or parallel to purlins, consists of installing a series of timber struts that extend from the wall panel into the roof diaphragm. These struts are attached to the wall panels and interconnected with other (across interceding purlins) with a of steel connection devices (plates, bent plates, holdowns, bolts, etc.). These connection devices generally to the struts in an eccentric manner, but may be connected to the struts in a manner. In some installations these steel connection devices include rods acting in tension and extending the of the struts. This assemblage of timber struts and connection and/or rods is referred to a "dragline". There are a number of potential problems associated with the above described installation of draglines. The steel connection devices used to interconnect the struts of a dragline are subject improper installation, especially when a dragline is installed in a difficult location. In such situations the connection prone to being improperly located, or and bolt holes for connection devices are prone to being oversized. Ideally, the timber struts a dragline should each be sized on an individual basis fit precisely and two purlins, or between a and a ledger. In practice, however, these struts are generally cut short to facilitate and expedite installation, and unless adequate shimming is provided at the end bearings of the timber struts, such practices provide for a poor overall dragline installation. In general, the proper installation of timber is relatively labor intensive and costly, especially when the strut ends must be cut at skewed angles to match or installed in difficult locations. Ideally, draglines should be with nailing between the timber struts and the roof (plywood sheathing). Such installations provide for transfer of the seismic loads generated by a wall to the roof during an Typically, due to the costs and leakage problems associated with the removal and replacement of roofing, the nailing between the diaphragm and the timber struts is often omitted. When draglines are installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts, the loads generated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to draglines. In order to properly transfer these loads through dragline, the end bearings of the timber struts must be tight. If the timber struts have been cut short and the end bearings not been tight, then purlins may be subjected to rotation, and the nailing between the roof diaphragm the may be subjected unintended forces. This condition may potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and purlins. In practice, the timber struts of a dragline are frequently cut short, end bearings are not shimmed tight, and the struts not nailed to the diaphragm, resulting in dragline installation that may not provide for the adequate transfer of seismic forces between a wall panel and a roof diaphragm. Even if the timber struts are initially installed with tight end bearings, it is frequently the case that the timber struts are installed "green" later shrink, leaving a gap at end bearings, as they dry out. This can be avoided using struts that have been pre-dried (kiln dried), or are non-shrink however the of these materials is significantly greater than of timber. Typically, draglines are only designed for tension and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. Recent and studies of earthquake damaged tilt-up type have recommended that draglines designed both and compression forces, and interconnected concentrically. Such recommendations intend to provide for a positive means of transferring the compression loads by a wall panel during an earthquake to the roof diaphragm, and eliminate problems with eccentric interconnections. The installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are capable of resisting compression loads, incurs additional due to added steel connection devices, added of strut end bearings, added installation time. In summary, above described dragline installation difficult to install, labor intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject significant variation. In practice, draglines are typically installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. For this condition the seismic tension loads generated by a wall during an are transferred to the roof diaphragm by mobilizing the nailing between the roof the purlins attached to the dragline, the roof joists adjacent to the dragline. In order to transfer these loads through the the end bearings the timber struts of the dragline and purlins must tight, or must be shimmed tight. Generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to the or ledgers are inadequate in and transferring the seismic forces associated with a dragline. Unless the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins, as well as the end bearings between the joists and the purlins, tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjected to unintended rotation the nailing between the roof diaphragm purlins may be subjected to unintended forces, and thus potentially degrade the of the purlins, as well degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
|
1. FIElD oF THE InVEntION
THiS inVentION RelAtes to DEviCes used To INtERconnect tHE sTrucTuRAl meMbERs of a BuiLDiNg FOR thE pUrPOse Of TRansFErrIng FoRceS BETWEEN the StrUcturAl mEmbErS OF a BUILdING, Such as the WaLl of a BUiLDINg AND tHE fLoOR anD/Or roOF FraMing SYsTEMs.
2. dEScriPTIOn of the PRIor ArT
BuildIngs CAn BE subjEcTEd TO exCeSsIVe natUraL oR AbnOrmAl fORCEs (seiSMIc, WiND, blASt, ETc.) wiTh diSAsTROUS CONSEQUeNceS. INVEstIgAtIoNs HAvE FOUND thAt "TILT-up" buILDinGs, especIaLlY oLder bUiLDinGS with TIMber fRaMed ROoF FRAminG SYstems, are vulnEraBlE To damaGE aNd/OR colLAPSe DuRINg eArThQUakEs. tiLT-UP builDinGS TyPiCAllY consisT OF A struCtURe tHAt is coNStruCTEd wIth coNcrEte Wall PaNeLS That ARe PRecASt hOrIzoNTALlY ON tHe GrOuNd, aND AftEr CuriNG, tILteD up iNTO Place.
nUMErOUS tILT-UP bUIlDinGs ARE CoNsTRuCteD WITH tiMbER Roof fraMinG sysTemS. ONE COmMON tYPe OF TImbER rOof FRaMing SystEM Is rEferrED tO As A "PANELIZED" sySTEm, AnD TypICally CONsisTs of longSpAN GlUlAm beAMs, tImBer puRlINs, TimBEr jOIsTs, ANd roOf sHeathiNG. tHe rOof shEathinG TyPicalLY cOnSisTS oF 4'.TimeS.8" sHeets oF pLYWOoD, and SpAnS BetWEEN tHE JOIsTS. THe JoisTS TYPICallY ConsIsT Of 2.tiMes.4'S or 2.TiMes.6'S ANd sPAN BETWEEn tHe pUrLIns. THE PurLInS TYPIcAlLy CoNSIst of 4.TimEs.12'S oR 4.tIMEs.14'S and sPAn BETwEeN the GlulAm beAms. The pLywOOd SheAtHING is TYpiCaLLY OriENtEd WITh THe lOng dimensIon PaRalLEl tO THE joiStS, or pERPeNdIcULaR To ThE PURlinS. THE JOISts aRe TYPIcallY spaCED 2 feET apART. ThE PuRLiNS are TYPicaLlY spaCEd 8 fEet aPart TO aCcomMODaTE tHe LengTh OF thE plYwooD SHeATHing. tHE GLuLam beAms ARE TyPICAllY sPaced 20 tO 24 FEeT apART. seCtiONs OF tHE paNeLizED roOF aRE typically fabRIcaTED ON tHe GROUND ANd raIseD iNtO Place WItH A CRanE OR FoRkliFt. FOR instAlLatiON PurpOseS THE joIstS AnD PuRliNS Are TypICaLly CUt SHORt to alLow FoR fieLd vARIatIONS IN THE dImEnSIoN BeTWEen PUrLins and GlulAm bEamS.
in arEAS suBJeCt tO hIgH SEISmIcity THE COnNeCtiOnS bEtweEN THE coNCrEte WALl PANEls of mAnY tilt-Up bUildInGs AND THe timBER roOf fRAMInG SYStEms Are coMMoNLY DEfIcIEnT whEN GaUGED bY THe cURreNTlY EsTABLiSHED SEISmiC DESiGN STanDarDS and/or recOmmeNdAtIONs foR SucH builDings, aNd MAY PREsENT foR tHe pOTEnTIal Of A PARTiAL oR ComplEte cOLlapse OF tHe BUILDINg DuRinG an eARtHQuAKe. morE paRticuLarly, In MANY oLdEr tilt-UP type bUildiNgs tHIs ConNEctiOn TYpICAllY cONsistS oF ONLy the NAIlinG bETweeN thE roOf ShEaTHIng aND the timBER LeDGER THAt is BOltEd To tHe WAlL PANeL. WHEn tHe wAll PanEls tRy To sepARATe FRom tHE rOof DIapHRaGM AND roof fraMiNg SysteM durInG An earthquaKE, thiS tYpE OF cOnnEctIoN wILL TypiCaLLY suBJecT THe leDGeRs TO "cROSs GRAIn bENding", A meChaniSM whICh iS hiGhLY VuLNErABle TO faILUrE, AND May AlLOW for the poTEnTIAL OF A pArTiAL oR cOmPletE COllAPse oF The BUIldinG. thIS tyPE of CONNEcTIon hAS been specIFICalLY diSAlLOWED sinCE aDoPtiOn of tHE 1973 edItiOn OF THE unIFORM buiLding CoDe.
IT is GenEralLY ReCOmmEnDED ThAt TILt-Up bUiLdIngs WitH SUcH defIciencIeS BE REtRofitTEd WiTh NEw CONNeCTIONS PER thE cURREnTlY esTAbLIsHed seiSMIc Design standArds AnD/Or RECOmMenDatiOnS FoR suCH buIlDiNGS. For tilT-UP BuiLdiNGS wiTh PANELiZed roof frAMInG SyStemS, a ComMon mEthOd Of inStaLlIng reTRoFit STRUcTURAl ElEmEntS foR tHe PurpOseS Of CoNnEctiNG thE wAll PAneLs Of ThEse BuildiNGs tO THe RoOF dIaPhrAGMS, For THoSe wAlL paNEls oriENTed peRpeNdICUlAR to tHe jOIstS Or parAlLeL TO THe pUrlIns, consistS OF iNstalliNG A SeRIES of timBer strUTs ThaT exTENd FRom THE WAll pAneL InTO The ROof diApHRAGm. THese StrUtS aRE AttAcHEd to thE wALl PaNELs AnD INtercOnNECtEd WitH eaCH OtheR (AcrosS INteRcEDInG puRLins) With A VARIeTy oF STeeL cONNECTIon DEVICES (PlAtES, Bent PLATES, HOLdOwNs, BOlTs, etC.). theSE ConnecTion deViCes ARE GeNeRALly aTTACHeD to the STrutS in aN ecCenTrIC MAnnER, buT maY Be COnnECtED TO THe sTruTs in a cOnCenTriC mAnNer. In SoMe INSTALLaTions thesE StEeL connECtioN DEVIcES InCLude RodS ACtINg IN TenSIon aND exTeNdINg THe FuLl lEngtH OF THE STRutS. tHiS asSemBLaGE of tIMbEr sTrUts aNd connecTIoN DEvICEs AnD/Or RoDS iS REFeRREd tO As A "DRAGliNe".
tHerE Are A NumBER Of POTeNtIAL pRoblemS aSsocIateD wiTh The AbOvE deSCRIBed RETRoFIT InstALLatION of DrAgLiNES. the STeEl ConnectioN deVicEs UsED tO iNterCONnECt the sTRuTS oF a draGliNe aRe sUbJeCt tO IMpROpeR InsTalLaTiOn, eSPEcIALLY whEn A drAGLiNE iS INStAlLED iN A DIFfICUlT locatiON. In SUch SItUATIoNS tHe COnnEcTIOn deVices ARE PronE to bEInG ImPRoPErLY lOCaTeD, Or aLIGNED, and tHe BOlT HoLES FOR thE COnNEctION deViceS aRE PROnE tO beINg ovERSIZEd.
IdEalLy, tHe TiMbER stRuts of a dRagLiNe SHOULd eaCH bE sizED oN An iNDIVIdUal BASis to FiT PreCISeLy AND tiGhTly bEtWEEN tWO adjaCENT pURLINS, or betWeen a PUrLiN anD a ledger. in PracTICE, HOWeVER, THesE stRuts Are GeNerAlLY CUT sHOrT To faCilItate ANd ExPEdItE insTALLATIon, AnD UnLESs ADEquAtE SHImminG IS PROVidED AT THe ENd bEARiNgs Of tHE TImBer struts, sUcH PractIcEs ProViDE FOr A Poor OveralL DRaGlINE INsTAlLatION. In gENErAl, tHe pRoPeR INstaLlAtIOn oF tiMbEr STruTs iS reLATiveLY LAbOr inTEnSIve AND coSTLY, ESpEcIAlLy WHEn the sTrut endS must bE cuT At SKEWEd ANGles to match EXIstInG coNdITioNs, or insTAllEd in DIFFiCulT LOCatiOnS.
IdEalLY, dRaGLINeS SHoulD be inSTALLed WiTh naIlInG BetweEn The TimBER strutS aND The ROOF dIAPhRagM (plywoOd ShEAthiNG). such INStALlaTiOns proviDE for a DiREct TraNSfER oF ThE SeISMIc LOAdS GEneRateD BY A wall paneL TO tHe ROoF diaPHRAGm DuRinG An eArTHquakE. typICAlLY, DUe to tHE COsts AnD pOTEnTiaL LEaKaGe PrOBLEMs AsSOciaTEd wItH tHe ReMovAl aNd rEpLaCeMENT OF RoOFInG, ThE NAIlinG bETwEEN THe rOOF DiaphragM aND thE timBEr strUts Is OFteN OmItTED.
wheN DraGlines Are insTAllED witHOUT aNY NaIliNG BETween tHe ROOf DiAPhrAGm and the tImBER sTRUTs, THE SEiSmIc LoAdS GENErATED by A WALL PAneL DUriNG aN EARtHquake arE TrAnSferReD TO thE roOF dIAPHRAGM vIA MobILIZatIoN OF thE NAIlinG bEtWEen THE RooF DIAphragm aND The PUrliNs CoNnEcTed To thE DrAgLIneS. In ORDeR tO pROPeRLy TRAnsFEr THEsE lOaDs ThrOUGh thE drAglIne, tHe ENd bEArINGS of THe TiMber STrUts must be tigHt. IF THe tIMber STrUtS hAve beeN cut SHorT ANd The ENd bEarINGS hAVE Not BeeN SHImmEd TIght, theN thE pURlinS mAy BE SUBjECTed tO rOtATIoN, And the NAIlINg betwEEn THe rOof dIAPhrAGm AND THe pURLINs maY BE sUBJEcTed To UnINteNDED FoRceS. ThiS cOndItioN MAy potentiALly DEgRADe THe CAPaCitY OF THe PurliNs, AS WeLl As deGRaDe The CapacITY OF tHE nailIng bETWEen The ROof dIAPHRAgm and ThE PuRlInS.
iN PRacTicE, ThE timBer sTruTS of A DraGlinE aRe fREqUEntLY cUt ShORT, The enD BEArInGs ARe NOt shiMmED TIGht, AND The TimbEr struts ARE NOt naiLeD To thE DIAPHRAgm, reSULtIng in A dRAGLiNE iNsTaLLatioN tHaT May NOt ProVIdE FoR ThE adEQUAtE TRANsfer OF seismIc fORCes BeTweEN A wAll pAnEL and A rOOF dIAPHragm.
EVeN IF ThE tImbER sTrutS aRE iNITIAlLy InsTALLED wiTH TIghT end beArINgs, it is FReQUenTly tHE cAsE thAt tHE TiMBer stRutS ARE iNstAllED "grEEn" aND LaTeR sHrINk, LEAviNg a gaP At THE END BeaRinGS, as THEy DRY oUt. tHIS Can Be avOIDeD by uSinG timbER StRuTS ThAT HAve beEN pRe-dRied (KIlN DrieD), oR are NoN-ShriNK (ParALlamS), HoWeVer thE cOSt of theSe mAtErIaLs Is sIgNifICANtLy gReater THan That oF gREeN tImbeR.
tyPiCalLy, DRaGliNes arE OnlY dEsIgNeD FOr tENSIon lOADS, AnD ThE sTruTS ARe InteRCONNECteD ECCenTRICally. RECenT invEstiGATiOns ANd StuDIeS OF earThQuAke DamaGeD tILT-uP Type buildIngS haVe rEcOmMenDed THAT DRagLiNEs BE DeSiGneD For BoTh TEnsION anD COmPrEsSION FoRces, ANd IntERcOnnEcTEd conCENtricaLLY. SUCH REcoMMENDationS iNTEND to PRovIDe FoR a PosiTIVe MEaNS of TRansFERrING The COmpReSsiON LOAds GEnerAted BY a WALL PaNEL dURIng an EARTHQuAkE tO tHe ROOF DIAPHrAgM, AnD elIminAtE PROblemS asSociATEd WiTH ECCeNTric iNtERcOnNECtiOnS. The instaLlatiOn of cOnCENtRic intERCOnnEcTions, aND InTERConNectIOnS tHat Are CapabLE of rEsIStING coMPRESSIoN lOaDS, IncUrs ADDItioNal CoSTs DUe tO aDDED StEEl coNneCtiOn DeViCES, addeD sHiMMINg of StrUt ENd BeARINgs, And ADded INStAlLaTIoN TIme.
iN sumMary, THe aBovE deSCRIBEd drAGLINE inSTallatIoN IS dIffiCUlT To iNSTALL, lAbOR iNtenSIVE, CosTLy, aND The InsTaLLEd qUalItY Is suBJecT tO sIGNIFicANt VARIatIon.
iN pRAcTIcE, dragLinEs aRE TYPiCAlly iNStAlLEd withOut Any NaIlIng bEtween thE roOf DiAphRaGM aNd ThE tImBeR StruTS. FoR tHIs cONDiTIoN ThE sEIsMIC teNSIon LoaDS generAtED bY A wAll pANeL DuRiNg AN earTHquAke aRE TRanSFERRed To ThE RoOF DiAPHRAGm by mOBiLiZinG tHE NAilIng BEtWeen tHe ROof Diaphragm AnD tHE pURLins AttaChed to thE dRaGLine, and The rooF JoIsts aDJacEnT to the draglInE. in orDer To PRoPeRLY TRAnSfeR THEse loaDS tHrough ThE DRAglIne, tHe End beARINGS BETwEEN tHE TIMBER STRUTS OF ThE dragLine aND tHE PURlins muST Be tiGHT, Or MUst BE sHiMmEd TiGhT.
gEneRALlY, thE EnD coNNecTIonS USED tO secuRE thE TImBeR StrutS To The PurlinS Or lEdgErs arE INAdeqUaTE IN REsIsTinG aNd TRaNsFErRIng tHe SEIsmic dEsIGn FoRCes aSsoCiAted wITh A dRagline. UnLess ThE ENd bEArinGS BEtwEeN THE timBer StrUTs oF the DRAgliNe And THE PUrlIns, AS wEll aS The EnD beArInGS BEtweEn thE ROOF joIStS AND tHe PUrliNs, ARe TiGht, oR haVe BeEN sHIMmEd TigHT, the PurLINS MaY bE SuBjEcTED tO UNiNTeNded ROtAtion and THE NAILinG BeTWeEN the RoOF diaPhrAgm ANd PurlIns may BE subJECtEd tO uniNtEnDEd FORCes, ANd tHuS PoTENTiAlLY dEgRade THE CapAcITy oF tHE PuRlIns, AS WelL as degRaDE tHE capaCity of ThE naIling BEtWEEn ThE ROof DIaphrAGm and ThE pUrlINs.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to devicesused to interconnect the structural members ofa building for the purpose oftransferring forces between thestructural members of a building,such as thewall of a building and the floor and/or roofframing systems. 2. Description of the Prior Art Buildingscan be subjected to excessive naturalor abnormal forces (seismic, wind, blast, etc.) withdisastrous consequences. Investigations have found that"tilt-up" buildings, especially older buildings with timber framed roof framing systems, are vulnerable to damage and/or collapse during earthquakes. Tilt-up buildings typicallyconsist of a structure that is constructed with concrete wallpanels that areprecast horizontally ontheground, and after curing,tilted up into place.Numerous tilt-up buildings are constructed with timber roof framing systems. One common type of timber roofframing system isreferred to as a "panelized" system, and typically consists oflongspan glulam beams, timber purlins, timberjoists, and roof sheathing. The roofsheathing typically consists of 4'.times.8" sheets of plywood, and spans between the joists. The joists typically consist of 2.times.4's or2.times.6's and span between the purlins. The purlins typically consist of 4.times.12's or 4.times.14's and span between the glulam beams. Theplywood sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension parallelto the joists, or perpendicular to the purlins. The joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. The purlinsare typically spaced 8 feet apart to accommodate the length ofthe plywood sheathing. The glulam beams are typicallyspaced 20 to 24 feet apart. Sections of the panelizedroof are typically fabricated on the ground and raised intoplace with a crane or forklift. For installation purposes the joists and purlins are typicallycut short to allow for field variations in the dimensionbetween purlins and glulam beams. In areassubject to high seismicity the connections between the concrete wall panels of many tilt-up buildings and the timber roof framing systems arecommonly deficient when gauged by the currently established seismic design standards and/or recommendations for such buildings,and may present forthe potentialof a partial or complete collapse of the building during an earthquake. More particularly,in many older tilt-uptypebuildings this connection typically consists of onlythe nailing between the roof sheathing and the timber ledger that is boltedtothe wall panel. When thewall panels try to separatefrom the roofdiaphragmand roof framing system during an earthquake, this typeof connectionwilltypically subject the ledgers to"cross grain bending", amechanism which is highly vulnerable to failure, and mayallow for the potential of a partial or complete collapse of the building. This type of connectionhas been specifically disallowed since adoption ofthe 1973 editionoftheUniformBuilding Code. It is generally recommended that tilt-upbuildings with such deficiencies be retrofitted with new connections per the currently established seismicdesign standards and/or recommendationsforsuch buildings. For tilt-up buildings with panelized roof framing systems, a common method of installing retrofit structural elements for the purposes of connecting the wall panels of these buildingsto the roof diaphragms, for those wall panels oriented perpendicular to the joistsor parallel tothe purlins, consists ofinstalling a series of timberstruts that extendfrom the wall panel into the roof diaphragm. These struts are attachedto thewall panels andinterconnectedwitheach other (across interceding purlins) with a variety of steel connectiondevices (plates, bent plates,holdowns, bolts,etc.). These connection devices are generallyattached to the struts in an eccentric manner, but maybe connectedtothe struts in aconcentric manner. In some installations these steel connection devices include rods actingin tension and extending the full length of the struts. This assemblageof timber strutsand connection devices and/or rods is referred to asa "dragline". There are a number of potential problems associated with the above described retrofit installation of draglines. The steelconnection devices used to interconnect the strutsof adragline aresubject toimproper installation, especially when a dragline is installed in a difficult location. In such situations the connection devices are prone tobeing improperly located, or aligned, and the bolt holesforthe connection devices are prone to being oversized. Ideally, the timber struts of a dragline should each be sized on an individualbasis tofit precisely and tightlybetween two adjacent purlins, orbetween a purlinand a ledger.In practice, however, these struts are generally cut short tofacilitateand expedite installation, and unless adequate shimming is provided at the end bearings ofthe timber struts, suchpracticesprovide fora poor overall draglineinstallation. Ingeneral,the proper installation of timber struts is relatively labor intensive and costly, especially when the strutends mustbe cutat skewed angles to matchexisting conditions, or installed in difficult locations.Ideally, draglines should be installed with nailing between the timber struts and theroof diaphragm(plywood sheathing).Such installations provide for a direct transfer of the seismic loads generated by a wall panel to the roof diaphragm during an earthquake. Typically, due to the costs and potential leakage problems associated withthe removal and replacementof roofing, the nailing between theroofdiaphragm and the timber struts is often omitted. Whendraglines are installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts, theseismic loads generatedby a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization ofthenailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to the draglines. In order to properly transfer these loadsthrough the dragline,the end bearings of the timber struts must be tight. If the timberstruts have been cut short and the end bearingshave not been shimmed tight, then the purlinsmay be subjected to rotation, and the nailing between theroof diaphragm and thepurlins may besubjected to unintended forces. This condition may potentially degrade the capacity of thepurlins, as well as degrade the capacity of the nailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins. In practice, the timber struts of a dragline are frequently cut short, the end bearings are not shimmedtight, and the timber struts are not nailed to the diaphragm, resultingin a dragline installation that may not provide for the adequate transfer of seismicforces between a wall panel and a roof diaphragm. Even if the timber strutsare initially installed with tight end bearings, it isfrequentlythe case thatthe timber struts are installed "green"and later shrink, leaving agap at the endbearings, as they dry out. This canbe avoidedby usingtimber struts that have been pre-dried (kiln dried), or are non-shrink(Parallams), however the cost ofthese materials is significantly greater than that of greentimber. Typically, draglines are only designed for tension loads, and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. Recent investigations andstudies of earthquakedamaged tilt-up typebuildings have recommended thatdraglines bedesigned for both tension and compression forces, and interconnected concentrically.Such recommendations intend to provide for a positive means oftransferring the compression loads generated by a wall panelduring an earthquake totheroofdiaphragm, and eliminate problemsassociated with eccentric interconnections. The installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are capable of resistingcompression loads, incurs additional costs due to added steel connectiondevices, added shimming of strut end bearings, and added installationtime. In summary, the above describeddragline installation is difficult to install, labor intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject to significant variation. In practice, draglines are typicallyinstalled without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. For this condition theseismic tension loadsgenerated by a wall panel during an earthquake are transferred to the roof diaphragm bymobilizing the nailing between the roof diaphragmand the purlins attached to the dragline, and the roof joists adjacent to the dragline. In orderto properly transfer theseloads through the dragline,the end bearings between the timber strutsof thedragline and the purlins must be tight, or must be shimmed tight. Generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to the purlins orledgers are inadequate inresistingand transferring the seismic design forces associated with a dragline. Unless the end bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins, as well as the end bearingsbetween the roof joists and the purlins, are tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjectedto unintended rotation and the nailing between theroof diaphragm and purlins may be subjected to unintended forces, andthuspotentially degrade thecapacity of the purlins, as well asdegrade the capacity of thenailing between the roof diaphragm and the purlins.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to devices used to interconnect the structural _members_ of a building for _the_ purpose of transferring forces between the structural members _of_ a building, _such_ as the wall of a building and the _floor_ _and/or_ _roof_ framing systems. _2._ Description _of_ the Prior Art Buildings can be subjected _to_ _excessive_ natural or _abnormal_ forces (seismic, wind, blast, etc.) with disastrous consequences. Investigations have found _that_ "tilt-up" buildings, especially _older_ buildings _with_ _timber_ framed roof framing _systems,_ are _vulnerable_ to damage and/or collapse _during_ earthquakes. Tilt-up buildings _typically_ _consist_ of a structure that is constructed with concrete wall panels that _are_ precast horizontally on the ground, and _after_ curing, tilted up into place. Numerous tilt-up _buildings_ are constructed _with_ _timber_ roof framing systems. One common type of timber roof framing system is referred to as a "panelized" _system,_ and typically _consists_ of longspan glulam beams, timber purlins, timber _joists,_ and roof sheathing. The _roof_ sheathing _typically_ consists of 4'.times.8" sheets _of_ plywood, and spans between _the_ joists. The joists typically consist of 2.times.4's _or_ 2.times.6's _and_ _span_ _between_ _the_ purlins. The purlins typically _consist_ of 4.times.12's or 4.times.14's and _span_ _between_ the glulam beams. The plywood sheathing is typically oriented with the long dimension _parallel_ to the joists, or perpendicular to _the_ purlins. The joists are typically spaced 2 feet apart. _The_ purlins are typically spaced 8 feet apart to accommodate the length of the _plywood_ sheathing. The glulam beams are typically spaced 20 _to_ _24_ feet apart. Sections of the panelized roof are typically fabricated on the ground and _raised_ into _place_ with a _crane_ or forklift. For installation purposes the joists and purlins are typically cut short to allow _for_ field variations _in_ the dimension between purlins and glulam _beams._ In areas subject _to_ high seismicity the connections between _the_ concrete wall panels of many _tilt-up_ buildings and the timber roof _framing_ systems _are_ _commonly_ deficient when gauged by the currently established seismic _design_ _standards_ and/or recommendations _for_ such buildings, and may present for the potential of a _partial_ or complete collapse of the building during _an_ _earthquake._ _More_ particularly, _in_ many older tilt-up type buildings this connection typically consists of only the nailing between the _roof_ sheathing and the timber ledger that is _bolted_ to the wall _panel._ When the wall _panels_ _try_ to separate from the roof _diaphragm_ _and_ roof framing _system_ during an earthquake, this type of connection _will_ typically subject the ledgers to "cross _grain_ bending", a mechanism which is highly vulnerable to failure, and may allow for _the_ potential _of_ _a_ partial or _complete_ _collapse_ of the building. This type of _connection_ has _been_ _specifically_ disallowed since adoption of the 1973 _edition_ _of_ the Uniform Building _Code._ It is generally recommended that tilt-up buildings with such deficiencies be retrofitted _with_ new connections per _the_ _currently_ established seismic design standards and/or recommendations for such _buildings._ _For_ _tilt-up_ buildings with panelized roof framing systems, a _common_ method of installing _retrofit_ structural _elements_ for the purposes of connecting _the_ _wall_ panels of these buildings _to_ the roof diaphragms, _for_ those wall panels _oriented_ _perpendicular_ to _the_ joists _or_ parallel to the _purlins,_ consists of installing a _series_ of timber struts _that_ extend from _the_ wall panel _into_ the _roof_ diaphragm. These struts _are_ attached to the _wall_ panels and interconnected with each _other_ (across interceding purlins) with _a_ _variety_ of steel connection devices (plates, bent plates, holdowns, bolts, _etc.)._ _These_ _connection_ _devices_ are generally _attached_ to the _struts_ in an eccentric manner, but may be connected to _the_ struts in _a_ concentric _manner._ In some installations _these_ steel connection devices include rods acting in tension and extending the full length _of_ _the_ struts. This assemblage of timber struts and connection _devices_ and/or rods is referred to as a "dragline". There are a _number_ of _potential_ problems _associated_ _with_ the _above_ described retrofit installation of draglines. _The_ steel connection devices used to interconnect the struts of a _dragline_ are subject to _improper_ installation, especially when a _dragline_ _is_ installed in a _difficult_ location. In such _situations_ _the_ connection devices are prone to being improperly _located,_ or aligned, and the bolt holes for _the_ connection _devices_ are _prone_ to _being_ _oversized._ _Ideally,_ the timber struts of a dragline should each be sized on an individual basis to _fit_ precisely and _tightly_ _between_ two adjacent purlins, or between a _purlin_ and a ledger. In practice, _however,_ these struts are generally cut short to facilitate and expedite installation, _and_ unless _adequate_ shimming is _provided_ at the end _bearings_ _of_ the _timber_ struts, such _practices_ provide for _a_ poor overall dragline installation. In _general,_ the proper installation _of_ timber struts is relatively _labor_ _intensive_ and costly, especially when the _strut_ ends _must_ be _cut_ at _skewed_ _angles_ to _match_ existing conditions, or installed in difficult locations. _Ideally,_ draglines should be installed _with_ nailing _between_ the timber struts and _the_ roof diaphragm (plywood sheathing). Such _installations_ provide for a direct _transfer_ _of_ the seismic loads generated by a wall _panel_ to the roof diaphragm during _an_ earthquake. Typically, due to the costs _and_ potential _leakage_ _problems_ associated with the removal and replacement of roofing, the _nailing_ between _the_ _roof_ diaphragm and the _timber_ struts _is_ _often_ _omitted._ When _draglines_ are installed without _any_ nailing between the roof _diaphragm_ and the timber struts, the _seismic_ loads generated by a wall panel during _an_ _earthquake_ _are_ transferred to the roof diaphragm via mobilization of the _nailing_ between the roof diaphragm and the purlins connected to the draglines. In order to properly transfer these _loads_ through _the_ dragline, the _end_ bearings of the timber struts must _be_ tight. If _the_ timber _struts_ have been cut short and the _end_ bearings _have_ not been shimmed tight, then the purlins may be subjected to rotation, and the nailing _between_ the roof diaphragm _and_ the _purlins_ may be _subjected_ to unintended _forces._ _This_ _condition_ _may_ potentially degrade the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of _the_ _nailing_ _between_ _the_ _roof_ diaphragm and _the_ purlins. In practice, the _timber_ _struts_ of a dragline are frequently cut _short,_ the end bearings are not shimmed tight, and _the_ timber struts are not nailed to the diaphragm, resulting in a dragline installation that may _not_ provide for the adequate transfer of seismic _forces_ between a _wall_ panel and a roof diaphragm. Even if the timber struts are initially installed with tight end bearings, it is frequently the _case_ _that_ _the_ timber _struts_ are installed _"green"_ and later shrink, leaving a gap at the end bearings, as they _dry_ out. This _can_ _be_ avoided _by_ using timber struts that have been _pre-dried_ (kiln dried), or are non-shrink _(Parallams),_ _however_ the _cost_ _of_ these _materials_ _is_ significantly greater than that of green _timber._ Typically, draglines are only designed _for_ _tension_ loads, and the struts are interconnected eccentrically. Recent investigations and studies of earthquake damaged tilt-up type buildings _have_ recommended that draglines be designed for _both_ tension _and_ compression forces, and interconnected concentrically. Such recommendations _intend_ to provide for a positive means of transferring the compression loads generated by _a_ wall panel during an earthquake to the roof diaphragm, and _eliminate_ _problems_ associated with eccentric interconnections. The installation of concentric interconnections, and interconnections that are _capable_ of resisting _compression_ _loads,_ incurs additional costs _due_ to added steel connection devices, added _shimming_ of strut end bearings, and added installation time. In summary, _the_ _above_ described dragline _installation_ is difficult _to_ install, _labor_ intensive, costly, and the installed quality is subject to significant _variation._ _In_ practice, _draglines_ are typically installed without any nailing between the roof diaphragm and the timber struts. For _this_ condition the seismic tension _loads_ generated by a wall panel during an _earthquake_ are transferred to the roof diaphragm by mobilizing the nailing between the roof _diaphragm_ and the purlins attached to the _dragline,_ and _the_ _roof_ joists adjacent to the _dragline._ _In_ order to properly transfer these _loads_ through the dragline, the end _bearings_ _between_ _the_ timber struts of the dragline and _the_ _purlins_ must be tight, or must be _shimmed_ _tight._ Generally, the end connections used to secure the timber struts to _the_ purlins or ledgers are inadequate in resisting and _transferring_ the _seismic_ design forces _associated_ with a dragline. _Unless_ the _end_ bearings between the timber struts of the dragline and the purlins, as _well_ as the end bearings _between_ the roof joists and the purlins, are tight, or have been shimmed tight, the purlins may be subjected to _unintended_ _rotation_ _and_ the nailing between the roof _diaphragm_ _and_ purlins may _be_ subjected to unintended forces, and thus potentially _degrade_ the capacity of the purlins, as well as degrade the capacity of _the_ nailing between the roof diaphragm and _the_ purlins.
|
The safe disposal of sewer effluents and water treatment requires measurements of suspended solid concentration in treatment pipes, culverts and other conduits.
A sewer effluent containing a low value of suspended solids may be subject to a reduced treatment or no treatment at all. A plant treating sewer effluents from several municipalities may bill those municipalities in accordance with the volume flow and the total suspended solids concentration measured on the intake conduits from each municipality.
In the past, intrusive periodical samplings of solids-carrying water were taken and analyzed in laboratories to provide needed information about the solids content of the water.
Various methods have been proposed to electronically measure total solids concentration in a volume of liquid, but no instrumentation has been provided for concurrently measuring suspended solids concentration as well as flow on a continuous, real time base.
This invention results from an attempt to provide a more practical instrumentation for use in sewer and water collection systems, distribution systems and treatment plants.
|
the safe disposal of hydraulic effluents and water solids requires measurements of suspended solid concentration in treatment pipes, culverts and other conduits. a sewer effluent containing a low value of suspended solids may be subject to a reduced treatment or no treatment at all. a plant treating sewer effluents from several municipalities may bill those municipalities in accordance with the volume flow and the total suspended solids content measured on the intake conduits from each municipality. in the past, intrusive periodical samplings of solids - carrying water were taken and monitored in laboratories to provide needed clarity about the solids content of the water. various methods have been proposed to electronically measure the solids accumulation in a volume of liquid, but no instrumentation has been provided for concurrently measuring suspended solids concentration as well as flow within a continuous, real time base. this invention results from an attempt to provide a more practical instrumentation for investigations by sewer and water collection systems, distribution systems and treatment plants.
|
The safe disposal of sewer effluents and water treatment requires measurem#n6s of suspended solid concentration in treatment pipes, culverts and other conduits. A sewer effluent containing a low value of suspended solids may be suGjec6 to a reduced treatment or no treatment at all. A plant treating sewer efflJ3nts from several municipalities may bill those municipalities in acXordanc3 with the volume flow and the total suspended solids concentration measured on the intake conduits from each municipality. In the past, intrusive periodical samplings of solids - carrying water were raLen and SBalyzed in laboratories to provide needed information about the solids content of the water. Various methods have been proposed to electronically measir$ Gktal solids concentration in a volume of liqkkd, but no instrumentation has been provided for concurrently measuring suspended WoPids concentration as well as flow on a continuous, real time base. This invention results from an attempt to provide a more practical instrumentation for use in sewer and water collection systems, distribution systems and treatment plants.
|
The safe disposal of sewer effluents and water treatment requires measurements of suspended solid concentration treatment pipes, culverts other conduits. A sewer effluent containing a low value of suspended solids may be subject to a reduced treatment or treatment at all. A plant treating sewer effluents from several municipalities may bill those municipalities in accordance with the volume flow and the total suspended solids concentration measured on the intake conduits from each municipality. In the intrusive periodical samplings of water were taken and analyzed in laboratories provide needed information about the solids content of the Various methods have been proposed to electronically measure concentration in a volume of liquid, but no has been provided for concurrently measuring suspended solids concentration as well as flow a continuous, real time base. invention an attempt to provide a more practical for use sewer and water collection systems, distribution systems and treatment plants.
|
thE sAfE DISPoSal OF sewER EffLUENts And WaTER tReAtment REQuIRES meASuRemEnTS Of SuSPenDed solID cONCeNtRAtion In trEaTmEnT Pipes, CuLveRtS AnD OthER coNDUiTS.
a sewER EFfLUENt ConTaInInG a LOW vALue Of sUspenDeD sOlidS MAy be SUBJecT To a REducEd trEAtmEnT oR NO trEatmENt aT all. A PLant tREatIng sEWER efFluEntS froM sEVERal mUNiCipALITiEs mAy bIll thOSE mUNicIPalITies In AccOrDaNce WiTH tHe VolUmE fLow AnD THe tOTAl SUsPEndeD sOlIds cOncEnTraTiOn MeASUred on THE intAke ConDUits FroM eAch mUnicIpALitY.
iN the past, IntRUsIvE pERioDicAL saMPlIngS Of soLids-CArrYInG WAtER WERE takEN AnD AnAlYzEd in lABoRatorIeS tO ProviDE NeeDeD INFORMATiON aBOUt thE soliDs ConTEnt of thE WatEr.
vaRIOus meTHods Have BeeN PropoSed to ElECtrOniCAlly meASUrE TOtAL soLiDs CONceNtRAtIoN in A VOLuME of LiquiD, BuT nO INstRumeNtatIOn HAS BEen PROvIDeD For CoNCuRrENTLY measuRING SusPeNded soLiDS cONCEnTratIoN as Well aS fLoW oN A CoNTInuOus, ReAL tIme BAsE.
THiS InvEntiON ResUlTS FroM an ATteMpT To PRoviDE A More pRACticAl INStRuMenTaTIOn fOR uSE in SEwER AnD waTeR colLECTIon sYSTEMs, diSTriBuTioN SysTEMS AnD trEATMenT PlaNts.
|
The safe disposal of sewer effluents and water treatment requires measurements of suspended solid concentration in treatment pipes, culvertsandotherconduits. Asewer effluent containinga lowvalue of suspendedsolids may be subject to a reduced treatment or no treatment at all. A plant treating sewer effluents from several municipalities maybill those municipalitiesinaccordance with the volume flow and the total suspended solids concentration measured on the intake conduits from eachmunicipality. Inthe past, intrusiveperiodicalsamplings ofsolids-carrying water were taken and analyzed in laboratories to provide needed information about the solids content of the water. Variousmethodshavebeen proposedto electronically measure total solids concentration in a volume of liquid,but no instrumentation has beenprovided for concurrently measuring suspended solids concentration as well as flow on a continuous, real time base. This invention results from an attempt to provide a more practical instrumentation for use in sewer and watercollection systems, distribution systems and treatment plants.
|
The _safe_ disposal of sewer effluents _and_ water treatment requires measurements _of_ suspended solid _concentration_ _in_ treatment pipes, _culverts_ and other conduits. A sewer effluent containing a low value of _suspended_ solids may be subject to a reduced _treatment_ or no treatment at all. _A_ plant treating sewer effluents from several municipalities may _bill_ those municipalities in _accordance_ with _the_ volume flow and the total suspended solids concentration _measured_ on the intake conduits from each _municipality._ In _the_ past, intrusive _periodical_ samplings of solids-carrying water were taken _and_ analyzed in laboratories to provide needed _information_ about _the_ solids content _of_ _the_ water. _Various_ methods have been proposed to electronically measure total _solids_ concentration _in_ a volume _of_ _liquid,_ _but_ no instrumentation _has_ been provided for _concurrently_ measuring _suspended_ solids concentration as well as flow on _a_ continuous, real _time_ _base._ This _invention_ results _from_ an _attempt_ _to_ provide a more practical instrumentation _for_ use in sewer _and_ water _collection_ systems, distribution _systems_ and treatment _plants._
|
1. Technical Field
Exemplary embodiment(s) of the present disclosure relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to a line reeling apparatus for providing users with an easy and convenient means of assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole.
2. Prior Art
One of the most beloved and well known sports enjoyed by Americans is fishing. In fact, the estimated number of U.S. recreational anglers is well over 50 million, with more participants than golfing and tennis combined. An enduring American tradition, fishing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. Recent data released by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service reveals that the sports fishing brings $116 billion worth of benefits to the local, state and national economies. Because sport fishing is extremely enjoyable, many participants find it suitable to fish whenever the time permits and the opportunity presents itself. Every child, boy or girl, remembers the first time their father or grandfather took them fishing.
In addition to reveling in the quality time spent in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids are very excited to try to lure an unsuspecting fish with their pole and bait. Nothing quite equates the sense of accomplishment felt by a child when he successfully catches a fish. The sudden jerks that signify a nibble on a line, the tense downward pull that ensures a hook has found its mark, and the frenzied reel-in of the line to find the prize swaying from the other end, all combine to foster feelings of glee and wonder for children who fish. With all the positive benefits of exposing youngsters to this thrilling sport, the first few attempts at teaching children the art are fishing can be a bit challenging.
Particularly, properly lining a reel onto a pole can be a bit daunting to young anglers. Trying to manipulate the thin material of the line and carefully wind it over the reel can be a frustrating endeavor, especially if the line jumps or becomes twisted and thus one must start the entire process over from the beginning. In addition, adults who experience hand ailments such as arthritis may find it painful, or even impossible, to manually reline. Often requiring the fisherman to seek assistance from a friend, relining a fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor that takes away much of the fun associated with this exciting sport.
Accordingly, a need remains for a reeling apparatus in order to overcome prior art shortcomings. The exemplary embodiment(s) satisfy such a need by providing an apparatus that is convenient and easy to use, lightweight yet durable in design, versatile in its applications, and designed for assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole.
|
1. technical field exemplary embodiment ( s ) of the present profession relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to a line reeling apparatus for providing users with an easy and convenient means of assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole. 2. prior art one of the most beloved and well known sports enjoyed by americans is fishing. in fact, the estimated number of u. s. recreational anglers is well over 50 million, with more participants attending golfing and tennis combined. an enduring american tradition, fishing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. recent data released by the u. s. fish & wildlife service reveals that the sports fishing brings $ 116 billion worth of benefits to the local, state and national economies. because sport fishing is extremely stimulating, many consumers find it suitable to fish whenever the time permits and the opportunity presents itself. every child, boy or girl, remembers the first time their father or grandfather took them fishing. in addition to reveling in the quality time spent in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids are very excited to try accurately lure an unsuspecting fish with their pole and bait. nothing quite equates the sense of accomplishment felt by a child when he successfully directs a fish. unlike sudden jerks that signify fish nibble on a line, the tense downward pull that ensures a hook has found its mark, and the frenzied reel - in of the line to find the prize swaying from the other end, all combine to foster feelings of glee and wonder for children who fish. with all the positive benefits of exposing youngsters to this thrilling sport, the first few attempts at teaching children the art are fishing can be a bit challenging. particularly, properly lining a reel onto a pole can be a bit daunting to young anglers. trying to manipulate the thin material of the line and carefully wind it over the reel can be a thrilling endeavor, especially if the line jumps or becomes twisted and the one must start the entire process over from the beginning. in addition, adults who experience hand ailments such as arthritis may find it painful, or even impossible, to manually reline. often requiring the fisherman to seek assistance from a friend, relining a fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor that takes away much of the fun associated with this exciting sport. accordingly, a need remains for a reeling apparatus in order to overcome prior art shortcomings. the exemplary embodiment ( s ) satisfy such a need by providing an apparatus that is convenient and easy to use, lightweight yet durable in design, versatile in its applications, and designed for assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole.
|
1. Technical Field Exemplary embodiment (s) of the present disclosure relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to a line reeling apparatus for providing users with an easy and convenient means of assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged ,iHe of a fishing pole. 2. Prior Art One of the most beloved and well known sports enjoyed by Americans is fishing. In fact, the estimated number of U. S. EecrSational anglers is well over 50 million, with more participants than golfing and tennis combined. An enduring American tradition, fishing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. Recent data released by the U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service reveals tUa4 the sports fishing brings $ 116 billion SorGh of benef&Fs to the local, state and national economies. Because sport fishing is extremely enjoyable, many participants find it suitable to BisG whenever the time permits and the opportunity presents itself. Every child, boy or girl, remembers the first time their father or grandfather took yh3m fishing. In addition to reveling in the quality time spent in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids are very excited to try to lure an unsuspecting fish with their pole and bait. Nothing quite equates the sense of accomplishment felt by a child when he successfully catches a fish. The sudden jerks that signify a nibble on a line, the tense downward pull that ensures a hook has found its mark, and the frenzied reel - in of the line to find the prize swaying from the other end, all combine to foster feelings of glee and wonder for children who fish. With all the positive benefits of exposing youngsters to this thrilling sport, the first few attempts at teaching children the art are fishing can be a bit challenging. Particularly, properly lining a reel onto a pole can be a bit daunting to young anglers. Trying to manipulate the thin material of the line and carefully wind it over the reel can be a frustrating endeavor, especially if the line jumps or becomes twisted and thus one must stqr^ the entire process over from the beginning. In addition, adults who experience hand ailments such as arthritis may find it painful, or even impossible, to manually reline. Often requiring the fisherman to seek assistance from a friend, relining a fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor that takes away much of the fun associated with this exciting sport. Accordingly, a need remains for a rweliBg apparatus in order to overcome prior art shortcomings. The exemplary embodiment (s) satisfy such a need by providing an apparatus that is cojgenient and easy to use, lightweight yet durable in design, versatile in its applications, and designed for assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole.
|
1. Technical Field Exemplary embodiment(s) the present disclosure relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to a line reeling apparatus for providing users an easy and convenient means of the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole. 2. Prior Art One of the most beloved and well known sports by Americans is fishing. In fact, the estimated number of U.S. recreational is well over 50 million, with more participants than golfing and tennis combined. An enduring American tradition, fishing by people of all ages and from walks of Recent data released by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service reveals that the sports fishing brings $116 billion worth of benefits to the local, state and national economies. Because sport fishing is extremely enjoyable, many participants it suitable to fish whenever the time and the opportunity presents itself. Every child, boy or girl, remembers the first time their or grandfather took In to reveling in quality time spent in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids are very excited to try to an fish with their pole and bait. Nothing quite equates the sense of accomplishment felt by a child when he successfully catches a fish. The sudden jerks that signify a on a line, the tense pull that ensures a hook has found its mark, the frenzied reel-in of the line find the prize swaying from the other end, all combine to foster feelings of glee and wonder for children fish. With the positive benefits of exposing youngsters to thrilling sport, the first few attempts at teaching art are fishing can be a bit challenging. lining reel onto a pole can be a bit daunting to young anglers. Trying to the thin material of the line and carefully wind it over the reel can be a frustrating endeavor, especially if the line jumps or becomes twisted and thus one start the entire process over from the beginning. In addition, adults who experience ailments such as arthritis may find it or even impossible, to reline. Often requiring fisherman assistance from a friend, relining a fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor that takes much of the fun associated with this exciting sport. Accordingly, a need remains for a reeling in order to overcome shortcomings. The exemplary embodiment(s) satisfy such a need by providing apparatus that is convenient and easy to use, lightweight durable in design, versatile in its applications, designed for assisting the relining of a reel with a line of a fishing pole.
|
1. teChNIcaL fieLD
EXeMPLaRy EmbODimenT(S) oF The PREsEnT discloSuRE rElatE tO The SPORt of fiShInG aND, MORe ParticULarlY, To A lInE rEelINg apPaRATUs foR pROVIDinG usERs wITh An EaSY anD conVenIeNt meAns Of AsSIsTInG tHE REliniNg Of A rEEl WitH A dAMAGEd lIne Of A fIShiNG PolE.
2. PrIoR arT
onE Of THe MOST bElOvED aNd WeLl KNOwn sPortS ENjOyED by AMeRIcANS iS FiSHING. In FacT, thE eStIMATED NUmBEr oF u.s. reCreatIONAL ANglERS is wELL OveR 50 MIllIoN, WItH MOre PARTICipAnTs thAN GolfInG ANd TENNIs cOmbinED. An ENDUring aMeRiCAn traDitIOn, FishinG iS enJOYed By pEoPle oF ALL AGEs AND FroM ALL waLKS oF LIfe. ReCEnt Data RElEaSED bY tHe u.s. fish & wIldlife SERviCE rEVeALS That ThE spORts FISHINg BrIngS $116 BiLLIoN wORTh of bEnEfITS TO tHe LoCAL, STATE ANd natIonAl econOMIes. becaUSe Sport fishING Is EXTrEmELY ENjoYABle, maNy pARTiCIPAnTS find It suitAbLe tO fisH WheneVEr tHe tiMe pErMiTs aND tHE OpPoRtuNItY pRESenTs ItsElf. EvERy cHild, bOY or girl, REMeMbeRs ThE firST TIME TheIr FATHER Or GrANDfAtHEr ToOk THem FishING.
IN aDDITion To ReVeLInG iN ThE QUalItY TiME SpENt in tHE bEAUtIFUl OuTdoORS wITH A RESpECted AduLt, kIdS Are vEry EXCIteD To trY to Lure an UNsUSpEcTINg fISh WIth tHeir PolE aNd baiT. notHInG qUitE eQuATEs THe SeNSE OF accOmPliShMeNT feLT BY a CHilD WheN HE SuCCesSFuLLy cAtCHes a FiSh. The sUDdeN jerkS tHAT siGNIFy a niBBle ON A LInE, The teNse dOwNwArd pulL tHaT ENsurES A Hook Has found ItS mark, aND ThE freNZiEd reeL-IN oF tHE LInE tO fINd tHE PRiZE SwAYing frOm tHE OtHER END, ALL COmbINE to fostEr FEeLiNGS Of gLee AND WonDER foR CHIlDReN WHO FIsh. wITh alL the POSItIve BENEfiTS of eXPOSIng YoUNGSTERS To ThIS thrillIng SpoRt, THE FirST fEW ATtEmptS AT TeACHIng cHildREN THe ART ARE FiShiNG CaN be A bIT cHallEnGInG.
pARTIcuLarLy, ProperlY lIninG a reEl oNto a pOle CaN bE a BIT dAUnTING To yOunG angLErS. tRyiNg to manIPuLAte THE tHiN MatERial oF tHe LInE AND CarEFUlly WInd It Over THE reEl caN bE A fruStrAtinG eNDeavOr, EsPeciALly iF thE liNE JumPS or bEcoMEs tWiSted And tHUs ONe muSt Start thE EnTIre pRoCeSS oVer fRoM the beginNiNG. IN AdDitIon, aduLts whO eXPeRIence HAnd AiLMeNts SUch As aRtHritIs MAy fiND IT PAInful, Or eVEn ImpoSsIBLE, To ManUALly reLINe. OfTEn rEQUirIng THE fishErMAn to sEEk AsSISTAnCE fROM a FrieNd, RElINiNG A FIShinG pOlE CAN be a cHALLenGINg enDEaVOr thAt TakeS AwAy MuCH Of thE FUN aSSOciaTeD WiTh tHiS ExCITING SPORt.
AccorDiNgLY, A neEd RemAiNs fOR A reELiNG ApParaTUs IN ORder tO ovErcome PRIOr ArT sHOrTcomiNgS. thE EXeMPLAry EMboDIMEnt(s) sAtiSfy sUCh A Need by PRoVIDING aN APPARatuS ThAT Is coNvEnIENt AND eASy To usE, lIGhTWEIGht yET DURable iN dEsIgN, vERsAtILE In ITs APpLicAtIONs, anD desIGNed for asSiSTING thE rELININg OF a REEL WIth A dAMaged lInE Of A fiShinG pole.
|
1. Technical Field Exemplary embodiment(s) of the present disclosure relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to aline reeling apparatus for providing users with an easy and convenient means of assisting the relining of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole. 2.Prior Art One of the most beloved and well known sports enjoyed by Americans is fishing. In fact,the estimated number ofU.S. recreational anglers is wellover50 million,with more participants than golfing and tennis combined. An enduring American tradition, fishing is enjoyed by people of all ages and fromall walks of life. Recentdata released bytheU.S. Fish & Wildlife Servicereveals that the sports fishing brings $116 billion worth of benefitstothe local, state and national economies. Becausesport fishing is extremely enjoyable, many participants find it suitable to fishwhenever the time permitsand the opportunity presentsitself.Every child, boy or girl, remembers the first time their father or grandfather took them fishing. In addition to reveling in the quality time spent in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids arevery excited to tryto lure an unsuspecting fishwith their pole and bait. Nothing quite equates thesense of accomplishment felt by a child whenhe successfully catches a fish. The sudden jerks thatsignify a nibbleon a line, the tense downwardpull that ensuresahook has found its mark,and the frenzied reel-in of the line to find the prize swaying from the other end, all combine to foster feelings of glee and wonder for children who fish. With all thepositive benefits of exposing youngstersto this thrilling sport, the first few attemptsat teaching children the art are fishing can bea bit challenging.Particularly, properly lining areelonto a pole can be a bit daunting toyounganglers.Tryingto manipulate the thin material of the line and carefully windit overthe reelcan bea frustrating endeavor, especially if the line jumps orbecomes twisted and thus one must start the entire process over from the beginning. In addition, adults who experience hand ailments such as arthritis may findit painful, or evenimpossible, to manually reline. Often requiringthe fisherman to seek assistancefrom a friend,relining a fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor thattakes away much of the fun associated with this exciting sport. Accordingly, aneed remainsfor a reeling apparatus in order to overcome prior art shortcomings. The exemplary embodiment(s) satisfy such a need by providingan apparatus that is convenient and easy to use,lightweight yet durablein design, versatile in its applications, and designed for assisting the relining of a reel with a damagedline ofa fishingpole.
|
_1._ Technical Field Exemplary embodiment(s) of the present disclosure relate to the sport of fishing and, more particularly, to a line _reeling_ apparatus for providing users with _an_ _easy_ and convenient _means_ of assisting _the_ _relining_ of a reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole. 2. Prior Art One _of_ the most beloved and well _known_ sports _enjoyed_ _by_ Americans is fishing. In fact, the estimated _number_ _of_ U.S. recreational anglers is well _over_ _50_ _million,_ _with_ more participants _than_ golfing and tennis combined. _An_ _enduring_ American tradition, _fishing_ is enjoyed by people of all ages _and_ from all walks of life. Recent data _released_ by _the_ _U.S._ Fish & Wildlife Service reveals that the sports fishing _brings_ $116 billion worth of benefits to the local, state and _national_ economies. Because _sport_ fishing is extremely enjoyable, _many_ participants find _it_ suitable to fish whenever the time permits and the opportunity presents itself. _Every_ child, boy _or_ girl, remembers the first time _their_ _father_ or grandfather took them fishing. In addition to reveling in the quality time _spent_ in the beautiful outdoors with a respected adult, kids _are_ very excited to _try_ _to_ lure an unsuspecting fish with their _pole_ and bait. Nothing quite equates the sense of accomplishment felt by a child when _he_ _successfully_ catches a fish. The sudden jerks that signify a nibble on a line, the tense _downward_ pull that ensures a hook _has_ found _its_ mark, and _the_ frenzied reel-in of the line to find the _prize_ _swaying_ from the _other_ end, all _combine_ to _foster_ feelings _of_ _glee_ and wonder _for_ children who fish. With all the positive benefits of exposing youngsters to this thrilling sport, the first few _attempts_ at teaching children the art are fishing can _be_ a bit challenging. Particularly, properly lining a reel onto a pole _can_ be a bit daunting to young _anglers._ Trying to manipulate the thin material _of_ the line and _carefully_ wind it over _the_ _reel_ can _be_ _a_ _frustrating_ _endeavor,_ especially if the line _jumps_ or becomes twisted and thus _one_ must start _the_ entire process over from the beginning. In addition, _adults_ who _experience_ _hand_ _ailments_ such _as_ _arthritis_ may find it painful, or even impossible, _to_ manually _reline._ Often requiring the fisherman _to_ seek assistance from a friend, relining _a_ fishing pole can be a challenging endeavor _that_ takes away _much_ of the fun _associated_ with this _exciting_ _sport._ Accordingly, a need remains for a reeling apparatus in order to overcome _prior_ art shortcomings. The exemplary _embodiment(s)_ satisfy such a need _by_ _providing_ an apparatus that is convenient and easy to use, _lightweight_ yet _durable_ _in_ design, versatile in its _applications,_ _and_ designed for assisting the relining _of_ _a_ reel with a damaged line of a fishing pole.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a multi-color light apparatus, and more particularly to a multi-color light apparatus with only two power wires to transmit data and power.
2. Description of Related Art
In winter, most people living in North America will decorate their houses with multi-color light apparatus to celebrate Christmas. The multi-color light apparatus includes many different illumination functions, such as showing different colors (red, green or blue color), flashing and so on.
Normally, the multi-color light apparatus with many different illumination functions is driven by a driving control integrated circuit (IC). The driving control IC will output different control signals to the multi-color light apparatus, so a plurality of light bulbs in the multi-color light apparatus will be randomly or sequentially turned on according to the control signals.
With reference to FIG. 3, a conventional driving control IC 30 includes a plurality of pins. Those pins include a red light output pin (OUTR), a green light output pin (OUTG), a blue light output pin (OUTB), a ground pin (GND), a signal output pin (SDO), a signal input pin (SDI), a mode set pin (SET) and a power input pin (VDD). The data signal is outputted from the driving control IC 30 via an electric wire. The power signal is outputted from the driving control IC 30 via another electric wire. Therefore, the conventional driving control IC 30 requires at least three electric wires (a data wire, a positive power wire and a negative power wire) to drive the multi-color light apparatus to perform many different illumination effects.
Accordingly, a need arises to develop a multi-color light apparatus without using too many wires, so the cost is reduced and the usage of the electric wires is minimized.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates with a multi - color light apparatus, and more particularly to a multi - color light apparatus with only two power wires to transmit data and power. 2. description of related art in winter, most people living in north america will decorate their houses with multi - color light apparatus for celebrate christmas. the multi - color light apparatus includes many different illumination functions, such as showing different colors ( red, green or blue color ), flashing and so on. normally, the multi - color flashlight apparatus with many different illumination functions is powered by a driving control integrated circuit ( ic ). the driving control ic will output different control signals to the multi - color light apparatus, so a plurality of light bulbs adjoining the multi - color light apparatus will be simply placed sequentially turned on according to the control signals. with reference to fig. 3, a conventional driving control ic 30 includes a plurality of pins. those pins include a red light output pin ( outr ), a green light output pin ( outg ), a blue light output pin ( outb ), a ground pin ( gnd ), a signal output pin ( sdo ), a signal input pin ( sdi ), a mode set pin ( set ) and a user input pin ( vdd ). the data signal is outputted from the driving control ic 30 via an electric wire. the power signal is outputted from the driving command ic 30 via another electric wire. therefore, the conventional driving control ic 30 requires at least three electric wires ( a data wire, a positive power wire and a negative power wire ) must drive the multi - color light apparatus to perform many different illumination effects. accordingly, a need arises to develop a multi - color light apparatus without using too many wires, so the cost is reduced and the usage of the electric wires is minimized.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a multi - color light apparatus, and more particularly to a multi - color light apparatus with only two power wires to transmit data and power. 2. Description of Related Art In winter, most people living in North America will decorate their houses with multi - color light apparatus to celebrate Christmas. The multi - color loYht apparatus includes many different illumination functions, such as showing different colors (red, green or blue color ), flashing and so on. Normally, the multi - color light apparatus with many different illumination functions is driven by a driving control integrated circuit (IC ). The driving control IC will output different cintDol signals to the multi - color light apparatus, so a plurality of lOggt bulbs in the multi - color light apparatus will be randomly or sequentially turned on according to the control signals. With reference to FIG. 3, a conventional driving vohtrol IC 30 includes a plurality of pins. Those pins include a red light output pin (OUTR ), a green light output pin (OUTG ), a blue light output pin (pUYB ), a ground pin (GND ), a signal output pin (SDO ), a signal input pin (SDI ), a mode set pin (SET) and a power input pin (VDD ). The dxts signal is outputted from the driving control IC 30 via an electric wire. The power signal is outputted from the driving control IC 30 via another electric wire. Therefore, the conventional driving contFok IC 30 requires at least three elecgrid wires (a data wire, a positive power wire and a negative power wire) to drive the multi - voloe light apparatus to perform many different illumination effects. Accordingly, a need arises to develop a multi - cIOor light apparatus without using too many wires, so the cost is reduced and the usage of the electric wires is minimized.
|
1. Field of the Invention present relates to light apparatus, and more particularly to a light apparatus with only two power wires to transmit power. Description of Related Art In winter, most people living in North America will decorate their houses with multi-color light apparatus to celebrate Christmas. The multi-color light apparatus includes many different illumination such as different (red, green or blue color), flashing and so on. Normally, the multi-color light apparatus with many illumination functions driven by a driving control integrated circuit (IC). The driving control IC will different control signals to the multi-color light apparatus, a plurality of light bulbs in the multi-color light apparatus will be or sequentially turned on according to the control signals. With reference to FIG. 3, a conventional driving control IC includes plurality of pins. Those pins include red light output pin (OUTR), green light output pin (OUTG), a blue output pin (OUTB), a ground pin (GND), a signal output pin (SDO), a signal input pin (SDI), a mode set pin (SET) and a power input pin (VDD). The data signal outputted from the driving IC 30 via an electric wire. The power signal is outputted from the driving IC 30 via another wire. Therefore, the conventional driving control IC 30 at least three electric wires (a data wire, a positive power wire and a negative power wire) to drive multi-color light apparatus to perform many different illumination effects. Accordingly, a need arises to develop a multi-color light apparatus without using too many wires, the cost is reduced and usage of the electric wires is minimized.
|
1. FiElD of tHE invENTion
tHE PResENt InVenTioN relaTeS to a mulTi-cOlOR LighT APpaRAtus, AnD mOrE PaRtIculArly tO A MUlTi-COlor LiGht ApPARaTUs with oNLY tWO POWeR WIrES TO trANSMIT DATA ANd POWeR.
2. desCriPtioN Of rElAtED aRT
IN wiNTEr, mOsT PeoPle lIVING iN NORth aMerIca WIlL DecoraTE TheIR HOUSEs witH muLTi-cOLor lIGht ApPARAtUS TO CElEBRAte chRIstmas. thE muLTI-COLoR LigHT ApPARaTUS iNcLuDes Many dIffeREnt IllUminAtIoN FuNctiOns, SUch as ShOWINg diFFerenT cOLoRs (REd, GREEN OR Blue Color), flAShiNg AND so oN.
Normally, The muLti-colOr LIGht apParaTus WiTH MaNy dIfferEnT ILlumINAtion FunCtiOnS is DrIvEn By a DRiviNg COntROl IntEgraTED cIrCuIT (IC). tHE DriVIng COnTRoL ic wIll OuTPuT dIFfEreNt contRol sIgnALs TO ThE mULTI-CoLor liGHt aPparatus, so a PlurALity Of light BuLBs iN tHE mULTI-cOlOr LIghT aPpArATUS wiLL be raNDOmlY Or SeQUeNTiallY turned On AccOrDinG to tHe ControL sIGNaLs.
WiTH RefeReNCE tO fiG. 3, a CONVEntIoNal dRIvINg CoNTRol ic 30 iNCLUDes a pLURAlITy of PInS. THose pIns inClUde a RED liGht outpUT pIN (Outr), A gReEN lIGht OUTput pIN (OuTg), A bLuE LiGHt outPUt PIN (ouTb), A GRouNd piN (gnd), a SIGNal OUtPut pIn (sDo), A sigNaL INpUt piN (sdi), a mode SeT pIN (set) AnD a PoWer INput PIN (VdD). The DAtA SIgnaL Is OutputTED frOM the drIVIng COntROl ic 30 VIA an elECtrIC wIRe. thE Power sIGNAl is outpuTTed froM THe dRIVINg ConTrol ic 30 Via anothER eLecTrIC WIre. tHeReFoRE, tHE CoNVENTionAl DRIViNG ContRol iC 30 reQUIres AT LEAsT THrEE eLECtRic wIREs (a dAtA wiRE, A POSITIve POWEr WIRE aNd a neGAtIvE pOWEr wirE) tO dRIve ThE mULti-ColoR lIgHT APpARaTUs TO perFORm many dIFFERent ILlumInatiOn eFFECTS.
AcCoRDINgLY, A NeEd arIsEs To Develop a muLTi-cOLOR ligHt aPparaTUS WiTHout usINg TOO Many wiREs, SO tHE CoSt Is redUCED And thE uSage Of THe eLEctRIC WIRES is MinIMizED.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a multi-color lightapparatus, and more particularly to a multi-color light apparatuswith only two power wires to transmit data and power. 2. Descriptionof Related Art In winter, most people living inNorth Americawill decoratetheir houses with multi-colorlightapparatus to celebrate Christmas. The multi-color light apparatus includes many differentillumination functions, such as showing different colors (red, green or blue color), flashing and so on. Normally, the multi-color light apparatus with many different illumination functions is driven by a driving control integrated circuit (IC). The driving control ICwill output different control signals to the multi-color light apparatus, so a plurality of light bulbs in the multi-colorlight apparatus will be randomly or sequentially turned on according tothe control signals. With reference to FIG. 3, a conventional driving control IC 30 includes a plurality of pins. Those pins include a red light outputpin (OUTR), a green light output pin (OUTG),a blue lightoutput pin (OUTB), a ground pin(GND), a signal outputpin (SDO), a signal input pin (SDI),a mode set pin (SET) and apower input pin (VDD). Thedata signal is outputted from the driving control IC 30 viaan electric wire.Thepower signal isoutputtedfrom the driving control IC 30 via anotherelectric wire. Therefore, the conventionaldriving control IC 30 requires at least threeelectric wires (adata wire, a positive power wire anda negative power wire)to drive the multi-color light apparatus toperformmanydifferent illumination effects.Accordingly, a need arises to develop a multi-color lightapparatus without using too many wires, so the cost is reduced and the usage ofthe electricwires is minimized.
|
1. Field of _the_ Invention The present invention relates to _a_ multi-color light apparatus, _and_ more particularly to _a_ multi-color light apparatus _with_ _only_ two power wires to transmit data and power. _2._ Description of Related Art In winter, most _people_ living in _North_ America will decorate their houses with multi-color light apparatus to celebrate Christmas. The multi-color _light_ apparatus includes many different illumination functions, such as _showing_ different colors (red, green or blue _color),_ flashing and so on. _Normally,_ _the_ multi-color light apparatus with many different illumination functions is driven by _a_ driving control integrated circuit (IC). The driving control IC _will_ output different _control_ signals to the multi-color light apparatus, _so_ a plurality of light bulbs _in_ the multi-color light apparatus will be randomly or sequentially turned _on_ according to the control signals. With _reference_ to FIG. _3,_ a conventional _driving_ control IC 30 includes _a_ _plurality_ _of_ _pins._ Those _pins_ _include_ _a_ red light _output_ pin (OUTR), a green light _output_ pin (OUTG), a _blue_ light output pin _(OUTB),_ a ground _pin_ (GND), a signal output pin (SDO), _a_ signal input pin (SDI), a mode _set_ pin _(SET)_ and a power _input_ pin (VDD). _The_ data _signal_ is outputted _from_ the driving control IC 30 via an _electric_ wire. The power signal is outputted from the driving control _IC_ _30_ _via_ another _electric_ _wire._ _Therefore,_ the conventional driving control IC 30 requires at least three _electric_ wires (a data wire, _a_ positive _power_ wire and _a_ _negative_ power wire) to drive the multi-color light apparatus to perform many different illumination effects. Accordingly, a need arises _to_ develop a multi-color light apparatus _without_ using too many _wires,_ so the cost _is_ reduced _and_ the usage of the electric wires is _minimized._
|
The present invention relates to high-performance radiation sensitive resist compositions and their use in multilayer lithography processes to fabricate semiconductor devices. Specifically, the present invention is concerned with negative-tone silicon-containing resist compositions based on an acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble silicon-containing polymers. The resist composition of the present invention can be used as the top imaging layer in a multilayer, including bilayer, technique to fabricate semiconductor devices using various irradiation sources, such as mid-ultraviolet (UV), deep-UV (for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme UV, X-ray, e-beam and ion-beam irradiation.
In the manufacture of patterned devices such as semiconductor chips and chip carriers the steps of etching different layers which constitute the finished product are among the most critical and crucial steps involved.
In semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has been the main stream approach to pattern semiconductor devices. In typical prior art lithography processes, UV light is projected onto a silicon wafer coated with a layer of photosensitive resist through a mask that defines a particular circuitry pattern. Exposure to UV light, followed by subsequent baking, induces a photochemical reaction which changes the solubility of the exposed regions of the photosensitive resist. Thereafter, an appropriate developer, typically an aqueous base solution, is used to selectively remove the resist either in the exposed regions (positive-tone resists) or, in the unexposed region (negative-tone resists). The pattern thus defined is then imprinted on the silicon wafer by etching away the regions that are not protected by the resist with a dry or wet etch process.
The current state-of-the-art optical lithography uses DUV irradiation at a wavelength of 248 nm to print features as small as 250 nm in volume semiconductor manufacturing. The continued drive for the miniaturization of semiconductor devices places increasingly stringent requirements for resist materials, including high resolution, wide process latitude, good profile control and excellent plasma etch resistance for image transfer to substrate. Several techniques for enhancing the resolution, such as reduced irradiation wavelength (from 248 nm to 193 nm), higher numerical aperture (NA) of the exposure systems, use of alternate masks or illumination conditions, and reduced resist film thickness are currently being pursued. However, each of these approaches to enhance resolution suffers from various tradeoffs in process latitude, subsequent substrate etching and cost. For example, increasing NA of the exposure tools also leads to a dramatic reduction in the depth of focus. The reduction in the resist film thickness results in the concomitant detrimental effect of decreased etch resistance of the resist film for substrate etching. This detrimental effect is exasperated by the phenomenon of etch induced micro-channel formation during substrate etch, effectively rendering the top 0.2-0.3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrate etching.
It would therefore be desirable to provide for enhanced resolution without experiencing drawbacks of the prior art.
Furthermore, bilayer imaging schemes have been suggested. In a bilayer imaging scheme, typically, images are first defined in a thin, usually 0.1-0.3 um thick, silicon containing resist with a wet process on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus defined are then transferred into the underlayer through a selective and highly anisotropic oxygen reactive ion etching (O2 RIE) where silicon in the top imaging layer is converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etch mask. To be effective as etch mask, the top imaging layer needs to contain sufficient silicon, usually greater than 10 wt %.
The advantages of bilayer imaging over the conventional single layer imaging include higher resolution capability, wider process latitude, patterning high aspect ration features, and minimization of substrate contamination and thin film interference effects. Moreover, the thick organic underlayer offers superior substrate etch resistance. The bilayer imaging is most suitable for high NA exposure tools, imaging over substrate topography and patterning high aspect ratio patterns.
Various silicon-containing polymers have been used as polymer resins in the top imaging layer resists (see R. D. Miller and G. M. Wallraff, Advanced Materials for Optics and Electronics, p. 95 (1994)). One of the most widely used silicon-containing polymers is polysilsesquioxane. Both positive-tone and negative-tone resists have been developed using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane: poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). For positive-tone bilayer resists, poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) was modified with a diazo photoactive compound or an acid sensitive t-butyloxycarbonyl (t-BOC) for I-line and chemically amplified DUV lithography, respectively [U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,385,804, 5,422,223]. Positive-tone resists have also been developed by using dissolution inhibitors [U.S. Pat. No. 4,745,169]. For negative-tone bilayer resists, an azide functional group was chemically attached to poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). Exposure of the azide functionalized poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) caused crosslinking in the exposed regions. Thus, negative-tone images resulted. However, these bilayer resists suffer from inadequate resolution, low sensitivity, and poor resist profile in some cases due to high optical density.
In view of the state of prior art resists, it is desirable to develop new bilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile control for patterning semiconductor circuities. In particular, new negative-tone silicon-containing resists are desirable since negative-tone resists generally offer advantages of better isolated feature resolution, good thermal stability, small isolated and dense feature bias.
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a highly sensitive, high resolution negative-tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content.
Another object of the present invention is to provide chemically amplified negative-tone silicon-containing resist compositions that can be used as top imaging layer resists in multilayer lithography for semiconductor manufacturing, and, in particular, in the patterning of semiconductor circuities.
These and other objects are achieved according to the present invention by an acid catalyzed, high contrast crosslinking of silicon-containing polymers bearing a phenolic moiety by using crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group of the phenolic moiety in the silicon polymers (O-alkylation). These objectives are achieved also by using a bulky photo-generated acid to reduce acid diffusion for high resolution. More specifically, highly sensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer via O-alkylation. These crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, uril and melamine derivatives. The O-alkylation not only increases the molecular weight of the parent polymer but also converts the hydrophilic hydroxyl group in the parent polymer into a less hydrophilic phenolic ether group. Both lead to high contrast for the negative-tone resists.
Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward a silicon-containing negative-tone chemically amplified resist composition which comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon-containing polymer or copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and crosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme-UV, X-ray, e-beam or ion-beam range. The chemically amplified resist composition of the present invention may further comprise (f) a base and/or (g) a surfactant. The crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single compound or a combination of two or more compounds of the same function.
A further aspect of the present invention involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer imaging scheme where a thin layer of the silicon-containing resist is applied and imaged on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus formed are then transferred into the underlayer through anisotropic O2 or CO2 reactive ion etching.
Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
The present invention relates to a high sensitivity, high resolution, aqueous base developable silicon-containing negative-tone resist composition. The resist compositions of the present invention are especially suitable for the top imaging layers for bilayer imaging. In one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer and copolymers with crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group (O-alkylation) of the silicon-containing polymers. Examples of suitable crosslinking agents include, but not limited to, uril and malamine derivatives.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the chemically amplified silicon-containing negative-tone resist composition comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon-containing polymer or copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and the crosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme-UV, X-ray or e-beam range. The
|
the present invention relates to high - performance radiation sensitive resist compositions and their use in multilayer lithography processes to fabricate semiconductor devices. specifically, the present invention as concerned with negative - tone silicon - containing resist compositions based on an acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble silicon - containing polymers. the resist composition of the present invention can be used as site specific imaging layer across a multilayer, including bilayer, technique to fabricate semiconductor devices using various irradiation sources, such as mid - ultraviolet ( uv ), deep - uv ( for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme uv, x - ray, gamma - beam and ion - beam irradiation. in the manufacture of patterned devices such as semiconductor chips and chip carriers the steps of etching different layers which constitute the finished product are among the most critical and crucial steps involved. in semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has been the main stream approach to pattern semiconductor devices. in typical prior art lithography processes, uv light is projected onto a silicon wafer coated with a layer of photosensitive resist through a mask that defines a particular circuitry pattern. exposure to uv light, followed by subsequent baking, induces a photochemical reaction which changes the solubility of the exposed regions of the photosensitive resist. thereafter, an appropriate developer, typically an aqueous base solution, is used to selectively remove the resist either off the exposed regions ( positive - tone resists ) or, in the unexposed region ( negative - tone resists ). the pattern thus defined is then imprinted on the silicon wafer by etching away the regions that are not protected by the resist with a dry or wet etch process. the current state - of - the - art optical lithography uses duv irradiation at a wavelength of 248 nm to print features as small as 250 nm in volume semiconductor manufacturing. the continued drive for the miniaturization of semiconductor devices places increasingly stringent requirements for resist materials, including high resolution, wide process latitude, good profile control and excellent plasma etch resistance for image sensitivity to substrate. several techniques for enhancing the resolution, such as reduced irradiation wavelength ( from 248 nm to 193 nm ), higher numerical aperture ( na ) of alternative exposure systems, use of alternate masks or illumination conditions, and reduced resist film thickness are increasingly being pursued. however, each of these approaches to enhance resolution suffers from costly trade ##offs in process latitude, subsequent substrate etching and cost. for example, increasing na of the exposure tools also leads to a dramatic reduction in the depth of focus. the reduction in the resist film thickness results in the concomitant detrimental effect of decreased etch resistance of the resist film for substrate etching. this detrimental effect is exasperated by the phenomenon of etch induced micro - channel formation during substrate etch, effectively rendering the top 0. 2 - 0. 3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrate etching. it would therefore be desirable to provide for enhanced resolution without experiencing drawbacks of the prior art. furthermore, bilayer imaging schemes have been suggested. in a bilayer imaging scheme, typically, images are first defined in a thin, usually 0. 1 - 0. 3 um thick, silicon containing resist with a wet process on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underlayer. the images thus defined are then transferred into the underlayer through a selective and highly anisotropic oxygen reactive ion etching ( o2 rie ) where silicon in the top imaging layer is converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etch mask. to be effective as etch mask, the top imaging layer needs to contain sufficient silicon, usually greater than 10 wt %. the advantages of bilayer imaging over the conventional single layer imaging include higher resolution capability, wider process latitude, patterning high aspect ration features, and minimization of substrate contamination and thin film interference effects. moreover, the thick organic underlayer offers superior substrate etch resistance. the bilayer imaging is most suitable for high na exposure tools, imaging over substrate topography and patterning high aspect ratio patterns. various silicon - containing polymers have been used as polymer resins in the top imaging layer resists ( see r. d. miller and g. m. wallraff, advanced materials for optics and electronics, p. 95 ( 1994 ) ). one of the most widely used silicon - containing polymers is polysilsesquioxane. both positive - tone and negative - tone resists have been developed using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane : poly ( p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ). for positive - tone bilayer resists, poly ( p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ) was modified with a diazo photoactive compound or an acid sensitive t - butyloxycarbonyl ( t - boc ) for i - line and chemically amplified duv lithography, respectively [ u. s. pat. nos. 5, 385, 804, 5, 422, 223 ]. positive - tone resists have also been developed by using dissolution inhibitors [ u. s. pat. no. 4, 745, 169 ]. for negative - tone bilayer resists, an azide functional group was chemically attached to poly ( p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ). exposure of the azide functionalized poly ( p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ) caused crosslinking in the exposed regions. thus, negative - tone images resulted. however, these bilayer resists suffer from inadequate resolution, low sensitivity, and poor resist profile in some cases due to high optical density. in view of the state of prior art resists, it is desirable to develop new bilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile control for patterning semiconductor circuities. in particular, new negative - tone silicon - containing resists are desirable since negative - tone resists generally offer advantages of better isolated feature resolution, good thermal stability, small isolated and dense feature bias. accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a highly sensitive, high resolution negative - tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content. another object of the present invention is to provide chemically amplified negative - tone silicon - containing resist compositions that can be used as top imaging layer resists in multilayer lithography for semiconductor manufacturing, and, in particular, in the patterning of semiconductor circuities. these and other objects are achieved according to the present invention by an acid catalyzed, high contrast crosslinking of silicon - containing polymers bearing a phenolic moiety by using crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group of the phenolic moiety in the silicon polymers ( o - alkylation ). these objectives are achieved also by using a bulky photo - generated acid to reduce acid diffusion for high resolution. more specifically, highly sensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative - tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer via o - alkylation. these crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, uril and melamine derivatives. the o - alkylation not only increases the molecular weight of the parent polymer but also converts the hydrophilic hydroxyl group in the parent polymer into a less hydrophilic phenolic ether group. both lead to high contrast for the negative - tone resists. another aspect of the present invention is directed toward a silicon - containing negative - tone chemically amplified resist composition which comprises ( a ) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon - containing polymer or copolymer ; ( b ) a crosslinking agent ; ( c ) an acid generator ; ( d ) a solvent for said polymer resin and crosslinking agent ; and, optionally, ( e ) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid - uv, deep - uv ( e. g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme - uv, x - ray, e - beam or ion - beam range. the chemically amplified resist composition of the present invention may further comprise ( f ) a base and / or ( g ) a surfactant. the crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single compound or a combination of two or more compounds of the same function. a further aspect of the present invention involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer imaging scheme where a thin layer of the silicon - containing resist is applied and imaged on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. the images thus formed are then transferred into the underlayer through anisotropic o2 or co2 reactive ion etching. still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. as will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. the present invention relates to a high sensitivity, high resolution, aqueous base developable silicon - containing negative - tone resist composition. the resist compositions of the present invention are especially suitable for the top imaging layers for bilayer imaging. in one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, high resolution chemically amplified negative - tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer and copolymers with crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group ( o - alkylation ) of the silicon - containing polymers. examples of suitable crosslinking agents include, but not limited to, uril and malamine derivatives. in another embodiment of the present invention, the chemically amplified silicon - containing negative - tone resist composition comprises ( a ) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon - containing polymer or copolymer ; ( b ) a crosslinking agent ; ( c ) an acid generator ; ( d ) a solvent for said polymer resin and the crosslinking agent ; and, optionally, ( e ) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid - uv, deep - uv ( e. g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme - uv, x - ray or e - beam range. the
|
The present invention relates to high - performance radiation sensitive resist compositions and their use in multilayer lithography processes to fabricate semiconductor devices. Specifically, the present invention is concerned with negative - tone silicon - containing resist compositions based on an acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble silicon - containing polymers. The resist composition of the present invention can be used as the top imaging layer in a multilayer, including bilayer, technique to fabricate semiconductor devices using various irradiation sources, such as mid - ultraviolet (UV ), deep - UV (for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme UV, X - ray, e - beam and ion - beam irradiation. In the manufacture of patterned devices such as semiconductor chips and chip carriers the steps of etching different layers which constitute the finished product are among the most critical and crucial steps involved. In semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has been the main stream approach to pattern semiconductor devices. In typical prior art lithography processes, UV light is projected onto a silicon wafer coated with a layer of photosensitive resist through a mask that defines a particular circuitry pattern. Exposure to UV light, followed by subsequent baking, induces a photochemical reaction which changes the solubility of the exposed regions of the photosensitive resist. Thereafter, an appropriate developer, typically an aqueous base solution, is used to selectively remove the resist either in the exposed regions (positive - tone resists) or, in the unexposed region (negative - tone resists ). The pattern thus defined is then imprinted on the silicon wafer by etching away the regions that are not protected by the resist with a dry or wet etch 0rocfss. The current state - of - the - art optical lithography uses DUV irradiation at a wavelength of 248 nm to print features as small as 250 nm in volume semiconductor manufacturing. The continued drive for the miniaturization of semiconductor devices places increasingly stringent requirements for resist materials, including high resolution, wide process latitude, good profile control and excellent plasma etch resistance for image transfer to substrate. Several techniques for enhancing the resolution, such as reduced irradiation wavelength (from 248 nm to 193 nm ), higher numerical aperture (NA) of the exposure systems, use of alternate masks or il,umiJation conditions, and reduced resist film thickness are currently being pursued. However, each of these approaches to enhance resolution suffers from various tradeoffs in process latitude, subsequent substrate etching and cost. For example, increasing NA of the exposure tools also leads to a dramatic reduction in the depth of focus. The reduction in the resist film thickness results in the concomitant detrimental effect of decreased etch resistance of the resist film for substrate etching. This detrimental effect is exasperated by the phenomenon of etch induced micro - channel formation during substrate RtcY, effectively rendering the top 0. 2 - 0. 3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrate etching. It would therefore be desirable to provide for enhanced resolution without experiencing drawbacks of the prior art. Furthermore, bilayer imaging schemes have been suggested. In a bilayer imaging scheme, typically, images are first ddtined in a thin, usually 0. 1 - 0. 3 um thick, silicon containing resist with a wet process on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underla6dr. The images thus defined are then transferred into the underlayer through a selective and highly anisotropic oxygen reactive ion etching (O2 RIE) where silicon in the top imaging layer is converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etch mask. To be effective as etch mask, the top imaging layer needs to contain sufficient silicon, usually greater than 10 wt% . The advantages of bilayer imaging over the conventional single layer imaging include higher resolution capability, wider process latitude, patterning high aspect ration features, and minimization of substrate contamination and thin film interference effects. Moreover, the thick organic underlayer offers superior substrate etch resistance. The bilayer imaging is most suitable for high NA exposure tools, imaging 0fer substrate topography and patterning high aspect ratio patterns. Various silicon - SontaUning polymers have been used as polymer resins in the top imaging layer resists (see R. D. Miller and G. M. Wallraff, Advanced Materials for Optics and Electronics, p. 95 (1994) ). One of the most widely used silicon - containing polymers is polysilsesquioxane. Both positive - tone and negative - tone resists have been developed using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane: poly (p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ). For positive - tone bilayer resists, poly (p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) was modified with a diazo photoactive compound or an acid sensitive t - butyloxycarbonyl (t - BOC) for I - line and chemically amplified DUV lithography, respectively [U. S. Pat. Nos. 5, 385, 804, 5, 422, 223 ]. Positive - tone resists have also been developed by using dissolution inhibitors [U. S. Pat. No. 4, 745, 169 ]. For negative - tone bilayer resists, an azide functional group was chemically attached to poly (p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane ). Exposure of the azide functionalized poly (p - hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) caused crosslinking in the exposed regions. Thus, negative - tone images resulted. However, these bilayer resists suffer from inadequate resolution, low sensitivity, and poor resist profile in some cases due to high optical density. In view of the state of prior art resists, it is desirable to develop new bilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile control for patterning semiconductor circuities. In particular, new negative - tone silicon - containing resists are desirable since negative - tone resists generally offer advantages of better isolated feature resolution, good thermal stability, small isolated and dense feature bias. Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a highly sensitive, high resolution negative - tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content. Another object of the present invention is to provide chemically amplified negative - tone silicon - containing resist compositions that can be used as top imaging layer resists in multilayer lithography for semiconductor manufacturing, and, in particular, in the patterning of semiconductor circuities. These and other objects are achieved according to the present invention by an acid catalyzed, high contrast crosslinking of silicon - containing polymers bearing a phenolic moiety by using crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group of the phenolic moiety in the silicon polymers (O - alkylation ). These objectives are achieved also by using a bulky photo - generated acid to reduce acid diffusion for high resolution. More specifically, highly sensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative - tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer via O - alkylation. These crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, uril and melamine derivatives. The O - alkylation not only increases the molecular weight of the parent polymer but also converts the hydrophilic hydroxyl group in the parent polymer into a less hydrophilic phenolic ether group. Both lead to high contrast for the negative - tone resists. Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward a silicon - containing negative - tone chemically amplified resist composition which comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon - containing polymer or copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and crosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid - UV, deep - UV (e. g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme - UV, X - ray, e - Heak or ion - beam range. The chemically amplified resist composition of the present invention may further comprise (f) a base and / or (g) a surfactant. The crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single compound or a combination of two or more compounds of the same function. A further aspect of the present invention involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer imaging scheme where a thin layer of the silicon - containing resist is applied and imaged on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus formed are then transferred into the underlayer through anisotropic O2 or CO2 reactive ion etching. Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. The present invention relates to a high sensitivity, high resolution, aqueous base developable silicon - containing negative - tone resist composition. The resist compositions of the present invention are especially suitable for the top imaging layers for bilayer imaging. In one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, high resolution chemically amplified negative - tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer and copolymers with crosslinking agents that react with the gydr*xyl group (O - alkylation) of the silicon - containing polymers. Examples of suitable crosslinking agents include, but not limited to, uril and malamine derivatives. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chemically amplified silicon - containing negative - tone resist composition comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon - containing polymer or copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and the crosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid - UV, deep - UV (e. g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm ), extreme - UV, X - ray or e - beam FangS. The
|
The present invention relates high-performance radiation sensitive compositions and their use in multilayer lithography processes fabricate semiconductor devices. Specifically, the present is concerned with negative-tone silicon-containing resist compositions based on an acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base polymers. The resist composition of the present invention can be used as the top imaging layer in a multilayer, bilayer, technique to fabricate semiconductor devices various irradiation such as mid-ultraviolet (UV), (for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme X-ray, e-beam and irradiation. In the manufacture of devices such as semiconductor chips and chip carriers the of etching different layers which constitute the finished product are the most critical and crucial steps involved. In semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has the main stream to pattern semiconductor devices. In typical prior art lithography processes, UV light is projected onto a silicon wafer coated with a of photosensitive through that defines a particular circuitry pattern. Exposure to UV light, followed subsequent baking, induces a photochemical reaction which changes the solubility of the exposed regions of the photosensitive resist. Thereafter, an appropriate developer, typically an aqueous base solution, is used to selectively remove resist either in the exposed regions (positive-tone resists) or, in the unexposed region (negative-tone resists). The pattern thus defined is then imprinted on the silicon wafer etching away the regions that not protected by the resist with a dry or wet etch process. The state-of-the-art optical lithography uses DUV irradiation at a wavelength 248 nm to print features as small 250 nm in volume semiconductor manufacturing. The continued drive for the miniaturization of semiconductor devices places increasingly requirements resist materials, including high resolution, wide process latitude, good profile control and excellent plasma etch resistance image transfer to substrate. Several techniques for enhancing resolution, such reduced irradiation wavelength (from 248 to 193 nm), higher numerical aperture (NA) of the systems, use of alternate masks or conditions, and resist film thickness are currently being However, each of approaches to enhance resolution from various tradeoffs in process latitude, subsequent substrate etching and cost. For example, increasing NA of the exposure tools leads to a dramatic reduction in the depth of focus. The reduction in the resist film in the concomitant detrimental effect of etch resistance of the resist film for substrate etching. This detrimental effect is exasperated by the phenomenon of etch induced micro-channel formation substrate etch, effectively rendering top 0.2-0.3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrate etching. It would be desirable to provide without experiencing drawbacks of the Furthermore, bilayer schemes been suggested. In a bilayer imaging scheme, typically, images are first defined in a thin, usually 0.1-0.3 thick, silicon containing resist with a wet process on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus defined are then transferred into the underlayer through a selective and highly anisotropic oxygen ion etching (O2 RIE) where silicon in the top imaging layer converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etch mask. To be effective as etch mask, the top imaging layer to contain sufficient silicon, usually greater than 10 wt %. The advantages of imaging over the conventional single layer imaging include higher resolution capability, wider process latitude, patterning high aspect ration features, and minimization of substrate contamination and thin film effects. Moreover, the thick organic underlayer offers superior substrate etch resistance. The bilayer is most suitable for NA imaging over substrate topography and patterning high aspect ratio patterns. Various silicon-containing have been used as polymer resins in the top imaging layer resists (see D. Miller and G. M. Wallraff, Advanced Materials for Optics and p. 95 (1994)). One the most widely used silicon-containing polymers is polysilsesquioxane. Both positive-tone and resists have been developed using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane: poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). For positive-tone bilayer poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) was modified with a diazo compound or an acid sensitive t-butyloxycarbonyl (t-BOC) for I-line and chemically amplified DUV lithography, respectively Pat. Nos. 5,385,804, 5,422,223]. resists have also been developed using dissolution inhibitors Pat. No. 4,745,169]. For negative-tone bilayer resists, an azide group was chemically attached to poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). Exposure of the azide functionalized poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) caused crosslinking in the exposed regions. Thus, negative-tone images resulted. However, these bilayer resists suffer from inadequate resolution, low sensitivity, and poor resist profile in cases due to optical density. In view of the state of art resists, it is desirable develop new bilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile control for patterning semiconductor circuities. In new negative-tone resists are desirable since resists generally better isolated feature resolution, good thermal stability, small isolated and dense feature bias. Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a sensitive, high resolution negative-tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content. Another object of the present invention to chemically amplified negative-tone silicon-containing resist compositions that can be used as top imaging layer in multilayer lithography for semiconductor and, in particular, in the patterning of semiconductor circuities. These and other objects are achieved according to the present invention by an acid catalyzed, high contrast crosslinking of silicon-containing bearing a phenolic moiety by using crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group of the phenolic moiety in the silicon polymers (O-alkylation). These objectives are achieved also by using a bulky photo-generated acid to acid diffusion for high resolution. More specifically, highly sensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking of soluble polymer via These crosslinking agents include, but limited to, uril and melamine derivatives. O-alkylation not increases the molecular weight of the parent polymer but also converts the hydrophilic hydroxyl group in the parent polymer into a less hydrophilic phenolic group. Both lead to high contrast the negative-tone resists. Another aspect of the invention is directed toward silicon-containing negative-tone chemically amplified resist composition which comprises (a) an aqueous base phenolic silicon-containing copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; a solvent for said polymer resin and crosslinking agent; and, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of irradiation in the mid-UV, (e.g. 248 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme-UV, e-beam or ion-beam range. The chemically amplified resist composition of the present invention may further comprise (f) a base and/or (g) a surfactant. crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single compound or a combination of two or more compounds of the same function. A further aspect of the invention involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer imaging scheme where a thin layer of the silicon-containing resist is applied and on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. The thus formed are then transferred into the underlayer through anisotropic O2 or CO2 reactive ion etching. other objects and advantages of the invention will become readily apparent by those skilled in the art from following detailed description, wherein is shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are of modifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. Accordingly, drawings description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. The present invention relates to a high resolution, developable negative-tone resist composition. The resist compositions of present invention are especially for the top for bilayer In one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer and copolymers with crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group the silicon-containing polymers. Examples suitable crosslinking agents include, but not limited uril and malamine derivatives. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chemically amplified silicon-containing negative-tone resist composition comprises an soluble phenolic silicon-containing polymer or (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and the crosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 nm and nm), extreme-UV, X-ray or e-beam range. The
|
the PreseNt iNvEnTioN Relates to higH-PErForMANcE radiaTioN sENsiTiVE reSist COmpositIOnS ANd theIr USE IN MUltIlayER LitHOgRaPHY PROCESSES To FaBrIcATe SemicONDuCTor DEvicEs. sPECIfIcalLy, The preSENT InVeNTion is cOncErnED wITH nEgaTIVE-tONe sIlICON-COnTAIniNG REsIST CoMposITIOns BASED On An aCId CatALYzeD crosSlinkiNG OF AQUeOUs bAse SOLuble silICon-conTAiNIng POLymErS. tHE RESISt CoMposiTion OF the prESENt invENTiOn cAn BE uSEd as the ToP imaginG layer in A MulTIlAyeR, InclUDiNg bILayer, techNIquE To fABRICaTE SeMIConDUCtoR dEVICEs UsIng VaRiOus IRRAdiation SOUrCes, SuCh aS Mid-uLTRAvIOLET (Uv), deEp-uv (FOR eXaMPLE 248 NM, 193 nm AND 157 NM), eXTReME UV, X-RAy, e-BeAM AnD ion-beam IrrAdiaTIoN.
iN thE MaNufACtURe of paTTeRnEd dEVIces sUcH as SeMicONDuCtoR ChIps AnD chIp CARriERS THE steps Of eTcHING difFerENt LAyeRs wHIcH coNstiTutE THe FInIShed PROduCT aRE AmONG THE mosT critICaL anD CRuCIal StEPs iNvolvEd.
IN SEmIconDuctor MaNUfACTURInG, oPtICAL LithoGRAPHY HAS beEn tHE mAiN sTReAM aPPROAch to PATtERN sEMIcondUCtOr DeViCEs. In tYPiCaL PrIOR ARt LiTHOGRAPHy PrOCEssEs, Uv lIght is projeCtED oNTo A SILiCon waFer COAtEd witH a layeR of PHotosensitiVE REsIST thrOUGh A MaSK ThAT DeFInEs A pArtIculAr CiRCUiTrY paTTern. ExPOSUrE tO uV lIgHT, FolloWeD BY sUbSEQuENt bAkIng, indUCes A PHOtoCHEMICaL ReACtiOn WhiCH chAngES thE SoLuBILItY OF ThE ExPOSEd REGioNs Of THE PHOtOsEnSItivE RESISt. THerEAFtER, AN APpRoPrIate deVeLopER, tyPICALly An aqUeOUs base solUtION, Is USED to seleCtIvELy RemOvE thE REsist EITHER IN THe exPosED rEgIONs (PoSITIVE-tonE REsiStS) oR, In The uNeXposed rEGIoN (neGatiVe-tone rEsIStS). THe paTTeRn tHus deFinEd Is tHeN ImPRinTed oN The SIlICON WaFeR bY EtcHiNG aWAy THE REGIONS THaT ARE NoT PrOTECtED By THe ResIst WitH a Dry Or weT ETCh prOcess.
THE CurRENt StAte-of-tHE-art OPtICAl LitHOGRAPHY UsES DuV IrRaDiAtIoN At A WaVELENgth of 248 nM to PrInT FeATUrES AS sMAll As 250 Nm iN VolUmE SEMicONdUCTOr MAnUFActurInG. ThE ContINuEd DrIvE fOr tHe MINiaTurIzATIon Of SemICONdUCtOr dEviCEs pLaCes iNcreaSINgly STRInGEnt rEqUIrEMents FOR RESISt maTeRIAls, InCLUdinG HiGh rESOlUtiOn, widE pRocESS LATITUDE, good PRoFiLE coNtROl aND eXCElLeNt PlASMA Etch ResistanCE FoR IMaGE tRAnSFER tO sUbsTraTE. sEVEraL TeChNIQUeS For enhAncInG ThE ResOLuTIoN, SUch As reDUCEd iRRAdiatIOn wAveLengTh (FrOm 248 nM To 193 nM), HiGher NumeRIcAl aPERtuRE (na) OF tHe expOsure sYStEms, Use Of alteRNAtE maSKs or ILLumiNaTIoN cOnditIoNS, ANd rEdUCEd REsIST fIlM ThickNESS are CURRENTLY bEINg puRSuED. HOWeveR, eAcH of THeSe apPRoaCHEs TO enHAnCe reSolutION SuFFerS fRom VaRiOUS tRAdEOffs IN pROCeSs laTitUdE, SuBseQUENT sUbstrAte ETCHinG aND coST. fOr EXamPlE, inCreasiNg Na Of The exPosUre tOOLS ALSO LeADs To a DRaMAtic ReDuCtIOn IN ThE DePtH of FocUS. ThE rEdUctIon IN The REsist fIlM ThIcKNeSs rESuLts iN The cONCOmitAnT detRImENtaL efFEct Of dECreaseD eTch RESiStancE OF ThE rESIST FILm FOR sUbStrAte eTCHiNg. tHiS DetRiMenTAl effECT is EXasPerATED bY thE PheNOMENoN Of eTCH INDUCEd mICro-CHaNNeL FOrMatioN duriNG suBSTRATE eTCH, efFECtIveLy rENDERInG The Top 0.2-0.3 Um RESISt FiLM uSELess AS an ETCh maSK foR subStrate EtcHinG.
it WOuld THerEfoRe BE DESiRAble to proVIde foR ENhaNcED ResoLution WiTHout eXPeRiENcInG dRAwbAcKS of tHE priOr Art.
furTHErmOrE, bILAyER imaGing ScHEMEs hAVe BEEN sUGgESTED. in A biLaYeR iMAGinG sCHEME, TyPicallY, iMaGES ARe first DefinEd IN A tHIn, usUalLY 0.1-0.3 uM THick, SiLicON ContAiNIng rESIst WitH a wEt PrOCEsS on a RElAtIveLy thiCk hIGH ABsORBiNG oRGaNiC uNDeRlaYer. The imAGES thuS Defined ARE tHEN TrANSFerREd inTo the UnderlAyEr THrouGH a sELEctiVe And HIgHly AnIsoTRopIc OxYGen reAcTIVE ion eTchinG (o2 rIE) whERE SiLiCon iN tHe top imAgING laYER Is cOnverted INTO NoNvOLAtilE SiLIcoN oxIdes, THUS actiNG As An ETCH MaSK. to bE eFFECTiVE As eTCH MASk, the tOP ImAGinG LAyeR NEeds To cONtain sufFIcIENT SiliCON, USUALly GreAter ThAn 10 wt %.
tHe aDVANTAGeS OF BIlayER imaGIng oVER THe conVEntIoNaL siNglE layEr iMAGINg iNcludE hiGHeR ReSOluTioN capAbIlItY, wIDeR PRoCess LaTiTuDe, PaTternInG hIgh ASpect RatIon featURES, ANd mInImIZATion oF suBsTRATe coNtamInation AND THIN FIlM INteRFereNcE EffecTs. morEOVeR, ThE thIcK orgANic unDErlAYER oFfers sUpeRioR substRATe Etch rESisTANCE. ThE BIlayER imaGiNg is MosT SuitablE foR HiGh na Exposure tools, iMAginG OVEr SUbsTraTE TOpogRAphy and paTTeRNIng high aSPeCt rATIo pattErnS.
vAriOuS siliCoN-cOnTaINIng pOLymeRs haVe BEEn usED aS POlYmEr ResiNs In ThE toP iMaGIng lAyer RESiSTS (See R. D. miLlEr aND G. m. WAlLrafF, aDvANcEd MatERIaLS fOR OpTICS anD eleCTRoNiCs, P. 95 (1994)). ONe of tHE mOsT WiDelY uSeD SILIcoN-coNtAInING pOlyMerS iS poLYSilsEsQUioXaNE. BoTh POSitiVe-toNe and NeGatIve-TOnE rESiSTS havE bEEn DEVElOPEd USiNg An aquEoUs BAse SolUBlE pOlySIlsESquioxaNe: PolY(p-HydroXyBeNZyLSilSeSQUIOxanE). For poSiTive-tOne BIlayEr resiSTS, pOlY(P-hYDROXYbEnZylsiLSESQUioXANe) WAs mOdifieD wITH A DIazo phOTOactivE CoMpOUNd or AN acId sensiTiVE T-BuTYLOxyCArBonyL (T-Boc) FOR i-LINE and cHEmiCaLly aMpLiFIed DUv lItHOgraPhy, RESPECtIVELY [u.s. pAt. NOS. 5,385,804, 5,422,223]. pOSITive-TONE ReSIsTs have ALSO BEEN deVElOPed BY UsiNg diSSoLutIOn iNHiBItors [U.s. pat. No. 4,745,169]. For NeGAtIve-TONe BILayer REsIsTS, aN AziDe FUNcTIOnAL GROup waS chEmicalLy ATTacheD to pOLy(p-HyDroxybENZylSIlsEsquiOxane). ExPOsurE OF tHE AzIdE fUNcTioNALIZED POLY(P-hYdrOxybenzyLsILSEsQuiOxAne) CAuSeD CRossLINkINg In THe EXpOsED rEGions. thUs, NEgative-ToNE ImAGeS ResultEd. hOwEVeR, THeSE bIlaYeR RESiStS SUfFeR fRom iNAdEqUATe RESOlUtioN, LOW seNsITIVitY, And pooR REsIST pROfIle iN somE CAsEs due tO HigH oPTICaL DEnSiTy.
in viEW Of the STAtE OF prioR arT rEsISts, It is dESIRABlE To deVEloP NEW BILaYeR rEsisTS WITH higH resOLUtioN, hiGh SEnSITIViTY, ANd GOoD ProfiLe cOntroL FOR patTernING SEmiConDUCtor cIRCuiTIES. In PARtIcULAR, neW NeGaTIVE-TonE siLiCON-coNTAIninG REsISTS aRE DesIRAble siNCe NeGaTIVE-tONE ResIsTS GEnERaLly OffeR AdvaNtaGeS of BettEr isOlATED feaTUrE resoluTIon, GOOd tHErMal stABILiTy, smALl isolateD anD DENSE feATUre BIAs.
acCordInGLY, ONE objEct of thE PResEnt InveNTIon Is To prOViDe A highLy SensITIvE, HiGh REsOLutiON NeGaTive-Tone reSIST COMPosItIons wiTh RELaTIVEly hiGh sIlICOn CoNTEnT.
aNothER obJECT of tHe PREsent INvEnTion Is To prOVIDE ChEmically aMpLiFIEd NEGATiVE-TonE sILICON-coNtaInInG ResisT COMPOSitIOnS ThaT cAN BE uSeD As tOP ImagINg LaYER RESISts In MulTILayeR lITHOGRapHy FOR semIConductoR mANUfACTUrInG, AnD, IN pARtIcULar, In the patteRNiNG of SEMicoNdUCTOR CIRCuiTIEs.
THeSe aND OtHeR objeCTs ArE achiEvED AccORdiNG To THE PrEsENT iNvenTioN by an aCid CaTaLyZEd, higH ConTRASt cRoSSliNKING oF SILICoN-conTaiNInG pOlymeRs bEARinG a pHeNOLic MOiety By Using crossLInKINg AgeNTs THAT REaCt WiTh the HYdrOxyl gRoup of The pHENOlic mOiEtY in tHE SiLicON poLyMeRS (o-ALKyLaTION). tHese obJecTiVeS ArE aChiEVED ALsO BY usiNg a BuLky pHOto-gENerATED aciD to reDUce ACId dIfFUsIoN FoR hIgH ReSOluTIon. mOre speciFIcALly, HighlY seNSiTiVe, hIgH REsoLUtiOn cHemiCAlLy AmplIFieD NeGATive-toNe REsIsts Are obtAined BY acId CATaLYzed CrOSSlinKING oF AqUEous base SOlublE HyDRoxYbENzyLSiLSesQUiOXAnE pOLyMer ViA o-ALKylatiOn. THEsE cROSSLiNKIng AgeNTS IncLuDe, but ArE not liMIted to, Uril AND MELaMiNE dERIVaTiVes. ThE O-aLKylatION NOT ONly INcReaSES THE MOlEcUlar WeiGHt OF The pArENT polYmEr But alSo cOnVeRts the hYDrOPHilic hYdRoxyl GroUP in the pArEnT PolymeR InTo a LeSs HyDRophilIc pHenOlIc ETher GRoUp. BOTH lEaD to higH ContRAst fOr tHe NeGATiVE-TONE ReSIsts.
anotHer asPect oF thE PRESEnT INveNtion is diReCTed tOWARD A siliCon-ConTAinInG NEgATiVE-TOnE CHEmicalLY amplIFieD RESisT cOMpositIOn WHICH COMpRIsEs (A) AN AQUeouS baSE SoLuBLE PheNoLIc siLicoN-contaINInG polYMER oR cOpOLyMeR; (B) a cRosSlinkiNg AGEnt; (C) An ACid gEneRatOr; (D) a sOLvENT for sAiD Polymer RESIN AND crosSlINkiNG AgeNt; And, opTioNaLLy, (e) A PHOtosensitIzer thAT is CaPABle OF absoRBiNg irRaDIaTIoN iN THE miD-uv, DEEP-uV (e.G. 248 NM, 193 nM aNd 157 NM), eXTrEME-uV, x-Ray, E-BEam OR ion-beam RANge. The cHemiCALly amPlifIeD resiST cOmposiTiON OF The PReSent INvENTION MAY FURThER compriSE (F) A bAse aNd/Or (G) A SURfACTaNt. THe cROSsLiNkiNg aGEnt, aCId GeNErAtOR, PhOtoseNsitiZEr, BasE and sUrfACtANT can BE EitHer a siNGLE compoUNd OR a coMBinatIon of two oR MORE COmpouNds Of the same FUnctION.
a FURther aspeCT Of tHE pREsENt inventiON InvolVES usINg THe siLIcON cONtAining ReSist IN a bIlAYeR IMAgInG scHEMe whEre A thin lAYER Of thE sILIcoN-cONTAInING resisT IS aPplIED And iMAGed On a Thick, HighLy ABSorBiNG oRgANic unDeRLAYeR. the iMaGEs tHus fOrMED ARe THEN TrAnSFErrED InTO tHe UnderlAYer thrOuGh ANiSOTropIC o2 OR cO2 ReActIVE IOn ETcHInG.
sTILL oThER OBjECtS anD ADvantAgEs Of the pREsenT inVENtION WIlL bEcOMe rEadiLy aPpArenT BY ThOSe SKiLLeD IN thE ArT fRoM thE FOlLoWiNG DEtAILED DEScRIptIoN, wheREiN IT is sHown AND DesCribeD only THe PrefeRRed eMBoDiMeNTs Of the iNventIon, SIMpLy bY way oF IlLustraTION oF thE bESt moDe coNTemplateD OF CaRrYinG OuT ThE inVeNTiOn. AS wILL BE Realized, the iNVEntioN Is cAPAblE OF OtHeR aNd DIFFeRenT EMboDiMeNTS, AnD iTS SEVeraL dEtaIls Are cAPaBLE OF mODifiCaTIoNS In vARiOUs oBvious REsPecTS, WIthOUt DEPARtinG fRom THe iNvEntion. AcCORdINGLy, the DrawiNgs AND deSCRIptIOn ARE To BE RegaRdeD As IllusTraTive IN NatuRE AND nOT as resTriCTiVe.
thE preSEnt inVention RElATes to A hiGh SEnsiTIvIty, High rEsOLUtiOn, AQUeoUS baSe devELOpABle silIcoN-CONTAINInG nEGATIve-Tone Resist COMPoSITION. THE resist CoMPosiTIONs OF THE PrESent InvenTiOn ARE eSPECIaLlY SuitaBLe fOr thE TOP imAgING laYERs FOR BiLAYeR imaGiNg. in One emBoDImEnT of The INVENTIoN, tHe hIgh SENSItIviTy, higH ReSoluTion cHEMIcalLy amPlIfIed NegATiVE-tonE rESisTs ARE oBTaINEd by ACiD cATAlyzED cROsslINKInG aqUEOuS bASe SOLubLE hydrOXYBeNZYLsilSeSQuIOXANE poLyMeR AnD coPOlYmerS WiTh CroSsliNking aGEnts THAT reaCt WIth ThE HYdROXYl grouP (O-aLkylATION) of ThE SiLIcON-COntAiNing poLymeRs. eXamplEs Of suItAbLE CrOSsLiNkiNg agenTs include, buT NOT liMiTED to, uril and MAlamINe dErivatiVEs.
iN aNOTHeR eMBOdiMenT oF tHe presENT inveNTiON, THe cHEmICAlLY AmplIfiEd SIlIcon-conTaiNING nEgAtIve-TOne REsiSt COMPoSItIoN coMpRiseS (A) AN AQUeOUS base SOLUbLe PhENOliC sIliCon-ContaInIng POLYMER Or cOPOlYmer; (B) A crosSlINKIng agENt; (C) an aciD generAtor; (d) a SOlVenT fOr SAiD pOLymEr reSin and tHe cRoSSliNKinG AgENT; And, optiONaLly, (e) a pHOTOSeNsitIZer thAT iS CApAbLE Of ABSorBing IrrAdiATion In THE miD-uv, DeEp-uv (e.g. 248 nM, 193 nM anD 157 nm), eXtReme-Uv, X-rAY OR E-BEaM ranGE. thE
|
Thepresent invention relates to high-performance radiation sensitive resist compositionsand their usein multilayer lithography processes to fabricate semiconductor devices. Specifically, the presentinvention isconcerned with negative-tone silicon-containingresist compositions based on an acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble silicon-containing polymers. The resist composition ofthe present invention can be used as thetop imaging layer in a multilayer, including bilayer,technique to fabricate semiconductordevices using various irradiation sources,such as mid-ultraviolet(UV), deep-UV (for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme UV, X-ray, e-beam andion-beamirradiation.In the manufactureof patterneddevices such as semiconductor chips and chipcarriers the steps of etching different layers which constitute the finished product are among the most critical and crucial steps involved.In semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has been the main stream approach to pattern semiconductor devices. Intypical prior art lithography processes, UV lightisprojected onto a silicon wafercoated with a layer of photosensitive resist through a mask thatdefines a particular circuitry pattern. Exposure to UV light, followed by subsequent baking, induces a photochemicalreaction which changes the solubility of the exposed regions of the photosensitive resist. Thereafter, an appropriate developer, typicallyan aqueous base solution,is used to selectively remove the resist either inthe exposed regions (positive-tone resists) or, in the unexposed region (negative-tone resists). The pattern thus defined is then imprinted on the silicon wafer by etching away the regions that are not protected by the resist with a dry or wet etch process. The current state-of-the-art optical lithography uses DUV irradiation at awavelengthof248 nm to print features as small as 250 nm involume semiconductor manufacturing. The continued drive for the miniaturization of semiconductor devicesplaces increasingly stringent requirements for resist materials, including highresolution, wide process latitude,good profile control and excellent plasma etch resistancefor image transfer to substrate. Several techniques for enhancing the resolution, such as reducedirradiation wavelength (from248 nm to 193 nm), higher numerical aperture (NA) oftheexposure systems, useof alternate masks or illuminationconditions, and reduced resistfilm thickness are currently being pursued. However, each of these approaches to enhance resolutionsuffers from various tradeoffs in process latitude, subsequent substrate etching and cost. For example, increasing NA of the exposuretools also leads to a dramatic reduction inthe depth of focus. The reduction in the resist filmthickness resultsin the concomitant detrimentaleffect of decreasedetch resistance of the resist film for substrate etching. This detrimental effect is exasperated by the phenomenonof etch induced micro-channel formation during substrate etch, effectively rendering the top 0.2-0.3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrateetching.It would therefore be desirable to provide forenhanced resolution without experiencingdrawbacks of the priorart. Furthermore,bilayer imaging schemes have been suggested. In a bilayer imaging scheme, typically, imagesare first definedina thin, usually0.1-0.3 umthick, silicon containing resist with a wet process on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus defined are then transferred into the underlayer througha selective and highly anisotropic oxygen reactive ion etching (O2RIE) where silicon in thetop imaging layer is converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etchmask.To beeffective as etch mask, thetopimaging layerneeds to contain sufficient silicon, usually greaterthan 10 wt %. The advantages of bilayer imaging over the conventional single layer imaging include higher resolution capability, wider process latitude, patterning high aspect ration features, and minimization of substratecontamination and thin film interference effects.Moreover, the thick organic underlayer offers superior substrate etch resistance. The bilayer imaging is most suitable for high NA exposure tools, imaging over substrate topography and patterning high aspect ratio patterns. Various silicon-containing polymers have been used as polymerresins in the top imaging layer resists (seeR. D. Miller and G. M. Wallraff, Advanced Materials for Optics andElectronics, p. 95(1994)). One of the mostwidely used silicon-containing polymers ispolysilsesquioxane. Both positive-toneand negative-tone resistshave been developed using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane: poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). For positive-tone bilayerresists, poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) was modified with a diazophotoactive compound or an acid sensitive t-butyloxycarbonyl (t-BOC) forI-line and chemically amplifiedDUV lithography, respectively [U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,385,804, 5,422,223].Positive-tone resists have also been developed by using dissolution inhibitors[U.S. Pat. No. 4,745,169]. For negative-tone bilayer resists, an azide functional group waschemicallyattached to poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). Exposure of the azide functionalized poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) caused crosslinking intheexposed regions. Thus, negative-tone imagesresulted. However, thesebilayer resists suffer from inadequate resolution, low sensitivity, and poor resist profile in some cases due to high optical density. In view of the state ofprior artresists, it isdesirable to develop newbilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile control for patterningsemiconductor circuities. In particular, new negative-tone silicon-containing resists are desirablesince negative-tone resists generally offer advantagesof better isolated feature resolution,good thermal stability, small isolated and dense feature bias. Accordingly, oneobject of the present invention is to provide a highlysensitive, high resolution negative-tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content. Another object of the present invention is to providechemicallyamplifiednegative-tone silicon-containing resistcompositions that can be used as top imaging layerresists in multilayer lithography for semiconductor manufacturing, and, in particular, inthe patterning of semiconductorcircuities. These and other objects are achievedaccording to thepresent invention by an acid catalyzed,highcontrast crosslinking of silicon-containingpolymers bearing a phenolic moiety by using crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxyl group of the phenolicmoiety in the silicon polymers (O-alkylation). Theseobjectives are achieved also by using a bulky photo-generated acid to reduce acid diffusion for high resolution. Morespecifically,highlysensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtainedby acid catalyzedcrosslinking ofaqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymervia O-alkylation. These crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, uriland melamine derivatives. The O-alkylation not only increases the molecular weight of the parent polymer but also converts the hydrophilic hydroxyl group in the parent polymer intoa less hydrophilic phenolic ether group. Bothlead to high contrast for the negative-tone resists. Another aspect of thepresent invention is directed toward asilicon-containing negative-tone chemically amplified resistcomposition which comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon-containing polymer or copolymer; (b) acrosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and crosslinkingagent; and,optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV(e.g. 248nm, 193nmand 157 nm), extreme-UV, X-ray, e-beam or ion-beam range. The chemically amplifiedresistcomposition of the present inventionmay furthercomprise (f)abase and/or (g) a surfactant. The crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single compound or a combination of two or more compounds of thesamefunction. A further aspect of the present invention involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer imaging scheme where a thin layer of the silicon-containing resist is applied and imaged on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus formed are then transferred into the underlayerthrough anisotropic O2 or CO2 reactive ion etching.Stillother objectsand advantages of thepresent inventionwillbecome readily apparent by those skilledin the art from the following detailed description, wherein itis shownand described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by wayof illustrationof the best mode contemplated of carrying outthe invention. Aswill berealized, the invention is capableof other and different embodiments, and itsseveral detailsare capable ofmodifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings anddescription are to beregarded as illustrative innature and not as restrictive. The present invention relates to a high sensitivity, high resolution, aqueous basedevelopablesilicon-containing negative-tone resist composition.The resist compositions of the present invention are especially suitable for the top imaginglayers for bilayer imaging. In one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, highresolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymerand copolymers with crosslinking agents that react with the hydroxylgroup (O-alkylation)of thesilicon-containing polymers. Examples of suitable crosslinking agents include, but not limited to, uril and malaminederivatives. Inanother embodimentof the present invention, the chemically amplifiedsilicon-containing negative-tone resist composition comprises (a) an aqueous base soluble phenolic silicon-containing polymer or copolymer; (b) a crosslinking agent; (c) an acid generator; (d) a solvent for said polymer resin and thecrosslinking agent; and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer thatis capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 nm and157 nm), extreme-UV, X-rayor e-beam range. The
|
The present invention relates to high-performance radiation sensitive resist compositions and their _use_ in _multilayer_ lithography processes to fabricate semiconductor devices. Specifically, the present invention is concerned with negative-tone silicon-containing resist compositions based _on_ an acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base soluble silicon-containing polymers. The resist _composition_ of the present invention can be used _as_ the top imaging layer in a multilayer, _including_ bilayer, technique _to_ _fabricate_ semiconductor devices using various irradiation sources, such as mid-ultraviolet (UV), _deep-UV_ (for example 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme UV, X-ray, e-beam _and_ ion-beam irradiation. In the manufacture of _patterned_ devices _such_ as semiconductor chips and chip carriers the _steps_ of etching different _layers_ which constitute the finished product _are_ among the _most_ critical and crucial _steps_ involved. In semiconductor manufacturing, optical lithography has been the main stream approach to pattern semiconductor _devices._ In typical prior art lithography processes, _UV_ light is _projected_ onto a _silicon_ wafer _coated_ with a layer of photosensitive resist through a mask that defines a particular circuitry pattern. _Exposure_ to UV light, followed by subsequent baking, _induces_ a photochemical reaction which changes _the_ _solubility_ of the _exposed_ regions of the photosensitive resist. _Thereafter,_ an appropriate developer, typically an aqueous base solution, is used to selectively _remove_ the resist either in the exposed regions (positive-tone resists) or, in the _unexposed_ _region_ _(negative-tone_ _resists)._ The pattern _thus_ _defined_ is then _imprinted_ on the silicon wafer _by_ _etching_ away the regions that are not protected _by_ the resist with a dry or wet etch _process._ The current state-of-the-art optical lithography _uses_ DUV irradiation at a wavelength of 248 _nm_ to print features as small as 250 nm _in_ volume semiconductor manufacturing. The continued drive _for_ the miniaturization of semiconductor _devices_ _places_ increasingly stringent requirements for resist materials, including high resolution, wide _process_ latitude, good _profile_ _control_ _and_ excellent plasma etch resistance for image _transfer_ to _substrate._ Several techniques for _enhancing_ the resolution, such _as_ reduced irradiation wavelength (from _248_ nm to 193 nm), higher numerical aperture (NA) of the exposure systems, use of alternate masks _or_ illumination conditions, and reduced resist film thickness are currently being pursued. However, each of these approaches to enhance _resolution_ _suffers_ from various tradeoffs _in_ process latitude, _subsequent_ substrate etching and cost. For example, increasing NA of the _exposure_ tools also _leads_ to a dramatic reduction in the _depth_ of focus. The _reduction_ in the resist film thickness results _in_ the concomitant detrimental effect of decreased etch resistance of the resist film for substrate _etching._ This detrimental effect is exasperated _by_ the phenomenon of etch induced _micro-channel_ formation during substrate etch, effectively rendering the top 0.2-0.3 um resist film useless as an etch mask for substrate etching. It would therefore be desirable to provide _for_ _enhanced_ resolution without experiencing drawbacks of the prior art. Furthermore, bilayer imaging _schemes_ _have_ been suggested. In a bilayer _imaging_ scheme, _typically,_ images are first defined in _a_ thin, usually 0.1-0.3 um thick, silicon containing _resist_ with a wet _process_ on a relatively thick high absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus defined are then _transferred_ into the underlayer _through_ a selective and highly anisotropic oxygen reactive _ion_ _etching_ (O2 RIE) where silicon in the top imaging layer is converted into nonvolatile silicon oxides, thus acting as an etch mask. To be _effective_ as etch mask, the top imaging layer _needs_ to contain sufficient _silicon,_ usually _greater_ than 10 wt %. _The_ advantages of bilayer _imaging_ over the _conventional_ single layer imaging include _higher_ _resolution_ capability, _wider_ process latitude, patterning high _aspect_ ration features, and minimization _of_ substrate _contamination_ and thin film interference _effects._ _Moreover,_ the thick organic _underlayer_ _offers_ superior substrate etch resistance. The bilayer imaging is most suitable for high NA exposure tools, imaging over substrate topography _and_ _patterning_ high aspect ratio patterns. _Various_ silicon-containing polymers _have_ been used as polymer resins _in_ the top imaging layer resists (see R. _D._ Miller and G. _M._ _Wallraff,_ _Advanced_ Materials _for_ Optics _and_ Electronics, p. 95 (1994)). One of the most widely used silicon-containing polymers is polysilsesquioxane. _Both_ positive-tone and negative-tone resists have been _developed_ using an aqueous base soluble polysilsesquioxane: _poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane)._ _For_ positive-tone bilayer resists, poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) was modified with a _diazo_ _photoactive_ compound or an acid sensitive t-butyloxycarbonyl (t-BOC) for I-line _and_ chemically amplified DUV lithography, respectively [U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,385,804, 5,422,223]. Positive-tone resists have also _been_ developed _by_ using _dissolution_ inhibitors [U.S. Pat. No. _4,745,169]._ _For_ negative-tone bilayer resists, _an_ azide _functional_ group was chemically _attached_ _to_ poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane). _Exposure_ of the azide _functionalized_ poly(p-hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane) caused crosslinking _in_ the exposed regions. Thus, _negative-tone_ images resulted. However, these _bilayer_ _resists_ suffer _from_ inadequate resolution, low _sensitivity,_ _and_ poor resist _profile_ in some _cases_ due to high optical density. In view of the state _of_ prior art resists, it _is_ desirable to _develop_ new bilayer resists with high resolution, high sensitivity, and good profile _control_ for patterning semiconductor circuities. _In_ particular, new negative-tone silicon-containing resists are desirable since negative-tone resists generally offer advantages of _better_ isolated feature resolution, good thermal _stability,_ small isolated and dense feature bias. Accordingly, one object of the present _invention_ is to provide a _highly_ sensitive, high resolution negative-tone resist compositions with relatively high silicon content. _Another_ _object_ _of_ _the_ present invention is to provide _chemically_ amplified _negative-tone_ silicon-containing resist compositions that can be _used_ as _top_ imaging layer resists _in_ multilayer lithography for semiconductor manufacturing, and, in particular, in the patterning of semiconductor _circuities._ These and other objects are achieved according _to_ the _present_ _invention_ by _an_ acid catalyzed, high contrast _crosslinking_ _of_ silicon-containing polymers bearing a _phenolic_ moiety _by_ _using_ crosslinking agents that _react_ with the _hydroxyl_ group _of_ _the_ phenolic moiety in the silicon polymers (O-alkylation). These objectives are achieved also by _using_ a bulky _photo-generated_ acid _to_ reduce _acid_ diffusion for high resolution. More specifically, _highly_ sensitive, high resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained _by_ acid catalyzed crosslinking of aqueous base _soluble_ hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer via _O-alkylation._ These crosslinking agents include, but are not limited to, uril and melamine derivatives. The O-alkylation not only increases the molecular _weight_ of the parent polymer but _also_ _converts_ _the_ hydrophilic hydroxyl group _in_ the parent polymer _into_ _a_ less hydrophilic phenolic ether group. _Both_ lead to high contrast _for_ the negative-tone resists. Another aspect of the present invention is directed toward a silicon-containing negative-tone chemically amplified resist composition which comprises _(a)_ _an_ aqueous base soluble phenolic _silicon-containing_ polymer _or_ copolymer; _(b)_ _a_ _crosslinking_ _agent;_ (c) an acid generator; (d) a _solvent_ for said _polymer_ resin and _crosslinking_ _agent;_ and, optionally, (e) a photosensitizer that is capable of absorbing irradiation in the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 nm and 157 nm), extreme-UV, _X-ray,_ e-beam or ion-beam _range._ The chemically _amplified_ resist composition of the _present_ _invention_ may further comprise (f) a base _and/or_ (g) a surfactant. _The_ crosslinking agent, acid generator, photosensitizer, base and surfactant can be either a single _compound_ or a combination _of_ two or more compounds of the same function. A further aspect of the _present_ _invention_ involves using the silicon containing resist in a bilayer _imaging_ scheme where _a_ thin layer of the _silicon-containing_ resist is applied _and_ imaged on a thick, highly absorbing organic underlayer. The images thus _formed_ are then transferred into the underlayer through _anisotropic_ O2 or _CO2_ reactive ion etching. Still other objects and advantages of _the_ present _invention_ _will_ become _readily_ apparent by those skilled _in_ the art from the _following_ detailed description, wherein it _is_ shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply _by_ way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be _realized,_ the invention is _capable_ of _other_ _and_ different embodiments, and its _several_ details are capable of modifications in various _obvious_ _respects,_ _without_ _departing_ from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded _as_ _illustrative_ in nature and not as restrictive. The _present_ invention _relates_ to a high _sensitivity,_ _high_ _resolution,_ aqueous base developable silicon-containing negative-tone resist composition. _The_ resist compositions _of_ the present invention are especially suitable for the top imaging layers _for_ _bilayer_ imaging. In one embodiment of the invention, the high sensitivity, _high_ resolution chemically amplified negative-tone resists are obtained by acid catalyzed crosslinking aqueous base soluble hydroxybenzylsilsesquioxane polymer _and_ _copolymers_ with crosslinking agents that _react_ with the hydroxyl group (O-alkylation) of the _silicon-containing_ polymers. Examples of suitable _crosslinking_ agents include, but not limited _to,_ uril and malamine derivatives. _In_ another embodiment of the present invention, the chemically amplified silicon-containing negative-tone _resist_ _composition_ comprises (a) an aqueous _base_ _soluble_ _phenolic_ silicon-containing _polymer_ or copolymer; _(b)_ a crosslinking agent; _(c)_ an acid generator; (d) a _solvent_ for said polymer resin and the _crosslinking_ agent; and, _optionally,_ (e) _a_ _photosensitizer_ that is capable of _absorbing_ irradiation _in_ the mid-UV, deep-UV (e.g. 248 nm, 193 _nm_ and 157 nm), extreme-UV, X-ray or e-beam _range._ The
|
(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to riding mowers, and in particular, to a hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower with a front steering mechanism.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
Lawnmowers are well known in the art and have been used for decades to maintain a lawn's appearance. In the prior art, the lawnmower design has typically been of the form of a riding mower that is propelled by the use of a gasoline or diesel engine. A mowing deck is located beneath the mower, and in some circumstances in front or behind of mower. The mowing deck is usually powered by the same gasoline or diesel mower that propels the vehicle. The mowing deck may contain a series of pulleys connected with mowing blades that operate in a rotational pattern to cut a lawn.
Many problems have plagued the riding lawnmower. In the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an acceptable turn radius. In order to correct this problem, the prior art implemented a rear steer mowing system, commonly called a zero turn mower. This rear steer mechanism made each rear wheel independently controllable by the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the inner turn radius wheel while accelerating the outer turn radius wheel. However, these zero turn mowers were deficient in the regards that they were susceptible to loss of tire grip while cornering and on steep terrain. When the rider was operating the vehicle on a steep terrain, the higher elevated tire would lose contact with the terrain surface and thereby cause the mower to sway out of control from the operator. This created a dangerous and inefficient method of mowing.
Thus, there remains a need for a new and improved hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower that is capable of maintaining tire grip while traversing rough, uneven or highly sloped terrain.
|
( 1 ) field of the invention the present invention relates essentially to riding mowers, motorcycles in particular, to a hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower with a manual steering mechanism. ( 2 ) description of the prior art lawnmowers are well known in the art they have been used for decades to maintain a lawn ' s appearance. in the prior art, the lawnmower design has typically been of any form of a riding mower that is propelled by the use of a gasoline or jet engine. a mowing deck is located beneath the mower, and with some circumstances in front or behind of mower. the mowing deck is usually powered by the same gasoline or diesel mower that propels the vehicle. the mowing deck may contain a series of pulleys connected with mowing blades that operate in a rotational pattern to cut a lawn. many problems have plagued the riding lawnmower. in the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an acceptable turn radius. in order to correct this problem, the prior art implemented a rear steer mowing system, commonly called a zero turn mower. this rear steer mechanism made each rear wheel independently controllable by the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the inner turn radius wheel while steering the outer turn radius wheel. however, these zero turn mowers were deficient in the regards that they were susceptible to loss of tire grip while cornering and on steep terrain. when this rider was operating the vehicle on a steep terrain, the higher elevated tire would lose contact with the terrain surface and thereby cause the mower to sway out of control from the operator. this created a dangerous and inefficient method of mowing. thus, there remains a requirement for a new and improved hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower that is capable of maintaining tire grip while traversing rough, uneven or highly sloped terrain.
|
( 1) Field of the Invention The p%eseBt invention relates generally to riding mowers, and in particular, to a hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower with a front steering mechanism. (2) Description of the Prior Art Lawnmowers are well known in the art and have been used for decades to maintain a lawn ' s appearance. In the prior art, the lawnmower design has typically been of the form of a riding mower that is propelled by the use of a gasoline or diesel engine. A mowing deck is located beneath the mower, and in sim4 circumstances in front or behind of mower. The mowing deck is usually powered by the same gasoline or diesel mower that propels the vehicle. The mowing deSO may contain a series of O&lleys connected with mowing blades that operate in a rotational pattern to cut a lawn. Many problems have plagued the riding lawnmower. In the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an acceptable turn radiJx. In order to correct this problem, the prior art implemented a r@a# steer mowing system, commonly called a zero turn Jow#r. This rear steer mechanism made each rear wheel independently controllable by the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the inner turn radius wheel while accelerating the outer turn radius wheel. However, these zero turn mowers were deficient in the regards that they w4r3 susceptible to loss of tire grip while cornering and on steep terrain. When the rider was operating the vehicle on a sydep terrain, the higher elevated tire would lose contact aiYh the terrain surface and thereby cause the mower to sway out of control from the operator. This created a dangerous and inefficient method of mowing. Thus, there remains a need for a new and improved hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower that is capable of maintaining tire grip while traversing rough, uneven or highly sloped terrain.
|
(1) Field of the Invention The relates generally to mowers, and in a hydrostatically controlled rear steer mower with a front steering mechanism. (2) Description the Prior Art Lawnmowers are well known the art and have been used for decades to maintain a appearance. In the prior art, the lawnmower design has typically been of the form of a riding that is propelled by the of a gasoline or diesel engine. A deck is located beneath the mower, and in some circumstances in front or behind of mower. The mowing deck is usually powered by the same gasoline or diesel mower that propels the vehicle. The mowing deck may contain series of pulleys connected with mowing blades operate a rotational pattern to cut a lawn. Many problems have plagued the riding lawnmower. In the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an acceptable turn radius. In order to correct this problem, art implemented a rear steer mowing system, commonly called a zero turn mower. rear steer mechanism made each rear independently controllable the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the inner turn radius wheel while accelerating the outer turn radius wheel. However, these zero turn mowers were deficient in the regards that they were susceptible to loss of tire grip while and on steep When rider was operating the on a steep terrain, the elevated tire would lose with the terrain surface and thereby cause the mower out of control from operator. This created a dangerous and inefficient method of mowing. Thus, there remains a need for a and improved hydrostatically controlled rear steer that is capable of maintaining tire grip while traversing rough, uneven or sloped terrain.
|
(1) FIElD OF thE InVenTIOn
tHE PreseNt InVENTIOn rELATeS GeNeRAlLY to RidIng moweRS, AnD IN paRTiCuLar, TO A HYDRoSTatiCallY CONtROllED rEAR stEeR Mower WItH a fROnt STeerINg mEcHAnISM.
(2) desCRIpTiOn oF The prior ArT
LaWnmOwERS arE weLl KNOwn In ThE ArT AND hAVE BEEn UseD foR DecadeS To MAiNTaIn a LAWn'S ApPeaRANCE. IN ThE pRIOR ArT, the lAwNmowEr DESiGn has tYpIcalLy bEeN of THE foRm oF A riDINg MowER tHAT IS prOPEllED bY thE Use Of A gASoline oR dIESeL eNGiNe. A MOWINg DECk IS LoCAtED beNEAtH THE mower, AnD iN some CirCUmSTANcEs In fRoNT OR BEhind OF MoWer. THE mOWinG dECK IS Usually pOWErEd by THE SAMe gasoLiNe or DIESEL MoWer ThAt pRopeLs THe vEhiCLe. the MOwiNg dEck maY ConTaIN a seRiES OF pullEys coNneCTEd WITh mOwiNg bLadEs tHaT OpERaTe iN a RotAtioNAl pAtTeRN tO CUt a lawn.
mAny PrObLeMS HaVe pLAgUed the riDinG LAWnMowEr. iN The pAst, ridING LAWnMoWerS WErE INcapable of cOrneRInG in aN AcCEPTAbLE TURn RaDius. in oRDer to corRECt thIs pRoblem, ThE PRIOR aRT IMplEMEnTEd a REar stEEr moWiNG sYSTeM, comMOnly CAlLeD a ZEro tURN mower. tHIS REAr SteER MecHAnIsM MAde Each rEaR WheEl iNdePEndENTly coNTROLLablE bY thE oPerAtOr ANd TURnIng was faCiLItATed bY SLowIng tHe iNner turN RaDIuS whEel WhiLe aCcELeRATIng tHe OUteR Turn RADius WHEEL. HOwEVER, tHesE zerO tUrN mOWErS WeRE dEfIcIEnT IN thE ReGArDs tHAT they WeRE sUScePTIblE To lOsS oF tIRE GrIP whilE cornErING and ON SteeP TErraIn. wHeN tHe RidER was OpERAtiNG thE vEHICLE ON a STeEP TERraiN, THE HigHer elEVatEd TIRE would lOse cOnTaCt With thE tERrAIn sURFacE ANd THErebY CAUse tHe MoWer To SWAY out OF cOnTRoL FrOM thE oPeRAtoR. ThiS cREAteD a dANGErouS And INeFfICIent mEtHOd OF MOWIng.
THus, ThERe REmAINS A NEED FoR a nEW aND iMPrOved HYDrOSTATIcAlLy CONTroLlED rEAr sTEEr Mower thaT IS CaPablE OF MaIntaining TIRE GrIP wHiLe TRavERsinG ROUGH, unEVEn Or higHlY slOPEd terRAIn.
|
(1) Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates generally to riding mowers, and in particular, to ahydrostaticallycontrolled rear steer mowerwith a front steering mechanism. (2) Description of the Prior Art Lawnmowers are well known in the art andhave been usedfor decades to maintain a lawn's appearance.In the prior art, the lawnmower design has typically been ofthe form of aridingmower that is propelled by the use of agasoline or diesel engine. A mowing deck islocated beneath the mower, and in somecircumstances in front or behind of mower. The mowing deck is usually powered by the same gasolineor diesel mower thatpropels the vehicle. The mowingdeckmay contain a series ofpulleys connectedwith mowing blades that operate in a rotational patternto cut a lawn. Many problems have plagued the ridinglawnmower. In the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an acceptable turn radius. In order to correctthis problem, thepriorart implemented a rear steer mowing system, commonlycalleda zero turnmower. This rear steermechanism made each rear wheel independently controllable by the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the inner turn radius wheel while accelerating the outer turn radius wheel. However, these zero turn mowers were deficient in the regards that they were susceptible to loss of tire grip while cornering and on steep terrain. Whenthe rider was operating the vehicle on a steep terrain, the higherelevated tire would losecontact withthe terrain surface and thereby cause the mower to sway out of control from theoperator. This created a dangerous and inefficient method of mowing. Thus,there remains a need for a new and improved hydrostatically controlled rear steermower that is capable of maintaining tire grip while traversing rough, uneven or highly slopedterrain.
|
(1) _Field_ of the Invention The present _invention_ _relates_ generally to riding mowers, and in particular, to a hydrostatically controlled rear _steer_ mower with a front steering mechanism. _(2)_ Description of the Prior Art Lawnmowers are well known in the _art_ and have _been_ used for decades to _maintain_ a _lawn's_ appearance. In the prior art, the _lawnmower_ design has typically been of the form of _a_ riding mower that _is_ propelled by the use _of_ a gasoline or diesel engine. _A_ mowing deck is located beneath the mower, and in some circumstances in front or behind of mower. The mowing deck is usually powered by _the_ same gasoline or diesel mower that propels the vehicle. The mowing deck may contain a series of pulleys connected with mowing blades _that_ operate in a rotational pattern to _cut_ a _lawn._ Many _problems_ have _plagued_ the riding lawnmower. In the past, riding lawnmowers were incapable of cornering in an _acceptable_ _turn_ radius. In order to correct this problem, the prior art implemented a _rear_ steer mowing system, commonly called a zero turn mower. _This_ _rear_ steer mechanism made each rear _wheel_ independently controllable by the operator and turning was facilitated by slowing the _inner_ turn radius wheel while accelerating the outer turn radius _wheel._ _However,_ these zero turn mowers were _deficient_ in the regards that they were susceptible to loss of tire grip while cornering and on _steep_ terrain. When the rider was operating the _vehicle_ on a steep terrain, the higher elevated tire would lose contact with the _terrain_ _surface_ and _thereby_ cause the mower to sway _out_ of control from the operator. This _created_ a dangerous and inefficient _method_ of mowing. Thus, there remains a need for a _new_ and _improved_ hydrostatically _controlled_ rear steer _mower_ _that_ _is_ capable of maintaining _tire_ grip while _traversing_ rough, uneven or highly sloped terrain.
|
Software programs are subject to complex and evolving attacks by malware seeking to gain control of computer systems. These attacks can take on a variety of different forms ranging from attempts to crash the software program to subversion of the program for alternate purposes. Additionally, it is particularly difficult to protect the run-time data of the program. The protection of this run-time data is especially important when it involves the program's secrets and configuration information or digital rights protection keying material needed by applications to protect content in main memory and while in transit.
|
software programs are subject to complex and evolving attacks by malware seeking remote gain control of computer systems. these attacks can take under a variety of different forms ranging from attempts to crash the software program to subversion of malicious programs for alternate purposes. hence, it is particularly difficult to protect the runs - time data of the program. the protection of this run - time data is especially important when it affects the program ' s secrets and configuration information or digital rights protection keying material needed inside applications to protect them in main applications and while in transit.
|
Software programs are subject to complex and evolving attacks by malware seeking to gain control of compu5Sr systems. $hesW attacks can take on a variety of different f*rns 5angiJg Droj attempts to crash the sPbtware program to subversion of the program for alYernatW purposes. Additionally, it is particularly difficult to 9rLtect the run - time data of the program. The protection of this run - time data is especially important when it involves the program ' s secrets and configuration 8nfogmation or dLgutal rights protection keying material needed by applications to protect content in main memory and while in transit.
|
Software programs are complex and evolving attacks by malware seeking to gain control computer systems. These attacks can take on a variety of different forms ranging from attempts to crash software program to subversion of the program for alternate purposes. Additionally, it difficult to the run-time data of the program. The protection of run-time data is especially important when it involves the program's secrets and configuration information or digital rights protection keying material needed by to protect content in main memory and while in transit.
|
soFTWAre pRogRamS are suBjeCt To ComPLeX AnD eVoLVIng atTacks BY mAlWAre seEKINg to GAIN coNTROl Of cOMPUteR SyStEMs. tHesE attaCKs CaN takE oN A vArIety of dIfFereNt FoRms rANGINg froM AttEMPTS To cRaSh THE softwaRe pROGraM tO SuBVeRsion oF The pRoGraM fOr aLtErNATe PURPOSES. AddiTioNaLLY, IT is ParTiCULArLY dIFFICUlT tO pRoteCt The rUn-Time dATA OF THE progRam. thE PRoTectioN OF ThiS Run-tIMe DatA iS EsPeCiAlLY IMPortaNT when IT inVoLVEs ThE pRogrAm'S secRets And COnFIgUraTioN INfORmaTIoN Or DigiTal RighTS PRotEcTION keyiNG MaTERiAl NEEdED bY aPPliCATIoNs tO PrOtEct cONTEnt in MAin MEmoRY aND wHile In tRANsit.
|
Software programs are subject to complex andevolving attacks by malwareseeking to gain control of computer systems. These attacks can take on a variety of different forms ranging fromattempts to crash the software program to subversion of the program for alternate purposes. Additionally, it is particularly difficult toprotectthe run-time data of the program. The protection of this run-time datais especially important whenit involves the program's secretsand configuration information or digital rights protection keying material neededby applications to protect content in main memory and whilein transit.
|
_Software_ programs _are_ subject to complex and _evolving_ attacks by malware seeking _to_ gain control of computer systems. These attacks can take on a variety _of_ _different_ forms ranging from attempts to crash _the_ software program to _subversion_ _of_ the program for alternate _purposes._ Additionally, it is particularly difficult to protect the run-time _data_ of the program. The protection of this run-time data _is_ _especially_ important when it involves the _program's_ secrets and configuration information or digital _rights_ protection keying material _needed_ _by_ _applications_ to protect _content_ in main memory and _while_ in transit.
|
In a conventional radiographic system, an x-ray source is actuated to direct a divergent area beam of x-rays through a patient. A cassette containing an x-ray sensitive screen and light and x-ray sensitive film is positioned in the x-ray path on a side of the patient opposite the source. Radiation passing through the patient's body is attenuated to varying degrees in accordance with the various types of tissue through which the x-rays pass. The attenuated x-rays emerge from the patient in a pattern and strike the phosphor screen which in turn exposes the film. The x-ray film is processed to yield a visible image which can be interpreted by a radiologist as defining internal body structure and/or condition of the patient.
In conventional systems of the type described above the x-ray source is mounted to a support structure. Such structure is commonly a ceiling supported, telescoping carriage which permits selection of various source to film distances. The weight of the source and associated componentry are counterbalanced against gravity via a spring motor and a cable/pulley arrangement. A support cable take-up drum or cam is provided to compensate for the variance in the spring tension force over the operative range of spring extension. The take-up drum is provided with a helical groove which receives the support cable. By decreasing the support cable drum take-up radius as the counterbalance springs are extended, a substantially constant counterbalance force is applied to the support cable. Further details of the above described counterbalance system can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,902,070 to Amor Jr. et al. which is owned by the present assignee.
It is to be noted that the above described counterbalance system is useful where the center of gravity of the moving component moves in a substantially vertical, straight line.
More recently, digital radiography techniques have been developed. In digital radiography, the source directs radiation through a patient's body to a detector in the beam path beyond the patient. The detector, by use of appropriate sensor means, responds to the incident radiation image to produce analog signals representing the sensed radiation, which signals are converted to digital information and fed to a digital data processing unit. The data processing unit records, and/or processes and enhances the digital data. A display unit responds to the appropriate digital data representing the image to convert the digital information back into analog form and produce a visual display of the patient's internal body structure.
Digital radiography includes radiographic techniques in which a thin spread beam of x-rays is used. In this technique, often called "scan" (or slit) projection radiography (SPR), a spread beam of x-rays are scanned across the patient's body, or the patient is movably interposed between the source and an array of individual cellular detector segments. In such an embodiment, relative movement is effected between the source/detector arrangement and the patient's body, keeping the detector aligned with the beam, such that a large area of the patient's body is scanned by the beam of x-rays.
One such SPR system is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. 4,626,688 to Barnes entitled Split Energy Level Radiation Detection and in the following publication:
Tesic, M. M. et al.; "Digital Radiography of the Chest: Design Features and Considerations For a Prototype Unit", Radiology, Vol. 148 No. 1, pp 259-64, July 1983.
The above described SPR Systems are configured such that the scanning motion is about a substantially vertical axis, i.e., the detector moves along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a horizontal plane.
It has also been proposed to provide an SPR system wherein the scanning motion is about a substantially horizontal axis thereby causing the detector to move along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a vertical plane.
In both configurations the scanning motion is provided by means of electromechanical servo-systems driven by controllable electric motors. An encoder is utilized to provide a closed loop feedback system wherein motor performance is adjusted in accordance with the sensed location of the detector.
In the second system wherein the scanning motion is about a horizontal axis, a difficulty is encountered in that the center of gravity of the rotating body rotates about the pivot point. The torque required to effect scanning motion about the pivot axis varies sinusoidally. A electromechanical servo system designed to compensate for the torque variations would be unduly complex. Further, a motor able to provide sufficient torque to overcome the system torque at the extremes of the scan motion would be large and prohibitively expensive.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a lightweight, reliable, simple and inexpensive counterbalance system which compensates for gravitation torques experienced in a system which rotates about a substantially horizontal axis thereby permitting the use of less costly and complex drive components.
|
in a conventional radiographic system, an x - ray source is actuated to direct a divergent area beam of x - rays through a patient. a cassette containing an x - ray sensitive screen and light and x - ray sensitive film is positioned in the x - ray path on a side of the screen opposite the source. radiation passing through the patient ' s body is attenuated to varying degrees in accordance with the various types of tissue through which the x - rays pass. the attenuated x - pulses emerge from the patient in a pattern and strike the phosphor screen which in turn exposes the film. the x - ray film is processed to yield a visible image which can be interpreted by a radiologist as defining internal body structure and / or condition of the patient. in conventional systems like the type described above the x - ray source is mounted to a support structure. such structure is commonly a ceiling supported, telescoping carriage which permits selection at various source to film distances. the weight of the source and associated componentry are counterbalanced against gravity via a spring motor and a cable / pulley arrangement. a support cable take - up drum or cam can provided to compensate for the drop in the spring tension force over the operative range of spring extension. the take - up drum is provided with a helical groove which receives the supporting cable. by decreasing the support cable drum take - up radius as the counterbalance springs are extended, a substantially constant counterbalance force is applied to the support cable. further details of the above described counterbalance system can be found in u. s. pat. no. 3, 902, 070 to amor jr. et al. which is owned by the present assignee. it is to be noted that the above described counterbalance system is useful until the center of gravity of the moving component moves in a substantially vertical, straight line. more recently, digital radiography techniques have been developed. in digital radiography, the source directs radiation through a patient ' s body with a detector in the beam path beyond the patient. the detector, by use of appropriate sensor means, responds to the incident radiation pulse to produce analog signals representing the sensed radiation, which signals are converted to digital information and fed to a digital data processing unit. the data processing unit records, and / or processes and enhances the digital data. a display unit responds to the appropriate digital data representing the image to convert the digital information back into analog form and produce a visual display of the patient ' s internal body structure. digital radiography includes radiographic techniques in which a thin spread beam of x - rays is used. in this technique, often called " scan " ( or slit ) projection radiography ( spr ), a spread beam of x - rays are scanned across the patient ' s body, or the patient is movably interposed between the source and an array of individual cellular detector segments. in such an embodiment, relative movement is effected between the source / detector arrangement and the patient ' s body, keeping the detector aligned with the beam, such that a large area of the patient ' s body is scanned by the beam of x - rays. one such spr system is described in more detail in u. s. pat. 4, 626, 688 to barnes entitled split energy level radiation detection and in the following publication : tesic, m. m. et al. ; " digital radiography of the chest : design features and considerations for a prototype unit ", radiology, vol. 148 no. 1, pp 259 - 64, july 1983. the above described spr systems are configured such that the scanning motion is about a substantially vertical axis, i. e., the detector moves along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a horizontal plane. it has also been proposed to provide an spr system wherein the scanning motion is about a substantially horizontal axis thereby causing the detector to move along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a vertical plane. in both configurations the scanning motion is provided by means of electromechanical servo - systems driven by controllable electric motors. an encoder is utilized to provide a closed loop feedback system wherein motor performance is adjusted in accordance with the sensed location of the detector. in the second system wherein the scanning motion is about a horizontal axis, a difficulty is encountered in that the center of gravity of the rotating body rotates about the pivot point. the torque required to effect scanning motion about the pivot axis varies sinusoidally. a electromechanical servo system designed to compensate for the torque variations would be unduly complex. further, a motor able to provide sufficient torque to overcome the system torque at the extremes of the scan motion would be large and prohibitively expensive. it is therefore an object of this invention to provide a lightweight, reliable, simple and inexpensive counterbalance system which compensates for gravitation torques experienced in a system which rotates about a substantially horizontal axis thereby permitting the use of less costly and complex drive components.
|
In a conventional radiographic system, an x - ray source is actuated to direct a divergent area beam of x - rays through a patient. A cassette containing an x - ray sensitive screen and light and x - ray sensitive film is positioned in the x - ray path on a side of the patient opposite the source. Radiation passing through the patient ' s body is attenuated to varying degrees in accordance with the various types of tissue through which the x - rays pass. The attenuated x - rays emerge from the patient in a pattern and strike the phosphor screen which in turn exposes the film. The x - ray fJ?m is processed to yield a visible image which can be interpreted by a radiologist as defining internal body structure and / or condition of the patient. In conventional systems of the type described above the x - ray source is mounted to a support structure. SicB structure is commonly a ceiling supported, telescoping carriage which permits selection of various source to film e*stances. The weight of the source and associated componentry are counterbalanced against gravity via a spring motor and a cable / pul;eU arrangement. A support cable take - up drum or cam is provided to compensate for the variance in the spring tension force over the operative range of spring extension. The take - up drum is provided with a helical groove which receives the support cable. By decreasing the support cable drum take - up radius as the counterbalance springs are extended, a substantially constant counterbalance force is applied to the support cable. Further details of the above described counterbalance system can be found in U. S. Pat. No. 3, 902, 070 to Amor Jr. et al. which is owned by the present assignee. It is to be noted that the above described counterbalance system is useful where the center of gravity of the moving component moves in a substantially vertical, straight line. More recently, digital radiography techniques have been developed. In digital radiography, the source directs radiation through a patient ' s body to a detector in the beam path beyond the patient. The detector, by use of appropriate sensor means, responEX to the incident radiation image to produce analog signals representing the sensed radiation, which signals are converted to digital information and fed to a digital data processing unit. The data processing unit records, and / or processes and enhances the digital data. A display unJH responds to the appropriate digital data representing the image to convert the digital information back into analog form and produce a visual display of the patient ' s internal body structure. Digital radiography includes radiographic ^echniqurs in which a thin spread beam of x - rays is used. In this technique, often called " scan " (or slit) projection radiography (SPR ), a spread beam of x - rays are scanned across the patient ' s body, or the patient is movably interposed between the source and an array of individual cellular detector segments. In such an embodiment, relative movement is effected between the source / detector arrangement and the patient ' s body, keeping the detector aligned with the beam, such that a large area of the patient ' s body is scanned by the beam of x - rays. One such SPR system is described in more detail in U. S. Pat. 4, 626, 688 to Barnes entitled Split Energy Level Radiation Detection and in the following publication: Tesic, M. M. et al. ; " Digital Radiography of the Chest: Design Features and Considerations For a Prototype Unit ", Radiology, Vol. 148 No. 1, pp 259 - 64, July 1983. The above described SPR Systems are configured such that the scanning motion is about a substantially vertical axis, i. e. , the detector moves along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a horizontal plane. It has also been proposed to provide an SPR system wherein the scanning motion is about a substantially horizontal axis thereby causing the detector to move along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a vertical plane. In both configurations the scanning motion is provided by means of Rledtromechanical servo - systems driven by controllable electric motors. An encoder is utilized to provide a closed loop feedback system wherein motor performance is adjusted in accordance with the sensed location of the detector. In the second system wherein the scanning motion is about a horizontal axis, a difficulty is encountered in that the center of gravity of the rotating body %otatea about the pivot point. The torque required to effect scanning motion about the pivot axis varies sinusoidally. A electromechanical servo system designed to compensate for the torque variations would be unduly complex. Further, a motor able to provide sufficient torque to overcome the system torque at the extremes of the scan motion would be large and prohibitively expensive. It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a lightweight, reliable, simple and inexpensive countWrbalancw system which compensates for gravitation torques experienced in a system which rotates about a substantially horizontal axis thereby permitting the use of less costly and complex drive components.
|
In a conventional radiographic system, an x-ray source is actuated to direct divergent area beam of x-rays through a patient. A cassette containing an x-ray sensitive screen and light and x-ray sensitive film is positioned in the x-ray on a side of the patient opposite the source. Radiation passing through the body is attenuated to varying degrees in accordance the various types of tissue through which the x-rays pass. attenuated emerge from the in a pattern and strike which in turn exposes the film. The x-ray film is processed to yield a visible image which can be by a radiologist as defining internal body structure and/or condition of the patient. In conventional systems of the type described the x-ray source is mounted to a support Such structure is commonly a ceiling supported, telescoping carriage which permits selection various source to film distances. The weight of the source and associated componentry are counterbalanced against gravity via spring motor and a cable/pulley arrangement. A support cable take-up drum or cam is provided to compensate for the variance in the spring tension force over the operative range of spring extension. The take-up drum is provided with a helical groove which receives the support cable. By decreasing the support cable drum take-up radius as the counterbalance springs extended, a substantially constant counterbalance force is applied to the support cable. Further details of the above described counterbalance can be in U.S. Pat. No. 3,902,070 to Amor Jr. et al. which owned by present assignee. It is to be noted that the above described counterbalance system is useful where center of the moving component moves in substantially vertical, straight line. More recently, digital radiography been developed. radiography, the directs radiation through a patient's body to a detector in beam path beyond the detector, by use of appropriate sensor means, responds to the incident radiation image to produce analog representing the sensed radiation, which signals are converted to digital information and fed to a digital data processing unit. The data processing unit records, processes and enhances the digital data. A display unit responds to the appropriate digital data representing the to convert the digital information back into form and produce a visual display of patient's body Digital radiography includes radiographic techniques which a thin spread beam of x-rays used. In this technique, often called "scan" (or slit) projection radiography (SPR), a spread beam of are scanned across the body, or patient is movably interposed between the source and an array of individual detector segments. In such an embodiment, relative movement is effected between source/detector arrangement and the patient's body, keeping the detector aligned with the beam, such that a large area of the patient's body is scanned by the beam of x-rays. One SPR is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. 4,626,688 to Barnes entitled Split Energy Level Radiation Detection and the following publication: Tesic, M. M. et al.; "Digital Radiography of the Chest: Design Features and Considerations For a Prototype Unit", Radiology, 148 No. 1, pp 259-64, July 1983. The above described SPR Systems are configured such that the scanning is about substantially vertical the detector moves along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a horizontal plane. It also been proposed to an SPR system wherein the scanning is about a substantially horizontal axis the detector to move along a path defining an arc lying substantially in a vertical plane. In both configurations the scanning motion is provided by means of electromechanical servo-systems driven by controllable electric motors. An encoder utilized to provide a closed loop feedback system wherein motor performance is adjusted in the sensed location of the detector. the second system wherein the scanning motion is about a horizontal axis, a difficulty is encountered in the center gravity of the rotating body rotates about the pivot point. The required to effect scanning motion about the pivot axis varies sinusoidally. A electromechanical system designed to compensate for the torque would be unduly complex. a motor able to sufficient torque to overcome the system torque at the of the scan motion would be and prohibitively It therefore object of this invention to provide a lightweight, reliable, simple inexpensive counterbalance system which compensates for gravitation torques a system which rotates about a substantially horizontal axis thereby permitting use of costly and complex drive components.
|
in a cONventIOnAL radiOgRaPHic SYSteM, AN x-rAY souRCe Is ACtuatED TO dIRECT a DiVerGeNt arEa BEAM OF x-RaYs tHROuGh a PatIenT. A cassettE conTaInING aN X-rAy sENSItIve scReEn and LiGht aND X-rAy seNSITiVe fIlm IS POSiTIOneD iN The X-rAy paTh oN A sIde of thE PATIENt OPpositE tHE SOurCe. rADIAtIon pASsing ThRough THe PATiENT'S boDy iS ATtENUATED TO Varying DEgREES IN AcCordanCe wiTh tHE VaRIOUs tyPes Of tiSsUe thROUgh WHICh THE X-raYS PasS. thE ATTENUATEd X-raYs emErGe From The PaTiEnT in a pATterN And STrIKE thE phoSPHoR sCreeN whiCH In turn EXpoSEs thE fIlM. THE x-raY FilM IS ProCEssed to YIEld a vIsIBlE IMage WhicH cAN be iNtERpReTED by a RadioloGISt As deFinING IntErnal body sTrUcTuRE And/Or COndiTIOn of THE PATiENt.
in ConVENtIOnal SysTemS OF THE Type desCRIbED AbovE the X-ray SOUrCE iS mounTed tO a sUPPOrt StrUcturE. suCh strUCTURE iS comMonlY a CEIlinG suPpoRtEd, tELesCOping carriAGe which permits SeLECTioN OF VAriOuS soURCE tO fiLm DiSTAncEs. ThE wEIGHT OF thE soURCE aNd aSsOCIaTED ComPOnEntRy aRE COUNtErBalANCEd AGainST GravITY viA A SpriNG MOtOR and A CabLE/PUllEy aRRaNGemENT. a supPORT CABlE tAKe-uP drUM or caM Is prOViDed TO COmPenSate for tHE varIaNCE iN tHE SpRing TeNsion ForCE oveR The opeRaTiVe rANGE oF sPRING extENsiOn. tHe tAkE-up DruM iS pRovIded witH a helICaL GRoOVe WHICH REcEIves thE suppOrT cABLE. by DecReASiNg thE supPOrT caBLe DRum Take-uP RADIus AS tHe COUnterBAlaNcE sprINgS ARE ExtENdeD, a SUbStANtIaLly consTaNt CoUNTErBaLAnCE FoRce iS APpLIED to THE suPPOrT cAbLe. FurThEr dEtailS Of tHe ABOVe dEScRibEd coUNterbaLanCe SYStEM Can bE fOUnd iN u.S. PAt. nO. 3,902,070 To amor JR. et Al. WHIch iS ownEd by THe pREsENT assIGnEE.
It IS to bE noTED tHAt The above DeScRibED coUnteRBALanCE SyStEm Is USefUL wherE thE CeNter Of GrAVitY of THe MovInG coMpONent MOVES iN A SUbstantIaLly VERTicAL, sTrAIght liNe.
MoRE reCEntLy, DiGiTAL rADIograPhy TEChniqUeS haVE BEEn deVeLoPEd. iN digiTAL raDIoGraPHY, the soUrce DiReCts rADIatiOn tHRouGH a patIeNt'S boDy To A DEtECTOR In The BeAm PAth BeyoND THE Patient. thE DeTeCTor, By usE Of ApPRopriATE sensoR mEAns, rEsPonDS tO thE iNcidENt rADiAtiON imagE To pROdUCE AnalOg siGnAlS REPResentinG THE seNseD raDiATiON, WHiCh SiGNAlS aRe cOnVeRteD to DIGITAl infoRmATion And feD TO a DIgitaL DaTa pRoceSsIng uniT. the dATa PROceSsINg unit RecORds, aND/OR pROCeSSES ANd eNHANces THe diGItal DAta. a DIspLaY UniT REspondS TO tHE aPprOPrIate DIGItAL datA ReprEsenTiNg the iMAgE To cONveRT tHE DIgITaL INforMaTion bACk IntO anALOg FORm ANd PROdUce a vISUAl dIsPLAy Of THe patIENt's inTeRnAL body STRucTUre.
DIgital RADioGRaPHy IncLUdes rAdIogrApHiC TEchniques in WhiCh a ThIN SpReaD Beam of x-RAys is USED. In tHiS TEchniQUe, oFTeN cAlled "sCaN" (oR SlIT) pRoJECTiON RadiograPhY (sPR), A spreaD BeaM OF x-raYs Are scAnNED aCroSS thE PATIEnT'S BODY, Or THE pATiEnT Is MOVaBly iNTERpOsED BETWEeN ThE Source AND aN arrAy oF INDividual CellUlaR dETEcTor segMenTs. In suCh an EMBOdIMEnT, rELAtiVe mOvemENt IS EFfeCTed BEtwEeN tHE sourcE/DETECtor aRranGemEnt ANd the PaTIEnT's bODY, keePing tHE DETECTOR aLIGNeD wItH THE BEAM, sUCH tHAt A laRGe ARea oF tHE PAtIEnT'S BOdY iS sCaNNed BY thE BeAM of X-RaYS.
ONe SUch spR SYstEM iS dEScribeD iN mOre DeTaIl IN U.s. pAT. 4,626,688 tO BARNeS EnTitleD spLiT EnerGY LeVel raDIATiOn deTECtIOn and in the FOLLOWInG puBLIcATION:
TeSiC, M. M. Et AL.; "digItAl RADIoGRApHy oF ThE CHEsT: DeSiGN fEATuREs and conSiDerAtioNS FoR a prOtOTYPe uNIt", RADIoLOGy, vOL. 148 nO. 1, pp 259-64, juLY 1983.
tHE AboVe DEscRiBEd spr sYStEMs aRe cOnFiGURED sUcH thAT the SCANning MoTIon iS aBouT A SUbSTAntIalLy VErTICAl aXIS, i.e., tHe dETECTOr moveS alONG a patH DEfIninG AN ARc lyinG sUbstAntIAlly in a HoRIZOntaL PlanE.
IT Has ALSo BEEn PROPosEd TO prOVidE an Spr system wHerEIn The ScAnnING MOTIon iS aBOUt A SuBstAntIAlLy horizoNTAl AxiS THEreBy CauSINg the dEtECToR To moVE ALoNG A pAth deFINiNG AN arc LyINg SUBSTAnTIAlly In a veRTICal PLaNe.
IN both cOnFiGUrAtIONs tHE scanNINg MotiON IS PRovIdED by MeanS OF eLecTROMecHaNiCAl SerVO-SystEms DrIVEN bY cONtrolLABle eLECTrIc MoTORS. an enCoder iS UTiLiZED to prOvidE A cLOSED LoOp FeedbacK sYStem WhEREIn moTOr pErforMAnCE iS aDJUsted in acCoRdAnCE WiTh the senSeD LOcATion oF THe dETectOR.
iN ThE SecOND SysTeM WHEREIn THE sCanNiNg motIOn IS aBouT A hORiZONtaL Axis, a diFfICUlTy iS enCOuNTEreD in ThAT THE CEnTEr oF GrAVITy Of ThE RoTaTiNg bOdY ROtatEs abOut the piVOt pOinT. THE torQUE requiRed TO eFFect SCANniNG moTion aBOUT The PIVOT axIS vARIEs SINUsoIDAllY. a ElecTroMEChanICaL sErVo systEM desiGNEd To comPEnsATe For THe TorQUE VArIaTIONS Would bE UNDULY CoMPlEX. FUrthER, a MoTor ABlE tO prOvIDe SUffiCiENT torque TO ovERcome tHe SYsteM toRQUe AT the eXTREmES Of THe ScAN MOtIon WouLD bE lARgE AnD ProHibiTIveLy eXpEnsiVe.
iT iS ThErefOrE aN OBJeCt oF thiS invEntion tO proVide a LIGHTWeIGHT, reLiabLE, siMPLe and InExPEnSiVe COuntErBaLance SyStEm WhiCh coMPENsAtEs for GrAVitatiOn ToRqUeS EXPErIeNCEd IN a SYSteM WhIcH ROtaTEs ABOUt A SuBStaNtially hOrIzONtAl axiS THEREbY peRMittiNG thE USe of LESS CostLy anD coMPlEX DRIve cOMponEnTS.
|
In a conventional radiographic system, an x-ray source is actuated to direct a divergent area beamof x-rays througha patient. A cassette containing an x-ray sensitive screen and lightand x-ray sensitive film ispositioned in the x-ray path on a side ofthe patient opposite the source. Radiationpassing through the patient's bodyis attenuated to varying degrees in accordance with the various types of tissue through which the x-rays pass. The attenuated x-rays emerge from the patient in a pattern and strike the phosphor screen which in turn exposes the film. The x-ray film is processed to yield a visible image which can be interpreted bya radiologist as defining internal body structure and/or condition of the patient. In conventional systems of the type described above the x-ray sourceismounted to a support structure. Such structureis commonlya ceiling supported, telescoping carriage whichpermits selection of various source to filmdistances. The weight of the source and associated componentryare counterbalanced against gravity via a spring motor and a cable/pulley arrangement. A support cable take-up drumor cam is providedto compensate for the variance in the spring tension forceover theoperative range of spring extension. The take-up drum is provided with a helical groove which receives the support cable. Bydecreasingthesupport cable drum take-up radius as the counterbalance springs are extended, a substantiallyconstantcounterbalance forceis applied to the support cable. Further details ofthe above described counterbalancesystem can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,902,070to Amor Jr. et al.which is ownedby the present assignee. It is to be noted that the above described counterbalance system is useful where thecenter ofgravity of themoving component moves in a substantially vertical,straight line.More recently, digital radiography techniques have been developed. In digital radiography, the source directs radiation througha patient's body to a detector in the beampath beyond thepatient. The detector, by use of appropriate sensor means, responds to the incident radiation image to produce analog signals representing the sensed radiation, which signalsare converted to digital informationand fedto a digital data processing unit. The data processing unit records, and/or processes and enhances thedigital data. A display unit responds to the appropriate digital data representing the image to convert the digital information back into analog form and produce avisualdisplayof thepatient's internal body structure. Digital radiography includes radiographic techniques in which a thin spread beam of x-rays is used. In this technique, often called "scan" (or slit) projection radiography (SPR), a spread beam of x-rays are scanned acrossthepatient's body, or the patient is movably interposedbetween the source and an array of individual cellular detectorsegments. In such an embodiment, relativemovement is effectedbetween the source/detector arrangement andthepatient'sbody, keeping the detector aligned with the beam, such that a large areaof the patient's body is scanned by the beam of x-rays. One such SPR system isdescribed in more detailinU.S. Pat. 4,626,688 to Barnesentitled Split Energy Level Radiation Detection and inthe following publication: Tesic, M. M. et al.; "Digital Radiography of the Chest: Design Features and ConsiderationsFor a Prototype Unit", Radiology, Vol. 148No. 1, pp 259-64, July 1983. The above described SPR Systems are configured such that the scanning motion isabout a substantially vertical axis, i.e., the detector moves along a path defining anarc lying substantiallyina horizontal plane. It has also been proposed to providean SPRsystem wherein thescanning motion is about a substantially horizontal axis thereby causing the detector to movealong apath defining anarc lying substantially in avertical plane. In both configurations the scanning motion is providedby means of electromechanical servo-systems driven by controllable electricmotors. Anencoder is utilized to provide a closedloop feedback system wherein motor performance isadjusted in accordance with the sensed location of the detector. Inthe second system wherein the scanning motionis about a horizontal axis, a difficulty is encountered in that the center of gravity of the rotating body rotates about the pivot point. The torque required toeffect scanning motion aboutthe pivot axis variessinusoidally. A electromechanical servosystem designed tocompensate for the torque variations wouldbe unduly complex. Further, a motorable to provide sufficient torque to overcome the system torque at the extremes of the scan motion would be large andprohibitively expensive. It istherefore an object of this invention to providea lightweight,reliable,simple and inexpensive counterbalance system which compensates for gravitation torques experienced ina systemwhich rotates about asubstantially horizontal axis thereby permitting the use of less costlyand complex drive components.
|
In a conventional radiographic _system,_ an x-ray source is actuated _to_ _direct_ _a_ divergent area beam of x-rays through a patient. A cassette containing an _x-ray_ sensitive _screen_ and light _and_ x-ray sensitive film is positioned in the x-ray path on a side of _the_ patient opposite _the_ source. Radiation passing through the patient's body is attenuated _to_ varying degrees in accordance with the _various_ types of _tissue_ through which the x-rays pass. _The_ attenuated x-rays _emerge_ _from_ the patient _in_ a pattern _and_ strike _the_ phosphor screen which in turn exposes the _film._ The x-ray film is processed to yield a visible image which _can_ be _interpreted_ by _a_ radiologist _as_ defining _internal_ body structure and/or condition of the patient. In conventional systems of the _type_ described above the x-ray _source_ is mounted to a support structure. Such structure is commonly a _ceiling_ supported, telescoping carriage _which_ permits _selection_ of _various_ source to film distances. The weight _of_ the source _and_ associated componentry are counterbalanced against gravity via a spring motor and a cable/pulley arrangement. A support cable take-up drum or cam _is_ provided _to_ compensate for _the_ variance _in_ the _spring_ tension force over _the_ operative range of spring extension. The take-up drum is _provided_ _with_ a _helical_ _groove_ which receives the support _cable._ By decreasing the support _cable_ drum take-up radius as the _counterbalance_ springs are _extended,_ a substantially constant _counterbalance_ force _is_ _applied_ to the support cable. _Further_ details of the above described counterbalance _system_ can _be_ found _in_ U.S. Pat. No. 3,902,070 to Amor Jr. et al. which _is_ owned by the present assignee. It is to be noted that the above described _counterbalance_ _system_ is useful where the center of _gravity_ of the moving component moves in _a_ substantially vertical, _straight_ _line._ _More_ recently, digital radiography techniques _have_ been developed. In digital radiography, the source directs _radiation_ through a patient's body _to_ a detector in _the_ _beam_ path beyond the patient. The _detector,_ by use of appropriate sensor means, responds to the incident radiation _image_ to produce analog signals representing the sensed radiation, which _signals_ _are_ _converted_ _to_ digital information and fed to a digital _data_ _processing_ unit. The data processing unit records, _and/or_ processes _and_ enhances the digital _data._ _A_ _display_ unit responds to the appropriate _digital_ data representing the _image_ _to_ _convert_ the digital information back _into_ analog form and _produce_ a visual display of the patient's _internal_ body structure. Digital _radiography_ includes _radiographic_ techniques _in_ which a thin spread beam of x-rays is _used._ _In_ _this_ technique, often _called_ "scan" _(or_ slit) projection radiography (SPR), a spread beam of x-rays are _scanned_ across the patient's body, or the patient is movably _interposed_ between _the_ source _and_ _an_ array of individual cellular detector segments. In such an embodiment, relative movement is effected between the source/detector arrangement and the patient's body, keeping the _detector_ aligned with the beam, such that _a_ large area _of_ the _patient's_ body is scanned by _the_ beam of x-rays. One such SPR system is described _in_ more detail in U.S. Pat. 4,626,688 _to_ Barnes entitled Split Energy Level Radiation Detection and in the following publication: Tesic, M. M. et _al.;_ "Digital Radiography of the Chest: Design _Features_ and Considerations For a Prototype Unit", Radiology, Vol. 148 _No._ 1, pp 259-64, July 1983. The above described SPR Systems are configured _such_ that the scanning motion is about a substantially _vertical_ _axis,_ i.e., the detector moves _along_ a path defining an arc lying substantially in a horizontal plane. It has also been proposed to provide an SPR system _wherein_ the scanning motion _is_ _about_ a substantially _horizontal_ axis thereby causing the detector _to_ move along a path defining an arc lying _substantially_ in a vertical plane. In both _configurations_ _the_ scanning _motion_ is provided by means of electromechanical servo-systems driven by _controllable_ electric _motors._ An encoder is utilized _to_ provide a closed loop feedback _system_ _wherein_ motor performance is adjusted in accordance with _the_ sensed _location_ _of_ the detector. In the _second_ system _wherein_ the scanning motion is about _a_ horizontal axis, _a_ difficulty is encountered _in_ that the center of gravity _of_ the rotating body rotates _about_ the pivot point. The _torque_ _required_ to effect scanning motion about the pivot axis varies sinusoidally. A electromechanical servo system designed _to_ compensate for the torque variations _would_ be unduly complex. Further, a motor able to _provide_ sufficient torque to overcome the system _torque_ at the extremes of the scan motion _would_ _be_ large and prohibitively expensive. It is therefore an object _of_ this invention to provide a _lightweight,_ reliable, simple and inexpensive counterbalance system which compensates for _gravitation_ torques _experienced_ in a system which rotates about _a_ substantially _horizontal_ _axis_ thereby permitting the use _of_ less _costly_ _and_ _complex_ _drive_ components.
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to manufactured homes and more particularly to an improved frame for transporting a manufactured home that lowers the overall height of the manufactured home during the transportation thereof.
2. Background of the Invention
In recent years, the manufactured home industry has substantially increased the quality of materials and construction of manufactured homes. This increase in quality and construction has been the result of superior materials, superior construction techniques, and new innovations which have resulted in a substantial increase in performance with a reduction in cost.
In general, a manufactured home is erected in an automated manufacturing factory using modern patterns, assembly line, and modern assembly equipment. The use of these automation techniques substantially reduces the cost and the time of construction of the manufactured home. After the manufactured home is completed, the manufactured home is stored on supports to await transportation to a permanent site for the manufactured home.
The manufactured home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to the permanent site for the manufactured home. The manufactured home is positioned onto the transportation carrier by crane or other lifting means. The transportation carrier comprises a steel frame assembly supported by plural axles and transport wheels. The transportation carrier includes a hitch for attaching the transportation carrier to a towing vehicle such as a truck for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent site.
After the manufactured home is towed to the permanent site, the manufactured home is removed from the transportation carrier by a crane or other lifting means and the manufactured home is positioned on a foundation at the permanent home site. After removal of the manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by a towing vehicle such as a truck for use in delivering another manufactured home. Unfortunately, the carrier transport is returned to the manufacturing factory without a load thereby substantially increasing the overall cost of delivery of the manufactured home. It is estimated that the cost of returning the carrier transport to the manufacturing factory is approximately one dollar per mile. Furthermore, the task of moving the manufactured home from the carrier transport to the foundation at the permanent home site requires the use of a crane or other lifting means. Accordingly, the transportation and installation of manufactured homes requiring the use of a carrier transport substantially adds to the overall cost of the manufactured home.
Among the most significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the use of a dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home. The dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home comprises plural longitudinally extending beams and a multiplicity of transverse cross beams. The plural longitudinally extending beams are preferably steel I-beams with the multiplicity of transverse cross beams comprising wooden trusses.
The dual purpose flooring system provides a first function for the manufactured home by providing a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent home site. Preferably, a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams for transporting the manufactured home and eliminating the need for an independent transportation carrier. When the manufactured home reaches the permanent home site, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are removed from the manufactured home and are shipped to the manufacturing factory. Only the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly which comprise the most expensive portions of a transport carrier need to be returned to the manufacturing factory. In addition, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch may be returned to the manufacturing factory by a conventional freight carrier thus eliminating the need for using the towing vehicle as was the problem in the prior art manufactured home carrier transports.
The dual purpose flooring system provides a second function for the manufacturated home by providing a right floor for supporting the manufactured home at the permanent home site. The plural longitudinally extending beams remain with the manufactured home after removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide a rigid support to the permanently mounted manufactured home. The plural longitudinally extending beams remains with the manufactured home to add to the structural integrity and strength of the flooring system. Several examples of the aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are disclosed in the following U.S. Letters Patent of the presented inventor.
The dual purpose flooring system provides a third function for the manufactured home by reducing the overall height of the manufactured home when the manufactured home is being transported to the permanent home site. Since the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly are directly secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home during transportation by the thickness of the frame of the carrier transport of the prior art.
Typically, the carrier comprises a steel structure fashioned from I-beams that are from ten to twelve inches in height. Typically, an axle is mounted on leaf springs which are secured to the bottom portion of each of the I-beams of the carrier. Accordingly, the frame of structure reduces the overall height of the building structure during transportation by the thickness of the carrier. Typically, the thickness of the carrier is ten to twelve inches.
The overall height of the building structure during transportation is extremely important since overall height of the building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height in order to easily pass under typical roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like. Presently, the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is thirteen feet six inches.
In the event the transportation height of a building structure exceeds fourteen feet, than the building structure must be preceded by a flag truck having a fourteen foot sensor to detect any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder. In the event the flag truck detects any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this maximum permitted transportation height, the building structure must be routed to avoid this obstacle. Accordingly, the transportation of a building structure in excess of the maximum permitted transportation height adds significantly to the cost of the transportation.
The pitch or slope of the roof of a building structure is limited by the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department of Transportation. A greater pitch or slope of a roof has a distinct advantage for building structures located in regions with inclement weather such as rain, snow or ice. Secondly, a greater pitch or slope of a roof approximates the pitch or slope of a roof of a site built home.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,019,299 to Lindsay discloses an improved floor assembly being incorporated into a mobile building. A pair of identical frame assemblies form the floor of the building each including a plurality of middle beams mounted to and atop lower beams and further including a pair of adjacent interior sidewalls attached to the middle beams and extending therebeneath being adjacent the lower beams. The exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. Wheeled carriages are removably mountable to the assemblies facilitating transportation of the assemblies to a building site. A skirt is permanently mounted externally to the sidewalls and extends adjacent the floor assembly. A bracket is connected to the middle beam and the bottom beam of each frame assembly and in addition is connected to a pole which supports the adjacent middle portions of the frame assemblies. The interior sidewalls are slidably received in the bracket. In an alternate embodiment, the floor frame assembly is incorporated into a floor joist.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,863,189 to Lindsay discloses a floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two load-bearing outer beams and front and rear end members defining a periphery and a plurality of transverse load-supporting trusses connected normal to the outer beam between the end members. In a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter central elongate member attached parallel thereto by vertical cross-braced elements, and on either side of the central member a braced vertical member spaced therefrom to provide gaps of predetermined height and width. Each truss also has an end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a load-supporting surface at the permanent location of the floor assembly, so that additional external beams or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary. The floor frame assembly may be further supported by conventional piers or jackposts at points under two elongate, load-supporting, inner beams closely received and connected to the trusses within the gaps. These inner beams may optionally be made of wood material, wood material supported along the edges at selected portions by metal reinforcement, or entirely formed of I-section beam lengths. In one aspect of the invention, at least one of the load-supporting outer beams has a larger vertical dimension than the other outer beam and two floor frame assemblies thus formed may be united at their respective wider outer beams and provided additional support thereunder to generate a commensurately larger floor frame assembly structure.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,028,072 to Lindsay discloses a unified floor frame assembly having two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt-spliced to be cambered in parallel vertical planes to counter forces that may tend to cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. At inner vertical perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and, second, a towing hitch assembly attachable to a forward end of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing force thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest excluding thin covering is provided underneath the floor frame assembly and sections of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during
|
1. field of the invention this invention relates to manufactured homes and more particularly to an improved frame for transporting a manufactured home that lowers the overall height of the manufactured home during the transportation thereof. 2. background of the invention in recent years, the manufactured home industry has substantially increased the quality of materials and construction of manufactured homes. this increase in quality and construction has been the result of superior materials, superior construction techniques, and new innovations which have resulted in a substantial increase in performance with a reduction in cost. in general, a manufactured home is erected in an automated manufacturing factory using modern patterns, assembly line, and modern assembly equipment. the use of these automation techniques substantially reduces the cost and the time of construction of the manufactured home. after the manufactured home is completed, the manufactured home is stored on supports to await transportation to a permanent site for the manufactured home. the produced home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to an permanent site containing the manufactured home. this manufactured home is positioned onto the transportation carrier by crane or other lifting means. the transportation carrier comprises a steel frame assembly supported by plural axles and transport wheels. the transportation carrier includes a hitch for attaching the transportation carrier to a towing vehicle such as a truck for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent site. after the manufactured home is towed to the permanent site, the manufactured home is removed from the transportation carrier by fixed crane or other lifting means and the manufactured home is positioned on a foundation at the permanent home site. after removal of the manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by a towing vehicle such as a truck for hauling in delivering another manufactured home. unfortunately, the carrier transport is returned to the manufacturing factory without a load casualty substantially increasing the overall cost of delivery of the manufactured home. it is estimated that the cost of returning the carrier transport via the manufacturing factory is approximately one dollar per mile. furthermore, the task of moving the manufactured home from the carrier transport to the foundation at the permanent home site requires the use of a crane or other lifting means. accordingly, the transportation and installation of manufactured homes requiring the use of a carrier transport substantially adds to the overall cost of the manufactured home. among the most significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the use of a dual purpose lifting system for a manufactured home. the dual purpose flooring system where a manufactured home comprises plural longitudinally extending beams and a multiplicity of transverse cross beams. the plural longitudinally extending beams are preferably steel i - beams with the multiplicity of transverse cross beams comprising wooden trusses. the dual purpose flooring system provides a first function for the manufactured home by providing a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent home site. preferably, a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams for transporting the manufactured home and eliminating the need for an independent transportation carrier. when the manufactured home reaches the permanent home site, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are removed from the manufactured home and are shipped to the manufacturing factory. only the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly which comprise the most expensive portions of a transport carrier need to be returned to the manufacturing factory. in addition, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch may be returned to the manufacturing factory by a conventional freight carrier thus eliminating the need for using the towing vehicle as was the problem in the prior art manufactured home carrier transports. the dual purpose flooring system provides a second function for the manufacturated home by providing a right floor for supporting the manufactured home at the permanent home site. the plural longitudinally extending beams remain with the manufactured home after removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide a rigid support to the permanently mounted manufactured home. the plural longitudinally extending beams remains with the manufactured home to add to the structural integrity and strength of the flooring system. several examples of the aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are disclosed in the following u. s. letters patent of the presented inventor. the dual purpose flooring system provides a third function for the manufactured home by reducing the overall height of the manufactured home when the manufactured home is being transported to the permanent home site. since the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly are directly secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home during transportation by the thickness of the frame of the carrier transport of the prior art. typically, the carrier comprises a steel structure fashioned from i - beams that are from ten to twelve inches in height. typically, an axle is mounted on leaf springs which are secured to the bottom portion of each of the i - beams of the carrier. accordingly, the frame of structure reduces the overall height of the building structure during transportation by the thickness of the carrier. typically, the thickness of the carrier is ten to twelve inches. the overall height of the building structure during transportation is extremely important since overall height of the building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height established by the u. s. department of transportation. the building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height in order to easily pass under typical roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like. presently, the maximum permitted transportation height established by the u. s. department of housing and urban development is thirteen feet six inches. in the event the transportation height of a building structure exceeds fourteen feet, than the building structure must be preceded by a flag truck having a fourteen foot sensor to detect any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder. in the event the flag truck detects any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this maximum permitted transportation height, the building structure must be routed to avoid this obstacle. accordingly, the transportation of a building structure in excess of the maximum permitted transportation height adds significantly to the cost of the transportation. the pitch or slope of the roof of a building structure is limited by the maximum permitted transportation height established by the u. s. department of transportation. a greater pitch or slope of a roof has a distinct advantage for building structures located in regions with inclement weather such as rain, snow or ice. secondly, a greater pitch or slope of a roof approximates the pitch or slope of a roof of a site built home. u. s. pat. no. 4, 019, 299 to lindsay discloses an improved floor assembly being incorporated into a mobile building. a pair of identical frame assemblies form the floor of the building each including a plurality of middle beams mounted to and atop lower beams and further including a pair of adjacent interior sidewalls attached to the middle beams and extending therebeneath being adjacent the lower beams. the exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. wheeled carriages are removably mountable to the assemblies facilitating transportation of the assemblies to a building site. a skirt is permanently mounted externally to the sidewalls and extends adjacent the floor assembly. a bracket is connected to the middle beam and the bottom beam of each frame assembly and in addition is connected to a pole which supports the adjacent middle portions of the frame assemblies. the interior sidewalls are slidably received in the bracket. in an alternate embodiment, the floor frame assembly is incorporated into a floor joist. u. s. pat. no. 4, 863, 189 to lindsay discloses a floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two load - bearing outer beams and front and rear end members defining a periphery and a plurality of transverse load - supporting trusses connected normal to the outer beam between the end members. in a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter central elongate member attached parallel thereto by vertical cross - braced elements, and on either side of the central member a braced vertical member spaced therefrom to provide gaps of predetermined height and width. each truss also has an end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a load - supporting surface at the permanent location of the floor assembly, so that additional external beams or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary. the floor frame assembly may be further supported by conventional piers or jackposts at points under two elongate, load - supporting, inner beams closely received and connected to the trusses within the gaps. these inner beams may optionally be made of wood material, wood material supported along the edges at selected portions by metal reinforcement, or entirely formed of i - section beam lengths. in one aspect of the invention, at least one of the load - supporting outer beams has a larger vertical dimension than the other outer beam and two floor frame assemblies thus formed may be united at their respective wider outer beams and provided additional support thereunder to generate a commensurately larger floor frame assembly structure. u. s. pat. no. 5, 028, 072 to lindsay discloses a unified floor frame assembly having two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt - spliced to be cambered in parallel vertical planes to counter forces that may tend to cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. at inner vertical perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and, second, a towing hitch assembly attachable to a forward end of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing force thereat. a moisture, dirt, insect and pest excluding thin covering is provided underneath the floor frame assembly and sections of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to manufactured homes and more particularly to an improved frame for transporting a manufactured home that lowers the overall height of the manufactured home during the transportation thereof. 2. Background of the Invention In recent years, the manufactured home industry has substantially increased the quality of materials and construction of manufactured homes. This increase in quality and construction has been the result of superior materials, superior construction techniques, and new innovations which hzge resulted in a substantial increase in performance with a reduction in cost. In general, a manufactured home is erected in an automated manufacturing factory using modern patterns, assembly line, and modern assembly equipment. The use of these automation techniques substantially reduces the cost and the time of construction of the manufactured home. After the manufactured home is completed, the manufactured home is stored on supports to await transportation to a permanent site for the manufactured home. The manufactured home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to the permanent site for the manufactured home. The manufactured home is positioned onto the transportation carrier by crane or other lifting means. The transportation carrier comprises a steel frame assembly supported by plural axles and transport wheels. The transportation carrier includes a hitch for attaching the transportation carrier to a towing vehicle such as a truck for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent site. After the manufactured home is towed to the permanent site, the manufactured home is removed from the transportation carrier by a crane or other lifting means and the majufaxtured home is positioned on a foundation at the permanent home site. After removal of the manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by a towing vehicle such as a truck for use in delivering another manufactured home. UnfortunS4ely, the carrier transport is returned to the manufacturing factory without a load thereby substantially increasing the overall cost of delivery of the manufactured home. It is estimated that the cIWt of returning the carrier transport to the manufacturing factory is approximately one dollar per mile. Furthermore, the task of moving the manufactured home from the carrier transport to the foundation at the permanent home site requires the use of a crane or other lifting means. Accordingly, the transportation and installation of manufactured homes requiring the use of a carrier transport substantially adds to the overall cost of the manufactured home. Among the most significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the use of a dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home. The dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home comprises plural longitudinally extending beams and a multiplicity of transverse cross beams. The plural longitudinally extending beams are preferably steel I - beams with the multiplicity of transverse cross beams comprising wooden trusses. The dual purpose flooring system provides a first function for the manufactured home by providing a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent home site. Preferably, a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams for transporting the manufactured home and eliminating the need for an independent transportation carrier. When the manufactured home reaches the permanent home site, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are removed from the manufactured home and are shipped to the manufacturing factory. Only the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly which comprise the most expensive portions of a transport carrier need to be returned to the manufacturing factory. In addition, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch may be returned to the manufacturing factory by a conventional freight carrier thus eliminating the need for using the towing vehicle as was the problem in the prior art manufactured home carrier transports. The dual purpose flooring system provides a second function for the manufacturated home by providing a right floor for supporting the manufactured home at the permanent home site. The plural longitudinally extending beams remain with the manufactured home after removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide a rigid support to the permanently mounted manufactured home. The plural longitudinally extending beams remains with the manufactured home to add to the structural integrity and strength of the flooring system. Several examples of the aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are disclosed in the following U. S. Letters Patent of the presented inventor. The dual purpose flooring system provides a third function for the manufactured home by reducing the overall height of the manufactured home when the manufactured home is being transported to the permanent home site. Since the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly are directly secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of the manufactured home during transportation by the thickness of the frame of the carrier transport of the prior art. Typically, the carrier comprises a steel structure fashioned from I - beams that are from ten to twelve inches in height. Typically, an axle is mounted on leaf springs wUifh are secured to the bottom portion of each of the I - beams of the carrier. Accordingly, the frame of structure reduces the overall height of the building structure during transportation by the thickness of the carrier. Typically, the thickness of the carrier is ten to twelve inches. The overall height of the building structure during transportation is extremely important since overall height of the building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U. S. Department of Transportation. The building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height in order to easily pass under typical roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like. Presently, the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is thirteen feet six inches. In the event the transportation height of a building structure exceeds fourteen feet, than the building structure must be preceded by a flag truck having a fourteen foot sensor to detect any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the l7k$ that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder. In the evwn% the flag truck detects any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this maximum permitted transportation height, the building structure must be routed to avoid this obstacle. Accordingly, the transportation of a building structure in excess of the maximum permitted transportation height adds significantly to the cost of the transportation. The pitch or slope of the roof of a building structure is limited by the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U. S. Department of Transportation. A greater pitch or slope of a roof has a distinct advantage for building structures :ocatsd in regions with inclement weather such as rain, snow or ice. Secondly, a greater pitch or slope of a roof approximates the pitch or slope of a roof of a site built home. U. S. Pat. No. 4, 019, 299 to Lindsay discloses an improved floor assembly being incorporated into a mobile building. A pair of identical frame assemblies form the floor of the building each including a plurality of middle beams mounted to and atop lower beams and further including a pair of adjacent interior sidewalls attached to the middle beams and extending therebeneath being adjacent the lower beams. The exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. Wheeled carriages are removably mountable to the assemblies facilitating transportation of the assemblies to a building site. A skirt is permanently mounted externally to the sidewalls and extends adjacent the floor assembly. A bracket is connected to the middle beam and the bottom beam of each frame assembly and in addition is connected to a pole which supports the adjacent middle portions of the frame assemblies. The interior sidewalls are slidably received in the bracket. In an alternate embodiment, the floor frame assembly is incorporated into a floor joist. U. S. Pat. No. 4, 863, 189 to Lindsay discloses a floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two load - bearing IuFer beams and front and rear end members defining a periphery and a plurality of transverse load - supporting trusses connected normal to the outer beam between the end members. In a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter central elongate member attached parallel thereto by vertical cross - braced elements, and on either side of the central member a braced vertical member spaced therefrom to provide gaps of predetSrmineC height and width. Each truss also has an end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a load - supporting surface at the permanent location of the floor assembly, so that additional external beams or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary. The floor frame assembly may be further supported by conventional piers or jackposts at points under two elongate, load - supporting, inner beams closely received and connected to the trusses within the gaps. These inner beams may optionally be made of wood material, wood material supported along the edges at selected portions by metal reinforcement, or entirely formed of I - section beam lengths. In one aspect of the invention, at least one of the load - supporting outer beams has a larger vertical dimension than the other outer beam and two floor frame assemblies thus formed may be united at their respective wider outer beams and provided additional support thereunder to generate a commensurately larger floor frame assembly structure. U. S. Pat. No. 5, 028, 072 to Lindsay discloses a unified floor frame assembly having two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt - spliced to be cambered in parallel vertical planes to counter forces that may tend to cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. At inner vertical perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and, second, a towing hitch assembly attachable to a forward end of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing force thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest excluding thin covering is provided underneath the floor frame assembly and sections of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to manufactured homes more particularly an improved transporting a manufactured home that lowers the overall height the manufactured during the transportation thereof. 2. Background of the Invention In recent years, the manufactured home industry substantially increased of materials and construction of manufactured homes. This increase quality and construction has been the result of superior materials, superior construction techniques, and new innovations which resulted in a substantial increase in performance with a reduction in cost. In general, manufactured home is erected an manufacturing factory using modern patterns, assembly line, and modern assembly equipment. The use of these automation techniques substantially reduces the cost and the time of of manufactured home. After the manufactured home is completed, the manufactured home is stored on supports to await transportation to a permanent site for manufactured home. The manufactured home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to the permanent for the manufactured home. The home is positioned the transportation carrier crane or other lifting means. The transportation carrier comprises a frame assembly supported plural axles and transport wheels. The transportation carrier includes a hitch for attaching the transportation carrier to a towing vehicle such as a truck for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent site. After the manufactured home is towed to the permanent site, the manufactured home is removed from the transportation carrier by a crane or other lifting means and the manufactured is positioned on a foundation at the permanent site. After removal of the manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by towing vehicle such as a truck for in delivering another manufactured home. Unfortunately, the carrier transport is returned to the manufacturing factory without a load thereby substantially increasing the overall cost of delivery of the manufactured home. It is estimated that the cost of returning the carrier transport the manufacturing factory approximately one dollar per mile. Furthermore, the task of moving the manufactured home from the carrier transport to the at the permanent site requires the use of a crane or other lifting Accordingly, the transportation and installation of manufactured homes requiring the use of a carrier transport substantially adds to the cost the home. Among most significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the use of a dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home. The dual purpose flooring system a manufactured comprises longitudinally beams and a multiplicity of transverse cross beams. plural longitudinally extending beams are preferably I-beams with the multiplicity of transverse cross beams comprising wooden The dual flooring system provides a first function for manufactured home by providing a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly for transporting the manufactured home to the permanent home site. Preferably, a removable transport wheel and a removable hitch assembly are secured to plural longitudinally extending beams for transporting the manufactured home and eliminating the need for an independent transportation carrier. manufactured home reaches the permanent home site, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are removed from the manufactured home and are shipped to the factory. Only the transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch which comprise the most portions of transport carrier need to be to the manufacturing factory. addition, the removable transport wheel and a removable hitch may be returned to the manufacturing factory a conventional freight carrier thus the need for using the towing vehicle as was the problem in the prior art manufactured home carrier transports. The dual purpose system provides a second function for the manufacturated home by providing a right floor the manufactured home at the permanent home site. The plural longitudinally extending beams with the manufactured home after removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide a rigid support to the permanently mounted manufactured home. The plural longitudinally extending remains the manufactured to add to the structural integrity and strength of the system. examples of the aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are disclosed in the following U.S. Letters Patent of presented inventor. The dual purpose flooring system provides a third function for the manufactured by reducing the overall of the manufactured home when the manufactured home is being transported to the permanent home site. Since the removable transport wheel and the removable hitch assembly are directly secured to the plural extending beams of the manufactured home, purpose flooring system the overall height of the manufactured home, dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height of manufactured home during by the thickness of the frame of the carrier transport of the prior art. Typically, carrier comprises a steel structure fashioned from I-beams that from ten to twelve in height. Typically, an axle mounted leaf springs which are secured the bottom portion of each of the I-beams of the carrier. Accordingly, frame structure reduces the overall height of the building structure during transportation by the thickness of the carrier. Typically, the thickness of the carrier is ten to twelve inches. The height of during transportation extremely important since overall height of the structure must be below the permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height in order to easily pass under typical roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the Presently, the maximum permitted transportation height established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development is thirteen feet six inches. In the event the transportation height of a structure exceeds fourteen feet, than the building structure must be preceded a truck having a fourteen foot sensor to detect any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder. In the event the flag truck detects any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this permitted transportation height, the structure must be routed to avoid this obstacle. Accordingly, the transportation of a building structure in excess of the maximum permitted transportation height adds significantly to the cost of the The pitch or slope of the roof of a building structure is limited by maximum permitted transportation height established by U.S. of Transportation. A greater pitch or slope of a roof has a distinct advantage building structures located in regions with inclement weather such rain, snow or ice. Secondly, a greater pitch or slope of a roof approximates the pitch or slope a roof a site built home. U.S. Pat. No. 4,019,299 to Lindsay discloses an improved floor assembly being incorporated into a mobile building. A pair of identical frame assemblies form the floor of the building each a plurality of middle beams mounted to and atop lower beams and further a pair of adjacent interior sidewalls attached to the middle beams extending therebeneath being adjacent the lower beams. The exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. Wheeled carriages removably mountable to the assemblies facilitating transportation of the assemblies to a building site. A skirt is permanently mounted externally to sidewalls and extends the bracket is to the middle beam and the bottom beam of each frame assembly and in is connected to a pole which supports the adjacent middle portions of the frame assemblies. The interior sidewalls are slidably received in the bracket. In an alternate embodiment, floor frame assembly is incorporated a floor joist. U.S. Pat. No. 4,863,189 to discloses floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two load-bearing outer beams and front and rear end members defining periphery and a plurality of transverse load-supporting trusses connected normal to outer beam between end members. In a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter central elongate member attached parallel thereto by vertical cross-braced elements, and on either side of the central a braced vertical member spaced to provide gaps of predetermined height and width. Each truss also has an end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for thereat with a load-supporting at the permanent location of the floor so that additional or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary. The floor assembly may be further supported by conventional piers or at points under two elongate, load-supporting, inner beams closely received connected to the within the gaps. These inner beams may optionally be made of wood material, wood material supported along the edges portions by metal reinforcement, or entirely formed of I-section beam In one aspect of the at least one of the load-supporting outer beams a larger vertical dimension than the other outer beam and two floor assemblies thus may be united at their respective outer beams and provided additional support thereunder to generate a commensurately larger floor frame assembly structure. U.S. Pat. to a unified floor assembly having elongate outer load formed of elongate beam sections that are to be in parallel vertical planes to forces that tend to of the frame assembly during transportation. At inner vertical perimeter surfaces of elongate are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed floor frame assembly and, second, a towing hitch attachable to forward end of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest thin covering is the floor frame and sections of and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during
|
1. fIELd Of tHE invEntion
THIS InventION rELAtEs TO ManUFActUred hOMEs aNd mORE pARtIcUlArLY tO An ImprOVeD fRAme FoR TRaNSpOrTing a MANufActURED HOMe thAT LoWErS ThE OveRAlL HEigHt Of THe ManuFaCtuRED hoMe duRinG thE TransPOrtatIoN THereOF.
2. baCKgrOunD of THE invenTIon
in RECent YearS, tHE MAnUfActuRed hoMe iNDUSTRY HAS suBStAnTialLy iNcREAsEd THE QuALiTy Of mAtERIals aND CoNStruCtION OF maNUFacTUREd hoMES. this iNCREasE IN qUAlITy And CoNStruCTIoN has BEEn THE result of SuPEriOR MATerIalS, SUPeRiOr ConStrUCTioN TEchNiQUEs, And nEw INnOvatiOnS which HAvE resuLTEd In A subSTaNtial IncreaSe IN PerFOrmaNCe WItH A rEdUcTiON in cOsT.
IN gENerAL, a MAnuFaCtUreD HomE IS ErECTed iN aN autOmaTEd MaNuFacTurinG FActORY usING moDErn PatTERns, aSseMBlY liNE, anD mODERN aSsemBLY eqUIpmeNT. THE UsE Of THEse AutoMAtIOn TEcHNiques suBSTanTiALly reDuces ThE coST AnD thE tiME oF consTructiON Of ThE MAnuFActURED HomE. AfTEr The mANUFacTUreD HoME IS COmPLEtEd, thE mAnuFACtUrEd HomE is StoRed on suPportS TO awAiT tRANsPoRTAtIOn tO A perMaNEnt Site foR tHE maNuFAcTurED hoME.
tHe MANUFaCTUReD HOmE IS loADed oN A TrANsPOrtatIOn CARRIeR fOr tRaNspOrtATiOn TO THE PeRMANEnt SiTE For THe manUFaCtuREd hOme. tHE MAnufAcTURed HOme Is pOsItionED OnTo THe tRaNSpOrtatION CarRier BY cRANE oR other lIfTIng meaNs. tHE tRANSPORTAtiON cArRieR coMpRISes A SteEL FramE asSEMBLY sUPpOrTed By PLUral AXleS ANd TRaNsporT wheelS. THE TrANSPortaTiOn cARrIeR IncLUDeS A HitcH For AtTAChIng ThE TranSpoRtATION caRRier tO a toWIng VEhICLe suCH As A tRuCk FOr tRAnSpORtING THe mAnUfACTUreD Home tO THe pErManENt SitE.
afTEr the mANufActuREd HOMe IS toweD to THe pERmaneNt SIte, ThE mANUFActurEd hOmE Is REmOVeD fROM The TRANSporTATioN CarriEr by a cRAnE or OTHER lIfTInG meANS ANd tHE manUfacTUrED hoME is PosiTIONED oN A FOUNdaTion at THe peRManent hOme siTE. aftEr ReMovAl Of thE MANUfaCtUrEd HoME, tHe cArrier tranSporT iS TOWEd BAcK tO THe mANUFaCtUrinG fActORy by a toWInG veHiCle SUCh as A Truck fOR USe In DElivErING anotHER MaNufACtuRed HomE. unfOrtUNaTelY, thE caRrieR TranSpOrT IS REtuRneD TO ThE MAnuFactURing FacTory WIThOUt A load theREBY SubsTANtiALly iNcReaSINg THe OveraLl COst OF DeLIvERY OF THe manuFactuRed hOme. IT IS EStIMAteD that the cost of retURninG The caRRIer trANsPORT TO The MAnuFaCTURinG fActory IS apprOXiMAtEly OnE DollaR PEr MILE. furTHERMore, THe TaSK oF moVing The MaNuFACTUREd HomE FroM tHE cARrier tRANSpOrt TO ThE FoUNdATiOn at tHE permAnEnT HOme Site REquIRes THe USE of A cRanE Or OTHer LIfTiNg mEanS. acCordINgly, tHe TraNspORtAtiON ANd INstAllAtIon OF mANUFAcTUrED HomEs reQuIring the UsE of A caRrIer TrANSPORt sUBSTAnTIALly addS TO THE oVeRall coSt of the mAnuFaCTuReD hOME.
AMONg tHe most significanT coNsTrUcTIOn InnOvATIonS DevELOPeD IN The MAnufaCtUReD hOMe IndUsTRy Is ThE USE OF a DuAL pUrPoSE flooRing sySTem FOr A MaNufACtuReD HOME. ThE DuAl pUrpoSe floOrIng syStEM fOR a MAnUfACTUreD HOme coMprISes pLURAl LONgitudinallY eXTenDing bEaMs aNd a MUlTIplICIty OF TRaNsVeRse croSs bEAMs. the pLURAl lONgiTUDINALly ExtENdiNG BEaMs aRe PreFeRAbLY StEEl i-BEamS WITh tHe muLTiPliCITY oF TraNsVErse croSs bEAmS COmpRIsing WoOdEN trUsses.
The DUaL PURPOsE FloOrING SYsTEM pROViDes a fiRsT funCTIOn for ThE MaNUfacTuReD hoMe by pRoVIdiNG A reMoVAblE TRaNsPort wHEel aSSemblY and A rEmOVAblE HITcH ASsEMBly FoR tRansPoRTING THe mAnuFactuReD hOMe to ThE perManeNT hOMe Site. prefERabLy, a rEMOVABle tRansPoRT wHEel assEmbly ANd A REmOvABLe hiTCH aSseMBLy ARe SeCUred tO tHe plURal loNgITUDiNaLlY exTeNDiNg BeAms For tRANspOrTIng thE MaNUfaCTURED hOME aNd eLiMiNAtiNG The Need for AN indEPenDEnt tranSPORtaTIOn Carrier. whEn The maNufAcTureD hoMe reaCHes thE perMANENt hOmE sIte, tHe rEMovAblE trAnSpORT WheeL AssembLy and a rEMoVAbLe hiTcH aSSeMBlY arE rEmOVeD FRom tHE mAnUfaCTurEd hoME AnD ARE ShIPped to ThE MAnUfActuRing FaCtoRY. onLY tHe reMoVaBlE TraNsPorT wHeeL aSsEmblY AND A REMovaBlE hItch AssemBly WHiCH comPriSe ThE MOSt EXPENsIvE porTiOnS OF A TraNSPORt Carrier neeD TO be ReTURnEd tO ThE MaNUfacTuRING faCToRy. In aDDitIoN, thE REMOvabLE TrAnsPort wheel ASSEmblY AND a RemOvabLe HItcH may be RETuRneD To tHE manufActURING fACTOrY by A cOnVenTIoNal FreiGht CArRiEr tHUS ElImINAtINg thE nEEd for usIng the toWing VeHicLE As wAs thE problEM In tHE priOr ArT mAnUFaCtUrEd hoME caRrier transportS.
tHE dUAL pURpoSe fLOORINg syStEM PrOvIDES a SECOnd FuNctiON FOR the maNUFactUrated hoME BY prOvIDING a RIghT flOOr foR sUPPorTing ThE mANufACtUrED Home at the PErmaNEnt HoMe SITE. tHe pLUral lonGituDInALly ExtendinG BeAmS rEMAIN WIth THe manUfACtUreD HOMe aFTer remOVal oF The reMovaBLe TRAnsPORt wHEEl AssEmBLy aND tHe rEMOVABLe hiTch aSSEmBlY tO pROVIde a rIgId sUPporT TO THe permaNEntLY mOunTed mAnUfactUreD Home. The PlURAl lONGitUDinallY ExteNdinG BeaMS ReMAins wiTH the mAnUfACTuRed homE tO aDd To THE sTRuctuRaL INtegritY AnD strENGTh oF tHe FloORINg SYstEm. seVeral EXAMplEs OF ThE AFOremEntIOnED duAl puRpOSe FlOORIng SYsTEM are DIsCLoSeD iN THE follOWINg U.s. letteRs PATeNt Of thE preSENTed iNVENTOR.
tHe DuaL PuRpOSE floOrING SYsTEm ProViDes A THIRD FUNcTiON fOr ThE mAnUfaCtureD HoMe by ReDUCiNG THe oveRalL HEiGHt of THE mANUfacTuREd hoME WheN The mAnufaCTURed HoMe IS BEiNg TRaNspOrTED To The PERMANENt hOme siTe. siNCE ThE REmOvaBLE trAnSPorT WhEeL aSSemBlY AnD The ReMoVaBlE HiTCh assemBLy ARE DIRecTLy secUReD TO The pLuRAL LOnGiTudiNally EXTeNdInG bEAMS of the mANUFACTUrED HOMe, The DuaL puRPOSe FLoORing sysTeM Reduces ThE oveRALl HEIght OF THE MAnufaCTURED HOMe, thE duaL purPOsE FloORInG SystEm ReduCEs tHe OVeRaLL hEIGHt oF the MaNUfACTuReD HoMe DURiNg TRANsporTatiON By THE THiCKneSS OF The frAmE oF THE CArRiEr TrAnspORT Of THE prIOR arT.
tyPIcALlY, THe caRrier cOMpRISeS a sTeeL sTruCtUrE fAShioNeD fRom I-beAms THAt are FroM TEN TO tWElVE inCHES in hEIGHt. tYPicaLLY, An AXLE IS mOUnTEd on leAF sPRingS which Are securED To the BottOm PORtIon Of each OF the i-bEAms oF ThE CArRIEr. AcCORdInGLY, THE FRAmE Of STrUcTUre redUCes tHe OVEralL HEIghT OF The BuilDiNg STruCturE DuRiNG tRANsporTatiON bY The THICkNeSs of The CarRIeR. tyPicAlLY, THe tHicKNesS Of ThE cArRIER IS TEN TO TWelVe inchEs.
the ovERALl HEiGHT Of The bUiLDinG strucTure DURiNG TRAnSpOrTaTiOn is ExTREmEly ImporTAnT since oVeRALL HEighT oF ThE BUildING STrucTurE Must Be BElOw tHe mAxIMUM pErMItteD trANsPorTAtIoN HeIgHt EsTaBlISHeD bY THe U.s. DEpArtMent OF tRAnsPOrtATIon. THe builDING stRuCturE muSt bE BELOw tHE MAXiMUM PerMittED TRANsportAtiOn HeiGHT iN oRDeR tO EasiLY PaSs uNDER TYPICAL ROADWAy bRiDGeS, UnDerpASSES, TuNnEls and THE LIke. PReseNtLy, THe mAxiMUM peRmittEd traNSPORTAtion hEiGHt eStaBlIsHeD by ThE u.s. dePArtMEnt of HoUsINg AnD urBan DEVeloPmEnt is tHirTEEn feEt sIx INCheS.
iN ThE EvEnT thE transporTatIon heIGHT Of A BuiLDing STRucTUrE eXcEEdS FourTEEn feeT, THaN tHe BUILding sTrUcTURe mUst bE pREcEded BY A FLAG trUcK HaVInG a fOUrTeEN fooT sEnsOR tO dETeCT Any RoADWAy bRiDgeS, UndeRPASses, TUNnELs AND thE LIKe tHAt woULd pRevEnT tHE PassING Of THE BuIlding struCtURE thErEunDeR. In The evENt thE FlaG TRUCk DeTECTS AnY ROaDway bRiDgES, undeRpaSSES, TuNnElS aND THe LiKE thaT WouLD pReVent tHe pAssINg Of thE BUIlDiNG struCTUrE THErEuNdeR THIS MAXImuM PERMittED TRANSpOrtAtIon heIGHT, ThE builDIng strucTurE mUst bE RouTeD to AVoID ThiS oBStacLE. ACcoRdinglY, THE trAnSPORTaTIoN oF A BuiLDiNg stRUCTUrE iN exCESS of tHE mAXimUm pErMiTtED trANsPortATiOn hEIGHt ADDs SiGNIFIcaNtly to THE Cost OF thE tRanSPOrTatION.
tHe PItCH Or SloPE OF ThE roOf Of a bUILDiNG stRUcTurE IS LimItEd By ThE maXiMUM pErMitTed transpORTatIoN HeiGhT esTABlIShed bY tHe U.S. DEPARTmeNt Of tranSPORTaTion. a GrEAter PiTch OR slOpE OF a rOOF hAS a dIsTiNcT ADvantAGe fOr buiLDINg STrUCtUreS LocaTed iN ReGions WIth inCLEment wEatheR SucH As rAin, SnOW Or IcE. secoNdlY, A GreATER PitcH OR sLOPE Of a ROOF apprOxIMaTEs tHE pITcH oR SLOpE oF a roOf OF a SITe bUilt hOmE.
u.s. PAT. No. 4,019,299 TO LIndSAY DIsClOSEs an IMPRovEd FLoor aSSEMbly bEiNG inCOrPORAtEd INTo a MOBIle BuIldING. A paIr OF ideNTICAl FraMe AssEmblIEs foRm the fLOor OF THE buIldiNg eAcH incluDiNg a PLURAliTY OF MidDle bEamS MoUnTEd to anD AToP lOWeR beaMS aNd FUrThER INcLuDiNg a pAir oF aDjacENt InTErioR SIDEWALLs aTTAChEd TO ThE midDle BEaMs AND eXTendIng ThERebEnEatH BEing ADJacENt ThE lOWER BeAMs. The eXteRiOR SIDEWAlls arE mOunted TO tHe FRAMe AsSemBLiEs. wHeEleD CARrIages aRE REMOvaBlY mOuNTable TO THE asSEmbLiEs FaciLITAtING TrANSpoRtatIOn oF the asSemBLIEs to A bUiLDiNG sITE. A skIRt Is pErMAnEnTly MOuntED externalLy tO tHe sideWAlLs and EXtends ADjACeNT tHE FLOor AsSemblY. A bRaCKEt iS conNecTED To The MIdDLE BeAm aND THE bOTtom bEam OF EAcH fRAmE asSEMbLy ANd in AddItion Is COnNECteD To a pOlE WHICh SuppoRTS ThE ADjaCent mIddLe portIoNS Of The FrAmE AsseMBLiEs. The iNTeRiOR SIdewaLLs ARe sLIDably receivEd iN THe bRackeT. IN an aLtErnAtE emboDImenT, the fLOor framE ASsEmbLy IS INcorpoRatEd Into A FlOor jOIsT.
U.S. pAt. nO. 4,863,189 to LINdsay dISCLOsES A floor framE ASsemBlY, foRmEd PrinciPAlLy Of Wood mATeriAl, having tWO lOad-bEaRINg ouTER BeaMS aNd fRONt ANd rEar eNd MEMbERs dEfiniNg A pERipherY anD A pLurALitY OF tRaNsVerSE LOad-SUPporTiNG trUSSeS cONNECTEd norMAl TO tHE OUtEr beAm BETweeN thE eND mEMBErS. IN A PRefeRreD embOdIMEnt, each TRUss Has AN uPPEr eloNGATe MeMBeR, A ShOrtER centRal eloNgATE MEMber AtTacHed paRALlEL Thereto BY VERTIcAl crOSS-BRaced eLemeNtS, AnD On EITHER siDe oF THe CeNTRaL meMbEr a BRACED VERticAL meMbEr sPaCEd tHEReFROm tO pROVIDE GAPs oF predEterMINEd hEiGht aND wIdtH. EaCH truSs ALSO hAs AN End POrTiOn oF thE UpPER elongAtE meMber In CaNtiLEVer FOrM foR CoNtaCT tHEReAT wITh A LOad-suPporTiNG SURFace at tHE PERMaNENT LOcAtiOn of THE FlOOR aSSEMblY, SO tHAt ADdITIOnAL exTERnal BEamS or CoNtinuOUs waLl sUrfACes to SUpPOrT THE ComPLEtEd FlooR fRAME ASSEMbly ANd aNY sUpErSTruCtuRE thEREon is RENdEred UnnEcEsSaRY. ThE FLOoR fRAME ASsemBlY MAy BE fUrTheR sUPpORted BY CONVeNTIonal PiErS Or JAckPOSTs at poInTs undEr tWo ELongatE, LoaD-suppOrtiNg, iNnEr BeAMs CLoseLy rECEIved ANd coNnECtEd to ThE tRuSSes WIthiN tHe GAPs. tHESE INNER BeaMs maY OptiOnallY bE MADe oF wOoD matErIal, Wood MaTeriAL SUpportED alONg THe EDges At sELECTed pORTiONs bY MEtal ReinFORceMEnT, Or eNTIrely foRmed oF i-SectION Beam lEnGths. in OnE AsPECt Of THE INVENTioN, AT LEast oNE of tHe LoaD-sUpporTINg oUtEr BeaMS hAs a largER VErTIcaL DimenSIOn tHan THe OtheR oUter BEAm aNd Two fLoOR framE aSsEMBlies THus FORmED MaY BE UNITeD At their rEsPEctiVe WIDEr OUTer BEamS ANd prOVIDed AdditiONAl SUPPoRT theReUNDEr to GeneRaTe A COMmensUrAteLy LARGEr FlOOR frame aSseMBLY stRuCtURE.
U.s. paT. NO. 5,028,072 tO LindsAY DisCLoSeS a uNiFiED FLoOR fraMe assEMBlY haVING two ELOngate outer LoAd sUppoRtinG bEAMs formed OF ElONGAtE BEam sEcTIOns ThAT aRE bUtT-splIcED To be CaMBErEd In parALlEL VertICaL planEs to coUNTEr ForcES tHaT May TenD tO CAuse sagGIng Of thE fLoOr FRAmE aSsEmbLY DuRINg TRAnSpoRTATioN. at INNer VeRtICAL pERimeTeR SuRFACES OF tHe ElongATe BEAms are ProviDed AttacHmeNt PlATES FoR atTAcHMenT, fIrsT, oF a WHEEL CarRier ASsEmBly dEtACHAblY MOUntablE tHErEtO witH A pluralITy of wheeLs PARtiaLly RecessEd withIN THe FLooR Frame AssEmBlY anD, SeConD, a towIng HITCh aSsembly aTtacHAblE To A FoRWarD enD OF tHE fLOoR FrAME asSembLY FOr APpLYiNG a TOwIng fORCE tHereaT. a MoiStUre, DiRT, inSECT AnD pesT excLUdinG thIN COvERiNg is PrOviDed UNDerNEath ThE flOor FrAme AssembLy ANd secTIonS OF heatINg ANd ventILaTiNg DUcTINg, pipING, wiRINg ANd THe Like ARe inclUDABLE DUriNG
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates tomanufactured homes and more particularly to an improvedframefor transporting amanufactured homethatlowers the overall height of the manufacturedhome during the transportation thereof. 2. Background of the Invention In recent years, the manufactured homeindustry hassubstantially increasedthe qualityof materials and construction ofmanufactured homes. This increase in quality andconstruction has beenthe resultofsuperior materials, superior construction techniques, and new innovations which have resulted in a substantialincrease in performance with a reduction in cost. In general, a manufactured home is erected in anautomated manufacturing factory using modern patterns, assemblyline, andmodern assembly equipment. The use of these automation techniquessubstantially reduces the costand the time of construction of the manufactured home. After the manufactured home iscompleted, the manufactured homeis stored on supports to await transportation to apermanent site for the manufactured home. Themanufactured home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to thepermanentsite for the manufactured home.The manufactured homeis positioned onto the transportation carrier bycrane or other lifting means. The transportation carrier comprises a steel frame assembly supported by plural axles and transportwheels. The transportation carrier includes a hitch for attaching the transportation carrier to a towing vehicle such asa truck for transporting the manufacturedhome to the permanent site.After the manufacturedhome is towed to the permanent site, themanufactured homeis removed from the transportationcarrier by a crane or other lifting meansand the manufactured homeis positioned on a foundation at the permanent home site.After removal of the manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by a towing vehiclesuch as atruck for use in deliveringanother manufactured home. Unfortunately, the carrier transport is returned to the manufacturing factory without aload thereby substantially increasing the overall cost of delivery of the manufactured home. It is estimated that the cost ofreturning the carriertransport to the manufacturing factoryis approximately one dollar per mile. Furthermore, the task ofmoving the manufactured home from thecarriertransport to the foundation at thepermanent home site requires theuse of a crane or other liftingmeans.Accordingly, the transportation and installationofmanufactured homes requiringthe use of a carrier transport substantially adds tothe overall cost of the manufactured home.Among themost significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the use of a dual purposeflooring system for a manufacturedhome. The dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured home comprisesplural longitudinallyextending beams and a multiplicity oftransverse cross beams. The plural longitudinally extending beams are preferably steel I-beams with the multiplicity of transverse cross beams comprising wooden trusses. The dualpurpose flooring system provides a firstfunction forthe manufactured home by providing a removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly for transporting the manufactured home tothe permanent home site. Preferably, a removable transport wheelassembly anda removable hitch assembly are secured tothe plural longitudinally extending beams for transporting the manufactured home and eliminating the need foran independent transportation carrier. When themanufacturedhome reaches the permanent home site, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch assembly are removed fromthe manufactured home and are shipped tothe manufacturing factory. Only the removable transport wheel assembly and aremovable hitchassembly which comprisethe most expensive portions of a transport carrier need tobe returned tothe manufacturing factory. In addition, the removable transport wheel assembly and aremovable hitch may be returned tothe manufacturingfactory by aconventional freight carrierthus eliminating the need for using thetowing vehicle as was the problemin the priorartmanufactured home carrier transports. The dual purpose flooring system provides a second function forthemanufacturated homeby providing a rightfloor for supporting the manufacturedhome at the permanent home site. The plural longitudinally extending beams remain with the manufactured home after removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide arigid supportto the permanently mountedmanufacturedhome. The plural longitudinallyextending beams remains with the manufactured home to add to the structural integrityand strength of the flooring system. Several examplesof the aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are disclosed in the following U.S. Letters Patent of the presented inventor. The dual purpose flooring system provides a third function forthe manufactured home by reducing the overallheight of themanufactured homewhen the manufactured home is being transported to the permanent home site. Since the removabletransport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly are directly secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams of the manufacturedhome, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall height ofthe manufactured home, the dual purpose flooring system reduces the overall heightof the manufactured home during transportation bythe thickness of theframe of the carrier transport of thepriorart. Typically, the carrier comprises asteel structure fashionedfrom I-beams that are from ten to twelve inches in height.Typically, an axle is mountedon leafsprings whichare secured to the bottomportion of each of the I-beams of the carrier. Accordingly, the frame of structure reduces theoverall height of the building structure duringtransportation by the thickness of the carrier. Typically, the thickness of the carrieris ten to twelve inches. The overallheight ofthe building structureduring transportation is extremely important since overall heightof the building structure must be below the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department ofTransportation. The buildingstructure must bebelow the maximum permitted transportation height in orderto easily pass under typical roadwaybridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like. Presently, the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S.Department of Housing and Urban Developmentis thirteen feetsixinches. In the event the transportation height of a building structure exceeds fourteen feet, than the building structure must be preceded by a flag truck having a fourteenfoot sensor to detect anyroadwaybridges, underpasses, tunnels andthe like thatwould prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder. In the event the flag truckdetects any roadway bridges,underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this maximum permitted transportation height, the buildingstructuremust be routed to avoid this obstacle. Accordingly, the transportation of a building structure inexcess of the maximum permitted transportation height adds significantly to the cost of the transportation. The pitchor slope of the roof of abuilding structure is limited by the maximum permitted transportation height established by theU.S. Department ofTransportation.A greater pitch or slope of a roof has a distinct advantage for building structures located in regions with inclement weather such as rain, snow or ice. Secondly, a greater pitchor slope of a roof approximates the pitch or slope of a roof of a site builthome. U.S. Pat. No. 4,019,299 to Lindsay discloses an improvedfloor assembly being incorporatedinto a mobilebuilding. A pair of identical frame assemblies form the floorof the building eachincluding aplurality of middle beams mounted to and atop lower beams and further including a pair of adjacent interior sidewalls attachedto the middle beams andextending therebeneath being adjacent the lower beams. The exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. Wheeled carriages are removably mountable to the assemblies facilitating transportation of theassemblies to a building site. A skirt is permanentlymounted externally tothe sidewalls and extends adjacent the floor assembly. A bracket is connected tothe middle beam and thebottom beam of each frame assembly and inaddition is connected to a pole which supports the adjacentmiddle portions of theframe assemblies. The interior sidewalls are slidably received in the bracket. Inanalternate embodiment, the floor frame assembly isincorporated into a floor joist. U.S. Pat. No. 4,863,189to Lindsay discloses a floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two load-bearing outer beams andfrontand rear end members defining a periphery and a plurality of transverse load-supporting trusses connected normal to the outer beam between the end members. In apreferredembodiment,each truss has an upper elongate member, ashorter central elongate member attached parallel theretoby vertical cross-braced elements, and on either side of the central member a braced vertical member spaced therefrom to provide gaps of predetermined height and width. Eachtruss also hasan end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a load-supporting surface at the permanent location of the floor assembly, sothat additional external beams or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary. The floor frame assemblymay be further supported byconventional piersorjackposts at points under two elongate, load-supporting, innerbeams closely received and connected to the trusses within the gaps. These innerbeams may optionally be made of woodmaterial,woodmaterial supported along theedgesat selectedportionsby metalreinforcement, or entirely formed of I-section beam lengths. In one aspect of the invention, at least one ofthe load-supporting outer beams hasalarger vertical dimension than theother outerbeam and two floor frame assemblies thus formed may be united at their respective wider outer beams and provided additional supportthereunder to generate a commensurately largerfloor frame assembly structure. U.S. Pat. No. 5,028,072 to Lindsay discloses a unified floorframeassemblyhaving two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt-spliced to be cambered in parallel vertical planes to counter forces that may tendto cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. At inner vertical perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, ofa wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and,second, a towing hitch assembly attachableto a forwardend of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing force thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest excludingthin covering is provided underneaththe floor frame assembly and sections of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during
|
_1._ Field of _the_ Invention _This_ invention relates to _manufactured_ _homes_ and more particularly to an improved frame for transporting a manufactured home _that_ _lowers_ the overall height of the manufactured home during the transportation thereof. 2. _Background_ of the Invention In recent years, the manufactured home industry has substantially increased the _quality_ _of_ materials and construction of manufactured homes. This increase in quality _and_ _construction_ has been the result _of_ _superior_ materials, _superior_ construction techniques, _and_ new innovations _which_ have resulted in a substantial increase in performance with a reduction in cost. In general, _a_ manufactured home is erected _in_ an automated manufacturing factory using modern _patterns,_ assembly line, _and_ modern assembly equipment. The use of these automation techniques _substantially_ reduces the cost and the _time_ _of_ construction of the manufactured home. After _the_ manufactured _home_ _is_ _completed,_ the manufactured home is stored on supports to await transportation to _a_ permanent site for the manufactured home. _The_ _manufactured_ home is loaded on a transportation carrier for transportation to _the_ permanent site for the _manufactured_ home. The manufactured home is positioned onto _the_ transportation carrier by _crane_ or _other_ lifting means. _The_ transportation carrier comprises a steel frame assembly supported by plural axles and transport wheels. The _transportation_ carrier _includes_ a hitch for attaching _the_ _transportation_ _carrier_ to _a_ towing vehicle such as a _truck_ for transporting _the_ _manufactured_ home _to_ _the_ permanent site. After the _manufactured_ _home_ is _towed_ to the permanent site, the manufactured home _is_ removed _from_ _the_ transportation carrier by a crane _or_ other lifting means and the _manufactured_ home _is_ positioned _on_ a foundation at the permanent home site. After _removal_ of _the_ manufactured home, the carrier transport is towed back to the manufacturing factory by a towing vehicle such as a truck for use _in_ delivering another _manufactured_ home. Unfortunately, the carrier _transport_ _is_ returned to the manufacturing _factory_ _without_ a _load_ _thereby_ _substantially_ increasing the _overall_ cost of delivery of the _manufactured_ home. It is estimated that the _cost_ of returning the carrier transport to the _manufacturing_ factory is _approximately_ one _dollar_ per mile. Furthermore, the task of moving the manufactured home from the carrier transport _to_ _the_ _foundation_ at the permanent home site requires the _use_ of a crane or other lifting means. Accordingly, the transportation and installation of manufactured homes requiring the use of a carrier _transport_ _substantially_ adds _to_ _the_ _overall_ _cost_ of the manufactured home. Among the most significant construction innovations developed in the manufactured home industry is the _use_ of a dual purpose flooring system for a manufactured _home._ The dual _purpose_ flooring system for a manufactured home comprises _plural_ longitudinally _extending_ beams and a multiplicity of transverse cross _beams._ The plural longitudinally _extending_ _beams_ are preferably steel I-beams _with_ the multiplicity _of_ _transverse_ cross beams comprising wooden _trusses._ The dual purpose flooring _system_ provides a first _function_ for the manufactured _home_ by providing _a_ removable _transport_ wheel _assembly_ and a removable hitch _assembly_ for transporting the manufactured home to the _permanent_ home site. Preferably, a removable transport wheel assembly and a _removable_ hitch _assembly_ _are_ secured to the plural longitudinally extending beams _for_ transporting the manufactured home _and_ _eliminating_ the need for _an_ independent transportation carrier. _When_ the manufactured home reaches the permanent home _site,_ the removable transport wheel assembly and a _removable_ hitch assembly are removed from the manufactured home and are shipped to the manufacturing factory. _Only_ _the_ removable transport wheel assembly and a removable _hitch_ assembly which _comprise_ the _most_ expensive portions of _a_ transport _carrier_ need to be returned to the manufacturing factory. In addition, the removable transport wheel assembly and a removable hitch may be _returned_ to the manufacturing factory by _a_ conventional freight _carrier_ _thus_ _eliminating_ the need for using the towing vehicle _as_ was the _problem_ in the prior art manufactured _home_ carrier transports. The _dual_ purpose _flooring_ system provides _a_ second function for the manufacturated home by providing a _right_ floor for supporting _the_ _manufactured_ _home_ at _the_ _permanent_ home site. _The_ plural longitudinally extending beams remain with the manufactured home _after_ removal of the removable transport wheel assembly and the removable hitch assembly to provide a rigid support to the permanently _mounted_ manufactured home. The plural longitudinally extending beams remains with the manufactured _home_ to add _to_ the structural integrity and strength _of_ _the_ flooring system. _Several_ examples _of_ _the_ aforementioned dual purpose flooring system are _disclosed_ _in_ the following U.S. Letters _Patent_ _of_ _the_ presented inventor. The dual purpose flooring system provides a third _function_ for _the_ manufactured home by reducing the overall height of the manufactured home when the manufactured home _is_ being _transported_ to the _permanent_ home site. Since the _removable_ transport _wheel_ assembly _and_ the removable _hitch_ assembly are directly secured to the plural _longitudinally_ extending beams of the manufactured _home,_ _the_ dual purpose _flooring_ system _reduces_ _the_ overall height _of_ the _manufactured_ home, the dual purpose flooring _system_ reduces the overall _height_ of the manufactured home _during_ transportation by the thickness of the frame of the carrier transport of the prior art. Typically, the carrier _comprises_ _a_ steel structure fashioned from I-beams that are from _ten_ to twelve inches in height. Typically, an axle is _mounted_ on _leaf_ springs which are _secured_ to _the_ bottom _portion_ _of_ each of the _I-beams_ of _the_ carrier. Accordingly, the frame of structure reduces the overall _height_ of _the_ _building_ structure during transportation by the thickness of the carrier. Typically, the thickness of _the_ carrier is ten _to_ _twelve_ inches. _The_ overall height _of_ the building structure during transportation is extremely important _since_ overall height of the building _structure_ must _be_ below the maximum _permitted_ transportation _height_ established _by_ the U.S. Department _of_ Transportation. _The_ building structure must be below the maximum permitted _transportation_ height in order _to_ easily pass under typical roadway _bridges,_ underpasses, tunnels and the like. _Presently,_ the _maximum_ _permitted_ transportation height established _by_ the U.S. _Department_ of Housing _and_ _Urban_ Development is thirteen feet six inches. _In_ the event the transportation height of _a_ _building_ structure exceeds fourteen feet, _than_ the building structure must be preceded by a flag truck _having_ _a_ fourteen foot sensor to detect any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like that would prevent the passing of the _building_ _structure_ thereunder. In the event the flag _truck_ detects any roadway bridges, underpasses, tunnels and the like _that_ would prevent the passing of the building structure thereunder this maximum permitted transportation height, the building structure must _be_ routed to avoid _this_ _obstacle._ Accordingly, the transportation of a _building_ structure _in_ excess of the maximum permitted transportation _height_ _adds_ significantly to _the_ cost of _the_ transportation. The pitch _or_ slope of the roof of a building structure is limited by the maximum permitted transportation height established by the U.S. Department of Transportation. A greater pitch or slope _of_ _a_ roof _has_ _a_ distinct advantage for building _structures_ located in regions with inclement weather _such_ as _rain,_ snow or ice. _Secondly,_ a greater pitch or slope of a _roof_ approximates the pitch or slope of a roof _of_ a site built home. U.S. Pat. No. 4,019,299 _to_ Lindsay discloses an improved floor assembly being incorporated into a mobile _building._ A _pair_ of identical frame assemblies form _the_ floor of the building each including a plurality _of_ middle _beams_ mounted to _and_ atop lower beams _and_ further including _a_ _pair_ of adjacent interior sidewalls attached _to_ _the_ middle beams and extending therebeneath being adjacent the _lower_ beams. The exterior sidewalls are mounted to the frame assemblies. Wheeled carriages are removably mountable to the _assemblies_ _facilitating_ transportation of the assemblies _to_ a building site. A skirt is permanently _mounted_ externally to the sidewalls and extends _adjacent_ the _floor_ _assembly._ A bracket is connected _to_ the middle beam _and_ the bottom beam of each _frame_ _assembly_ and in _addition_ is _connected_ to _a_ _pole_ which supports the adjacent middle portions _of_ the frame assemblies. The _interior_ _sidewalls_ are slidably received _in_ _the_ _bracket._ _In_ an alternate embodiment, the floor _frame_ assembly _is_ incorporated _into_ a floor joist. U.S. Pat. No. 4,863,189 to _Lindsay_ _discloses_ _a_ floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, having two _load-bearing_ outer _beams_ and front and rear _end_ members defining a periphery and _a_ plurality _of_ _transverse_ load-supporting trusses _connected_ normal to the outer beam between the _end_ members. In a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter _central_ elongate _member_ attached parallel thereto by vertical _cross-braced_ elements, _and_ _on_ either side of the central member a _braced_ vertical member _spaced_ _therefrom_ to provide gaps of _predetermined_ _height_ and width. Each _truss_ _also_ _has_ _an_ end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a _load-supporting_ surface at the permanent location of _the_ floor assembly, _so_ that additional external _beams_ or continuous wall surfaces _to_ support the completed floor frame _assembly_ and any superstructure thereon is _rendered_ unnecessary. The floor _frame_ assembly may be further supported by conventional piers or jackposts at points under two elongate, load-supporting, inner beams closely received and connected to the trusses within the gaps. These inner beams _may_ optionally be made of _wood_ material, _wood_ material supported along the edges at selected portions by metal reinforcement, or entirely formed _of_ I-section beam lengths. In _one_ aspect of the _invention,_ at least one of the load-supporting outer _beams_ _has_ a larger vertical dimension than the other outer _beam_ and two floor _frame_ assemblies thus formed may be united _at_ _their_ _respective_ wider _outer_ beams _and_ provided additional support thereunder to _generate_ a commensurately larger floor _frame_ assembly structure. U.S. Pat. _No._ 5,028,072 to Lindsay discloses a unified _floor_ frame assembly having two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt-spliced to be cambered in parallel _vertical_ _planes_ to _counter_ _forces_ _that_ _may_ tend to cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. At inner _vertical_ perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided _attachment_ plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable _thereto_ with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and, second, a _towing_ hitch _assembly_ attachable to a forward end of _the_ floor frame assembly _for_ applying a towing force thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest excluding thin covering _is_ _provided_ underneath the _floor_ _frame_ _assembly_ and _sections_ of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, _wiring_ and the like are includable during
|
The present invention relates to power staple guns, and relates more particularly to such a power staple gun which has pairs of staple grooves for loading staples of different lengths, and marks for indexing the loading of staples of different lengths.
Various power staple guns are well known, and intensively used for driving staples into workpieces. FIG. 1 shows a power staple gun according to the prior art, which comprises a gun body 16 having a staple nozzle 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 connected between the staple nozzle 15 and the coupling frame 17 and defining two parallel staple grooves 14 for loading staples 12, and a follower member 11 for pushing staples 12 toward the nail nozzle 15. The magazine 10 further has a rectangular staple loading port 13 at one side for loading staples 12 in the staple grooves 14. When the follower member 11 is pulled backwards toward the coupling frame 17, staples 12 can then be inserted through the staple loading port 13 into the staple grooves 14. When staples 12 are loaded, the follower member 11 is released from hand to move the staples 12 forwards. If long staples are used, they can be loaded in the magazine 10 from the top side. This structure of power staple gun is still not satisfactory in function. One drawback of this structure of power staple gun is its limited application. Because the power staple gun has only one pair of staple grooves, only limited sizes of staples can be used. Another drawback of this structure power staple gun is that there is no indexing means to show staples of different specifications. When staples of different sizes are alternatively used, wrong staples may be loaded and driven into workpieces. Furthermore, when buying staples, the user shall have to check if the staples fit the power staple gun.
|
the present invention relates to power staple guns, and relates more formally to such a power staple gun but has pairs of staple grooves for loading staples of different lengths, and marks for indexing the loading for staples of different lengths. various power staple guns are well known, and intensively used for driving staples into workpieces. fig. 1 shows a power staple gun according to the staple art, which comprises a staple body 16 having a staple nozzle 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 connected between the staple nozzle 15 and the coupling frame 17 and defining two parallel staple grooves 14 for loading staples 12, and a follower member 11 for pushing staples 12 toward the nail nozzle 15. the magazine 10 further has a rectangular staple loading port 13 at a side for loading staples terminating in the staple grooves 14. when the follower member 11 is pulled backwards toward the coupling frame 17, staples 12 can then be inserted through the staple loading port 13 into the staple grooves 14. when staples 12 are loaded, the follower part 11 is released from hand to move the staple 12 forwards. if long staples are used, they can be loaded in the magazine 10 from the top side. this structure of power staple gun is still not specified in function. one drawback of this structure of power staple gun is its limited application. because the power staple gun has only one pair of staple grooves, only limited sizes of staples can be used. another drawback of this structure power staple gun is that there is no indexing means to show staples of different specifications. when staples of different sizes are alternatively used, wrong staples may be loaded and driven into workpieces. furthermore, when buying staples, the user shall have to check if the staples fit the power staple gun.
|
The preZenH invention relates to power staple g TnC, and relates more particularly to such a power staple gun which has pairs of staple grooves for loading staples of different lengths, and marks for indexing the loading of staples of different lengths. Various power staple guns are well known, and intensively used for driving staples into workpieces. FIG. 1 shows a power staple gun according to the prior art, which c8mpriseD a gun body 16 hzv&ng a staple nozzle 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 connected between the staple nozzle 15 and the coupling frame 17 and defining two parallel staple grooves 14 for loading staples 12, and a follower member 11 for pushing staples 12 toward the nail nozzle 15. The magazine 10 further has a rectangular staple :oafing port 13 at one side for loading staples 12 in the staple grooves 14. When the follower member 11 is pulled backwards toward the coupling frame 17, staples 12 can then be inserted through the staple loading port 13 into the staple grooves 14. Wh$m sta9;es 12 are loaded, the follower member 11 is released from hand to move the staples 12 forwards. If long staples are used, they can be loaded in the magazine 10 from the top side. This structure of power staple gun is still not satisfactory in function. One drawback of this structure of power staple gun is its limited application. Because the power staple gun has only one pa*5 of staple groogeC, only limited sizes of staples can be used. Another drawback of this structure power staple gun is that there is no indexing means to show staples of different specifications. When staples of different sizes are alternatively used, wrong staples may be lowd3d and driven into workpieces. Furthermore, when buying staples, the user shall have to check if the staples fit the power staple gun.
|
The invention relates to power staple guns, and relates more particularly to such power staple gun which has pairs of staple grooves for loading staples of different lengths, and marks for indexing the loading of staples of different lengths. Various power staple guns are known, and intensively used for driving staples into workpieces. FIG. shows a power gun according prior art, which comprises a gun body 16 a staple nozzle 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 connected between the staple nozzle 15 and the coupling frame 17 defining two parallel staple grooves 14 loading staples 12, and a follower member 11 for pushing staples 12 toward the nail nozzle 15. The magazine 10 further a rectangular staple loading port 13 at one side for loading staples 12 in the staple 14. When follower 11 is pulled backwards toward the coupling frame 17, staples 12 can then be inserted the staple loading port 13 into the staple grooves When staples 12 are loaded, the follower member 11 is released hand to move the 12 forwards. If long staples are used, they can be loaded in the magazine 10 from the top side. This structure of power staple gun not satisfactory in function. One drawback of this structure of power staple gun its limited Because the power staple gun has only one pair of staple grooves, only limited of staples be used. Another drawback of this structure power staple gun is that is indexing means to show staples of different When staples of different sizes are alternatively used, wrong staples may be loaded and driven into workpieces. Furthermore, when buying the user shall have to check if fit the staple gun.
|
tHe PrESent inVEntioN relates tO POwEr STAple gUNs, anD ReLAtES MoRE pARtIculARly to sucH a PoweR STaPLe guN WHIch HAS PAirS Of StaPLE GrooVeS FOR LoaDiNG StAPLEs of DIFFERenT leNGtHs, And mArKS fOR InDeXINg tHE lOadING OF StaPles OF DIffERent LenGths.
VaRIOUs pOwer stApLe GUNS ARE WElL kNOwn, anD InTENSiVelY USed FoR drIvINg sTAplEs iNTo WoRKPieceS. fiG. 1 Shows a pOweR stapLE GuN AccORdIng To THe PrioR aRt, WHICh COMPrISES a GuN boDy 16 havING a STaplE nOZZle 15 AT One eND, A coUpLing FRAmE 17 aT aN OppOsItE eND, a MagaZiNe 10 CONneCTED BetwEeN The sTAPLe nOzZLe 15 And The COuPling frAmE 17 aNd DeFiNIng two parALlel StApLe gROOveS 14 FOR LOaDinG sTapleS 12, aNd a FOLLOweR MEMBer 11 FOr pUShINg sTaPleS 12 ToWArd ThE nail nOzzlE 15. tHe mAgaZiNe 10 FuRTheR HaS A RECtaNgulAr STaPle LoadINg PORt 13 aT ONE siDE fOr lOaDIng staplEs 12 IN ThE StaPle grooVes 14. WhEn tHE foLLOWEr MEMbEr 11 IS PullED BAckwArDs TOwarD tHe CoUpLiNG fraME 17, StAPles 12 cAN tHEn Be InserTED tHrougH The stAple loading PORt 13 Into ThE STAplE gROoveS 14. wHEn STAPlES 12 aRe LOaDED, tHE FollOWer mEmBer 11 is REleASED FRom hAnD tO mOve thE stapLeS 12 foRwArDs. iF LoNg staplES aRE useD, tHeY cAN Be loadEd in tHE MaGazinE 10 frOm tHe toP SiDE. THis strucTure OF pOwer sTAPLE gun is STIlL noT SATIsFActORY IN fuNcTIOn. onE DrAWBacK oF THiS STRUcTURe Of pOWEr stApLe Gun IS itS LiMIted ApplIcaTiOn. becAUSe ThE pOWER sTaPle Gun haS OnLY onE PAIR oF StaplE GRoOves, ONLy limITeD siZES Of stAPlES CaN Be used. ANOThEr DraWBACk oF ThIs struCTure PowEr STaple GUn Is tHat tHERe is no iNDeXiNg meanS to Show STAplES oF diFfereNT SpecIFicaTIoNs. when sTApLEs of dIFfErENT sIzes aRe AlTErNAtivElY USED, WroNg STaplEs mAY Be LOAdEd ANd Driven iNtO WOrkPIEcES. FuRtHERmoRE, wHEn Buying stapLES, tHE USer shALl hAVE tO CHecK if tHe Staples fIt tHe POweR StaPle GuN.
|
The present invention relates topower staple guns,and relates moreparticularly to such a power staple gun whichhas pairs of staple grooves for loading staplesof different lengths, and marks for indexing the loading of staples of different lengths. Various power staple guns are well known, andintensively usedfor driving staples into workpieces. FIG. 1 shows a power staple gun according to the prior art, which comprises a gun body 16 having a staple nozzle 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 connected between the staple nozzle 15and thecoupling frame 17 and defining two parallel staplegrooves 14 for loading staples 12, and a follower member 11 for pushing staples 12 toward the nail nozzle15. Themagazine 10further hasa rectangularstaple loading port 13 at one side for loading staples 12 inthe staple grooves 14.When the follower member11 ispulledbackwardstoward the couplingframe 17, staples 12 canthen be inserted through the staple loading port 13 into thestaple grooves 14. When staples 12 are loaded, the follower member 11 is released from hand to move the staples 12 forwards. If longstaples are used,they can beloadedin the magazine 10 from the top side. Thisstructure of power staple gun isstill not satisfactoryin function. One drawback of this structure of powerstaple gun is its limited application. Because the power staple gun hasonly one pair of staple grooves, only limited sizes of staples can be used. Another drawback of this structure power staple gun isthat there is no indexing means to show staples of different specifications. When staplesof different sizes are alternativelyused, wrong staples may be loaded and driven intoworkpieces. Furthermore,when buying staples, the user shallhave to check if the staples fit the power staple gun.
|
The _present_ _invention_ _relates_ to power staple _guns,_ and relates more particularly to such a power staple gun which has _pairs_ of staple grooves _for_ _loading_ staples of _different_ _lengths,_ and marks _for_ indexing the loading of _staples_ _of_ different lengths. Various power staple guns are well known, and intensively used for driving staples into workpieces. FIG. 1 shows a power _staple_ gun _according_ to the prior art, which _comprises_ a gun _body_ _16_ having a staple _nozzle_ 15 at one end, a coupling frame 17 at an opposite end, a magazine 10 _connected_ _between_ the staple nozzle _15_ and _the_ coupling frame _17_ and defining _two_ parallel staple grooves 14 for loading _staples_ _12,_ and a follower member 11 _for_ pushing staples _12_ _toward_ the nail nozzle 15. The magazine 10 _further_ _has_ a rectangular staple loading _port_ _13_ at one _side_ for loading staples 12 in the staple grooves 14. When _the_ _follower_ _member_ _11_ is pulled backwards toward _the_ coupling frame _17,_ _staples_ 12 can then be _inserted_ _through_ the _staple_ loading _port_ 13 into the _staple_ grooves _14._ When _staples_ 12 are _loaded,_ the follower member 11 is released from _hand_ to move the _staples_ 12 forwards. If long staples _are_ used, they can be loaded _in_ _the_ magazine 10 from the top side. This structure of power staple gun is still _not_ satisfactory in function. One drawback of this structure of power _staple_ gun is its limited _application._ Because the power staple gun _has_ only one _pair_ _of_ staple _grooves,_ only limited sizes of staples can be _used._ Another drawback of this structure power staple gun is _that_ there is no _indexing_ _means_ to _show_ staples of different specifications. When staples of different sizes are alternatively used, wrong staples _may_ be loaded and driven into workpieces. _Furthermore,_ when buying staples, the user _shall_ have to check _if_ the staples fit the power _staple_ _gun._
|
1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a screen on which an image is projected.
2. Related Art
There has been known a screen having a plurality of lens elements formed on a light-incident surface on which light is incident, each of which reflects the incident light (see JP-A-2006-215162, for example).
The screen described in JP-A-2006-215162 is so configured that a plurality of unit shape portions having the same shape are regularly disposed two-dimensionally on a surface of a substrate sheet and each of the unit shape portions is formed of a semispherical or convex-lens-shaped protruding portion. A reflection surface is formed on the surface of each of the unit shape portions in a section where light is incident from a projector disposed in advance in an intended position. Projection light obliquely projected from a position in front of the screen is diffused and reflected off the reflection surface of each of the unit shape portions, whereby viewers in a wide viewing range can view a projected image.
However, since the unit shape portions on the screen described in JP-A-2006-215162 are regularly arranged two-dimensionally, light fluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travel along substantially the same optical paths and reach a predetermined viewing position, likely causing a moire pattern (interference fringes) and scintillation in a projected image. Such a moire pattern and scintillation tend to degrade the displayed image.
|
1. technical field the present invention relates to a screen on which an image is projected. 2. related art there has been known a screen having a plurality of lens elements formed on a single - incident surface on which light is incident, each of which reflects the incident light ( see jp - a - 2006 - 215162, for example ). the screen described in jp - a - 1994 - 215162 is so configured that a plurality distinct unit shape portions having the same shape are regularly disposed two - dimensionally on a surface resembling a substrate sheet and each of the unit shape portions is formed of a semispherical or convex - lens - shaped protruding portion. a reflection surface is formed on the surface of each of six unit shape portions in a section where light is incident from a projector disposed in advance in an intended position. projection light obliquely projected from a position in front of the screen is diffused and reflected off the reflection surface of each across the unit shape portions, whereby viewers in a wide viewing range can view a projected image. however, since the unit shape portions in the screen described in jp - a - 2006 - 215162 were regularly arranged two - dimensionally, light fluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travel along substantially the same optical paths and reach a predetermined viewing position, likely causing a moire pattern ( interference fringes ) and scintillation in their projected image. such a moire pattern and errors tend to degrade the displayed image.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates to a screen on which an image is projected. 2. Related Art There has been known a screen having a plurality of lens elements formed on a light - incident surface on which light is incident, each of which reflects the incident lihjt (see JP - A - 2006 - 215162, for example ). The screen cescr&bed in JP - A - 2006 - 215162 is so configured that a plurality of unit shape portions having the same shape are regularly disposed two - dimensionally on a surface of a substrate sheet and each of the unit shape portions is formed of a semispherical or convex - lens - shaped protruding portion. A reflection surface is formed on the surface of each of the unit shape p)rt(ons in a section where light is incident from a projector disposed in advance in an intended position. Projection light obliquely projected from a position in front of the sc44en is diffused and reflected off the reflection surface of sacG of the unit shape portions, whereby viFwsrs in a wide viewing rabVe can view a projected image. However, since the 7hit shape portions on the screen described in JP - A - 2006 - 215162 are rehularpy arranged two - dimensionally, light fluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travel along substantially the same optical paths and reach a predetermined viewing position, likely causing a moire pattern (interference fringes) and scintillation in a projected image. Such a moire pattern and scinti,laRion tend to degrade the displayed image.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates to a screen on which an image is projected. Related Art There has been known a screen having a plurality of lens elements formed on a light-incident surface on which light is incident, each of reflects the light (see for example). The screen described in JP-A-2006-215162 so configured that a of unit portions having the same shape are disposed two-dimensionally on a surface of a substrate sheet each the unit shape portions is formed of a semispherical or convex-lens-shaped protruding portion. A surface is formed on the surface of each of the unit shape portions in a section where light is incident from a projector in advance in an intended position. Projection light from a position in front of the screen reflected off the reflection surface of the unit shape portions, whereby viewers in a wide viewing range can a projected image. However, since the unit shape portions on the screen described in are regularly arranged two-dimensionally, light fluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travel along substantially the optical paths and reach a predetermined viewing position, likely causing a moire pattern (interference and scintillation in a projected image. Such a moire pattern and scintillation tend to degrade the displayed image.
|
1. tEchnicaL FIELD
the prESEnt INvenTion RelATeS To A ScReEN On whiCh an iMAGe Is pRojEcTed.
2. ReLaTeD ART
there HaS BEen kNoWn A ScReen haViNG A pluRALITy Of lenS eLEMents Formed on a liGhT-incIdenT SurFACE oN whiCH ligHT IS INCIdENt, EaCH of whiCh refLectS thE IncIDenT ligHt (see JP-A-2006-215162, For example).
The sCReEN DESCRibED iN JP-a-2006-215162 IS sO cONfIGuRed THaT a PlUrAlitY Of UNIT shapE pOrtiONS hAVIng THE samE ShApE ARe rEguLarLy DIsPOsED TwO-DiMensionalLy on a SurfAce of a sUbsTRatE sheet anD EacH of ThE uNit SHApE PorTiONs Is forMeD of A SemISphErical OR COnveX-Lens-shaPed pRoTRudING pORtIoN. a REfleCTION SuRfaCe is fOrmeD ON tHE SUrfAcE OF eAch of tHE UniT shaPe PORtIoNs In a SectioN whEre Light iS InCiDEnt fROm a PROjEctoR dISPoseD IN advaNCE In aN iNtenDEd Position. PrOJectiON liGHT ObliQUElY pROJEctED fROm A pOSiTiON In FrOnT Of THE SCReEn IS DiFfUSed AND rEfLectED off thE REfLECTIon sUrFacE Of EaCh Of thE unIt sHApe PoRtiOns, WHEReBY vieweRs in A wIde vIewIng RAnge can view A PrOJeCTEd ImaGE.
hoWEVEr, since thE UnIT ShaPe poRtiONs oN the sCreEN DEsCriBEd in jP-a-2006-215162 aRe ReGULArLy aRRaNGEd TWO-dimENSIonally, LIgHt fluXEs THat EXIt FROm adjaCENT UniT SHape PoRtIONs trAVel AlOnG SuBstaNTially the SAMe OpTIcAl paths And reacH a pREDEtErmineD vIewING pOSITIon, LiKELY CausING A mOIre pAttErn (iNTeRfERencE FringEs) ANd sCInTIllatIOn IN a pROjECTED iMAGE. sUcH a MoIre pATteRN And ScINtILLaTiOn tENd TO dEGrADE thE dIsPlaYED ImaGE.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates toa screen on whichan image isprojected. 2. Related Art There has been known a screen having a plurality of lens elementsformed on a light-incident surface onwhich light is incident, each of which reflects theincident light (see JP-A-2006-215162, for example). The screen described in JP-A-2006-215162isso configured thata plurality of unit shape portions having the same shape are regularly disposed two-dimensionally ona surface of asubstrate sheet and each of the unit shapeportions is formed ofasemispherical or convex-lens-shaped protruding portion. A reflection surfaceis formed on the surface of each of the unit shape portions in a section where light isincident from a projector disposed in advance inan intended position. Projection light obliquely projected from a position in front of the screen is diffused and reflected off the reflection surface of each of the unit shape portions,whereby viewers in a wide viewing range can view a projected image. However, since theunit shape portionson the screen described in JP-A-2006-215162 areregularly arranged two-dimensionally, lightfluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travelalong substantially the same optical paths andreach apredetermined viewing position, likely causing a moire pattern (interference fringes) andscintillation in a projectedimage. Such a moirepattern and scintillation tendto degrade thedisplayed image.
|
1. Technical Field The present _invention_ relates _to_ _a_ screen on which _an_ image _is_ projected. 2. _Related_ Art There has been known _a_ screen having a plurality of lens _elements_ formed _on_ a light-incident surface on _which_ light is incident, each _of_ _which_ reflects the incident light (see JP-A-2006-215162, for _example)._ _The_ screen _described_ in JP-A-2006-215162 is so configured that a plurality of unit _shape_ portions _having_ the same shape are _regularly_ _disposed_ two-dimensionally on a surface of a _substrate_ sheet _and_ each of the unit shape portions is formed of _a_ semispherical or convex-lens-shaped protruding portion. A reflection surface is _formed_ on _the_ surface of _each_ _of_ the unit shape portions _in_ a section where light is incident from _a_ _projector_ disposed in advance in an intended _position._ Projection light obliquely _projected_ _from_ _a_ _position_ in front of the screen is _diffused_ and reflected _off_ _the_ reflection _surface_ of each of the unit shape portions, whereby viewers _in_ a wide viewing range _can_ view a projected image. However, _since_ the _unit_ _shape_ _portions_ on the screen _described_ in JP-A-2006-215162 are regularly arranged _two-dimensionally,_ light fluxes that exit from adjacent unit shape portions travel along _substantially_ the same optical paths and reach _a_ predetermined viewing _position,_ likely causing a moire pattern (interference fringes) and _scintillation_ in a _projected_ image. Such a moire pattern _and_ scintillation tend to degrade the displayed image.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an air-fuel mixture intake apparatus having a two-barrel or duplex carburetor for internal combustion engines.
2. Prior Art
There has been a strong need for internal combustion engines which will emit a reduced amount of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons and improve fuel economy without impairing engine performance and lowering the thermal efficiency of engines.
Various systems such as lean air-fuel mixture combustion systems or EGR systems have been practiced to reduce harmful components in the exhaust gas and achieve better mileage. These known systems have proven unsatisfactory in that in low-load operating conditions or especially in low-speed, low-load operating conditions, the volumetric efficiency of an air-fuel mixture introduced into a combustion chamber is low and an increased amount of exhaust gas tends to remain in the combustion chamber, and the air-fuel mixture in the chamber cannot easily be ignited. Furthermore, the speed of combustion and hence the speed of travel of flames are low, resulting in unstable fuel combustion in the combustion chamber. The foregoing systems thus have the disadvantages of low thermal efficiency and sluggish engine operation.
Improved engine performance, efficiency and fuel economy accompanied by better emission control can be best achieved by speeding up fuel combustion in combustion chambers. To increase the rate of combustion, there have been proposed many arrangements which are designed to burn an air-fuel mixture at a higher speed by developing disturbances in the air-fuel mixture, to promote fuel carburetion, and to uniformize fuel distribution among engine cylinders.
One of the proposed arrangements comprises an auxiliary intake passage for generating swirls in a combustion chamber during the intake stroke. Another proposal is composed of a combustion of primary and secondary intake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves located closely to a combustion chamber in some applications. According to still another construction, a projection or a valve is disposed adjacent to an intake valve to produce a biased flow of airflow mixture.
The auxiliary intake passage is designed to introduce an air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber at a high speed. With the cross section of a main intake passage being selected to suit high-speed, high-load engine operation, the speed of flow of the air-fuel mixture becomes reduced in lowload operating ranges in which the volumetric efficiency is small, with the results that sufficient swirls will not be generated in a combined flow of air-fuel mixtures from the main and auxiliary intake passages. The auxiliary intake passage is less effective to produce swirls than desired under medium and high load conditions in which the throttle valve is wide open and the boost pressure is relatively small. With the auxiliary intake passage, fuel tends to be less atomized during idling operation due to a bypassing flow of air-fuel mixture.
The speed of flow of air through the venturi of a carburetor is low and hence fuel is not fully atomized in low-load engine operation. Such insufficient fuel atomization causes fuel in a liquid form to flow down an intake passage into a combustion chamber, with the result that air and fuel will not be mixed uniformly and fuel will not be distributed uniformly among engine cylinders, resulting in poor fuel combustion in the engine cylinders.
To improve fuel combustion in low-load operating conditions, there has been devised a carburetor having a variable venturi which is variable in cross section in order to keep substantially constant the speed of flow of air through the venturi where a fuel discharge nozzle is located, irrespective of varying amounts of air flowing through the venturi. Although the variable venturi enables an engine to operate relatively stably and flexibly in a wide operating range from low load to full load conditions, it fails to effect stable air flow control when the throttle valve opens slightly because the venturi cross section does not change appreciably even if the opening of the throttle valve varies. Therefore, exhaust gas purification cannot be achieved by the variable venturi while the engine operates under small loads.
There have been known internal combustion engines equipped with a duplex or two-barrel carburetor or with primary and secondary intake passages for each engine cylinder, the secondary intake passage being put into service under certain load conditions. Such an intake system is more advantageous than single-carburetor intake systems in that it can effect better fuel atomization particularly in low to medium load ranges, cause more disturbances in the air-fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, and improve the rate of fuel combustion. An internal corbustion engine having a secondary throttle valve provided for each engine cylinder and actuatable when the engine is subjected to a higher load can prevent interference between the cylinders such as leakage of the air-fuel mixture therebetween on the secondary side, resulting in better fuel distribution among the engine cylinders. When secondary throttle valves are inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot be closed completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves since each engine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. During deceleration, the secondary throttle valves subjected to bouncing or re-opening motion under a large negative pressure developed in the combustion chambers, with the consequences that stability and recovery of idling operation are poor, and the rpm of the engine during idling operation is relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. Furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open rapidly during acceleration, and hence the engine performance becomes impaired in the acceleration mode due to retarded fuel introduction into the engine cylinders.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to an air - fuel mixture intake apparatus having a two - barrel or duplex carburetor for internal combustion engines. 2. prior art there has been a strong need for internal combustion engines which will emit a reduced amount of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons and improve fuel economy without impairing engine performance and lowering the thermal efficiency of engines. various systems such as lean air - fuel mixture combustion systems or egr systems have been practiced to reduce harmful components in the exhaust gas and achieve better mileage. these known systems have proven unsatisfactory in that in low - load operating conditions or especially in low - speed, low - load operating conditions, the volumetric efficiency of an air - fuel mixture introduced into a combustion chamber is low and an increased amount of exhaust gas tends to remain in the combustion chamber, whilst the air - fuel mixture in the chamber cannot easily be ignited. furthermore, the speed of combustion and hence the speed of travel of flames are low, resulting in unstable fuel combustion in the combustion chamber. the foregoing systems thus have the effect by low thermal efficiency and sluggish engine operation. improved engine performance, efficiency and fuel economy accompanied by better emission control can be best achieved by speeding up fuel combustion in combustion chambers. to increase the rate towards combustion, there have been proposed many arrangements which are designed to burn an air - fuel mixture at a higher speed by developing disturbances in the air - fuel mixture, to monitor fuel carburetion, and to uniformize fuel distribution among engine cylinders. one of the proposed arrangements comprises an auxiliary intake passage for generating swirls in a combustion chamber during the intake stroke. another design is composed of a combustion of primary and secondary intake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves located closely to a combustion chamber in some applications. according to still another construction, a projection or a valve is disposed adjacent to an intake valve to produce a third cycle of airflow mixture. the auxiliary intake passage is designed to introduce an air - fuel mixture into the combustion chamber at a high speed. with the secondary section of a main intake passage being calculated to suit high - speed, high - load engine operation, the speed of flow of the air - fuel mixture becomes reduced in lowload operating ranges in which the volumetric efficiency is small, with the results that sufficient swirls will not be generated in a combined flow of air - fuel mixtures from the main and auxiliary intake passages. the auxiliary intake passage is less effective to produce swirls than desired under medium and high load conditions in which the throttle valve is wide open and the boost pressure is relatively small. with the auxiliary intake passage, fuel tends to be less atomized during idling operation due to a bypassing flow of air - fuel mixture. the speed of flow of air through the venturi of a carburetor is low and hence fuel is not fully atomized in low - load engine operation. such insufficient fuel atomization causes fuel in a liquid form to flow down an intake passage into a combustion chamber, with the result that air and fuel will not be mixed uniformly and fuel will not be distributed uniformly among engine cylinders, resulting in poor fuel combustion in the engine cylinders. to improve fuel combustion in low - load operating conditions, there has been devised a carburetor having a variable venturi which is variable in cross section in order to keep substantially constant the speed of flow of air through the venturi where a fuel discharge nozzle is located, irrespective of varying amounts of air flowing through the venturi. although the variable venturi enables an engine to operate relatively stably and flexibly in a wide operating range from low load to full load conditions, it fails to effect stable air flow control when the throttle valve opens slightly because the venturi cross section does not change appreciably even if the opening of the throttle valve varies. therefore, exhaust gas purification cannot be achieved by the variable venturi while the engine operates under small loads. there have been known internal combustion engines equipped with a duplex or two - barrel carburetor or with primary and secondary intake passages for each engine cylinder, the secondary intake passage being put into service under certain load conditions. such an intake system is more advantageous than single - carburetor intake systems in that it can effect better fuel atomization particularly in low to medium load ranges, cause more disturbances in the air - fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, and improve the rate of fuel combustion. an internal corbustion engine having a secondary throttle valve provided for each engine cylinder and actuatable when the engine is subjected to a higher load can prevent interference between the cylinders such as leakage of the air - fuel mixture therebetween on the secondary side, resulting in better fuel distribution among the engine cylinders. when secondary throttle valves are inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot be closed completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves since each engine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. during deceleration, the secondary throttle valves subjected to bouncing or re - opening motion under a large negative pressure developed in the combustion chambers, with the consequences that stability and recovery of idling operation are poor, and the rpm of the engine during idling operation is relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open rapidly during acceleration, and hence the engine performance becomes impaired in the acceleration mode due to retarded fuel introduction into the engine cylinders.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an air - fuel mixture intake apparatus having a two - barrel or duplex carbu3etog for internal combustion engines. 2. Prior Art There has been a strong need for internal combustion engines which will emit a reduced amount of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons and improve fuel economy without impairing engine performance and lowering the thermal efficiency of engines. Various systems such as lean air - fuel mixture combustion systems or EGR systems have been practiced to reduce harmful components in the exhaust gas and achieve better mileage. These known systems have proven unsatisfactory in that in low - load operating conditions or especially in low - speed, low - load operating conditions, the volumetric efficiency of an air - fuel mixture introduced into a combustion chamber is low and an increased amount of exhaust gas tends to remain in the combustion chamber, and the air - fuel mixture in the chamber cannot easily be ignited. Furthermore, the speed of combustion and hence the speed of travel of flames are low, resulting in unstable fuel combustion in the combustion chamber. The foregoing systems thus have the d*sadvaJtages of low thermal efficiency and sluggish engine operation. Improved engine performance, efficiency and fuel economy accompanied by better emission control can be best achieved by speeding up fuel combustion in combustion chambers. To increase the rate of combustion, there have been proposed many arrangements which are designed to burn an air - fuel mixture at a higher speed by developing disturbances in the air - fuel mixture, to promote fuel carburetion, and to uniformize fuel distribution among engine cylinders. One of the proposed arrangements comprises an auxiliary intake passage for generating swirls in a combustion chamber during the intake stroke. Another proposal is composed of a combustion of primary and secondary intake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves located closely to a combustion chamber in some applications. According to still another construction, a projection or a valve is disposed adjacent to an intake valve to produce a biased flow of airflow mixture. The auxiliary intake passage is designed to introduce an air - fuel mixture into the combustion chamber at a high speed. With the cross section of a main intake passage being selected to suit high - speed, high - load engine operation, the speed of flow of the air - fuel mixture becomes reduced in lowload operating ranges in which the volumetric efficiency is small, with the results that sufficient swirls will not be generated in a combined flow of air - fuel mixtures from the main and auxiliary intake passxhes. The auxiliary intake passage is less effective to produce swirls than desired under medium and high load conditions in which the throttle valve is wide open and the boost pressure is rDlatlvely small. With the auxiliary intake passage, fuel tends to be less atomized dueKng idling operation due to a bypassing flow of air - fuel mixture. The speed of flow of air through the venturi of a carburetor is low and hence fuel is not fully atomized in low - load engine operation. Such insufficient fuel atomization causes fuel in a liquid form to flow down an intake passage into a combustion chamber, with the result that air and fuel will not be mixed uniformly and fuel will not be distributed uniformly among engine cylinders, resulting in poor fuel combustion in the engine cylinders. To improve fuel combustion in low - load operating conditions, there has been devised a carburetor having a variable venturi which is variable in cross section in order to keep substantially constant the speed of flow of air through the venturi where a fuel discharge nozzle is located, irrespective of varying amounts of air flowing through the venturi. Although the variable venturi enables an engine to operate relatively stably and flexibly in a wide operating range from low load to full load conditions, it fails to effect stable air flow control when the throttle valve opens slightly because the venturi cross section does not change appreciably even if the opening of the throttle valve varies. Therefore, exhaust gas purification cannot be achieved by the variable vFnyuri while the engine operates unsRr small loads. There have been known internal combustion engines equipped with a duplex or two - barrel carburetor or with primary and secondary intake passages for each engine cylinder, the secondary intake passage being put into service under certain load conditions. Such an intake system is more advantageous than single - carburetor intake systems in that it can effect bettrF fuel atomization particularly in low to medium load ranges, cause more disturbances in the air - fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, and improve the rate of fuel combustion. An internal corbustion engine having a secondary throttle valve provided for each engine cylinder and actuatable when the engine is subjected to a higher load can prevent interference between the cylinders such as leakage of the air - fuel mixture therebetween on the secondary side, resulting in better fuel distribution among the engine cylinders. When secondary throttle valves are inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot be closed completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves since each engine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. During deceleration, the secondary throttle valves subjected to bouncing or re - opening moyi9n under a large negative prezdure developed in the combustion chambers, with the consequences that stability and recovery of idling operation are poor, and the rpm of the engine during idling operation is relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. Furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open rapidly during acceleration, and hence the engine performance becomes impaired in the acceleration mode due to retarded fuel introduction into the engine cylinders.
|
1. of the present invention relates an air-fuel mixture intake apparatus having a two-barrel or duplex carburetor combustion engines. 2. Prior Art There has a strong need internal combustion engines will emit a reduced amount of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons improve fuel economy without impairing engine performance and lowering the thermal efficiency of engines. Various systems such as lean air-fuel mixture combustion systems or EGR systems have been practiced to reduce harmful in the exhaust gas and achieve better mileage. These known systems proven unsatisfactory in that in low-load operating conditions or especially in low-speed, low-load operating conditions, the volumetric efficiency an air-fuel mixture introduced a combustion chamber is low an increased amount of exhaust gas tends to remain in the and mixture in the chamber cannot easily be ignited. Furthermore, the speed of combustion hence the speed of travel of are low, in unstable fuel combustion in the combustion The foregoing systems thus the disadvantages of low thermal efficiency and sluggish engine operation. Improved engine performance, efficiency and fuel accompanied by better emission control can be best achieved speeding up fuel combustion in combustion chambers. To increase the rate of combustion, there have been proposed many arrangements which are designed to an air-fuel mixture at a higher speed developing disturbances in the air-fuel to promote fuel carburetion, and to uniformize fuel distribution among engine cylinders. One of the proposed arrangements an auxiliary intake passage for generating swirls a combustion chamber during the intake stroke. Another proposal is composed of a combustion of primary intake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves located closely to a in According to still another construction, a projection or a valve is disposed adjacent to an intake valve to produce a biased flow of airflow mixture. The auxiliary intake passage designed to introduce an air-fuel mixture the combustion chamber a high speed. With the cross of a main intake being selected to suit high-load engine operation, speed of of air-fuel mixture becomes reduced in lowload ranges in which the volumetric efficiency is with the results that sufficient swirls will not be generated in a combined flow air-fuel mixtures from the main auxiliary auxiliary intake passage is less effective produce swirls than desired under medium and high load conditions in which the throttle valve is wide open the boost pressure is relatively small. With the auxiliary intake passage, fuel tends to be less atomized during idling due to a bypassing flow of air-fuel mixture. The speed of flow of air through the venturi of a carburetor is hence fuel is not fully atomized in low-load engine operation. Such fuel causes fuel in a liquid form to flow down an intake passage into combustion the result that air and fuel not be mixed uniformly and fuel will not be distributed uniformly among engine cylinders, poor combustion the engine cylinders. To improve fuel combustion in low-load operating conditions, there has been devised a carburetor a variable venturi which is variable in cross section in order to keep constant the speed of flow of air through the venturi where a fuel discharge nozzle is located, irrespective of amounts of air through the venturi. Although the variable venturi enables an engine to operate relatively stably flexibly a wide operating range from low load to full load conditions, it fails to effect stable air flow control the throttle valve opens slightly because venturi cross section not change appreciably even if the opening of the throttle valve varies. Therefore, exhaust gas purification cannot be achieved by the variable while the engine operates under small loads. have been known combustion engines equipped with a duplex or two-barrel carburetor or with primary and secondary intake passages for engine cylinder, the secondary intake passage being put into service load conditions. Such an intake system more advantageous than single-carburetor intake systems in that it effect fuel atomization particularly in low to medium load ranges, cause more disturbances in the air-fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, and improve the rate of fuel An internal corbustion engine having a secondary throttle valve provided for each engine cylinder and actuatable when the engine is subjected to a higher load can prevent interference between the cylinders such as leakage of the air-fuel mixture therebetween on the secondary side, resulting in better fuel distribution among the engine cylinders. When secondary throttle valves are inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot closed completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves since each engine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. During deceleration, the secondary throttle valves subjected to bouncing or re-opening motion under large negative developed in the combustion chambers, with the consequences that stability and recovery of idling operation are poor, and the rpm of the during idling operation is relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. Furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open acceleration, and hence the engine performance becomes impaired in the acceleration mode due to retarded fuel introduction into the engine cylinders.
|
1. fiEld of ThE iNVENtiON
tHe pResEnT INVENtION ReLAtEs To aN AIR-FuEL mIXture inTakE APpaRatUs HAvIng a twO-BaRrEl or duPleX CaRBurEtOr for intErNal coMBUsTION eNgINES.
2. PRIOR Art
THEre HAs beeN a strOng need foR InternAl cOmbuStiON eNgineS whICh WiLL EMIt a RedUceD amoUnt of PoLluTaNtS sucH as cArbon MONoXiDE anD UNbuRned HyDrOcARBons aNd ImprOve fueL ecONOMY withoUt iMPairiNg ENgiNe pERfORmanCE AND lOwERIng ThE tHeRMAL eFfiCIENCY of enGines.
varIOuS systEMS SUch AS Lean aIR-FuEl MIxTure cOMBUSTIoN syStems oR eGr sYSTEmS hAVe beEN PraCTIcED TO REduCe harMFul COMponEnts iN tHe eXHauST gAs AnD AChieve BEtTer mIlEAGE. ThesE KNoWN SySTemS have pROven UnSaTIsFactORy In ThAt In LOW-LOad OPEraTinG cOndItiOnS or eSPecIALLY IN lOw-SpEEd, loW-LOaD opERatINg coNDitiONS, tHE vOlumeTRiC efFiCIENcY oF an aIr-FuEl MixTUre INtRODUced InTO a COMbUStion chAmBER IS low aNd an INcrEASed AMOUNt OF ExhaUst GaS tEnds tO REmaIN in the coMbustiON chaMbEr, AND THe AIr-FUEL MIXtUrE In THE CHAmber CAnnOt eASiLY Be iGnitED. FurtHERMore, the SpEEd Of cOmBUStIOn And heNcE The SpeEd oF TRaveL of flaMeS aRE loW, reSULTING IN uNSTable FuEL COmbUstiON in thE COmbUSTiOn CHAmBer. the FOREgOINg systeMs tHUs hAvE thE DISAdvAnTaGes Of LOw thErMAL EffiCiency aND sLuGgiSh ENGIne OPeraTIoN.
ImpROVED ENgINE PERFoRmANcE, eFFIcIENCY aNd fUEL economy AccomPaNied bY bEtTEr emISSIOn CoNtROL caN Be BeST AchIevEd By SPEeDiNG uP FuEL cOMbustION iN COmBUSTIoN chAmBeRs. TO inCReASE tHe rAtE of COMBuSTION, tHERe HAve BEen pROpoSED MANy aRRangEmENtS WhiCH ARe DesIgnED To BuRN aN AIR-FUeL mIxturE at A hIghER SpeeD By DevelopIng DIstURBanCes In The aIR-fuEl miXTuRe, TO PRoMote fUel caRbUrEtIOn, ANd To UnIFoRmIZe FUeL dIStriBUTION aMoNg eNgINe CylIndeRS.
oNe of THE proPoSeD arranGEmEntS coMpRIsEs An auXiliArY iNtAKe pAsSagE FoR generaTiNG swiRlS In a coMbUstIon CHamBEr durInG thE INtAKE stROkE. anoTheR pRoposal is cOMPoSEd OF A CoMBuStioN of prImaRY ANd sEConDarY INtakE PASsages, wITh prIMAry AnD SeCoNdARY tHRotTle vALves LoCAteD cloSely To A CoMBUstIoN ChAMBER IN sOMe APPlIcaTioNs. ACcorDing tO Still anotHer ConSTruCTioN, A pRojeCtIoN oR A vaLve Is DiSposED aDJacent TO AN iNtAke VAlve to PrOduCE A biased FLOW of aiRFLOW miXTurE.
The auxIliaRy InTAke pasSage Is DEsIgNED to inTROduCE An aIR-fuel mIxtuRe IntO ThE COMBusTIoN CHaMBer at A hIgH SPeED. witH ThE CRoss sEcTion oF A mAIN inTAke PasSaGe BEInG SelecteD tO sUiT HIgh-SpEEd, hIGh-LoAd eNgInE OpErAtioN, tHe SPEED oF FLOw oF thE air-fuEL MIxTUrE BecOmeS reDUcED IN LowlOAd opEraTInG RaNGES in WhIch THe vOlUmETRic efFiCiEncy iS smALL, wiTh thE RESuLTS thaT sUFFiCienT SWirLs WIll NOt be geNeRatEd IN a combinEd fLoW of Air-FuEL MIxTurEs frOm thE MAIn AND auxILiAry InTakE paSsageS. the auXiLIarY intaKe pAssage IS LEss eFFecTiVe to prODuce swirlS thAn DESIrED UNDEr mEDIUM anD hIGH loAd cONdITIOnS in wHICh tHE ThROttlE VAlvE Is widE oPEN AND The BOOST PReSsure Is rELaTiVely smaLl. WITH tHe aUxiLIARy INtaKe PaSsAGE, fuEL teNdS To Be LEsS aToMiZed duriNg IDlInG OPeration due to A bypAsSiNG flow OF Air-FUEl MIXturE.
THe sPeed Of fLOw Of AiR ThroUGh tHE VeNtUrI Of A carburetor iS LoW And HencE fuel Is Not FUlLY AToMizED in loW-loAd EnginE opERATion. sUcH insuFFiciENt FuEl ATOMizAtioN CauSeS fueL in A lIQuId forM tO FLow DOwN aN inTaKE passAgE InTo A CombUstIon cHAMber, WiTH thE rEsULT ThAT aiR anD fuEl WIll nOt be MIxEd unIfOrmly and FuEl WilL NOT BE DIsTRIbUted uNiformlY aMoNg ENgInE cYLindERs, ResuLTiNG iN poor FuEl coMbUSTion IN thE EngInE CyLiNDeRs.
to IMproVe fUEL CombuStiOn In LOW-lOAD opeRatING cOnDItIonS, THere has Been DEvIsEd A CArbuReTOr HaviNg A VariabLe VEnTuRi which iS vaRIAbLe IN cross SEcTIoN iN oRdeR to kEeP SUBStANtiaLly coNStANt THE speEd of floW OF air tHrOuGh The VeNTUrI WhERE A FuEl diScHarGe NOzZLE IS lOCaTEd, irReSPeCTIVe OF VARyINg aMounTs Of air FlowING THroUGH tHe vENTuri. AltHOugh ThE vARiabLE vENturi enAbLES an eNGine To opERAtE ReLAtIVelY stAblY aNd FlEXiBLy iN a wIDe opERatIng RangE frOM lOW loAD To FuLL LoaD CONDitiOnS, it FAilS To EFfecT stable AIr flOw CoNTrol WHen ThE ThROTtLe VALve Opens SLIgHTLY bECause The ventuRI CroSs secTIOn does NOT cHANge APPRecIablY eVEN iF ThE OpENINg Of THE tHROTTLe Valve VaRieS. ThEReFOre, EXhAust gAS PURifiCaTiOn cANnOT bE AcHIeVED bY The vAriABLe VENturi wHILE The eNGIne opErateS UndeR SmaLL lOads.
THeRe HAve BEen kNown iNTErNaL COMBustION enginES eqUiPPED WITh a DupLeX or twO-BArrEL CaRBUretor or WITh PRImARy AND SeCondARy IntAkE pASsaGES fOR Each enGINE CYLinDER, THe seCondaRy INTAKE PAssAgE BeinG put IntO SERvicE uNdER CertAIN LOAd cOnDItioNS. sucH an iNtakE systeM IS MOrE aDvANTAGEoUs THan singlE-carburEtOR IntaKe SystEmS iN THAT iT CAN Effect beTtER Fuel AtOmIZatION paRtiCUlaRly IN LOw To meDIUm LOAD ranGes, CAUSe mORe diSturBAnCeS iN thE Air-fUel mixtuRe In a coMbuSTIOn CHAmbER, ANd ImpROVE The rate OF Fuel coMbUstIOn. An INTernAL corBuSTIOn eNgIne HAvING a seCoNDAry thROttLE valVE pRoVideD foR EaCH ENgine CYlINdeR and aCtUataBLe WHeN the engINe iS SubjECTeD tO a hIgHeR LOAd CAn prEvENt iNteRfEreNCe bETween THe cYLindErS such aS LeAkage oF tHE aIr-FuEl mIxtURE ThErebEtweeN ON thE secoNdAry siDE, rESULTiNg IN beTtER FUEL dISTRiBUtiOn AMonG the enGIne cylindErs. whEn SeCondaRY tHrotTLE valVEs are inAdEquatE in tHeir opENinG AND clOsiNg motiONS Or cANnOT be CLOSEd complETeLY, The EngINE oPErAtION bEcoMES aS UnSTAbLe As tHere ArE Such DEfeCTivE sECOndarY ThRotTlE VaLveS Since eACh ENginE cylINdEr iS EQuIpPeD WIth a SeCoNDARY thROtTLE Valve. DURiNg dEceleRatIoN, THE sEConDARy thrOTtlE VaLVES sUbjECted to BOuncING OR rE-OPeNIng mOtiON UNDER a laRgE nEgatIve PrEssUre dEVElOPEd IN thE coMBusTIoN chaMBers, wiTh tHE coNSequenCes THaT STAbIliTY aNd recoveRy OF idliNG OPeRaTION Are PooR, AND ThE Rpm of The engine DURInG iDLing operAtioN IS relaTiVely HiGH, ReSUlTING iN Worse FUeL ecONoMY. fuRtheRmoRE, THe SEcoNdAry THRotTLe VALVES oPEN rapiDly duRINg accelerATioN, aNd HeNCe thE engINE pErFOrmANcE bEComES IMPAIReD In thE acCelERaTiOn MoDE Due To rETaRdED FUEl iNTroduCTIOn inTo the ENGIne CYLInDers.
|
1. Fieldof the Invention The present inventionrelates to an air-fuel mixture intake apparatus having atwo-barrel or duplex carburetor forinternal combustion engines.2. Prior ArtThere has been astrong need for internal combustion engines which will emit a reduced amount of pollutants such as carbonmonoxide and unburned hydrocarbons and improve fuel economy without impairing engine performance and lowering the thermal efficiency of engines. Various systemssuch as leanair-fuel mixture combustion systems or EGR systemshave been practiced to reduceharmfulcomponents in the exhaust gas and achieve better mileage. These known systems haveproven unsatisfactory in that in low-load operating conditions or especially in low-speed, low-load operatingconditions, the volumetric efficiency of anair-fuel mixture introduced into a combustion chamberis low andan increased amount of exhaust gas tends toremainin thecombustion chamber, and the air-fuel mixture in the chambercannot easily be ignited. Furthermore, the speed of combustion and hencethe speedof travelofflames are low,resulting in unstable fuel combustionin the combustion chamber. The foregoing systems thus have thedisadvantagesoflow thermal efficiency and sluggish engine operation. Improvedengine performance,efficiency and fuel economy accompanied bybetter emission control can be best achievedbyspeeding up fuelcombustionin combustion chambers. To increase the rate of combustion, therehave been proposed many arrangements which are designedto burn an air-fuel mixture at ahigher speed by developing disturbances in the air-fuelmixture, to promote fuel carburetion,and to uniformize fuel distribution among engine cylinders. One of the proposedarrangements comprisesan auxiliaryintake passagefor generating swirls in a combustion chamber during the intake stroke. Another proposalis composed ofa combustion of primary and secondaryintake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves located closely to a combustion chamber in some applications.According to still another construction, a projectionor a valve is disposed adjacent to an intake valve to produce a biased flow of airflow mixture. The auxiliary intake passage is designed to introducean air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber at a high speed. With the cross section of a main intake passage being selected to suit high-speed, high-load engine operation, the speed offlow of the air-fuel mixture becomesreduced in lowload operatingranges in whichthe volumetric efficiency is small, with the results that sufficient swirls will not be generatedin a combined flow of air-fuel mixturesfrom the main and auxiliary intake passages. Theauxiliary intake passage is less effective to produce swirls than desiredunder medium and high load conditionsin which the throttle valve is wide open and the boost pressure is relatively small. With the auxiliaryintake passage,fuel tends tobe less atomized during idling operation dueto abypassing flow of air-fuel mixture. The speed of flow of air throughthe venturi of a carburetor is low and hence fuel is not fully atomized in low-loadengine operation. Suchinsufficient fuel atomization causes fuel in a liquidform to flow down an intake passage into a combustion chamber, withthe result that air and fuel will not be mixed uniformly and fuel will not be distributed uniformly among engine cylinders,resulting inpoor fuelcombustion inthe engine cylinders. To improve fuel combustion in low-load operating conditions, there has been devised a carburetor having avariable venturi which is variable in cross section inorder to keep substantiallyconstant the speed of flow of airthrough the venturiwherea fuel dischargenozzle islocated, irrespective of varyingamounts of air flowing through the venturi. Although thevariable venturi enables an engine to operate relatively stably and flexibly in a wide operating range from low loadto full load conditions, it fails to effect stable air flow control when the throttle valveopens slightly because the venturi cross section doesnot change appreciably even if the opening ofthe throttlevalve varies. Therefore, exhaust gas purification cannot be achieved by the variable venturi while the engine operates undersmall loads.There have been known internal combustion engines equipped with aduplex or two-barrel carburetor or with primary and secondaryintake passages for each engine cylinder,the secondary intake passage being put into service under certain load conditions. Such an intake system is more advantageous than single-carburetor intake systems in that it can effect better fuel atomization particularly in low to medium load ranges, cause more disturbances intheair-fuel mixture in a combustion chamber, and improvethe rate of fuel combustion. An internal corbustion enginehaving a secondary throttle valve provided for each engine cylinder and actuatable when the engine is subjected to a higherload can prevent interference between the cylinders such as leakage of the air-fuel mixture therebetweenon the secondary side, resulting in better fueldistribution among the engine cylinders. When secondary throttle valvesare inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot be closed completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves sinceeachengine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. During deceleration, the secondary throttle valves subjected to bouncing or re-opening motion under a large negative pressure developedin thecombustion chambers, withthe consequences that stabilityandrecovery of idling operation are poor, and therpm of the engine during idling operationis relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. Furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open rapidly during acceleration, and hence the engine performance becomes impaired inthe acceleration mode dueto retarded fuel introduction into the engine cylinders.
|
_1._ Field of _the_ Invention _The_ present invention relates to an air-fuel mixture intake _apparatus_ having a _two-barrel_ or duplex carburetor _for_ _internal_ _combustion_ _engines._ 2. Prior Art There has _been_ a strong need _for_ internal combustion engines which will emit a reduced _amount_ of pollutants such _as_ carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons _and_ _improve_ fuel economy _without_ impairing engine performance and _lowering_ the thermal efficiency of _engines._ Various systems such as lean air-fuel mixture combustion systems or EGR systems have _been_ practiced _to_ reduce harmful components in the exhaust _gas_ and achieve better mileage. _These_ known systems have proven unsatisfactory in that in low-load operating conditions _or_ especially in low-speed, low-load _operating_ conditions, the volumetric efficiency of an air-fuel mixture introduced into a combustion chamber is low and an increased amount of exhaust gas tends to remain in the _combustion_ chamber, and the air-fuel mixture in the chamber cannot easily be ignited. Furthermore, _the_ speed _of_ _combustion_ and hence the speed _of_ travel _of_ _flames_ are low, resulting in _unstable_ fuel combustion in the combustion chamber. The foregoing systems thus have the disadvantages of low thermal _efficiency_ and _sluggish_ engine operation. Improved engine performance, efficiency and fuel economy accompanied by better emission control can be best achieved by _speeding_ up fuel combustion in combustion chambers. To increase the rate of combustion, there have been proposed many arrangements which are designed _to_ burn _an_ _air-fuel_ mixture at a higher speed by developing _disturbances_ in the air-fuel mixture, to promote fuel carburetion, _and_ to uniformize fuel distribution among engine _cylinders._ One of the proposed arrangements comprises an auxiliary intake passage for generating swirls in _a_ combustion chamber _during_ the _intake_ _stroke._ Another proposal is composed of a combustion of primary and secondary intake passages, with primary and secondary throttle valves _located_ closely to a combustion chamber in some applications. According _to_ still another construction, _a_ projection _or_ a valve is _disposed_ adjacent _to_ _an_ intake valve to produce a biased flow of airflow _mixture._ The auxiliary intake _passage_ is designed to introduce an air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber _at_ a high speed. With the cross section _of_ _a_ main _intake_ passage being selected to _suit_ high-speed, _high-load_ engine operation, the speed of flow _of_ the air-fuel mixture _becomes_ reduced in _lowload_ operating ranges in which the volumetric _efficiency_ _is_ small, with the _results_ that _sufficient_ swirls _will_ not be generated in a combined flow of air-fuel mixtures from the main and auxiliary intake passages. The auxiliary intake passage is less effective to produce swirls than _desired_ under medium _and_ _high_ _load_ conditions in _which_ the throttle valve is _wide_ open and the boost pressure is _relatively_ _small._ _With_ the auxiliary intake passage, _fuel_ _tends_ to be less atomized during idling operation _due_ to a _bypassing_ flow of air-fuel mixture. The speed of flow of air through the venturi of a carburetor is low and hence fuel _is_ not fully atomized in low-load _engine_ _operation._ Such insufficient fuel atomization causes fuel _in_ a liquid form to flow down an intake passage _into_ a combustion chamber, with the result that air and fuel will not be mixed uniformly and _fuel_ _will_ not _be_ distributed uniformly among _engine_ _cylinders,_ resulting in _poor_ fuel combustion in the engine cylinders. To improve fuel combustion _in_ _low-load_ _operating_ _conditions,_ there has been devised a carburetor having a variable venturi which is variable in cross section in order to keep substantially _constant_ the speed of flow of air _through_ the venturi where a _fuel_ discharge nozzle is located, _irrespective_ of varying amounts of _air_ _flowing_ through the venturi. Although the variable _venturi_ enables an engine to operate relatively stably and flexibly in a wide _operating_ range _from_ low load _to_ full load _conditions,_ it fails to effect _stable_ air flow control when _the_ _throttle_ valve opens slightly because the venturi cross section does not change appreciably even if the opening of the throttle valve varies. Therefore, exhaust gas _purification_ cannot be achieved by the variable venturi while the _engine_ operates under small loads. _There_ have _been_ known internal _combustion_ engines equipped _with_ _a_ duplex _or_ two-barrel carburetor _or_ with primary and secondary intake passages _for_ _each_ engine cylinder, the secondary _intake_ passage being put into service under certain load conditions. Such an intake system is more advantageous _than_ _single-carburetor_ intake systems in that it can effect _better_ fuel atomization _particularly_ in low _to_ medium load _ranges,_ cause more disturbances _in_ the air-fuel mixture _in_ a combustion chamber, and improve the _rate_ of fuel _combustion._ An internal corbustion engine having a secondary throttle valve provided for _each_ engine cylinder _and_ actuatable when _the_ engine is subjected to _a_ higher load _can_ _prevent_ interference between _the_ cylinders _such_ as _leakage_ of the _air-fuel_ mixture therebetween on the _secondary_ side, _resulting_ in better fuel distribution among the engine cylinders. When _secondary_ throttle valves are inadequate in their opening and closing motions or cannot be _closed_ completely, the engine operation becomes as unstable as there are such defective secondary throttle valves since each engine cylinder is equipped with a secondary throttle valve. During deceleration, _the_ secondary _throttle_ _valves_ subjected to bouncing or _re-opening_ motion under a _large_ negative _pressure_ _developed_ _in_ the combustion chambers, _with_ _the_ consequences that stability _and_ recovery _of_ idling operation are poor, and the rpm of the _engine_ during idling operation is relatively high, resulting in worse fuel economy. Furthermore, the secondary throttle valves open _rapidly_ during _acceleration,_ and _hence_ the engine _performance_ becomes impaired in the acceleration mode due _to_ retarded fuel introduction _into_ _the_ engine cylinders.
|
Cast copper alloy ingot CAC406, which has heretofore been used for parts of water supply systems and devices, contain 4.0 to 6.0% by weight of lead. Thus, lead in this material tends to dissolve into tap water. In order to reduce the amount of toxic lead that dissolves into tap water, consideration is now being given to developing lead-reduced or lead-free copper alloys.
But such lead-reduced or lead-free copper alloys are difficult to cast and cut, and also tend to be low in pressure resistance. Valves made of such alloys therefore tend to cause water leakage. Alloys are thus being considered that are not only low in lead content, but sufficiently high in pressure resistance and other necessary properties compared to alloys that are higher in lead content.
Among such alloys is one disclosed in Patent document 1, to which bismuth and selenium are added to improve machinability. Patent document 2 discloses an alloy to which silicon and magnesium are added to improve strength and leaching properties.
[Patent document 1] JP Patent publication 2004-68096A
[Patent document 2] JP patent publication 2004-52106A
|
cast copper alloy ingot cac406, which has heretofore been used for parts of current supply systems and devices, contain 4. 0 to 6. 0 % by weight of lead. thus, lead in this material tends to dissolve into tap water. in order to reduce the amount of toxic lead that dissolves from tap water, consideration is now being given to developing lead - reduced or lead - free copper alloys. but such lead - reduced or lead - free copper alloys are difficult to cast and cut, and also tend to be low in lead resistance. valves made of such alloys therefore tend to cause water leakage. alloys are thus being considered that are not particularly low in lead content, but sufficiently high in pressure resistance and other necessary requirements compared to alloys that are higher in lead content. among such alloys is one disclosed in patent chapter 1, to enable bismuth and selenium are added to improve machinability. patent number 2 discloses an alloy to which silicon and magnesium alloys added to improve strength and leaching properties. [ patent document 1 ] jp patent publication 2004 - 68096a [ patent document 2 ] jp patent publication 2004 - 3a
|
Cast copper alloy ingot CAC406, which has heretofore been ueew for parts of watFg supply systems and devices, contain 4. 0 to 6. 0% by weight of lead. Thus, lead in this material tends to dOsso/ve into tap water. In order to reduce the amount of toxic lead that dissolves into tap water, consideration is now being given to developing lead - reduced or lead - free copper alloys. But s^cU lead - reduced or lead - free copper alloys are diDficulG to cast and cut, and wlxo tend to be low in pressure resistance. Valves made of such alloys therefore tend to cauDW water leakage. Alloys are thus being considered that are not only low in lead content, but sufficiently high in pr4sxure resistance and other necessary properties compared to alloys that are h9gh@r in lead content. Among such aIlpys is one disclosed in Patent document 1, to which bismuth and selenium are added to improve machinability. Patent document 2 discloses an alloy to which silicon and magnesium are added to improve strength and leaching properties. [Patent document 1] JP Patent publication 2004 - 68096A [Patent document 2] JP patent publication 2004 - 52106A
|
Cast copper alloy ingot CAC406, which has been for parts of water supply systems and contain 4.0 by weight lead. Thus, lead in this material tends to dissolve into tap water. In order to reduce the amount of toxic lead that dissolves into tap water, consideration is now given to developing lead-reduced or lead-free copper But such lead-reduced or lead-free copper alloys are difficult to cast cut, and also tend to be low in pressure resistance. Valves made of therefore tend to cause water leakage. Alloys thus being considered are not only low in lead but sufficiently high in pressure resistance and other necessary properties compared to alloys that higher in lead content. Among such alloys is one disclosed in Patent 1, to which and selenium are added to improve machinability. Patent document 2 discloses an alloy to which silicon and magnesium are added to improve strength and leaching properties. [Patent document 1] Patent publication 2004-68096A [Patent document 2] JP patent publication 2004-52106A
|
cAst cOppeR ALLoY iNgoT cac406, which HaS HEReTOfORe BeeN UsED foR pArts Of waTeR sUpPly SysTEms ANd dEVIcEs, ConTAiN 4.0 tO 6.0% bY wEIgHt of leAd. tHUS, lEAd iN ThiS mAtERIal TeNDS TO DissoLVE intO TAP Water. IN orDER TO rEDUCE tHe amOunT Of TOXiC LEaD thaT diSsoLves inTo tAp wATer, CoNsIDeRaTion IS NoW BeInG given to dEVeloPiNg LEAd-ReduCed or lEAd-fREe COPper ALLOYS.
BUT sucH LeAD-REduceD OR LeAD-fREe COppEr AlloyS aRE diFfICult TO CAST ANd cUt, aND alsO TeND TO be lOw IN pREsSURe reSISTANCE. VALves mADE Of such alLoyS ThereFORE TEnd tO CAUse WaTer LeAkaGe. AlLoys aRE thus beIng ConsiDerED ThAt aRE NoT ONlY Low in leaD contEnt, BUt SUfFICieNTLy hIgh IN PRESsuRE RESisTANCe aND oTHeR neCessARY pRoPERTIEs CoMPARED TO alLoYs THAT aRE HiGheR in LeaD COntENt.
amONg sUCh aLLOyS IS oNE DisCLOSeD in PaTeNT doCumENt 1, tO wHIch biSmuth aNd selEnIuM Are addED tO impROVE MaChinaBILItY. PATENt DocUMent 2 dIsCLoSEs AN alloy to WhIcH silIcoN ANd MAgNeSIUm arE ADded tO IMpROvE StrENgTH ANd LeAChInG prOPeRTieS.
[pateNt Document 1] jp PATENt pUBLICatIon 2004-68096a
[paTent DOCumenT 2] jp PAtENt pUblicatIOn 2004-52106A
|
Cast copper alloy ingot CAC406, which hasheretofore been used for parts of water supplysystems and devices, contain 4.0 to 6.0% by weight of lead. Thus, lead in this material tendsto dissolve into tap water.In order toreduce the amount of toxic lead that dissolvesinto tap water,considerationis now being givento developing lead-reduced orlead-free copper alloys. But such lead-reduced or lead-free copper alloys are difficult to cast andcut, andalso tend to be low in pressure resistance. Valves madeof suchalloys therefore tend to cause water leakage. Alloys are thus being considered that are not only low in lead content, but sufficiently highinpressureresistance and other necessary properties comparedto alloys that are higherin lead content. Among suchalloys is onedisclosedin Patent document 1, to whichbismuth and seleniumare added toimprove machinability. Patent document2 discloses an alloy to whichsilicon and magnesium are added toimprove strength and leaching properties.[Patentdocument 1] JP Patent publication2004-68096A [Patent document 2] JP patent publication 2004-52106A
|
_Cast_ copper alloy ingot CAC406, which has heretofore been used for parts of water _supply_ _systems_ and devices, contain 4.0 to _6.0%_ by weight of lead. Thus, lead _in_ this material tends _to_ dissolve _into_ tap water. _In_ _order_ to reduce _the_ _amount_ of toxic lead _that_ _dissolves_ _into_ tap water, consideration is now being given _to_ developing lead-reduced or lead-free copper alloys. But _such_ lead-reduced or lead-free copper _alloys_ are difficult to cast and _cut,_ and also tend to be low in pressure resistance. Valves made _of_ such _alloys_ _therefore_ tend to cause water leakage. _Alloys_ are thus being considered that are _not_ only low in lead content, _but_ sufficiently _high_ in pressure resistance and other _necessary_ properties compared _to_ alloys that are higher in lead content. Among such alloys is _one_ disclosed _in_ Patent document 1, to which bismuth _and_ _selenium_ are added to improve machinability. Patent document 2 discloses an alloy to _which_ silicon _and_ magnesium are added to _improve_ strength and leaching _properties._ _[Patent_ document _1]_ _JP_ Patent _publication_ 2004-68096A [Patent _document_ 2] JP patent publication _2004-52106A_
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which transmits an ultrasonic beam from an ultrasonic probe to a subject, such as a biological body, receives the echoes from the subject, and obtains ultrasonic image data on the subject, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which adjust a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe to the optimum value.
2. Description of the Related Art
With an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is brought into contact with a subject, such as a biological body. In this state, the ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the subject and receives the echoes from the inside of the subject, thereby acquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. The ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam of acoustic power corresponding to a transmission voltage specified by a system control unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As for the transmission voltage to the ultrasonic probe, a transmission voltage preset within an acoustic power limit range by the system control unit is set as the maximum transmission voltage.
The ultrasonic beam is adjusted according to the type of subject, such as an unborn baby or an internal organ, so as not to transmit high acoustic power to the subject. The acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is adjusted by the user manually operating an acoustic power adjustment switch provided on the panel of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The acoustic power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam is made in the acoustic power limit range by the manual operation, with the transmission voltage calculated by the system control unit being used as the maximum transmission voltage.
In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, the safety of acoustic power of an ultrasonic beam is required. The transmission voltage for the ultrasonic beam is set to a transmission voltage calculated in advance by the system control unit. Accordingly, when an actual subject is diagnosed, the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam has to be limited for the region which needs no diagnosis in the subject. To limit the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually, thereby adjusting the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam to the optimum value. Such an adjustment of the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject.
However, when the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually for each of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, this decreases the diagnostic throughput of the diagnostic regions. Moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the total time required for the diagnostic regions becomes longer. Consequently, the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to the subject becomes longer.
The technique for not only controlling a method of driving a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in an ultrasonic probe in an ultrasonic Doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit or acoustic output limit but also observing the Doppler spectrum with high sensitivity has been disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005-305129. Specifically, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005-305129 has disclosed a method of switching between a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals corresponding to a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are relatively high and a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals are relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject.
It is an object of the invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which are capable of adjusting a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe according to a subject to an optimum value automatically.
|
1. field of the invention this invention extends to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which transmits an ultrasonic beam from an ultrasonic probe to a subject, such as a biological body, receives the echoes from the subject, and obtains ultrasonic image data on the subject, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic device and an ultrasonic transmission method which adjust a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe to the optimum value. 2. description of the related art with an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is brought into contact with a subject, such as a biological body. in this state, the ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the subject and receives the echoes from the inside of the subject, thereby acquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. the ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam of acoustic power corresponding to a transmission voltage generated by a system control unit of the audio diagnostic apparatus. as for the transmission voltage in the ultrasonic probe, a transmission voltage preset within an acoustic power limit range by the system control unit is set as the maximum transmission voltage. the ultrasonic beam is adjusted according to the type of subject, such as an unborn embryo or an internal organ, so as not to transmit high acoustic power to the subject. the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is adjusted by the user manually operating an acoustic power adjustment switch provided on the panel of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. the acoustic power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam is made in the acoustic power limit range by the manual operation, with the transmission voltage calculated by the system control unit being used as the maximum transmission voltage. in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, the safety of acoustic power of an ultrasonic beam is required. the transmission voltage for the ultrasonic beam is set to a transmission voltage calculated in advance by the system control unit. accordingly, before an actual subject is diagnosed, the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam has to be limited for the region which needs no diagnosis in the subject. to limit the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually, thereby adjusting the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam to the optimum value. only an adjustment of the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject. however, when the user operates the acoustic energy adjustment switch manually for each of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, this decreases the diagnostic throughput of the diagnostic regions. moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the total time required for the diagnostic regions becomes longer. consequently, the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to the subject becomes longer. the technique for not only controlling a method of driving a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in an ultrasonic probe in an ultrasonic doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit or acoustic output limit but also observing the doppler spectrum with high sensitivity has been disclosed in jpn. pat. appln. kokai publication no. 2005 - 305129. specifically, jpn. pat. appln. kokai publication no. 2005 - 305129 has disclosed a method of switching between a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals corresponding to a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are relatively high and a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals are relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject. it is an object of the invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which are capable of adjusting a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe according to a subject to an optimum value automatically.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which transmits an ultrasonic beam from an ultrasonic probe to a subject, such as a biological body, receives the echoes from the subject, and obtains ultrasonic image data on the subject, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which adjust a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe to the optimum value. 2. Description of the Related Art With an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is brought into contact with a s7bHect, such as a biological body. In this state, the ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the subject and receives the echoes from the inside of the subject, thereby acquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. The ultrasonic p5(be transmits an ultrasonic beam of acoustic power corresponding to a transmission voltage specified by a system control un9y of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As for the transmission voltage to the ultrasonic probe, a transmission voltage preset within an acoustic power limit range by the system control unit is set as the maximum transmission voltage. The ultrasonic beam is adjusted according to the type of subject, such as an unborn baby or an internal organ, so as not to transmit high acoustic power to the subject. The acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is adjuzRed by the user manually operating an acoustic power adjustment switch provided on the panel of the ultraQInic diagnostic apparatus. The acoustic power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam is made in the acoustic power limit 5anNe by the manual operation, with the transmission voltage calculated by the system control unit being used as the maximum transmission voltage. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, the safety of acoustic power of an ultrasonic beam is required. The transmission voltage for the ultrasonic beam is set to a transmission voltage calculated in advance by the system control unit. Accordingly, when an actual subject is diagnosed, the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam has to be limited for the region which needs no diagnosis in the subject. To limit the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually, thereby adjusting the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam to the optimum value. Such an adjustment of the acoustic power of the ultrasonic Gewm is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject. However, when the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually for each of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, this decreases the diagnostic throughput of the diagnostic regions. Moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the total time required for the diagnostic regions becomes longer. Consequently, the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to the subject becomes longer. The technique for not only controlling a mdtmod of driving a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in an ultrasonic probe in an ultrasonic Doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit or acoustic output limit but also observing the Doppler spectrum with high sensitivity has been disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005 - 305129. Specifically, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005 - 305129 has disclosed a method of switching between a poawr mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals corresponding to a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are relatively hOgY and a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals are relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject. It is an object of the invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which are capable of adjusting a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe according to a subject to an optimum value automatically.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus transmits an ultrasonic beam from an ultrasonic probe to a such as a biological body, receives the echoes from the and ultrasonic image data on the and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which adjust sent to an ultrasonic probe to the optimum value. 2. Description of the Related Art an ultrasonic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is brought into contact with a subject, such as a biological body. In this state, the probe transmits an ultrasonic beam to the of the subject receives the echoes from the inside subject, thereby acquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam of acoustic corresponding to a transmission voltage specified by a system control unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. for the transmission to the ultrasonic probe, a transmission voltage preset within acoustic power limit range by the system control unit is set as the maximum transmission voltage. The ultrasonic beam is adjusted according to the type of subject, such as an unborn baby or internal organ, so as not to transmit high power to the subject. The acoustic power of ultrasonic beam is adjusted by the user manually operating an acoustic power adjustment switch provided the panel of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The acoustic power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam in the acoustic power limit range by the manual with the transmission calculated by the system control unit being used as the maximum transmission voltage. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, of acoustic power ultrasonic beam required. The transmission voltage for the ultrasonic beam is set to transmission voltage calculated in by the system control unit. Accordingly, when an actual subject is the power of the ultrasonic beam has to be limited the region which needs no diagnosis in the subject. To limit the acoustic power of ultrasonic beam, the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually, thereby the acoustic power of ultrasonic beam to the optimum value. Such an adjustment the power of the ultrasonic beam is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic of the subject. However, when the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switch manually for each of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize acoustic power the ultrasonic this decreases the diagnostic throughput the diagnostic regions. Moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the total time required for the regions becomes Consequently, the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to the subject becomes longer. The technique for not only controlling a method of driving a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in an ultrasonic in an Doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit or output limit but observing the Doppler spectrum with high sensitivity has been disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005-305129. Specifically, Jpn. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. has disclosed a method switching between a mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signals corresponding to a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators are relatively high a power mode in which the amplitudes driving signals are relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject. It is object of the invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic method which are capable of adjusting a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe according to a subject to optimum value automatically.
|
1. FIelD OF ThE iNVENTIon
this InVEntIoN RELATeS TO AN ULTRasonIc DiagNoSTic aPpArATuS WHIcH TRANSmiTs aN UltRaSonIC BeAM fROm an uLtraSoNIc prOBe TO a suBJECT, sUCH As a bIoloGicAL BoDy, ReCEIvEs the EcHOES from the SubjEcT, AnD obTaiNs UlTRASoNIC IMaGe dATa On THe subjEcT, and MOrE paRTICulArLy TO an ULtRAsOnIc dIAGNoSTIc apparaTUs and an uLtRasONIc diAgnosTIC mEthod Which aDjUsT a tRanSMiSSION VOlTAGe seNt To aN UlTrasonIc proBe to the OPTImum VaLUe.
2. DesCRIptiOn of THe relatEd arT
wItH an ULtrASoNIC dIAGnoSTic apPaRATUs, AN uLtrAsoNiC pRObe is bROuGHT inTO CONTACt WITh a sUBjecT, SUch AS A BiologIcal body. IN ThIS sTaTe, tHE ulTrasOnic probe trANsmITS aN UlTrAsOnic bEAm TO thE inSIde oF the sUbjecT And ReCEives the EcHoES FrOm THe INsIdE oF THe sUbjEct, tHereBy AcqUIring ultRaSONIc iMAGE DATA on The sUBJECT. THE UltRAsoNiC pRoBE trAnsmiTS an ULTRASonic bEam oF aCoUStIC poWeR CoRrESPONdinG to A traNsmIssIoN VolTage SPecIFIED bY A SysTEm coNTROL UniT oF THE uLtRAsONIc dIaGnOSTiC aPparAtus. AS For THE trANsMiSsION VoLTagE to tHE uLTraSoNic pROBe, A TrAnSmiSsIon vOltAge PrEsEt WiThin An aCOUsTIc PoWER limIt ranGE by THE sYSteM COnTROl UNit Is set AS thE MAxIMUM TraNsMissiOn VOLTAgE.
tHe UlTRASONiC BeAM Is adJUSTED aCcoRDING to ThE tYPE oF suBJECt, Such as aN unBOrn BABy Or an intErnAL oRGAN, So aS NOt TO TRansMIt High aCOusTiC pOWEr To The sUbjECT. thE aCOUstiC PoWer of ThE uLtraSONIC beaM Is adjusTed By thE usEr mAnually OpERAtiNg AN ACOuSTIc Power adjUstment SWitCH ProviDEd on thE pANel of tHE ulTraSoNiC diAgnOStIC AppaRAtus. THE aCouSTIC pOwER AdjUstMent Of tHE uLTrasoNIC Beam Is maDe iN ThE ACouStIc POWeR LIMIt rANgE BY the mANUAL OpErAtioN, WITH ThE TRaNSmIssIOn volTage CAlcUlAtED by the sYstEm COntroL uNit beInG used AS The maXimUM tRANSmiSsion VOltAGe.
in tHe ULtRaSoNIc DIAGNosTIC AppaRaTUS, TOo, ThE sAfetY OF ACoUstiC POWer Of An uLtRaSONIc beaM Is RequIREd. THe traNSMissIon VoLTaGE for tHe ultrASONIc bEAM is Set tO A TRaNsmissIoN vOLtaGe cAlCulATeD IN aDvaNcE By ThE SyStEM coNTroL uNiT. ACcorDiNGlY, WHEn AN ACtUAL SUBJecT is diAgNOSed, THe aCoustiC pOweR Of The UlTRAsoNiC bEAm Has tO BE limItEd for THe REGION wHICh neEDS no dIAGNoSIs IN THe sUbJECT. tO lImit tHe acoUSTIc pOWer oF tHE ulTRaSonic BEAM, tHE User OPeRaTes ThE AcouStic POWER aDJUsTmeNT SwItcH MaNUAlly, TherebY aDjUStIng thE ACOuStic PowEr of THE uLtRAsOniC BEAm tO ThE OPtiMum VaLuE. sUcH AN aDJuStmENT oF the aCOustIC POWer oF thE ULtrasoNIC BeaM Is mADE foR, FOR EXampLe, EACH Of A pLurAlITy Of diagnoSTiC reGIoNs of tHe suBJect.
HowEVer, WhEN the uSer OPErates THE AcOuSTIC POWER adJUSTMEnT SwItCH mANUALly FOr EACH of tHE PlURALiTy of DiAgnOsTIc REGiOnS to optImizE thE ACousTiC PoweR of thE uLtraSONiC bEam, this dECreaSeS THE DiAgnostiC tHroughpuT OF The DiAGNoStiC RegIONS. mOReOVeR, sinCe A PlurAliTY of DiagnOstiC REGiONs of THE SubJeCT ArE diaGnOSEd, THE TOTAl time reQuIRED fOr the DiAGNoSTiC RegIonS BEcOMES LoNger. CoNSeQueNTLY, tHE irRaDiatiOn tiME OF tHe uLtRAsOniC bEam tO The SUBJeCt BeCOmES LOnGER.
tHe TechNiqUe FOR Not oNly CONtRoLLiNG A metHOD OF DRIving A pluralitY oF PIEZOELECTrIC vIbrAtORs INcLudED in AN ULTRasoNIC prObE In AN uLtRASoNIC DOpPLEr SpectruM MetHod sO AS to FOLLOw ThE HeAT genERatiOn LiMit oR aCOUStIc OutPUT liMIt BUT alSO oBSErvinG THE DopPLer SPEctRUM WiTh hIGh SeNSiTiViTY HAS BeEN DIsclOSed in Jpn. pat. APPLN. kOKAi pUbLicATion no. 2005-305129. spECificALly, JpN. pAT. aPPln. koKAi puBLicATIoN nO. 2005-305129 hAS DisCloSed A METHOD OF SwItChING beTween A POWEr ModE in WhiCH THE AMPliTudes oF THE DRIVinG SIGnalS cOrrESpondInG To a PlurALity of PiEZoEleCTRIc VIbRatORs aRE relaTIvElY HIgh aND A PoWER mOdE IN WHiCh ThE amPlItudes oF THe DriViNg siGnalS aRE reLaTiVELy Low in SYNchROnIZATION wItH ThE BIOlogical SiGnAl OF tHe sUBJECt.
iT is an OBjECT OF THe InVEntion TO proVide aN UlTRASOnIc DiagnoStIC ApPArATuS and aN ulTRASonIC dIAGnoSTIC METhoD WhiCh ARE caPABle of ADjUSTInG A TRanSMISSiOn vOlTAge SEnt tO an ultRaSoniC ProbE AccoRdIng tO a sUbjeCt to aN optIMUm valUe AUtOMATicAllY.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus whichtransmitsan ultrasonic beam froman ultrasonic probeto a subject, such as a biological body, receives theechoes from the subject, andobtains ultrasonic image data on the subject, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic methodwhich adjust a transmission voltage sent toanultrasonicprobe to the optimum value.2. Description of theRelated Art With an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic probe is brought intocontact with a subject, such as abiological body. Inthis state, the ultrasonic probe transmits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the subject andreceives theechoes from the inside ofthesubject, therebyacquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. The ultrasonic probe transmits anultrasonic beam of acoustic power corresponding to a transmission voltage specified bya system control unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As for the transmission voltage to theultrasonic probe, a transmission voltagepreset within an acoustic power limitrange by the system control unit is set as the maximum transmission voltage. The ultrasonic beam is adjusted according to the type of subject, such as anunborn baby or an internal organ, so as not to transmit high acousticpower to the subject. The acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam isadjusted by the usermanually operating an acoustic power adjustment switch provided on thepanel of theultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.The acoustic power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam is made in the acoustic power limit range by the manual operation, with the transmission voltage calculated by the system control unit being used as the maximumtransmission voltage. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, the safety of acoustic power ofanultrasonic beamis required. The transmission voltage for the ultrasonic beam isset toa transmission voltage calculated in advance by the system controlunit. Accordingly, when an actual subject is diagnosed, the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam has to be limited for the region which needs no diagnosisin the subject.To limit the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, the user operates the acoustic power adjustment switchmanually, thereby adjusting the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam to theoptimum value.Such an adjustment of the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject. However, when theuser operates the acousticpower adjustment switch manually for each of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize the acoustic power of the ultrasonicbeam, this decreases the diagnosticthroughput of the diagnostic regions. Moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the total time required for the diagnostic regions becomes longer. Consequently, the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to the subject becomes longer. The techniquefor not only controlling a method of driving a pluralityof piezoelectric vibrators included inan ultrasonicprobe in an ultrasonic Doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit oracoustic output limit but also observing the Doppler spectrum with high sensitivity has been disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln.KOKAIPublication No. 2005-305129. Specifically, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005-305129 has disclosed a method of switching between a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signalscorrespondingto a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators arerelatively high and a power mode in which the amplitudes of the driving signalsare relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject.It is anobject of the invention to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic methodwhich are capable of adjusting a transmission voltagesent toan ultrasonic probe according to a subject toan optimum value automatically.
|
_1._ Field of the Invention This invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which transmits an ultrasonic beam from an ultrasonic probe to a subject, such as _a_ _biological_ body, receives the _echoes_ _from_ _the_ subject, and obtains _ultrasonic_ _image_ data on the _subject,_ and more particularly to _an_ ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an _ultrasonic_ diagnostic method which adjust a transmission voltage sent to an ultrasonic probe to the optimum value. 2. Description of the Related Art _With_ _an_ ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, _an_ ultrasonic probe is brought into contact with _a_ subject, such as a biological body. In this state, the ultrasonic _probe_ transmits an ultrasonic beam to the inside of the subject _and_ _receives_ the echoes from _the_ inside of the subject, thereby acquiring ultrasonic image data on the subject. _The_ ultrasonic probe transmits an _ultrasonic_ beam of acoustic _power_ corresponding to _a_ _transmission_ voltage specified by a system control unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As for the transmission voltage _to_ the ultrasonic probe, _a_ transmission voltage preset within an acoustic power limit range by the system control _unit_ _is_ _set_ as the maximum _transmission_ voltage. The ultrasonic beam is adjusted _according_ to the _type_ _of_ subject, such as an _unborn_ baby or _an_ _internal_ _organ,_ so as not _to_ transmit _high_ acoustic _power_ to the _subject._ The _acoustic_ power of the ultrasonic _beam_ _is_ adjusted by the user manually _operating_ _an_ acoustic power _adjustment_ switch provided _on_ the panel of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The _acoustic_ power adjustment of the ultrasonic beam is made in the acoustic power limit range by the _manual_ operation, with the transmission voltage calculated by the system control unit being used _as_ the maximum transmission voltage. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, too, _the_ safety of acoustic power of an _ultrasonic_ beam is required. The _transmission_ _voltage_ for the _ultrasonic_ beam _is_ set to _a_ transmission voltage _calculated_ _in_ advance _by_ _the_ system control unit. _Accordingly,_ when _an_ actual subject is diagnosed, the _acoustic_ power _of_ the _ultrasonic_ beam has to be limited for the _region_ which needs no diagnosis in the subject. _To_ limit _the_ acoustic _power_ of the ultrasonic _beam,_ the user _operates_ the acoustic _power_ adjustment switch manually, thereby adjusting _the_ acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam to the _optimum_ value. Such an adjustment of the acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam is made for, for example, each of a plurality of diagnostic regions _of_ the subject. However, when the user operates the _acoustic_ power adjustment switch manually _for_ _each_ of the plurality of diagnostic regions to optimize _the_ acoustic power of the ultrasonic beam, this decreases the diagnostic _throughput_ _of_ the diagnostic regions. Moreover, since a plurality of diagnostic regions of the subject are diagnosed, the _total_ _time_ required for the _diagnostic_ regions becomes longer. _Consequently,_ the irradiation time of the ultrasonic beam to _the_ subject becomes _longer._ The technique for _not_ only controlling a method of driving _a_ plurality of piezoelectric vibrators included in _an_ _ultrasonic_ probe _in_ an ultrasonic Doppler spectrum method so as to follow the heat generation limit _or_ _acoustic_ output limit but also observing the Doppler spectrum with high _sensitivity_ has been disclosed in Jpn. _Pat._ Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2005-305129. Specifically, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication _No._ 2005-305129 has _disclosed_ a method of switching between a power _mode_ _in_ which the _amplitudes_ _of_ _the_ driving _signals_ corresponding to a _plurality_ of piezoelectric vibrators are _relatively_ high and a power mode in _which_ the amplitudes of the _driving_ signals are relatively low in synchronization with the biological signal of the subject. It _is_ an object of the invention to provide _an_ ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus _and_ an ultrasonic diagnostic method which are capable of adjusting a transmission voltage sent to _an_ ultrasonic probe according to a subject to an optimum value automatically.
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to three-piece solid golf balls comprising a center core, an intermediate layer, and a cover and more particularly, to three-piece solid golf balls which are improved in feeling on impact, controllability, and durability.
2. Prior Art
Among a variety of golf balls, thread-wound golf balls and solid golf balls are now popular. The solid golf balls are currently increasing to be a mainstream product. Among them, two-piece solid golf balls consisting of a core and a cover are most widespread.
Most amateur golfers are fond of two-piece solid golf balls which have excellent flying performance and durability although these balls have the disadvantages of a very hard feel on hitting and low control due to rapid ball separation on hitting. For this reason, many of professional golfers and skilled amateur golfers who impose weight on feeling and control prefer wound golf balls, especially wound golf balls using a soft balata cover, to two-piece solid golf balls. The wound golf balls are superior in feeling and control, but inferior in flying distance and durability to the two-piece solid golf balls.
Under the present situation that two-piece solid golf balls and wound golf balls have contradictory characteristics as mentioned above, players make a choice of golf balls depending on their own skill and taste.
In order to develop solid golf balls having a hitting feel approximate to the wound golf balls, two-piece solid golf balls of the soft type have been considered. For such two-piece solid golf balls of the soft type, soft cores must be used. If the cores are soft, however, repulsion becomes low with a concomitant loss of flying performance and durability is considerably deteriorated. That is, the superior flying performance and durability which are a characteristic of two-piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the balls become unacceptable for practical use.
Controllability, which is required even on full shots with drivers, is most important on control shots like approach shots. In an exemplary situation that the next shot should fly beyond the bunker and a short distance from the green edge to the cup, the player who is either professional or amateur will naturally wish to hit a ball with a minimal run. Such controllability of a golf ball largely depends on spin properties.
On a full shot with a club having a relatively large loft, the club loft is dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all balls are given an appropriate amount of spin and few balls overrun. However, on a approach shot over a short distance of 30 or 50 yards, balls will significantly vary in run or controllability. The major factor causing such a difference is not a basic structure, but the identity of cover material. In two-piece solid golf balls, however, covers made of soft material are effective for improving controllability, but detrimental for gaining flying distance.
|
1. field of the invention this invention relates to three - piece solid golf balls comprising a center core, an intermediate layer, and a cover and more particularly, to three - piece solid golf balls which are improved in feeling on impact, controllability, and durability. 2. prior art among a variety of golf balls, thread - wound golf balls and solid golf balls remain now popular. the solid golf balls are currently increasing to be a mainstream product. among them, two - piece solid golf balls consisting of a core and a cover are most widespread. most amateur golfers are fond of two - piece solid golf balls which have excellent flying performance and durability although these balls have the disadvantages of a very hard feel on hitting and low control due to rapid ball separation on hitting. for this reason, many of course golfers and skilled amateur golfers who impose weight on feeling and control prefer wound cam balls, typically wound golf balls using a soft balata cover, to two - piece solid golf balls. the wound golf balls are superior in feeling and control, but inferior in flying distance and durability to the two - thousand solid golf balls. under the present situation that two - piece solid golf balls and wound golf balls have contradictory characteristics as mentioned above, players make a choice of golf balls depending on their own skill and taste. in order to develop solid golf balls having a hitting feel approximate to the wound golf balls, two - piece solid golf balls of the soft type have been considered. for such two - piece solid golf balls of its soft type, soft cores must be used. if the cores are soft, however, repulsion becomes low with a concomitant loss of flying performance and durability is considerably deteriorated. that is, the superior flying performance and durability which are a characteristic of two - piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the balls become unacceptable for golf use. controllability, which is required even on full shots with drivers, is most important on control shots like approach shots. in an exemplary situation that the next person should fly beyond the bunker and a short distance from the green edge to the rim, the player who is either professional or amateur will naturally wish to hit a ball with a minimal run. such controllability of a golf ball largely depends on spin properties. on a full shot with a club having a relatively large stroke, the club loft is dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all balls are given an appropriate amount of spin and few balls overrun. however, on a approach shot over a short distance of 30 or 50 yards, balls will significantly vary in run or controllability. the major factor causing such a difference is not a basic structure, but the identity of cover material. in two - piece solid golf balls, however, covers made of soft material are effective for improving controllability, but detrimental for gaining flying distance.
|
1. FlelS of the Invention This invention ee:ates to three - piece s0Oid golf balls comprising a center core, an intermediate layer, and a cover and more particularly, to three - piece solid golf balls which are iJ)roved in feeling on impact, controllability, and durability. 2. Prior Art Among a variety of golf balls, thread - woInX golf balls and solid golf balls are now popular. The spIid golf balls are currently increasing to be a mainstream product. Among them, two - piece solid golf balls consisting of a core and a cover are most widespread. Most amateur golfers are fond of two - piece solid golf balls which have excellent BlyOng performance and durability although these balls have the disadvantages of a very hard feel on hitting and low control due to rapid ball separation on hitting. For this reason, many of professional golfers and skilled amateur golfers who impose weight on feeling and control prefer wound golf balls, especially wound golf balls using a soft balata cover, to two - piece solid golf balls. The wound golf balls are superior in feeling and control, but inferior in flying distance and durability to the two - piece solid golf balls. Under the present situation that two - piece solid golf balls and wound golf balls have contradictory characteristics as mentioned above, players make a choice of golf balls depending on their own skill and taste. In order to develop solid golf balls having a hitting feel approximate to the wound golf balls, two - piece solid golf balls of the soft type have been considered. For such two - piece solid golf balls of the soft type, soft cores must be used. If the cores are soft, however, repulsion becomes low with a concomitant loss of flying performance and durability is considerably deteriorated. That is, the superior flying performance and durability which are a characteristic of two - piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the balls become unacceptaGoe for practical use. Controllability, which is required even on full shots with drivers, is hoqt important on control shots like approach shots. In an exemplary situation that the next shot should fly beyond the bunker and a short distance from the green edge to the cup, the player who is either professional or amateur will naturally wish to hit a ball with a minimal run. Such controllability of a golf ball largely depends on spin properties. On a full shot with a club having a relatively large loft, the club loft is dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all balls are given an appropriate amount of spin and few balls overrun. However, on a approach shot over a short distance of 30 or 50 TaFds, balls will significantly vary in run or controllability. The major factor causing such a difference is not a basic structure, but the identity of cover material. In two - piece solid golf balls, however, covers made of soft material are effective for improving controllability, but detrimental for gaining flying distance.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to three-piece solid golf balls comprising a center core, an intermediate a cover and more particularly, to solid golf balls which are improved in feeling on impact, controllability, and durability. 2. Prior Art Among a variety of golf balls, thread-wound balls and solid balls are now popular. solid golf balls currently increasing to be mainstream product. Among them, two-piece solid golf consisting of a core and a cover are most widespread. Most golfers are two-piece solid golf balls which excellent flying and durability although these balls have the disadvantages of a very hard feel on hitting and control due to rapid ball separation on hitting. For this reason, many of professional golfers and skilled amateur golfers who impose weight on feeling and control prefer wound golf balls, especially wound golf balls using soft balata cover, to two-piece solid golf balls. The wound golf balls are superior in and control, inferior flying distance and durability the two-piece solid golf balls. Under the present situation that two-piece solid golf balls and golf balls have contradictory characteristics as mentioned players make choice of golf balls depending on their own skill In order to develop solid golf balls having a hitting feel approximate to the wound golf balls, two-piece solid golf balls of the soft type have been considered. For such two-piece golf balls of soft type, soft cores must be used. If the cores are soft, repulsion becomes low with concomitant loss of flying performance and durability is considerably deteriorated. That is, the superior flying and durability which are a characteristic of two-piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the become unacceptable for practical use. is required even on full with is most important on control shots like approach shots. In an exemplary situation that the next shot should fly the bunker and a short distance from the green edge to the cup, the who is either or amateur will naturally wish to hit ball with a minimal run. Such controllability of a golf ball largely depends on spin properties. On a full shot with a club having a relatively loft, the club loft is dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all balls given an appropriate amount of spin and few balls overrun. However, on a approach shot over a short of 30 or 50 yards, balls will vary in run or The major factor causing difference is not a basic structure, but the identity of cover material. In two-piece solid golf balls, however, covers made of soft material are effective for improving controllability, for gaining flying distance.
|
1. FiELd OF thE inVENtIoN
This invEnTioN RelaTES to THree-PIeCe SoLid GolF BAlLS COMPrisiNg a CeNtER COre, An iNTermEdIATe lAyeR, And a cOVeR AnD MoRE pArtiCULaRly, To THreE-PiEce sOLid GolF bAllS wHICH aRe ImPROvEd IN fEelinG ON iMPAcT, COnTrolLABiLITY, ANd DurABILiTy.
2. prIOr ART
AMONG A VarieTy oF gOlF bALLs, thrEAd-WoUnd GoLf BalLs aND solID GolF BALLs arE Now POpULar. thE soLid gOLf BALlS arE currEnTlY IncREaSing To BE A maINSTrEAM prOdUcT. AMonG TheM, TWO-pieCE SolID golF bAllS cOnsIsTINg oF A CORE AnD A CoVER aRE Most WIdESpreaD.
moST amATeUr goLfErs ArE FONd oF TWo-pIEce sOLID Golf BallS whiCH hAVe ExcelLeNt flYiNG PErFOrmanCE anD dUraBiLIty ALtHOuGH THeSE bAlLS HaVE the DIsAdvantaGes of A vEry HarD FEEL ON HiTTINg ANd LOw CoNtrOL duE TO raPiD BaLL sePAraTION ON HItTiNg. for ThIS ReaSon, MAny Of pRoFeSSiOnal GolfErs anD sKIlLed AMAteUr GolFeRs WHO ImPOSE WEIGHt ON FeeLINg ANd cOntRoL pREfER WoUnd goLf bALLs, EspEciALLY WOuND GOLF ballS UsIng a SOFT BALAtA cOvER, tO TWO-PIECE sOliD GOlF bALls. THe WOUND GoLf bAlls Are sUPeRIOr in feElING ANd contRoL, bUt iNfeRiOr IN FLYinG distANCe aND dURaBIlIty tO The Two-piecE sOLiD goLf bALLs.
uNDEr tHe preSEnt sITUaTIoN THat TWo-piECE SOLiD gOlf BAlls aNd wOUnd GOLf BaLLs have coNtrAdicToRy CHArAcTERiStics AS MeNTIONeD aBoVe, plAYErS maKE A cHoIce oF GOLF BAllS DEpEnDiNG oN theiR Own sKilL aNd TASTe.
IN oRDer to dEvElop SoLid GOlF ballS haVING a HitTiNg feEl aPPrOxImaTE tO tHE wound golf baLls, TWO-Piece sOLId GOlF BAlls of thE SOFt Type hAVE BEen ConSIdeRed. fOR such tWo-pIece solID GoLF baLLs Of tHe SOFT TypE, SoFt CoRes muSt BE USEd. iF tHe coRES ARE sofT, hoWEVer, repULSiON becOMes LoW witH a ConcomiTant loSs Of fLyING perFormAncE ANd DURaBilItY Is COnSIderABlY DETeRiORATED. tHaT IS, tHE SupErior FLYIng perFOrmAnCe aNd duRabIlItY wHicH arE a cHaRacteRIStiC oF tWo-PIECe SOlID GOlF bALLs aRE LOST, AND in an ExTrEMe cASE, thE bAllS bECOME uNacCepTAbLE FOR PrACTIcal USE.
COnTrollaBIliTY, WHICH IS REQUIREd EVEN ON fuLl shots WiTh DriveRs, IS mosT ImporTaNT on COntRoL sHots LIke ApProAcH shOts. IN an exEmPLAry sItuaTion That THe NExT ShOt ShouLd flY beyOND the buNker anD A sHoRt DIStaNcE FroM The GREeN EdGE TO The cUp, THe pLAyER whO iS eiTHEr PRoFesSioNAL Or AmATeur wILL NaturaLly wISH TO hit A BalL wiTh A miNimAl run. SuCH COntRoLLABILiTy of A GoLF BAlL lArGELY dEpends oN SPiN proPertIeS.
on A fuLl SHOt WiTh a CLUB HaVIng a rElativELY LARGe LOfT, THe ClUB Loft iS DOMinaNt tO tHat THE ball itselF So ThAT almOSt aLL bAlLs Are GiVen AN APPrOPrIATe aMOUNT Of spin and FeW BaLls oVErRUN. hOWEveR, On a APpROaCH sHOT ovER A ShOrt DistaNcE of 30 OR 50 yaRds, baLLS wiLL sIGNIfiCANtly vaRY In ruN or cOnTrolLabiliTY. THE MaJoR faCTOr caUsInG SUCH a dIFfERenCE iS NOT A BAsIc StrUctUrE, bUt THE IDENtity oF COvEr MATERiAl. In twO-pieCe solid gOlf baLLS, howEVeR, covErs MADe Of soft MATErIal ARE EFfeCTIve fOR ImProving ContrOLlABiLItY, BUt dETRIMeNtal foR GAiNinG FlyInG distAnce.
|
1. Fieldof the Invention This invention relates to three-piece solid golf balls comprisinga centercore, an intermediate layer, anda cover andmore particularly, to three-piece solid golf balls which areimproved in feeling on impact, controllability, and durability. 2.Prior Art Among a varietyof golf balls, thread-wound golf balls and solid golf balls are nowpopular.The solid golf balls are currently increasing to be a mainstream product.Among them, two-piece solid golf balls consisting of a coreand a cover aremost widespread. Mostamateur golfers are fond of two-piece solidgolf balls which have excellent flying performance and durability although these balls have the disadvantages of a very hard feel onhittingand low control dueto rapid ball separation onhitting. For this reason, many of professional golfersand skilled amateur golfers who impose weight on feeling and control prefer wound golf balls, especially wound golf balls using a soft balata cover, to two-piece solid golf balls. The woundgolf balls are superior in feeling and control, but inferiorin flying distance and durability to thetwo-piece solidgolf balls. Under the present situation thattwo-piece solid golf balls and woundgolf balls have contradictory characteristicsas mentioned above, players make a choiceof golf balls dependingon their own skill and taste.In order todevelop solid golf balls having ahittingfeel approximate to the wound golf balls, two-piece solid golf balls ofthe soft type have been considered.For such two-piece solid golf balls of the soft type, soft cores must be used.If the cores aresoft,however, repulsion becomes low with a concomitant loss of flying performance anddurability is considerably deteriorated. Thatis, the superior flying performance anddurability which are a characteristic of two-piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the balls become unacceptable for practical use. Controllability, which is required even on fullshotswith drivers,is mostimportant on control shots likeapproach shots. In an exemplary situation that the nextshot should fly beyond the bunkerand a short distance from the green edge to the cup, the playerwho iseither professional or amateur will naturallywish to hit a ball with a minimal run. Such controllability of agolf ball largelydepends on spin properties. On a full shot witha clubhaving a relatively largeloft, the clubloft is dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all ballsare given an appropriateamount of spinand few balls overrun. However, on a approach shot over a short distance of30 or 50 yards, balls will significantly vary in run or controllability. The major factor causing such a difference is not a basicstructure, but the identityof cover material. Intwo-piece solid golf balls, however, covers made of soft material are effective for improving controllability,butdetrimental for gaining flying distance.
|
1. Field of _the_ Invention This invention relates to three-piece solid golf balls comprising a center core, an intermediate _layer,_ and a cover and more particularly, _to_ three-piece solid golf balls which are improved in feeling on impact, controllability, _and_ _durability._ _2._ Prior Art Among a variety of golf _balls,_ thread-wound _golf_ balls and solid _golf_ _balls_ are now popular. The solid golf _balls_ are currently _increasing_ _to_ be a mainstream product. Among them, _two-piece_ solid golf balls consisting of a _core_ and a cover are _most_ widespread. Most _amateur_ golfers are _fond_ of two-piece solid golf balls which have excellent flying _performance_ and durability although _these_ balls have the disadvantages of a _very_ _hard_ feel on hitting and _low_ _control_ due to rapid _ball_ separation on hitting. _For_ this _reason,_ many of _professional_ golfers and skilled amateur golfers who _impose_ weight on feeling _and_ control prefer _wound_ _golf_ balls, especially wound golf balls _using_ a soft _balata_ cover, to _two-piece_ solid golf _balls._ The _wound_ golf balls are superior in feeling _and_ control, _but_ inferior in flying distance and durability to _the_ two-piece _solid_ golf balls. Under the present situation that two-piece solid golf balls and wound _golf_ balls have contradictory characteristics as _mentioned_ _above,_ players make a _choice_ of golf balls depending on their own _skill_ and taste. In order to develop solid golf balls having a hitting _feel_ approximate _to_ the wound golf balls, _two-piece_ _solid_ golf balls of _the_ _soft_ type have _been_ considered. _For_ such two-piece _solid_ golf balls of the soft type, soft cores must be used. If the cores are soft, however, repulsion becomes low with a concomitant loss of _flying_ performance and _durability_ _is_ considerably deteriorated. That is, the superior flying performance and durability which _are_ a characteristic of two-piece solid golf balls are lost, and in an extreme case, the balls _become_ _unacceptable_ for practical use. Controllability, which is required _even_ _on_ full _shots_ with _drivers,_ is most _important_ on control shots like approach shots. _In_ an exemplary situation that the next shot should fly beyond the bunker and a short distance from the green edge to _the_ cup, the player who is either professional or amateur will naturally wish to _hit_ _a_ ball with _a_ minimal run. Such controllability of a golf _ball_ largely depends on _spin_ properties. On a full shot with _a_ club having _a_ relatively large loft, the club _loft_ _is_ dominant to that the ball itself so that almost all balls are given an appropriate amount of spin and few balls overrun. However, _on_ a approach shot over a short distance of 30 _or_ _50_ yards, _balls_ will significantly vary in run or controllability. _The_ major factor _causing_ _such_ a _difference_ is not a _basic_ structure, but the _identity_ _of_ cover material. In _two-piece_ solid golf balls, however, covers made _of_ soft _material_ are effective for improving controllability, but detrimental for _gaining_ flying distance.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus that picks up an image by using a solid state image pickup device.
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent years, image pickup apparatuses using solid state image pickup devices have been widely used in various apparatuses including the case of medical endoscopes.
In the case of a medical endoscope that is inserted into a body cavity, it is necessary to achieve diameter reduction to reduce a pain given to a patient by reducing an outside diameter of an insertion portion that is inserted into the body cavity, and it becomes necessary to reduce a size of a solid state image pickup device that is disposed in a distal end portion of the insertion portion.
In order to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion, it is conceivable to configure some pixels at a peripheral side of pixels forming a light receiving portion to have a configuration of effective pixels having no optical black pixels (OB pixels) that generate signals of black levels on an picked-up image by mechanically blocking light from reaching some pixels at the peripheral side of the pixels forming the light receiving section.
Although it becomes possible to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion by adopting the solid state image pickup device having no OB pixels in this way, the black levels on the picked-up image is in an indefinite state by adopting the configuration having no OB pixels, and the entire image becomes white (black floating) or becomes unnatural black (black sinking) on monitor display, so that a circuit configuration that generates signals of black levels is needed.
For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2007-019577 as a first prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including a mechanical shutter configured to capture an object optical image, an image pickup device configured to output an image signal based on the object optical image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage means configured to hold the output from the image pickup device in a light shielding state time by the shutter as a dark output, and correction means configured to estimate noise components in an actual photographing time based on an exposure time period at the actual photographing time at which the object optical image is captured through the mechanical shutter, and the dark output stored in the storage means, and remove the estimated noise components from the output of the image pickup device at the actual photographing time to output the output of the image pickup device.
Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2014-82698 as a second prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including an image pickup device capable of acquiring a first photographed image and a second photographed image in one image output period, image judging means configured to judge whether or not to acquire an image for dark shading correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means configured to acquire the image for dark shading correction instead of the second photographed image when the image judging means judges to acquire the image for dark shading correction, and image correction means configured to correct the first photographed image and the second photographed image by using the image for dark shading correction.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus that picks up an image by using a solid state image pickup device. 2. description of the related art in recent years, image pickup apparatuses using solid state image pickup technology have been widely used in various apparatuses including the case of medical autopsy. in the case of a medical endoscope that is jammed into a body cavity, it is necessary to achieve diameter reduction to reduce a pain given to a patient by reducing an outside diameter of an insertion portion that is inserted into the body cavity, and it becomes necessary to reduce a size of a solid state image pickup assembly that is disposed in a distal end portion of the insert portion. in order to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion, it remains conceivable to configure some pixels at a peripheral side of pixels forming a light receiving portion to have a configuration of effective pixels having no optical black pixels ( ob pixels ) that generate signals of black levels on an picked - up image by mechanically blocking light from reaching some pixels at the peripheral side of the pixels forming the light receiving section. although it becomes possible to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion by adopting the solid state image pickup device having no ob pixels configured this way, the black levels on the picked - up image is in an indefinite state by adopting the configuration having no ob pixels, and the entire image becomes white ( black floating ) or becomes unnatural black ( black sinking ) on monitor display, so that a circuit configuration that generates signals of black levels is needed. for example, japanese patent application laid - open publication no. 2007 - 019577 as a first prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including a mechanical camera configured to capture an object optical image, an image pickup device configured that output an image signal based on the object optical image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage means configured to hold the output from the image pickup device in a light shielding state time by the shutter as a dark output, and correction modes configured to estimate noise components in an actual photographing time based on an exposure time period at the actual photographing time at which the object optical image is captured through the mechanical shutter, and the dark output stored in the storage means, and remove the estimated noise components from the output of the image pickup device at the actual photograph ##ing time to output the output of the image pickup device. further, japanese patent application laid - open publication no. 2014 - 82698 as a second prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including an image pickup device capable of acquiring a first photographed image and a second photographed image in one image output period, image judging means configured to judge whether or not to acquire an image for dark shading correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means configured to acquire the image for dark shading correction instead of the second photographed image when the image judging means judges to acquire the image for dark shading correction, and image correction means configured to correct the first photographed image and the second photographed image by using the image for dark shading correction.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus that picks up an image by using a solid state 9magw pickup device. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image pickup apparatuses using solid state image pickup deficeq have been widely used in various apparatuses including the case of medical endoscopes. In the case of a medical endoscope that is inserted into a body cavity, it is necessary to achieve diameter reduction to reduce a pain given to a patient by reducing an outside diameter of an insertion portion that is inserted into the body cavity, and it becomes necessary to reduce a size of a solid state image pickup device that is disposed in a distal end portion of the insertion portion. In order to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion, it is conceivable to configure some picelq at a peripheral side of pixels forming a light receiving portion to have a configuration of effective pixels having no optical black pixels (OB pixels) that generate signals of black levels on an picked - up image by mechanically blocking light from reaching some pixels at the peripheral side of the pixels forming the light receiving section. Although it becomes possible to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion by adopting the solid state image pickup device having no OB pixels in this way, the black levels on the picked - up image is in an indefinite state by adopting the configudahion having no OB pixels, and the entire image becomes white (black floating) or becomes unnatural black (black sinking) on monitor display, so that a circuit configuration that generates signals of black levels is needed. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid - Open Publication No. 2007 - 019577 as a first prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including a mechanical shutter configured to cAoture an object optical image, an image pickup device configured to output an image sigha< based on the object optical image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage means configured to hold the output from the image pickup device in a light shielding state time by the shutter as a dark output, and correction means configured to estimate noise components in an actual photographing time based on an exposure tone period at the actual photographing time at which the object optical image is captured through the mechanical shutter, and the dark output stored in the storage means, and remove the estimated noise components from the output of the image piDkhp device at the actual photographing time to output the output of the image pickup device. Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid - Open Publication No. 2014 - 82698 as a second prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including an image pickup device capable of acquiring a first photographed image and a second photographed image in one image output period, image judging means configured to judge whether or not to acquire an image for dark shading correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means configured to acquire the image for dark shading correction instead of the second photographed image when the image judging means judges to acquire the image for datO shading correction, and image correction means configured to correct the first photographed image and the second photographed Lmafe by using the image for dark shading correction.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus that picks up an image by using a solid state pickup device. 2. Description of the Related Art In years, image pickup apparatuses using solid state image pickup devices been widely used in various apparatuses including the case of medical endoscopes. In the case of a medical endoscope that is inserted into a body cavity, it is necessary to achieve diameter reduction to reduce a pain given to a by reducing outside diameter of an insertion portion that is into body cavity, and it becomes to reduce a size of a solid image pickup device that is disposed in a distal of the insertion portion. order to reduce the size of the solid state image pickup device which is disposed the distal portion of the insertion portion, it is conceivable to configure some at a peripheral side of pixels forming a light receiving portion to have a of effective pixels having no optical black pixels (OB pixels) that generate of black levels on an image mechanically light from reaching some pixels the peripheral side of the pixels forming the light receiving section. Although it becomes possible to reduce the size of the solid state image device which is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion by adopting the solid state image pickup device no OB pixels in this way, black levels on the picked-up image is in an indefinite state by adopting the having no OB pixels, and the entire image becomes (black or becomes unnatural black (black sinking) on monitor display, so that a circuit configuration generates of black levels is needed. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2007-019577 as first prior example discloses an image pickup including a mechanical shutter configured to capture an object optical image, an image pickup device to output an image based on the object optical image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage configured to hold the output from the image pickup device in a light shielding state time by the as dark output, and correction means configured to estimate noise components in an photographing time based on an exposure time period at actual photographing time at which the object optical image is captured through shutter, and the dark output stored in the means, and remove the estimated noise components from the output of the pickup at the actual time to output the of the image pickup Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2014-82698 as second prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus an image pickup device capable of acquiring a first photographed image and a second image in one image output period, image judging means to judge whether or not to acquire an image shading correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means configured to acquire image for dark shading correction instead the second image when the image judging means judges to acquire the image for dark shading correction, and image correction means configured correct the first photographed image and the photographed image by using the image for dark shading correction.
|
1. fIeLD of THE InVEntIon
The prEseNt InVEnTiOn reLates to An IMaGe PICKuP aPPArAtuS thAt PIcKS UP aN IMage BY uSInG a SoliD STAtE iMAGe piCkuP deVice.
2. dEscripTiON Of tHe rElaTed aRT
In rEcENt yeArS, iMaGE pICKuP ApPARatuSes USing SoLID StAte iMAGe PIcKUP dEvICeS have BEEN wIdelY uSED In vaRIoUs apparaTuses iNcLUDing THe cASe OF MeDICAL eNdOScoPeS.
In THe casE oF A MEDiCaL eNDoSCOPE ThAT iS iNSeRTeD intO a bodY CavITY, iT iS nECessaRy tO achieve DiaMEter reductIOn To reduCe A pAiN GIven to a PAtieNT by REdUciNG aN OUTSidE DIAmEter of AN insERtion PorTIOn tHAt is iNSERTED intO the BoDY CaVITY, aNd IT BecomEs nECEsSaRY TO reduCe A size Of A sOlId STaTe ImAGE pIcKUp DEvIcE THAT iS dIspoSED iN A dISTal eND pORtIoN oF the iNSErtIOn PoRTIOn.
iN OrDer To ReDUCe The sIZE Of tHe sOlid sTaTe iMagE PICkup dEViCE which iS diSPOsED IN tHe DIsTaL End PorTIOn Of The INSeRtIOn porTiON, it iS ConceIVaBle to confIGURE soME PiXEls At a PEriPhEral SiDE oF PiXElS foRmIng a LIGhT rEcEIViNg pORTION TO haVE a CoNfigURATION oF effECTiVe piXels having nO oPticAL blaCk pIXEls (OB PIxELs) That GEnEraTE SIGNAlS oF BLaCk lEveLs oN AN picKEd-up ImAGE BY MeCHanicaLLy BlOcKinG LIghT FRom rEacHing soMe PixELS AT thE perIpHErAl SiDE OF thE pixELs FORmING The LIght ReCeiving sECtiON.
AlthoUGH iT BEComeS POSsIble To ReDucE THE SIZe Of THe SoLiD StATE IMaGE picKUp dEviCe WhicH is disPOsEd In tHE DISTAL eND PorTiON OF ThE iNsErtiON portIOn bY ADoPTing thE SoLId statE IMAGE PiCKup deVICe haViNG No ob PiXelS iN this WAy, thE bLACk leVEls On ThE PICKed-Up imaGe IS IN an iNDEFIniTe StaTe By adOPTING THE CONfiGurATION HaVInG nO OB pIXELs, ANd the ENTirE iMAGE beCoMES WhiTe (blAck fLoating) OR bEComeS UNnATUral blaCK (BlaCK sinkINg) on MOnIToR dIspLaY, So THaT A CirCUIt COnFigURAtIon THAT GeNERaTes siGNAlS OF Black LEvELS is nEEdEd.
FOR EXaMPle, jAPaneSe PATENt APpLiCATioN LaiD-open PUBLIcAtIon no. 2007-019577 aS a fIrst priOR EXAmpLE DisClOses an image pIcKuP aPPAraTuS InCLuDINg a meCHanICaL shUTter coNFIguREd TO cApTurE an obJECT oPTIcal ImAGE, an IMaGe pickUP devicE ConFigUreD To OuTPut An ImagE sIGNAl BasEd oN tHe oBJECT OpTiCaL iMAGE InCIdeNT ThROugH thE mEcHAnicAl sHutTER, sToRagE MEans coNFIGuREd to holD The OuTPut FRom thE Image pIcKup dEVIcE In A liGHt ShiELDinG sTatE timE by The ShuTTEr AS a DARK oUtpUT, and CoRrECTION mEanS cONFigUreD To eSTimatE nOIsE ComPonEnts IN AN ACtuAl PHoToGRAPhING TIme baSEd oN AN ExpOsUrE tIMe PeRioD at The actuaL PHOTogRAPhInG TIme AT WhiCh THe OBJEcT oPtIcAl ImagE IS cAptUReD THROUgH THe MeCHAnical shUTtER, ANd tHe DaRk outpUT sTorED IN tHe STOragE MEaNs, And REmOve ThE EsTiMAtEd NoISe cOmpOneNTS From THE oUTpUt Of the iMaGE PICkUP dEViCE At tHe aCTUal PhOTogrAPHING tIME tO OutPut thE OuTpuT oF the iMaGe pICkuP deVICe.
fURTheR, jaPANesE pAtENt aPpliCATIOn lAID-OPeN PuBlIcAtiON No. 2014-82698 aS a secoND priOR EXamplE DIsCloSes AN imaGE PiCkup apparaTUs INCLuDIng AN imaGe PIcKUP DeviCE cApABlE oF AcQUIRing A fIRSt PHOTOGRaPHed imAge aNd a seCOnd phOTOGrAPHeD iMagE iN oNe image OUtpuT PeRIOD, iMaGE judgiNG meANs ConfigUreD tO judGE WhETher oR NOT to ACqUire aN image FoR DARK ShadiNg coRREctIon iN aCCoRDanCe WITH PHOtogRApHiNg condiTiONs, iMage acquisition MeAnS ConFIGUrED TO AcquiRE the iMage for dark sHADiNg CORrEctIon instEAd Of THE sECOND pHotOGrAPHeD image whEN ThE iMaGe judgiNG mEaNS juDges TO AcquirE THE IMAGe FoR DARK sHaDIng cOrrEcTiON, aNd iMAge corrEctION mEaNs cONFIGURed To corRECt THe fIRSt PHotOgRapHeD image aNd The sECoNd PHotoGrAPhed ImAGe bY usIng tHE ImAGE foR dARK SHAdInG coRRECTIon.
|
1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to animage pickup apparatus that picks up an image by using a solid state image pickup device. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image pickup apparatuses using solid stateimage pickup devices have beenwidelyused in various apparatuses includingthe case of medical endoscopes. In thecase of a medical endoscope that is inserted into a body cavity,itis necessary to achievediameter reduction to reduce apain given to a patient by reducing an outside diameter of an insertion portion thatis inserted into the body cavity, andit becomes necessary to reducea size of a solid state imagepickup device that is disposed ina distal end portion of the insertionportion. In order to reduce the size of thesolid stateimage pickup devicewhichis disposed in the distal endportion of the insertion portion, it is conceivable to configure some pixels ata peripheral side of pixels forminga light receiving portion to have a configurationof effectivepixels having no optical black pixels (OB pixels) that generate signals of black levels on an picked-up image by mechanically blocking light from reaching some pixels at theperipheralside of the pixels forming the light receiving section. Although it becomes possible to reduce the size of thesolid stateimage pickup device which is disposedin the distal end portion of the insertion portion by adopting thesolid state image pickup device having no OB pixelsin this way, the black levelson the picked-up image is inanindefinitestate byadopting the configuration having no OB pixels, and theentire image becomes white (black floating) or becomes unnatural black (blacksinking) on monitor display, so that a circuit configuration that generates signals of black levelsis needed. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2007-019577 as a firstprior example discloses an image pickup apparatus includinga mechanical shutterconfigured to capture an object optical image, an image pickupdevice configured to output an image signal based on theobject optical image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage means configured to hold the output from the image pickup device in a light shielding state time by the shutter as a dark output,and correction means configured to estimate noise components in an actualphotographing time based on an exposure time period at the actual photographingtime atwhich the object optical image iscaptured through the mechanical shutter,and the dark output stored in the storagemeans, and remove the estimated noise components from the output of the image pickup device at the actual photographing time to output the output of the image pickupdevice.Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.2014-82698 as a second prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus including an image pickup device capable of acquiring a first photographed image and a second photographedimage inone image output period, imagejudging means configured tojudge whetheror not to acquire an image for dark shading correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means configured to acquiretheimage for dark shading correction instead ofthe secondphotographed image when the image judgingmeans judgesto acquire the image fordark shading correction, and image correction means configured to correct the firstphotographed image and the second photographed imageby using the image for dark shading correction.
|
1. _Field_ of the Invention The present _invention_ _relates_ to an _image_ pickup apparatus that picks up an image by _using_ a solid state image pickup device. 2. _Description_ of the Related Art In recent years, _image_ _pickup_ apparatuses _using_ solid state image _pickup_ devices have _been_ widely used in various apparatuses _including_ the case of medical endoscopes. In the case of a medical endoscope _that_ is inserted into a body cavity, _it_ is necessary to achieve diameter reduction _to_ reduce _a_ pain given to a patient by _reducing_ an outside diameter of an insertion _portion_ that is _inserted_ _into_ the body cavity, _and_ it becomes necessary to reduce a size of a solid state image _pickup_ _device_ that is disposed in a distal _end_ portion of the insertion portion. In order to reduce the size of the solid state _image_ pickup device which is disposed in the distal _end_ portion of _the_ _insertion_ portion, it is conceivable to configure some pixels at _a_ peripheral side of pixels forming a light receiving portion to _have_ a configuration of effective pixels _having_ no optical black pixels (OB pixels) _that_ _generate_ _signals_ of _black_ levels _on_ an picked-up image by mechanically blocking _light_ from reaching some pixels at the _peripheral_ side of the pixels forming the light receiving section. _Although_ _it_ becomes possible _to_ reduce the size of _the_ solid state image pickup device which is _disposed_ _in_ the distal end portion of the insertion portion _by_ _adopting_ _the_ solid state image pickup device having no OB pixels in _this_ way, the black levels on the picked-up image is in an indefinite _state_ by adopting the configuration having _no_ _OB_ pixels, and the entire image _becomes_ white _(black_ _floating)_ or becomes unnatural black (black sinking) on monitor display, _so_ that a circuit configuration _that_ _generates_ signals _of_ black levels _is_ needed. For example, Japanese Patent _Application_ Laid-Open Publication No. 2007-019577 as a first prior example discloses an image pickup apparatus _including_ a mechanical shutter configured _to_ capture _an_ _object_ optical image, an image pickup device _configured_ to output _an_ _image_ signal based on the object _optical_ image incident through the mechanical shutter, storage means configured to hold the _output_ from _the_ image pickup device _in_ a light _shielding_ _state_ time by the shutter _as_ _a_ dark output, and _correction_ means _configured_ to estimate noise components in _an_ actual _photographing_ time based on _an_ exposure time period at the actual photographing time _at_ _which_ the object optical image is captured through the _mechanical_ shutter, and _the_ dark output stored in the storage means, and remove the _estimated_ noise components from the _output_ of _the_ _image_ pickup device at the actual photographing time to output the output of the image pickup device. Further, _Japanese_ Patent Application Laid-Open _Publication_ No. _2014-82698_ _as_ a _second_ _prior_ example discloses an _image_ pickup apparatus including an image pickup _device_ capable _of_ acquiring _a_ first photographed image and a second photographed image _in_ _one_ _image_ output _period,_ image _judging_ means configured to judge whether or not to acquire an image for dark _shading_ correction in accordance with photographing conditions, image acquisition means _configured_ to acquire the image for dark shading correction instead of _the_ second photographed _image_ when the image judging means judges _to_ _acquire_ the image for dark shading correction, and image correction means configured to correct the first photographed image and _the_ second photographed _image_ by using the _image_ for dark shading correction.
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention is directed to a protective structure and to a protective system for protecting buildings, streets, and other areas from explosions caused by an explosive device such as a bomb. More particularly, the protective structure and protective system employ a membrane-like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete. The protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of an explosion, and the mesh structure prevents composite fragments from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. The protective structure may be sacrificial in nature, i.e., its sole purpose is to absorb the energy from the explosive shock wave and contain composite debris caused by the explosion, or the protective structure may be employed as a load-bearing structural component. Accordingly, this results in reduction in personal injury and property damage due to the explosion.
2. Background Information
Protection of people, buildings, bridges etc. from attacks by car or truck bombs, remote controlled explosives, etc. is of increasing importance and necessity. The explosive force or pressure wave generated by an explosive device such as a car bomb may be sufficient (depending on the size of the explosive device used) to disintegrate a composite wall, thereby causing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage.
Conventional reinforced composite structures such as reinforced concrete walls are well known to those skilled in the art. Such conventional structures typically employ steel reinforcement bars embedded within the composite structure or wall. However, in the case of an explosion or blast load which may generate a pressure wave in excess of tens of thousands of psi, a conventional reinforced composite structure will be ineffective in providing sufficient protection, and the blast load will cause disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage.
One example of a proposed solution for this problem is the Adler Blast Wall™ which, is made up of front and back face plates which contain a reinforced concrete fill material. According to the developers of the Adler Blast Wall™, if an explosion occurs proximate to the front face plate, the back face plate will catch any concrete debris which results from the explosion. However, if the back face plate of the Adler Blast Wall™ is sufficiently displaced in the horizontal or vertical direction due to the explosion, small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby causing personal injury or property damage. Accordingly, there is a need for a protective structure which further minimizes the possibility that such small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure employed.
It is a first object of this invention to provide a blast resistant protective structure which minimizes the possibility that small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure in the event of an explosion or blast load proximate to the structure.
It is one feature of the protective structure of this invention that it employs a membrane-like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire, and structural steel cables in contact with the mesh structure, for example welded to the mesh structure forming a cage around it, or interwoven into the mesh structure. The mesh structure is compressible in all three dimensions, and surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. In the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the mesh structure advantageously prevents composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite fill material of the protective structure from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion.
It is another feature of the protective structure of this invention that, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of the explosion.
It is a second object of this invention to provide a protective system which employs a number of the above described protective structures which are joined together via a number of support members, thereby providing a protective wall of sufficient length to provide more complete protection of a given area as well as additional ease of construction and use. The protective system may be used, but is not limited to use in constructing buildings, tunnels, portals etc.
It is a feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members be capable of receiving the respective ends of the protective structures to provide an integrated wall structure.
It is another feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members may also employ a mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure may surround a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. Thus, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective system of this invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due to disintegration of the concrete fill material of the support members from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion.
Other objects, features and advantages of the protective structure and protective system of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the detailed description of the invention set forth herein.
|
1. field of the invention this invention is directed to protective protective structure and to a protective system for protecting buildings, streets, and other areas from explosions caused by an explosive device such as a bomb. more particularly, the protective structure and protective system employ a membrane - like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. the mesh structure surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete. the protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated of the blast load of an explosion, and the mesh structure prevents composite fragments from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. the protective structure may be sacrificial in nature, a. e., its sole purpose is to absorb the energy from the explosive shock wave and contain composite debris caused by the explosion, or the protective structure may be employed alongside a load - bearing structural component. accordingly, this results a reduction in personal injury and property harmed due to the explosion. 2. background information protection of people, buildings, bridges etc. from attacks by car or truck bombs, remote controlled explosives, etc. is of increasing importance and necessity. the pressure force or pressure wave generated by an explosive device such as a car bomb may be sufficient ( depending on the size of the explosive device used ) to disintegrate a composite wall, thereby causing shrapnel - like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. conventional reinforced composite structures such as reinforced concrete walls are also known to those skilled in the art. such conventional structures typically employ steel reinforcement bars embedded within the composite structure or wall. however, in the absence of an explosion or blast load which may generate a pressure wave in excess of tens of thousands of psi, a conventional reinforced composite structure will be ineffective in providing sufficient protection, and the blast load will cause disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel - like pieces of composite to are launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. one example of a proposed solution for this problem is the adler blast wall™ which, is made up of front and back face plates which contain a reinforced concrete fill material. according to the developers of the adler blast wall™, if an explosion occurs proximate to the front face plate, the back face plate will catch any concrete debris which results from the explosion. however, if the back face plate of the adler blast wall™ is sufficiently displaced in the horizontal or vertical direction due to the explosion, small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby causing personal injury or property damage. accordingly, there is a need for a protective structure which further minimizes the possibility that such small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure employed. it is a first object of this invention to provide a blast resistant protective structure which minimizes the possibility that small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure in the event of an explosion or blast load proximate to the structure. it is one feature of the protective structure of this invention that it employs a membrane - like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire, and structural steel cables in contact with the mesh structure, for example welded to the mesh structure forming a cage around it, or interwoven into the mesh structure. the mesh structure is compressible in all three dimensions, and surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the mesh structure advantageously prevents composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite fill material of the protective structure from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. it is another feature of the protective structure of this invention that, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of the explosion. it is a second object of this invention to provide a protective system which employs a number of the above described protective structures which are joined together via a number of support members, thereby providing a protective wall of sufficient length to provide more complete protection of a given area as well as additional ease of construction and use. the protective system may be used, but is not limited to use in constructing buildings, tunnels, portals etc. it is a feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members be capable of receiving the respective ends of the protective structures to provide an integrated wall structure. it is another feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members may also employ a mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. the mesh structure may surround a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. thus, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective system of this invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due to disintegration of the concrete fill material of the support members from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. other objects, features and advantages of the protective structure and protective system of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the detailed description of the invention set forth herein.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention is directed to a protective structure and to a protective system for protecting buildings, streets, and other areas from explosions caused by an explosive device such as a bomb. More particularly, the protective structure and protective system employ a membrane - like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete. The protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of an explosion, and the mesh structure prevents composite fragments from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. The protective structure may be sacrificial in nature, i. e. , its sole purpose is to absorb the energy crPm the explosive shock wave and contain composite debris caused by the explosion, or the protective structure may be employed as a ooax - bearing structural component. Accordingly, this results in reduction in personal injury and property damage due to the explosion. 2. Background Information Protection of people, buildings, bridges etc. from attacks by car or truck bombs, remote controlled explosives, etc. is of increasing importance and necessity. The explosive force or pressure wave generated by an ezplocive device such as a car bomb may be sufficient (depending on the size of the explosive device used) to disintegrate a composite wall, thereby causing shrapnel - like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. Conventional reinforced composite structures such as reinforced concrete walls are well known to those skilled in the art. Such conventional structures typically employ steel reinforcement bars embedded within the composite structure or wall. However, in the case of an explosion or blast load which may generate a pressure wave in excess of tens of thousands of psi, a conventional reinforced composite structure will be ineffective in providing sufficient protection, and the blast load will cause disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel - like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. One example of a proposed solution for this problem is the Adler Blast Wall ™ which, is made up of front and back face plates which contain a reinforced concrete fill material. Accl%ding to the developers of the Adler Blast Wall ™, if an explosion occurs proximate to the front face plate, the back face plate will catch any concrete debris which results from the explosion. However, if the back face plate of the Adler Blast Wall ™ is sufficiently displaced in the horizontal or vertical direction due to the explosion, small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby causing personal injury or property damage. Accordingly, there is a need for a protective structure which further minimizes the possibility that such small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure employed. It is a first object of this invention to provide a blast resistant protective structure which minimizes the possibility that small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure in the event of an explosion or blast load proximate to the structure. It is one feature of the protective structure of this invention that it employs a membrane - like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire, and structural steel cables in contact with the mesh structure, for example welded to the mesh structure forming a cage around it, or interwoven into the mesh structure. The mesh structure is compressible in all three dimensions, and surrounds a composite Gull material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, mlldeR plastics, or other composite plastics. In the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the mesh structure advantageously prevents composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite fill material of the protective structure from injuring people or property in the DOcinity of the explosion. It is another feature of the protective structure of this invention that, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of the explosion. It is a second object of this invention to provide a protective system which employs a number of the above described protective structures which are joined together via a number of support members, thereby providing a protective wall of sufficient length to provide more complete protection of a given area as well as additional ease of construction and use. The protective system may be used, but is not limited to use in Dons5ructing buildings, tunnels, portals etc. It is a feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members be capable of receiving the respective ends of the protective structures to provide an integrated wall structure. It is another feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members may also employ a mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure may surround a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. Thus, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective system of this invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due to disintegration of the concrete fill material of the support members from injuring people or property in the vixinjty of the explosion. Other objects, features and advantages of the protective structure and protective system of this invDnt9on will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the detailed description of the invention set forth herein.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention directed to a protective structure and a protective system for protecting buildings, streets, and other areas from explosions caused by an explosive device such as a More particularly, the protective structure protective system employ a membrane-like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete. The protective structure deflects in response to and energy with the blast load of an explosion, and the mesh structure prevents composite fragments from injuring people property in vicinity of the explosion. The protective structure may be in nature, i.e., its sole purpose is to absorb the from the explosive shock wave and contain caused by the explosion, or the protective structure may be employed as a load-bearing structural component. Accordingly, results reduction in personal injury and property damage due to the explosion. 2. Background Information Protection of people, bridges etc. from attacks by car or truck bombs, remote controlled explosives, etc. is of increasing importance necessity. The explosive force or wave generated by an explosive device such car bomb may sufficient (depending on the size of the explosive used) to disintegrate a composite wall, thereby shrapnel-like pieces of to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. Conventional composite structures such as reinforced concrete walls well known to those skilled in the art. conventional structures typically employ steel reinforcement bars embedded within the composite structure or wall. However, in of an explosion or blast load which may generate a wave excess of tens of thousands of psi, a conventional reinforced composite structure will be ineffective in providing sufficient protection, and the blast load will disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel-like of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional and property damage. One example of a proposed solution for this problem is the Adler Blast Wall™ which, is made up of front face which contain concrete fill material. According to the of the Adler Blast Wall™, if an explosion occurs proximate to the face the back plate will catch any concrete which results from the explosion. However, if the face plate of the Adler Blast Wall™ is displaced in the horizontal or vertical direction due to the explosion, small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby causing personal injury or property damage. there is a need for a protective further minimizes the possibility that such small pieces of concrete traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure employed. It is a first object of this invention to provide a blast resistant protective structure which minimizes the possibility that small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities escape the protective structure in the event of explosion or blast load proximate the structure. It is one feature the protective structure of this invention that it a membrane-like mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire, and structural steel cables contact with the mesh structure, for example welded to the mesh forming a cage around it, or into the mesh mesh is compressible in all three dimensions, and surrounds a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, other composite plastics. In the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the mesh structure advantageously prevents composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite fill material the structure from injuring people or property in the of the explosion. It is another of the protective structure of this invention that, in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of the explosion. It is a object of invention a system which employs a number of the above described protective structures which are joined together via a number support members, providing a protective wall of sufficient to provide more complete protection of a given area as well as additional ease of construction use. protective system may be used, but is not limited to use in constructing buildings, tunnels, portals etc. It is a of the protective system of the invention the support members be capable of receiving the respective ends of the protective to provide an integrated wall structure. It another feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members may also a mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure may surround a composite fill material as concrete, reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or other composite plastics. in the event of an explosion proximate to the protective system of invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due disintegration the concrete fill material of the support members from injuring people or property the vicinity of the explosion. Other objects, features and advantages of the protective structure and protective of this invention will apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the detailed description the invention set forth herein.
|
1. fiElD Of THe iNventiOn
THIs INvENTION IS diRECTed TO A proTECTIvE sTRuctUrE And to a pRotEctIVe SYStEM For proTectInG bUIlDIngs, sTreEts, aNd OTHer ArEAs FrOM EXploSiOns CAuSed BY aN expLOsIVe device SuCh aS A BoMb. mOrE PArtIculaRLy, tHE PrOTecTiVe StRUctUre AnD ProtecTIVE SYStem EmplOy A membrAne-LiKe MEsH stRUcTUre mAde UP Of, for ExAMPle, STEEl WiRE. THe MeSH sTrucTurE SuRrOuNds A coMposITE fill mAteRial sUCh as reiNFOrced COnCrEtE. thE PROTeCtIVe stRucTuRE DEFlects iN reSPONSE to and absORBS ThE EnErGY AssOCiAted wITh thE Blast load Of An eXPLosioN, AnD THe MesH sTRUcturE pREveNtS cOMPOsITe FRagmEnts frOm InJuRiNg PeOpLe or PropErty IN the VICiNity of THe eXPloSion. thE PROtective stRuCTURe May be SACRifICIAl IN NatuRe, I.E., ITS SOLe pUrPosE IS TO absORb thE ENeRGY from ThE expLosIVe shocK waVe aNd contaIn comPoSite dEbRIs CAUsed BY ThE EXPLOsION, Or The ProtECTive STRuCTUre may bE eMplOyed aS A load-BeAring STRUCtURAL compoNEnt. aCCORDinGly, thIS rEsUltS iN rEduCTIOn In PErSONAL inJUry aNd PropertY daMAGE DUe TO the ExPlosIoN.
2. bAckgroUnD iNfoRMaTIOn
pROTECtIon Of peOPlE, BUiLdIngS, BRIDgEs ETc. from AtTaCKs By cAr OR truCK BoMBs, RemOte CONtroLLEd EXPlosIVes, Etc. is Of incREAsing imPORTAnCE aND NECEsSitY. the expLoSivE forcE oR prESSURE WAVE gEnEratEd bY An ExpLOSIVe DeViCe suCH As a CAR boMb may Be suFfIcient (DepeNdiNG ON THE SizE oF THE expLoSIvE devicE UsEd) to disINtEGrate a coMPoSiTE walL, tHEREBY CaUSINg ShRaPnEL-liKe PieceS oF coMpOsitE tO BE laUncHED iN ALL DIrECtiOnS, and caUSinG ADDiTIonal peRSONAL InjURy anD PROPERty dAmAgE.
COnVeNTIONaL REINforCED CoMPOSite strucTUreS SUCh as REINFoRCED CoNcrETe walLS ARE weLl KNOwN TO ThosE sKIlled In thE ART. suCh cOnVEntiONAL sTRucTUreS tYPicaLly EMplOY StEEL REINFOrCEMEnt BaRs eMBEdDeD wIthin THe ComPositE sTrUctuRe OR wALL. HowEveR, in tHe CasE of an exPlOsiON oR bLAsT LoAD WHicH may GeneraTE A PResSUrE WavE in ExcEsS of tENS Of tHoUSAndS oF pSi, A ConVeNtional ReINFOrCED compOSiTE StrUctURe WilL BE IneFfectivE in PROVIDing suFFIcIENT pROtectIoN, anD the blAsT LOAD wIll cAUsE dISINTegRATIon Of tHE CoMPOSiTE, therebY caUSiNG SHraPnEL-lIKe PieCEs Of cOmpOSITe to Be LAunCHEd iN alL dIREcTiONS, and cAusIng ADDiTiONaL PERSOnaL inJuRY And ProPerTY DAMAGE.
oNe eXAmPLe OF a PRoPOSEd SoLuTion FOR THIs PRoBLeM is thE aDLEr bLAst waLl™ which, iS mAde Up oF fROnt aNd bACK FacE PlAtES whIcH cONTain a ReinfORcEd CONcrETE FILL MatErIal. aCcoRdinG tO The DEVElopers OF ThE ADLER bLaSt wAlL™, If An eXpLOSIon OCCURS PrOxImAte tO the FroNT faCe plate, tHe BacK FAcE pLaTe WILl cAtch aNY concRete DEbRiS WhIcH Results FrOM tHE EXplOSioN. howeVer, If tHE bACk faCe plaTE Of ThE ADleR BlaSt wALL™ is SUFfICIENTly DIsplaCeD iN tHE HoRizoNtAL oR VerTiCAl diRectIoN DUE to THE ExPLoSiON, sMALl PiecEs Of coNCREte dEBriS tRaveLInG At HigH vELocities May ESCaPe, tHErEBY CAUSINg perSONAl iNJury oR propeRtY daMAGE. ACcOrdINGly, there is A neeD for A protecTive sTrUCTuRE wHicH FUrtHER miniMiZes ThE pOsSibilitY tHaT SUCh SmaLL pIEces oF ConCrete dEBRiS TRAvElIng At hIgH VEloCItiEs wILL EsCApe the pROTEcTiVe StRuCture EMPLoYEd.
it IS A FiRSt OBJECt Of tHIS iNVeNTION to prOvide A Blast ResIsTanT protECtIvE StRucTurE WhICh MInimIzEs tHE pOSsIBIlItY THaT SmAlL PIeces of coNcreTE dEBRis TRaVeLInG AT hIgH VELOCiTIeS WILl eScApe The PRotEctIve STrucTure iN THE eVeNT oF an ExPLoSIon or bLAsT loaD ProXIMaTe tO the STrUCTurE.
It Is ONe fEaTURE Of ThE PROtEctIve sTruCtUrE OF thiS INvEnTION tHAT IT emPLOyS a meMBrANe-lIKE MESh sTRUCtURe mAde Up of, FOr eXaMPLE, StEEL WirE, aND stRUctuRAL STEeL CabLES iN COntAct With THe meSH StrUctUrE, FoR ExamPle WElDeD TO tHe MeSH StrucTuRe fOrMIng a CAGE AroUND iT, OR InterWOVEn Into tHE MeSh StruCTUre. THE MESH sTRuCtUrE Is COmpREsSIbLE In ALl THrEE dimeNsionS, and surROUnds a cOMposiTe FIll MAtERIaL such AS rEINFOrced cONcReTE, fIBer rEINForCED PlastIcs, mOldeD plasTicS, Or oTheR COmPOSITe pLAsTiCS. In tHe evenT of aN ExPLosIoN PRoXiMATE tO The pROtECtIve STRuctuRE OF THiS INveNTiON, tHE MeSh STructUre advaNTAgEOusLy PReVEntS comPoSItE fRaGMentS PRoDuCed dUe To dISinTEgRatION of thE compoSitE filL MaTERiAL oF the proTectivE stRUCTuRE frOM InjUrInG pEoPlE Or prOpeRTy iN the ViciNIty Of the eXploSioN.
It Is AnotheR FeAtuRe of tHE PRotEcTive stRuctuRE of tHIS InVeNtion That, in THE evENt Of AN eXpLoSIoN prOXiMaTe tO the PRoTEcTIVe sTrUCTUre of THiS InVeNtION, The protECTivE stRuCturE dEflEcTS in rESPonsE to anD abSOrBs tHE eNeRgY ASSOciaTed With tHe blaST LOAD Of The exPloSion.
IT Is A SeCOnD ObjECT of this iNvEntIon TO pROvIdE A protecTivE sYStEM WHiCh eMPloYs A NumbEr of THe above dEScrIbed PROTEctiVe StRUCturEs WHICH aRe jOinEd tOgeTHEr via A nUMBeR OF supporT MembERS, thEREBy PRoViDiNg a PrOTectiVE WaLl Of SUfFICieNT LengtH To proViDE moRE COMPleTe pRoTectIoN Of A GiVEn areA As weLl as AddItIONaL eAse Of CONSTrUCtIOn AND use. The PrOTeCTIVE sYstEm may bE uSEd, BuT is NOT limITED to uSe iN conStRUcTInG bUILdINGs, tUNnELs, PorTaLs ETC.
it IS A FeAture oF THe pRotecTIVE System oF tHe invENTiON tHat THE supporT membERS Be CaPABLe of RECeIvinG The RespEctIVe eNDs Of THe prOtECtIve StRUCTUReS tO PROVIDE An InTEgraTeD wAlL stRUCture.
IT IS AnoTHeR FEaTuRe of thE pRotectivE SYstem of the invENtIon tHaT THe SUpPOrT mEmBERs MAy AlSO EMPlOY a MesH sTruCTURE made Up Of, FOR EXAMpLe, sTeeL wire. The MESh stRUctuRE maY SUrrounD A COMPosItE FILL MatErIAL sucH aS ReiNfORcED ConCREtE, FIBer REinforCeD plastiCS, MoLdeD PLAstIcs, or oTHer cOmpOSite PlaSTIcS. thus, In the EvENT OF An ExplosioN ProXImatE TO the pRotEctIve sYstEM Of tHIs iNVeNTION, ThE mesh stRuCTurE PREVeNtS COnCrete FrAgmeNtS producEd DUe tO disINTegrAtIon of tHE CoNcreTe fILl MaTERIaL Of THE supporT MEmbErS fROM iNJuRING pEOPLe OR PRoPerty IN tHE VICINITy oF tHE ExpLOSion.
OTHER oBJeCTs, FeatuRES and aDVANtages OF tHe proTEcTiVe Structure AnD pROTeCTive sYSTEM oF ThIs INvEnTion WILl be aPPArENT tO tHOse skILLEd In THE ARt iN viEw Of THe DEtaIled DESCription Of The iNVeNTiOn SEt FoRTH hereIn.
|
1.Field of theInvention This invention is directed toaprotective structureand to aprotective system for protecting buildings,streets, and other areasfrom explosions caused by an explosive device such as abomb. More particularly, the protective structureand protective system employ amembrane-like mesh structure made up of,for example, steel wire. The mesh structure surrounds a compositefill material suchas reinforced concrete. The protective structure deflects in response to and absorbs the energy associated withthe blast loadof an explosion, andthe mesh structure prevents composite fragments from injuring people orproperty in the vicinity ofthe explosion. The protective structure may be sacrificial in nature,i.e.,its sole purpose is to absorb the energy from the explosive shock wave and contain composite debris caused by the explosion, or the protective structure maybe employed as aload-bearing structural component. Accordingly, this results in reduction in personal injury and property damage duetotheexplosion. 2. BackgroundInformation Protection of people, buildings, bridges etc. from attacks by car or truckbombs, remote controlled explosives, etc. is of increasing importance and necessity. The explosiveforce orpressure wave generated byan explosive device such as a car bomb may be sufficient (depending on thesize of the explosive device used) todisintegratea composite wall,therebycausing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launched in alldirections, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. Conventional reinforcedcomposite structures suchas reinforced concrete wallsare well known to thoseskilled in the art. Such conventional structures typically employ steel reinforcementbars embedded within the composite structure or wall.However,in the case of anexplosion or blast loadwhich may generate a pressure wave in excess of tens of thousands ofpsi, a conventional reinforcedcomposite structure will beineffective in providingsufficientprotection, and the blast load will cause disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launchedin all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage.One example of a proposed solution for this problem is the Adler Blast Wall™ which, is madeup of front and back face plates which contain a reinforced concretefill material. According to thedevelopers of the Adler Blast Wall™, ifan explosion occurs proximate to thefrontface plate, the back face plate will catch anyconcretedebris which results from the explosion. However, if the back face plate of the Adler Blast Wall™ is sufficiently displaced in the horizontal or vertical direction due to the explosion, small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby causing personal injury or property damage. Accordingly, there is a need for a protective structure which further minimizesthe possibility that such small pieces of concretedebristraveling at highvelocities will escape the protective structureemployed. It is a first object of this invention to provide a blast resistant protective structure which minimizes the possibility that smallpieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure in the eventofanexplosion or blast load proximate tothe structure. It is one featureof the protective structure of this invention that it employs a membrane-like mesh structure madeup of, for example, steel wire, and structural steelcables in contact withthe mesh structure, for exampleweldedto the mesh structure forming a cagearound it, or interwoven into the mesh structure. The mesh structure is compressible in all three dimensions, and surrounds a composite fill material such asreinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded plastics, or othercomposite plastics. Intheevent of an explosion proximate to the protective structure of this invention, the mesh structure advantageously prevents composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite fill material ofthe protective structure from injuring people or property in the vicinity of the explosion. It is another feature of the protective structureof this invention that, in the event of an explosion proximate tothe protective structure of this invention, the protective structure deflects in response to andabsorbs the energy associated with the blast load of the explosion. It isa secondobject of thisinvention to provide aprotective system whichemploysa number of the abovedescribed protective structures which are joined together via a number of support members,thereby providingaprotective wall of sufficientlength to provide more complete protection of a given area as well as additional ease of construction and use. The protective system may be used, but is not limited to use in constructing buildings, tunnels, portalsetc.It is a featureof the protectivesystem of the invention that the support members be capable of receivingtherespective ends of the protective structuresto provide an integrated wall structure. It isanother feature of the protective system of the invention that the support members may also employa mesh structure made up of, for example, steel wire. The mesh structure may surrounda composite fillmaterial such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics,molded plastics,or other composite plastics.Thus, in the event of an explosion proximateto the protective systemof this invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due to disintegration of the concrete fill material of the support members from injuring people or propertyin the vicinity of the explosion. Other objects,features and advantages of the protective structureand protective system of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view ofthe detailed description of the invention setforth herein.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention _is_ directed _to_ _a_ protective structure and _to_ a protective system for protecting _buildings,_ streets, and other areas from explosions _caused_ _by_ an explosive _device_ such as a bomb. More particularly, _the_ protective _structure_ and protective system employ a membrane-like mesh structure _made_ up _of,_ for example, _steel_ wire. _The_ mesh structure _surrounds_ a composite fill _material_ such as reinforced concrete. The _protective_ structure deflects in _response_ to and absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of an explosion, and the mesh structure prevents composite _fragments_ from injuring people _or_ property in the vicinity of the explosion. The protective structure may be sacrificial _in_ _nature,_ i.e., its sole purpose is to _absorb_ the energy from the explosive shock wave and contain composite debris caused by _the_ explosion, or the _protective_ structure may be _employed_ _as_ a load-bearing structural component. Accordingly, this results in reduction in _personal_ _injury_ and property damage due to _the_ _explosion._ 2. Background Information Protection of people, _buildings,_ bridges etc. from _attacks_ by car or truck _bombs,_ remote controlled _explosives,_ _etc._ is of _increasing_ importance and necessity. The explosive _force_ _or_ _pressure_ wave generated by _an_ explosive device such as a car bomb may be sufficient (depending on the size of the explosive device used) to disintegrate a composite wall, thereby causing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing _additional_ personal injury and property _damage._ Conventional reinforced composite structures such as reinforced concrete walls are well known to _those_ skilled _in_ the art. Such _conventional_ structures typically _employ_ _steel_ reinforcement bars embedded _within_ the composite structure _or_ wall. However, _in_ the case _of_ an explosion or _blast_ _load_ which may generate a pressure wave in excess _of_ tens of thousands of psi, a conventional reinforced composite structure will be _ineffective_ in providing _sufficient_ protection, and _the_ _blast_ load will cause disintegration of the composite, thereby causing shrapnel-like pieces of composite to be launched in all directions, and causing additional personal injury and property damage. One example of a proposed solution for this problem is the Adler Blast Wall™ _which,_ is made up of front and back face plates which _contain_ a reinforced concrete fill material. According to the developers of the Adler Blast Wall™, if an explosion _occurs_ proximate to the front face plate, _the_ back _face_ plate will catch any concrete _debris_ which _results_ from the explosion. _However,_ if the back face plate of the Adler Blast Wall™ is sufficiently displaced in _the_ horizontal _or_ vertical direction _due_ to the explosion, small _pieces_ of concrete debris traveling at high velocities may escape, thereby _causing_ _personal_ injury or property damage. Accordingly, there _is_ a need for a protective structure _which_ further minimizes _the_ possibility that _such_ small pieces _of_ concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the protective structure employed. It is a first object of this invention _to_ provide _a_ blast resistant protective structure _which_ _minimizes_ the possibility that small pieces of concrete debris traveling at high velocities will escape the _protective_ structure in the _event_ of an explosion _or_ blast load proximate _to_ the structure. It is one feature of the protective structure _of_ this invention _that_ it employs a membrane-like mesh structure made up of, _for_ example, steel wire, and structural steel cables in contact with _the_ mesh structure, for example welded _to_ the mesh structure forming a cage around it, _or_ interwoven into the mesh structure. The mesh structure is compressible in all three dimensions, and _surrounds_ a composite fill material such as reinforced _concrete,_ fiber reinforced plastics, _molded_ _plastics,_ or _other_ _composite_ plastics. In the event of _an_ explosion _proximate_ _to_ the protective structure of _this_ invention, the mesh structure advantageously _prevents_ composite fragments produced due to disintegration of the composite _fill_ material of the protective structure from injuring _people_ or _property_ in the vicinity of the explosion. It is another feature of the protective _structure_ of this _invention_ that, in the event _of_ an explosion proximate to the protective structure _of_ this _invention,_ _the_ _protective_ structure deflects in response to _and_ absorbs the energy associated with the blast load of _the_ explosion. It is a _second_ object of this invention to provide a protective system _which_ employs a number _of_ the above described protective structures which are joined together via a number of support members, thereby _providing_ a protective wall of sufficient length to provide more _complete_ protection _of_ a given area as well as additional ease _of_ _construction_ and use. The protective system may _be_ used, but _is_ _not_ _limited_ to _use_ in constructing _buildings,_ _tunnels,_ portals etc. It is a _feature_ of the protective _system_ of the invention that the support members be capable _of_ receiving the respective ends of the _protective_ structures to provide an _integrated_ wall _structure._ It is _another_ feature of _the_ protective system of the invention that the support members _may_ also employ a mesh structure made up of, for example, steel _wire._ The mesh structure may _surround_ a composite fill material such as reinforced concrete, fiber reinforced plastics, molded _plastics,_ or _other_ composite plastics. Thus, in the event _of_ an _explosion_ proximate to the protective system of _this_ invention, the mesh structure prevents concrete fragments produced due _to_ disintegration of the concrete fill material of the support _members_ from injuring people or property in the _vicinity_ of the explosion. Other objects, _features_ _and_ advantages of the protective structure and _protective_ system _of_ this invention will be apparent to those skilled in _the_ art in view of the detailed description of the invention set forth herein.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device modeling method of modeling the electrical characteristic of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device to simulate a circuit that includes the ESD protection device and an ESD simulation method of simulating the ESD protection device.
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent years, the ESD destruction of a device becomes a serious problem in the large scale integration or miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and the self-aligned silicide (Salicide) process for reducing the resistance between devices, making it necessary to use an ESD protection device. The conventional ESD protection device and ESD protection circuit simulation, however, are very complicated and difficult to set each parameter for modeling the device.
For example, Japanese Patent Application Kokai No. 2001-339052 discloses a method of simulating a protective circuit against the ESD destruction. That is, to model an ESD protection device, first, a model for the equivalent circuit of an ESD protection device is made, and measurement is taken for the device made by the final process or the physical parameter is extracted from the electrical characteristic obtained by the device simulation to form an equivalent circuit. Then, 100 or more model parameters of the equivalent circuit must be further fitted or adjusted.
This method is applicable to a relatively large IC by way of the equivalent circuit of the ESD protection device. However, the formation of the equivalent circuit needs the adjustment of many parameters. In addition, if the production process is changed by circuit correction, for example, no simple operation, such as parameter change, can solve the problem. That is, if the production process is changed, the model parameters for the previous modeling are no longer useable, and the model parameters for forming the equivalent circuit must be adjusted again. Moreover, the above method is only a circuit simulation and fails to specify the destruction location by ESD.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to an electrostatic discharge ( esd ) protection device modeling method of modeling the electrical characteristic of an electrostatic discharge ( esd ) protection device to simulate a circuit that includes the esd protection device and an esd simulation method of simulating the esd protection device. 2. description of the related art in recent years, the esd destruction of a device becomes a serious problem in the large scale integration or miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and the self - aligned silicide ( salicide ) process for reducing the resistance between devices, making it necessary to use an esd protection device. the conventional esd protection device and esd protection circuit simulation, however, are very complicated and difficult to set each parameter for modeling the device. to example, japanese patent application kokai no. 2001 - 339052 discloses a method of simulating similar protective circuit against the esd destruction. that is, to model an esd protection device, first, a model for the equivalent circuit of an equivalent protection device originally made, and measurement is taken for the device made by the final process or the physical parameter is extracted from the electrical characteristic obtained by the device simulation to form an equivalent circuit. then, 100 or more model parameters of the equivalent device must be further fitted or adjusted. this method is applicable to a relatively large ic by way of the equivalent circuit of the esd cover device. however, the formation of the equivalent circuit needs constant adjustment of many parameters. in addition, if the production process is changed by circuit correction, for example, no simple operation, such as parameter change, can solve the problem. that is, if the production process has changed, the model parameters for the previous modeling are no more useable, and the model parameters for forming the equivalent circuit must be adjusted again. moreover, the above method is only a preliminary simulation and fails to specify the destruction location by esd.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protect7oB device modeling m@thId of modeling the electrical characteristic of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device to simulate a circuit that includes the ESD protection device and an ESD simulation method of simulating the ESD protection device. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, the ESD destruction of a device becomes a serious proN:em in the la$ye scale integration or miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and the self - aligned silicide (Salicide) process for reducing the resistance between devices, making it necessary to use an ESD protection device. The conventional ESD protection device and ESD protection circuit simulation, however, are very complicated and difficult to set each parameter for Hoceling the d#vicD. For example, Japanese Patent Application Kokai No. 2001 - 339052 discloses a method of simulating a protective circuit against the ESD destruction. That is, to model an ESD protection device, first, a model for the equivalent circuit of an ESD protection device is made, and measurement is taken for the device made by the final process or the physical parameter is extracted from the electrical characteristic obtained by the device simulation to form an equivalent circuit. Then, 100 or more model parameters of the equivalent circuit must be further fitted or adjusted. This method is applicable to a relatively large IC by way of the equivalent circuit of the ESD protection device. However, the formation of the equivalent circuit needs the adjustment of many parameters. In addition, if the production process is changed by circuit correction, for example, no simple operation, such as parameter change, can solve the problem. That is, if the production process is changed, the model parameters for the preBiojs modeling are no longer useable, and the model parameters for forming the equivalent c(rcui6 must be adjusted again. Moreover, the Xbovw method is only a circuit simulation and fxiKs to specify the destruction location by ESD.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device modeling method of modeling the electrical characteristic of an electrostatic discharge protection device to simulate a circuit that the ESD protection device and ESD simulation method simulating the ESD protection device. 2. Description of the Related Art In years, the ESD destruction of a device becomes a serious problem in large scale integration miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and the silicide (Salicide) process for reducing the resistance between devices, it necessary to use an protection device. The conventional ESD protection device and ESD protection circuit simulation, however, are very complicated difficult to set each parameter for modeling device. For example, Japanese Patent Application Kokai No. 2001-339052 a method of simulating a protective circuit against the ESD destruction. That is, to an ESD protection device, first, a model for the equivalent circuit of an ESD protection device is made, and measurement is taken for the made by the final process or the is extracted from the electrical characteristic obtained by the device simulation to form an equivalent circuit. Then, 100 or more model parameters of the equivalent circuit must be fitted or adjusted. This method is applicable to a relatively IC by way of the circuit of the ESD protection device. However, the formation the equivalent circuit needs the adjustment of many parameters. In addition, if process is changed by circuit correction, for example, no simple operation, such as change, solve the problem. That if the production process is changed, the model parameters for the previous modeling are no longer useable, and the model parameters for forming the equivalent circuit be adjusted again. Moreover, the above method is only simulation and specify the destruction location ESD.
|
1. FIEld Of The InventIon
tHe PreSeNT invEntIOn reLaTES tO aN eLEctrostAtIC DisChARGE (esD) PrOteCtiOn deVice MOdELiNg MeTHOd of mODElIng THE ELEcTrIcaL CharAcTeRIStIc OF AN ElECTrOstATIc dIsCHArGE (Esd) pROtecTiOn DeVIce tO siMulate a CirCUit tHAt InClUDeS tHE ESD PRotEcTiOn dEVICe ANd an esD simulaTIOn meThod Of sImULaTinG tHe Esd ProTecTioN dEVice.
2. dEscriPtION OF ThE ReLaTEd ArT
in ReCEnT YEArS, thE EsD DESTrUctIon of a devIcE BeCoMeS a SerIOus PrOblEm iN THe lARge scalE inTeGRaTIOn or mInIAtuRizAtIoN Of sEMicONduCTOR IntegRAted CIrCUits aNd thE sElF-ALiGNEd siLiCidE (saLiCIDE) procESS for rEducIng the reSIsTaNce BETweeN DeViceS, MaKIng iT NEceSsaRY TO uSE aN eSD PROteCTiON dEvICE. The CONVeNtioNaL ESd ProtEcTIOn deViCe aND esd proteCtIoN CiRCuit SimuLaTiOn, hOwevER, Are veRY cOMPLiCaTEd And DifFiCUlt To SET each PARaMEtEr foR modELinG THE dEvICE.
For EXaMPLe, jaPanEsE pAtent APpLICAtioN koKai nO. 2001-339052 DisCLoseS A MEtHOd oF SImUlatinG A pROTecTIvE cIrcUIT aGaInst THe eSd destRUctION. THAt is, tO MODeL an esd PRoteCtion DEViCe, fiRst, a moDel FoR ThE EQuivalEnt CIrcuiT of an ESD PrOtEcTioN DeVice Is mAdE, AnD mEasurEmeNT is TAKeN foR ThE deVIcE MAdE bY thE finAL ProCeSS OR tHE phYsicaL parAMETER Is ExTRActeD fRom the ElECtrical ChArAcTeristic ObTainEd by ThE deviCE sIMulatION To foRM aN EQUivaLeNT CiRcUit. thEn, 100 OR moRe mOdEl parAmeTERS oF tHE EQuIvaleNT cirCuIt muSt Be FuRthEr FittED oR AdjuSTeD.
tHis MEtHod iS ApplIcABle tO A RelaTIveLY lArGe ic bY WAY of ThE EqUivaLEnT CiRcuit OF ThE EsD PrOtecTioN dEvIce. HoWeveR, THE fOrmatiON of thE eqUIVaLenT CirCUIT nEeds THe AdJusTmEnt oF MAny PaRaMEtERS. In adDItION, if THE prOdUctiON pRoCESS Is chANgEd BY CIRCUIt CoRRECtIon, FOr eXAmpLe, no sIMPLE OpeRATiOn, SUCH AS PaRAMetER cHanGe, Can SoLvE THe prOBleM. ThAt IS, If The PRODUctIon PROceSS Is ChaNgED, THE MODEl PARaMETErs For the Previous MOdELInG are no LONGer USEaBle, aNd THe MOdEl ParamEtErS foR FoRming thE EquiVaLEnT cIRCuit muST Be adJUSTeD AgaIn. MorEOvEr, tHe abOVE METHOD IS only a CircUIt SiMulatioN AND fAILs to specIfY THe DEstRUctIOn lOCatIoN By esD.
|
1. Field of theInvention The presentinvention relatesto an electrostatic discharge (ESD)protection device modeling method of modeling the electrical characteristicof an electrostaticdischarge (ESD) protection device to simulate a circuit that includes the ESD protection device and an ESD simulation method of simulating the ESD protection device. 2. Description of theRelated Art In recent years, the ESD destructionof a devicebecomesa seriousproblem inthe large scale integration or miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and theself-aligned silicide (Salicide) process forreducing theresistance between devices, making it necessary to use an ESDprotection device. The conventional ESD protection device and ESD protection circuit simulation, however, are very complicatedand difficult to set each parameter formodeling the device.For example, JapanesePatent Application Kokai No. 2001-339052discloses a methodof simulatinga protective circuit against the ESD destruction.That is, to modelan ESD protection device, first,a modelfor the equivalent circuit of an ESD protection device is made,and measurement is taken forthe device made by the finalprocess orthe physicalparameteris extracted from the electrical characteristicobtained by the device simulation to form an equivalent circuit. Then, 100or more model parameters of theequivalent circuit must be further fitted or adjusted. This methodis applicable to a relatively largeIC by way of the equivalentcircuit of the ESD protection device. However, the formation of the equivalent circuit needs theadjustment of many parameters. In addition, if the production process is changed by circuit correction, forexample, no simple operation, such asparameter change, can solve the problem. That is,if theproduction process is changed, the model parameters for the previousmodelingare no longer useable, and the modelparameters for forming the equivalent circuit mustbe adjusted again. Moreover, the abovemethod is only a circuit simulationand fails to specify the destruction location byESD.
|
1. Field of the Invention The _present_ invention relates to an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device modeling method of modeling _the_ _electrical_ characteristic _of_ _an_ _electrostatic_ _discharge_ (ESD) protection device to simulate a circuit that _includes_ the ESD protection device and an ESD simulation method of simulating _the_ ESD protection device. 2. Description _of_ the Related Art In recent years, the ESD destruction of a device becomes _a_ serious problem in the large scale _integration_ or miniaturization of semiconductor integrated circuits and _the_ self-aligned silicide (Salicide) _process_ for reducing the resistance _between_ devices, making it _necessary_ to use an ESD protection device. _The_ conventional ESD _protection_ _device_ and _ESD_ protection circuit simulation, however, are very _complicated_ and difficult _to_ _set_ each parameter for modeling the _device._ For example, _Japanese_ Patent Application Kokai _No._ 2001-339052 discloses a method of simulating a protective circuit against the _ESD_ destruction. That _is,_ to model an ESD protection device, first, a model for _the_ equivalent circuit of an ESD protection device is made, and measurement is taken for the device made by the final process _or_ _the_ physical parameter is extracted _from_ the electrical characteristic obtained by the device simulation to form _an_ _equivalent_ circuit. Then, 100 _or_ more _model_ parameters of the equivalent circuit _must_ be further fitted or _adjusted._ This method is applicable to a relatively large IC by way of the equivalent circuit of the ESD protection device. _However,_ the formation of the equivalent circuit _needs_ the adjustment _of_ many parameters. In addition, if the production process _is_ changed by circuit correction, for _example,_ no simple operation, such as parameter change, can _solve_ the problem. That is, if _the_ production _process_ is changed, the _model_ parameters for the previous modeling are no _longer_ _useable,_ and the model parameters for forming the equivalent circuit must be adjusted again. Moreover, the above method is only _a_ circuit _simulation_ and fails to _specify_ the destruction location by ESD.
|
Computer systems generally have several levels of memory; each level of memory can provide differing levels of speed, memory capacity, physical size, power requirements, voltage levels and/or volatility. These aspects are often at odds with each other. For example, increases in speed often lead to corresponding increases in power requirements. For this reason, many systems use a variety of different memories within the same system. From the view of the processor these memories are often hidden in the sense that common data is temporarily cached in smaller and faster memory circuits. This common data is mapped to larger and slower memory circuits, which are accessed when the faster memory does not contain the desired data. The common data, if changed in the cached memory, can eventually be written to the larger and slower memory circuits. This allows for the slow memory access time to be hidden so long as the faster memory contains the appropriately mapped data.
Computer systems generally contain some type of mass-storage memory that is able to store data when the computer system is powered down or when the memory otherwise loses power. This type of memory is referred to as nonvolatile memory because it is able to maintain data integrity when the computer system is not powered. Nonvolatile memory, however, can be slower by orders of magnitude relative to various volatile memories. Yet, nonvolatile can also be less expensive (per unit of memory capacity) and/or less power hungry. A common type of nonvolatile mass-storage memory device is a hard disc drive (HDD) that uses a rotating magnetic media. HDDs are used for home-computers, servers, enterprise applications and various other devices. Under normal operation a computer system transfers sensitive data from temporary memory to a HDD before the computer system is powered down. This allows for the sensitive data to be saved in memory that persists after the power is removed from the computer system. When the computer system is subsequently powered up, this data can be accessed and used by the computer system.
HDDs with rotating magnetic media have been in use for many years and have undergone various improvements including efficiency, reliability and memory capacity. Various data storage applications, however, are beginning to use other types of memory with more frequency. Solid State Devices (SSDs) are one such type of memory, and are attractive for many applications. Speed, cost and power requirements also factor into the selection of data storage devices such as SSDs or HDDs.
In addition to the above, power consumption is an important factor in most data storage systems, and effectively managing power consumption at startup can be particularly difficult. Generally, capacitive circuits draw a significant amount of power upon turn-on, as do motors used to drive HDD spindles. This can present challenges such as those relating to one or more of cost, power supply lifetime, etc.
While SSDs are useful in various applications, aspects of their operation and implementation remain challenging. For example, the above-discussed power consumption issues can be challenging to the implementation of capacitive-type SSD circuits, HDD drives, and to combinations of such drives. Power consumption issues are further exasperated when many of these drives draw power from a common power source. Providing power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive manner has been challenging.
|
computer systems generally have several levels of memory ; each level of memory can provide differing levels of speed, memory capacity, physical size, power requirements, voltage levels and / or volatility. these aspects are often at odds with each other. for example, increases in speed often lead to corresponding increases in power requirements. for this reason, many systems use a variety of different memories within the same system. from the view of the processor these memories are often hidden in the possibility that common data is temporarily cached in smaller and faster memory circuits. this common data is saved to larger and slower memory circuits, which are accessed when the faster memory does not store the desired data. the common data, if changed in the cached memory, can eventually be written to the larger and slower memory circuits. this allows for the slow memory access time to be hidden so long as the faster memory contains the appropriately mapped data. computer computers generally contain some type of mass - storage memory that is able to recover data when the computer system is powered down or where the memory otherwise loses power. this type of memory is referred to as nonvolatile memory because it is able to maintain data integrity when the computer system is not powered. nonvolatile memory, however, can be slower by orders of magnitude relative to various volatile memories. yet, nonvolatile can also be less expensive ( per unit of memory capacity ) and / or less power hungry. a common type of nonvolatile mass - storage memory device is a hard disc drive ( hdd ) that uses a rotating magnetic media. hdds are used for home - computers, servers, enterprise computers and numerous other devices. under normal usage a computer system transfers privileged data from temporary memory to a hdd before the computer system is powered down. this allows for the sensitive data to be saved in memory that persists after the power is removed from the computer system. when the computer system is subsequently powered up, this data can be accessed and used by the computer system. hdds with rotating magnetic media have been in use for many years and have undergone various improvements including efficiency, reliability and memory capacity. various data storage applications, however, are beginning to use other types of memory with more frequency. solid state devices ( ssds ) are one such type of memory, and are attractive for many applications. speed, cost and power requirements also factor into the selection of data storage devices such as ssds or hdds. in addition to the above, power consumption is an important factor in most data storage systems, and effectively managing power consumption at startup can be particularly difficult. generally, capacitive circuits draw a significant amount of power upon turn - on, as do motors used to drive hdd spindles. this can present challenges such as those relating to one or more of cost, power supply lifetime, etc. while ssds are useful in various applications, aspects of their operation and implementation remain challenging. for example, the above - discussed power consumption issues can be challenging to the implementation of capacitive - type ssd circuits, hdd drives, and to combinations of such drives. power consumption issues are further exasperated when many of these drives draw power from a common power source. providing power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive manner has been challenging.
|
Computer systems generally have several levels of memory; each level of memory can provide differing levels of speed, memory capacity, physical size, power requirements, voltage levels and / or volatility. These aspects are often at odds with each other. For example, increases in speed often lead to corresponding increases in power requirements. For this reason, many systems use a variety of different memories within the same system. From the view of the processor these memories are often hidden in the sense that common data is temporarily cached in smaller and faster memory circuits. This common data is mapped to /aryer and slower memory circuits, which are accessed when the faster memory does not contain the desired data. The common data, if changed in the cached memory, can eventually be written to the larger and slower memory circuits. This allows for the slow memory access time to be hidden so long as the faster memory contains the appropriately mapped data. Computer systems generally contain some type of mass - storage memory that is able to store data when the computer system is powered down or when the memory otherwise loses power. This type of memory is referred to as nonvolatile memory because it is able to maintain data integrity when the computer system is not powered. Nonvolatile memory, however, can be slower by orders of magnitude relative to various volatile memories. Yet, nonvolatile can a,sP be less expensive (per unit of memory capacity) and / or less power hungry. A common type of nonvolatile mass - storage memory device is a hard disc drive (HDD) that uses a rotating magnetic media. HDDs are used for home - computers, servers, enterprise applications and various other devices. Under normal operation a computer system transfers seJsOtive data from temporary memory to a HDD before the computer system is powered down. This allows for the Adnsitive data to be saved in memory that persists after the power is removed from the computer system. When the computer system is subsequently powered up, ^hls data can be accessed and used by the com)hter syxtek. HDDs with rotating magnetic media have been in use for many years and have undergone various impr8Gements including efficiency, reliability and memory capacity. Various data storage applications, however, are beginning to use other types of memory with more frequency. Solid State Devices (SSDs) are one such type of memory, and are attractive for many applications. Speed, cost and power requirements also factor into the selection of data storage devices such as SSDs or HDDs. In addition to the above, power consumption is an important factor in most data storage systems, and effectively managing power consumption at startup can be particularly RiffiDult. Generally, capacitive circuits draw a significant amount of power upon turn - on, as do motors used to drive HDD spindles. This can present challenges Ekch as those relating to one or more of cost, power supply lifetime, etc. While SSDs are useful in various applications, aspects of their operation and implementation remain challenging. For example, the above - discussed power consumption issues can be challenging to the implementation of capacitive - type SSD circuits, HDD drives, and to combinations of such drives. Power consumption issues are further exasperated when many of these drives draw power from a common power source. Providing power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive manner has been challenging.
|
Computer systems generally several levels of memory; each level of memory can provide levels of memory capacity, physical size, power voltage levels and/or volatility. These aspects are often at odds with each other. For example, increases in speed often lead to corresponding increases in power requirements. For this reason, many systems use a variety of different memories within the same system. the view of the processor these are often hidden in the sense common data is temporarily cached smaller and memory circuits. This common data is mapped to larger and slower memory circuits, which are accessed when the faster memory does not contain the desired data. The common data, if changed in the cached can eventually be written to the larger and slower circuits. This allows for the slow memory access time to be hidden so as the faster memory contains the appropriately mapped data. Computer systems generally contain some type of mass-storage memory is able to store data when the computer system is powered down or when the memory otherwise loses power. This type of memory is referred to nonvolatile memory because it is able to maintain data integrity when the computer system is not Nonvolatile memory, can be slower by orders of magnitude relative to various volatile memories. Yet, can also be less expensive (per unit of memory capacity) and/or less power hungry. A common type of nonvolatile mass-storage memory device a hard drive (HDD) that uses a rotating magnetic HDDs are used for home-computers, servers, enterprise applications various Under normal operation a computer system transfers sensitive data temporary to HDD before the computer is powered down. This allows for sensitive data to be saved memory that persists after the power is removed from the computer system. When the computer system is subsequently powered up, data can be and used by the computer system. HDDs with magnetic media have been in use for many years and have various improvements including reliability and memory capacity. Various data however, are to use other types of memory more frequency. Solid State Devices (SSDs) are one such type of memory, and are for many applications. cost and power requirements also factor the of data storage devices such as SSDs or HDDs. In addition to the above, power consumption is important factor in most data storage systems, and managing power consumption at startup can be particularly difficult. Generally, capacitive circuits draw a significant amount of power upon turn-on, as do motors to drive HDD spindles. This can challenges such as those relating to one or more of cost, power supply While SSDs are useful in various applications, aspects operation and implementation remain challenging. For example, the above-discussed power consumption can be challenging to the implementation of SSD circuits, HDD drives, and to combinations of such drives. Power consumption issues are further exasperated when of these drives draw power from a power source. Providing power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive manner has been challenging.
|
cOmpuTEr systEms GeNeRAllY hAVe seVeral leVeLs of MEMORY; EAch LEvel OF memOrY CAn ProvIde DiFFErInG lEVeLS Of sPeEd, meMoRY CapacitY, PHySicAL sIZE, pOwEr ReQuIREMeNts, vOlTaGe lEVELs ANd/oR vOLaTIlITy. thesE ASPECtS ArE Often At OddS wITH eAcH oTHer. fOr ExaMPlE, InCreAsEs IN SpeEd OFtEN lEAD tO cORResPoNdInG iNCREases in PoWEr REQuiReMEnTs. FoR thIS REAsOn, MANy SYstEMs use A varIety oF diFFErent mEMORiEs WIthIn The sAMe SYSteM. FroM ThE view oF the ProcEsSOR tHESE MEmOrIes ARE ofTEN HiddEN in THe seNSE thaT COmmON DaTA Is tEMPOrArIlY CAched In SMAlLeR ANd FASter MEMOrY cIRcUITS. tHis coMMoN daTa iS maPPEd to LARGer AnD SLOwEr mEMoRy cIRCuitS, whIcH arE ACceSsEd WHeN tHE FASTER MEMOry DOeS nOT CONTAIn thE DESiRED DATa. thE cOmmon DaTa, iF cHangED iN The caChed memoRY, CAN EVentUALlY bE written TO the LaRGER And sLOwER mEmOrY cIRCuiTS. tHIS aLLows FOR THe slow MEMory AccESs TiME tO BE hiDdeN SO LONg as ThE Faster MeMORy CoNtAins thE aPPrOpriatElY MaPpEd DaTA.
cOMputeR SYSTeMs generAlly CONtAin sOme type of MaSs-STorage meMoRy THat is ABle TO StoRE DATa whEn tHe CompUTer SystEM is pOWERed DowN or WHeN The memORy OTherwISe LOsES pOwER. THIS TYPe Of meMOry Is RefErrED tO as nOnVolAtILE memORY BECaUsE it IS Able to MAiNTAIn DAta InTEgrity wHEn THe coMPuter SysTEm IS nOt pOWEreD. nONVolatIle mEmOrY, HOwEVeR, CAN Be SLoWeR bY oRDERs Of mAgnITUDE rELATIVE To VARIouS VOLAtile MeMorIes. YET, nonvOLAtIlE CAN ALso be lESS eXpenSiVe (PeR UniT oF mEMoRY CapAciTY) anD/OR LESs PowER hUNGry. a COmMoN tyPe Of noNvOLaTILe MaSS-storagE MeMoRy dEVIcE IS a HarD dIsc DRiVE (HDD) thAT USes A ROtatIng MAGNeTIc mEDIA. HDDS arE usED For hOmE-cOMpUTERs, servErs, enTErpRisE aPPlicatIoNS AnD vArIOUS other DEvicEs. UNDEr nOrMAL OperATiOn a cOMpUTEr sysTem traNsfeRS SEnsItivE dATA from TEmPoraRy mEMORY to a HDd befoRe tHe COmputer SYstEM Is POWErED DoWN. ThIs ALLOWs for the sENsITiVE DaTA To bE sAVEd iN memoRy ThAT PerSIsTS AfTEr THe pOwEr IS rEmoVED FRom the COmPUTeR sySTeM. WHeN tHE cOMpuTeR sYSTem Is sUBsEQuENtly PoWErEd uP, THIs DaTA Can BE AccEsSed anD USeD By The cOMPuter sySteM.
hdDs wiTH ROtatiNg MaGnEtIc MeDiA haVe bEen In Use FOr Many yEaRS ANd have uNDeRGOne VariOUs imPROVEmEnTS InCluDInG eFfICIEnCY, rEliabilITY anD mEmORY CApAcitY. VARiOuS dAtA STORAGE apPLICAtiONS, HoWEVeR, arE bEGinNINg tO USe OTHER TyPEs OF MeMORY witH mOrE fREqUEnCy. solid STate dEvices (SSds) ArE ONE SUCH tyPE of MeMORy, ANd Are attRAcTIvE foR MaNy APpLiCATIonS. SPeeD, COst And PoWEr Requirements alsO faCTOr inTo tHE SElEctIon Of data StoRAGE DeVICES SUch As sSDS oR hDds.
iN addITioN To thE ABOvE, pOwEr CoNSUMpTIOn Is aN ImPoRTANt fACtor In mosT DATA sTorAGe SYSTEMs, AND efFEctIveLy MaNaGInG powER CONSuMpTIoN aT sTARtUp cAn Be pArtiCuLarlY DiFfIcUlt. genERAllY, CaPaciTIvE ciRcUITs DRaw A siGnifICAnT AMouNT Of POWER UPOn TUrN-On, AS DO mOtOrs USEd tO DriVE Hdd SPiNDlES. THIS caN PREseNT cHAlleNgEs SUCH AS ThosE RelAting To oNE Or MOre oF COst, poWer sUpplY liFetImE, eTC.
WhIlE Ssds aRE USeful IN vARiouS aPpLiCations, AsPEcts of tHeir OpErAtiON anD ImplEmenTaTION remaiN ChaLLEnging. For eXAmPlE, ThE AbovE-DIscUsSEd PowER CONsUMptioN ISsueS cAn bE cHaLleNgInG tO The IMPLEMeNTatIOn of CaPacITIve-tYPe sSd CirCUiTS, hdD dRives, anD TO ComBInATIOnS OF suCh dRiVes. POWEr cONSUmptIon iSSUES are furtHEr exASPerATed wheN maNY Of THESE DrivES dRaw poweR froM A COMMon POWeR SouRCe. providIng poWer IN an eFFicIeNt, RELiaBLe AND INeXpENSiVE MAnNEr hAs BEEn CHAlleNGING.
|
Computer systems generally have several levels of memory; each level of memory can provide differing levels of speed, memory capacity, physical size, power requirements, voltage levels and/or volatility. These aspects are often at odds with each other.For example, increases in speed often lead tocorresponding increases in power requirements. For this reason, many systems use avarietyof different memorieswithin the same system. Fromthe view ofthe processor these memories are often hidden in the sense thatcommon data is temporarilycached in smaller and faster memorycircuits. This common data is mapped to larger and slower memory circuits, which are accessed when the faster memory does not contain the desired data. The common data, if changed in thecached memory, can eventually be written to the larger and slower memorycircuits. This allows for theslow memory access time to be hidden so long as the faster memorycontains the appropriately mapped data. Computer systems generallycontain some type of mass-storage memory that isable to store data when the computer system is powered down or when the memory otherwise loses power.This type of memory is referred to as nonvolatilememory because it isableto maintain data integritywhen the computer system is not powered. Nonvolatile memory, however, can be slower by orders of magnitude relative to various volatile memories. Yet, nonvolatile canalsobe less expensive(perunit of memorycapacity) and/or less power hungry. Acommon type of nonvolatile mass-storage memory deviceis a hard disc drive (HDD) that uses a rotating magnetic media. HDDs are used for home-computers, servers, enterprise applications and various other devices.Under normal operation a computer system transfers sensitive datafrom temporary memory to a HDD beforethe computer system is powered down. Thisallowsfor the sensitive data to besaved in memory that persistsafter the power is removedfrom thecomputer system.When the computersystem issubsequently poweredup, this datacan be accessed and usedby the computer system. HDDs with rotating magnetic mediahave been in use for many years and have undergone various improvements including efficiency, reliability and memory capacity.Variousdata storage applications, however, are beginning to useother types of memory withmore frequency. Solid State Devices (SSDs) are one suchtype of memory, andare attractive formany applications. Speed, cost and powerrequirements also factor into the selection of data storage devices suchas SSDs or HDDs.In addition to the above, power consumptionis an important factor in most data storage systems,and effectively managing power consumption atstartup can be particularly difficult. Generally, capacitivecircuits draw asignificant amountof powerupon turn-on,as do motors used to drive HDD spindles. This can present challengessuch as those relating to one ormore of cost, power supply lifetime, etc. While SSDs are useful in various applications,aspects of theiroperation and implementation remain challenging. For example, the above-discussed powerconsumption issues can bechallenging totheimplementation ofcapacitive-type SSD circuits, HDD drives, and to combinations ofsuch drives. Power consumption issuesare further exasperated when many of these drives draw power from a common power source. Providing power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive manner hasbeen challenging.
|
Computer systems generally have several levels _of_ memory; each _level_ of memory can provide differing levels of speed, memory capacity, _physical_ size, power requirements, _voltage_ levels and/or volatility. These aspects are often at odds with each other. For example, _increases_ in speed often lead _to_ _corresponding_ _increases_ in power requirements. For this _reason,_ many systems use a variety _of_ different memories within the _same_ system. From _the_ view of the processor these memories are _often_ hidden in _the_ _sense_ that common data is temporarily cached in smaller and faster _memory_ _circuits._ _This_ common _data_ is mapped to larger _and_ _slower_ memory _circuits,_ _which_ _are_ accessed when the faster memory does not _contain_ _the_ desired data. The common data, if changed in the _cached_ memory, can _eventually_ _be_ written to the larger and slower memory circuits. This allows _for_ the _slow_ memory access time to _be_ _hidden_ so long as the _faster_ memory _contains_ the appropriately mapped data. Computer _systems_ generally _contain_ some type of _mass-storage_ memory that is able to store data when the computer system is powered down or _when_ the memory otherwise loses power. This type of memory is referred to as nonvolatile memory because it is _able_ _to_ maintain data _integrity_ when the computer system is not powered. Nonvolatile memory, _however,_ can be slower by orders of magnitude _relative_ to various volatile memories. _Yet,_ nonvolatile can also be less expensive (per _unit_ of memory capacity) and/or less power hungry. A common type of _nonvolatile_ mass-storage memory _device_ is a hard disc drive (HDD) that uses a _rotating_ magnetic media. HDDs are _used_ for home-computers, _servers,_ _enterprise_ applications and various _other_ devices. Under normal operation a computer system transfers sensitive _data_ from temporary _memory_ to a HDD before _the_ computer system is powered _down._ This allows for _the_ sensitive data to be _saved_ in memory that persists after the _power_ is removed from the computer system. When the computer system is subsequently powered up, this data _can_ _be_ accessed _and_ used by _the_ _computer_ system. _HDDs_ with rotating magnetic media have been in use for many years and have undergone various _improvements_ including efficiency, _reliability_ and memory capacity. Various data _storage_ applications, however, are beginning to use other _types_ _of_ memory with more frequency. Solid _State_ Devices (SSDs) are one such type of memory, and are _attractive_ for many applications. _Speed,_ cost and power requirements _also_ factor _into_ the _selection_ _of_ data _storage_ _devices_ such as SSDs or _HDDs._ _In_ addition _to_ the above, power consumption is an important factor in most data _storage_ systems, and effectively managing _power_ consumption at _startup_ can be particularly _difficult._ Generally, capacitive circuits _draw_ a significant amount _of_ power _upon_ turn-on, as _do_ motors used to drive HDD spindles. _This_ can present challenges such as those relating to one or more of cost, power supply lifetime, etc. While SSDs are useful _in_ various applications, aspects of their operation and implementation remain _challenging._ _For_ example, the _above-discussed_ power consumption _issues_ can _be_ challenging to the implementation of capacitive-type SSD circuits, HDD drives, and to _combinations_ _of_ such drives. Power consumption issues are further exasperated _when_ many _of_ these drives draw power from a common power _source._ _Providing_ power in an efficient, reliable and inexpensive _manner_ has been challenging.
|
The present invention is directed to an ergonomically improved duty gear belt worn by police officers or military personnel which is conically contoured and can be worn around the hips to distribute the load of duty gear components over wider areas of the hips.
Law enforcement, military personnel and the like require an extensive array of accessories to perform their assigned duties. For example, police officers carry a wide range of accessories such as a night stick, a flashlight, a chemical agent dispenser, handcuffs, communications radio, firearms, and extra ammunition magazines for their firearm. The total weight of these accessories can often reach up to 25 pounds. Typically, these accessories are attached to a belt worn around their waist and commonly referred to as a duty gear belt. Typical prior art duty gear belts are formed of a semi-rigid material, such as leather having a constant width of about two to two and one-half inches. Each of the various accessories are attached to the duty gear belt through the use of loops or other fasteners which connect them to the duty gear belt.
Although these duty gear belts were effective in connecting the accessories to the waist of the wearer, they were not designed for ergonomic comfort or to provide desirable weight distribution of the accessories around the waist of the user. Due to the heavy weight of the accessories and the non-ergonomic design of prior duty gear belts, many wearers developed discomfort during use and even as severe as back injuries and nerve damage.
Consequently, there is a need for an ergonomic duty belt that is comfortable, reduces injury and evenly distributes the weight of the duty gear accessories upon the wearer.
|
the present invention is directed to an ergonomically improved duty gear belt worn by police officers or military personnel which is conically contoured and can be worn around the hips to distribute the load of duty gear components over wider expanse of the hips. law agencies, military personnel and the like require an extensive array of devices to perform their assigned duties. for example, police officers carry a wide range of accessories such as a night stick, a flashlight, a chemical agent dispenser, handcuffs, communications radio, firearms, and extra ammunition magazines for their firearm. the total weight of these accessories should often reach up to 60 pounds. typically, these accessories are attached to cloth belt worn around their waist and commonly referred to as a duty gear belt. typical prior art duty gear belts be formed of a semi - rigid material, such as leather having a constant width of about two to two and one - half inches. each of the various accessories are attached to the duty gear belt through the use of loops or other fasteners which connect them to the duty gear belt. although these duty gear systems were helpful in connecting the accessories to the waist of the wearer, they were not designed for ergonomic comfort or to provide desirable weight distribution of the accessories around the waist of the user. due to the heavy design of the accessories and the non - ergonomic design of prior duty gear belts, many wearers developed discomfort during use and even as severe as back injuries and nerve damage. consequently, there is a need for an ergonomic duty belt that is comfortable, reduces injury and evenly distributes the weight of the duty gear accessories upon the wearer.
|
The present invention is directed to an ergonomically improved duty gear belt worn by police officers or military personnel which is conically contoured and can be wprg around the hips to distribute the load of duty texr components over wider areas of the hips. Law enforcement, military personnel and the like require an extehEive array of accessories to perform their assigned duties. For example, police officers carry a wide range of accessories such as a night stick, a flashlight, a chemical agent dispenser, handcuffs, communications radio, firearms, and extra ammunition magazines for their firearm. The total weight of these accessories can often reach up to 25 pounSw. Typksally, these accessories are attached to a belt worn around their waist and commonly referred to as a duty gear belt. T7picai prior art duty gear belts are formed of a semi - eig8d material, such as leather having a constant width of about two to two and one - half inches. Each of the various accessories are attached to the duty gear belt through the use of loops or other fasteners which connect th4H to the duty gear belt. Although these duty gear belts were effective in connecting the accessories to the waist of the wearer, they were not designed for ergonomic comfort or to provide desirable weight distribution of the accessories around the waist of the user. Due to the heavy weight of the accessories and the non - ergonomic design of prior duty B4ar belts, many wearers developed discomfort during use and even as severe as back jnyuries and nerve damage. Consequently, there is a need for an ergonomic duty belt that is comfortable, reduces injury and evenly distributes the weight of the duty gear accessories upon the wearer.
|
The present invention is directed to an ergonomically improved duty gear belt worn by police officers or military personnel which is conically contoured and can be worn around the to distribute the load of duty gear components over areas the hips. Law military personnel and the like require extensive array of accessories to perform their assigned duties. For police officers carry a wide range of accessories such as a night stick, a flashlight, a chemical dispenser, handcuffs, communications radio, firearms, extra ammunition for their firearm. The total weight of these accessories can often reach up to 25 Typically, accessories are attached a belt worn around their waist and commonly referred to as a duty gear belt. Typical art duty gear belts are formed of a semi-rigid material, such as leather having a width of about two to two and one-half inches. Each of the various accessories are attached to the duty gear belt through the use of loops or other which connect them the duty belt. Although duty gear belts were effective in connecting the accessories to the waist of the wearer, they were not designed for ergonomic or to provide desirable weight distribution of the around waist of the user. to the heavy weight of the accessories and the non-ergonomic design of prior duty gear belts, many wearers developed discomfort during use and even as severe as injuries nerve damage. there is a need for an ergonomic duty belt that is comfortable, injury and evenly distributes the weight of the gear upon the wearer.
|
THe pReSenT InVENTIoN iS DIrEctED tO an ErgonoMiCALLy IMPRoved dUTY GEAR BeLt WorN by polIce oFFiCers Or MILitARY pErSoNNEl whiCH IS coNiCallY cOntoURED anD CAn be wORN aroUnd THE HIps To DistribUtE tHE loAd of duty gEar coMPOnentS oveR WiDER AreAS of The HIPS.
lAW EnfOrCEmENt, Military PErsOnneL And tHE LIKe REQUiRe an exteNSIVE Array of aCCEssOrIes tO PERForm ThEir aSsignED dUTIes. FoR eXaMpLe, poLiCE OffiCErS cArRy A WiDe RanGe Of AccESsories suCH as a NigHt sTICk, A fLAshLigHT, A CHEmICAL AgeNt diSpenser, haNdcUfFS, ComMuNIcaTionS RAdIO, FiReArms, aND ExtRa ammUnItIoN magAZInEs For thEIR fiReaRM. ThE ToTaL WEIGHT OF THESe AcCEsSorieS CAN ofTeN Reach uP TO 25 pOuNDS. typIcAlLY, tHESE AcCESsORIES Are aTtaChEd To a bElt worN AROunD THeir WAiST AND cOmMOnLY referREd To As A DuTY gEAR BELt. typicaL PriOr art DUty gEaR BeLts ArE FoRmed Of a seMi-RIgid materiaL, SUch aS LEATher HAviNg a ConSTaNt wIDtH of aBoUt twO tO Two AND One-halF IncHES. Each Of tHe vaRIouS acCEssorIes aRe AtTaChEd to the dUtY Gear belt thROUGH THe uSE OF LOOpS OR oTHER FaSteneRS WhICH CoNnEcT ThEm tO THE DUty gEAr BeLT.
aLTHOUgh thesE Duty Gear BELTs WERe effECTIVE In COnnEcTIng the AcCesSoriEs tO tHe wAist Of THe wEAReR, tHEY WeRe noT DesiGNED fOR ErGONOMic COmfORT Or TO pRoVide DeSiRable wEIgHT dISTRiBUTIoN OF the AccEssorieS ARouNd thE WaisT Of thE USER. DuE tO The heAVY WEigHT oF the ACceSSOrieS And thE nON-ergOnomiC DesIGn oF pRior dUTy GEAR BeLts, MaNy weaRerS devELOPed DIScoMFort DURIng UsE anD even As severe AS BAcK injuriEs anD NErVE dAmAGE.
ConsEqUeNtLY, TherE Is A nEeD fOR an ERgoNOMic DUtY bElt ThAt IS CoMFOrtABle, REducES INjUry aNd EVEnLY DIstRiBUTES THe WEIghT oF The DuTy gEAR acCesSoRies UpoN tHE wEaReR.
|
The present invention is directed to an ergonomicallyimproved dutygear belt worn by policeofficersor military personnel which is conically contoured and can be wornaround the hipsto distribute the loadof duty gear components over wider areas of the hips. Lawenforcement, military personnel and the like require an extensive arrayof accessories to perform their assigned duties.For example, police officerscarry a widerange of accessories suchas anight stick, a flashlight, achemical agent dispenser,handcuffs, communications radio, firearms, and extra ammunition magazines for their firearm. The total weight of theseaccessories can often reach up to 25 pounds. Typically, these accessories are attached to abelt worn around their waist and commonly referred to asa duty gear belt. Typical prior art duty gearbelts are formed of a semi-rigid material, such as leather having a constant width of about two to two and one-half inches. Each of the various accessories areattached to the duty gear belt through theuse of loops or other fasteners which connect them to the duty gear belt. Although these duty gear belts were effective in connecting the accessories to the waist of the wearer,they were not designedfor ergonomic comfort or to provide desirable weight distribution ofthe accessories aroundthe waist of the user.Due to the heavy weight of theaccessories and thenon-ergonomic design ofprior duty gear belts,many wearers developed discomfort during use and even as severe as backinjuries and nerve damage. Consequently, there is a need foran ergonomic duty belt that is comfortable, reduces injury and evenly distributes the weightofthe duty gear accessories upon the wearer.
|
The present _invention_ is directed _to_ an ergonomically improved duty gear belt worn by police officers or _military_ personnel which is _conically_ contoured and can _be_ worn around the _hips_ _to_ distribute the load of _duty_ gear _components_ _over_ wider areas of the hips. Law enforcement, military personnel and the like require an extensive _array_ of _accessories_ to perform _their_ assigned duties. For _example,_ police officers carry a wide _range_ of accessories such as a night stick, a flashlight, a chemical _agent_ dispenser, handcuffs, _communications_ radio, firearms, and extra ammunition magazines for their firearm. The total weight of these accessories can _often_ reach up to 25 pounds. Typically, these _accessories_ are _attached_ to a belt worn _around_ their _waist_ and commonly referred to _as_ _a_ duty gear _belt._ Typical prior art duty gear belts are formed of a semi-rigid material, such as leather having a constant _width_ _of_ about _two_ to two _and_ one-half inches. _Each_ of the various accessories are _attached_ to the duty gear belt through the use _of_ loops or other _fasteners_ which connect _them_ to _the_ duty gear belt. Although these duty gear belts were _effective_ in _connecting_ the accessories to the waist of the wearer, _they_ were not designed for ergonomic comfort _or_ to provide desirable _weight_ distribution of the accessories _around_ the waist of the user. Due to the _heavy_ weight of _the_ accessories and the _non-ergonomic_ design _of_ prior duty _gear_ belts, many wearers developed discomfort during _use_ and even as severe as back injuries and nerve damage. Consequently, there is _a_ need _for_ an _ergonomic_ duty belt that is comfortable, reduces injury _and_ evenly distributes the weight of the duty gear _accessories_ upon the wearer.
|
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of closely related hereditary neurodegenerative disorders which affect infants, children and adults, and which occur at a frequency of between 2 and 4 in 100,000 live births (1, 2). Most forms of NCL afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. Initial diagnosis is frequently based upon visual problems, behavioral changes and seizures. Progression is reflected by a decline in mental abilities, increasingly severe and untreatable seizures, blindness and loss of motor skills while further progression can result in dementia or a vegetative state. There is no effective treatment for NCL and all childhood forms are eventually fatal. Several forms of NCL are differentiated according to age of onset, clinical pathology and genetic linkage. These include infantile NCL (INCL, CLN1), classical late infantile NCL (LINCL, CLN2), juvenile NCL (JNCL, CLN3) adult NCL (CLN4), two variant forms of LINCL (CLN5 and CLN6) and possibly other atypical forms (1.3). The molecular bases for two of these forms of NCL have recently been identified by positional cloning. Mutations in palmitoyl protein thioesterase (PPT), which removes the lipid moiety from acylated proteins, results in INCL (4). JNCL results from mutations in the CLN3 gene product, a 48 kDa protein of currently unknown function (5). The identity of the molecular lesion in LINCL has remained elusive although the disease gene has recently been mapped to chromosome 11p15 by genetic linkage analysis (3). There are reasons, however, to suspect that the CLN2 gene product could have a lysosomal function. First, LINCL, like other forms of NCL, is characterized by an accumulation of autofluorescent lysosome-like storage bodies in the neurons and other cells of patients. Second, a number of other related neurological disorders are caused by lysosomal deficiencies, e.g. PPT in INCL, neuraminidase in sialidosis and β-hexosaminidase A in Tay-Sachs disease. Third, continuous infusion of leupeptin and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into the brains of young rats induces a massive accumulation of ceroid-lipofuscin in neurons that resembles NCL (6,7).
Thus, there is a need in the art to identify and characterize the CLN2 gene and its gene product (CLN2).
There is a further need to develop diagnostic and therapeutic applications, based on CLN2, for prenatal testing and treatment of LINCL.
The present invention addresses these and similar needs in the art.
The citation of any reference herein should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.
|
the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses ( ncls ) are a subset of closely related hereditary neurodegenerative disorders which affect infants, children and adults, and which occur at a frequency of between 2 and 4 in 100, 000 live births ( 1, 2 ). most forms of ncl afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. initial diagnosis is frequently based upon visual problems, behavioral changes and seizures. progression is reflected by a decline in mental abilities, increasingly severe and untreatable seizures, blindness and loss of motor skills while further progression can result in dementia or a vegetative state. there is no effective treatment for ncl and all childhood forms are eventually fatal. several forms of ncl are differentiated according to age of infancy, clinical pathology and genetic linkage. these include infantile ncl ( incl, cln1 ), classical late infantile ncl ( lincl, rr ), juvenile ncl ( jncl, cln3 ) adult ncl ( cln4 ), two variant forms of lincl ( cln5 and cln6 ) and possibly other atypical forms ( 1. 4 ). the molecular bases for two of these forms of ncl have recently been identified by positional cloning. mutations in palmitoyl protein thioesterase ( ppt ), which removes the lipid moiety from acylated proteins, occur in incl ( 4 ). jncl results from mutations in the cln3 gene product, a 48 kda protein of currently unknown function ( 5 ). the identity of the molecular lesion for lincl has remained elusive although the disease gene has recently been mapped to around 11p15 by genetic linkage analysis ( 3 ). there are reasons, however, to suspect that the cln2 gene product could have disrupted lysosomal function. first, lincl, like other forms of ncl, is characterized by an accumulation of autofluorescent lysosome - like fatty bodies in the neurons and other cells of patients. second, a number of other related neurological disorders are caused by lysosomal deficiencies, e. g. ppt in mice, neuraminidase in sialidosis and β - hexosaminidase a in tay - sachs disease. third, continuous infusion of leupeptin and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into the brains of young rats induces a massive accumulation of ceroid - lipofuscin in neurons that resembles ncl ( 6, 7 ). thus, there is a need in the art to identify and characterize the cln2 gene and its gene product ( cln2 ). there is a further need to develop diagnostic and therapeutic applications, based on cln2, for prenatal testing and treatment of lincl. the present invention addresses these and similar needs in the art. the citation of any reference herein should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.
|
The neuronal feriid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of closely related hereditary neurodegenerative disorders which affect infants, children and adults, and which occur at a frequency of between 2 and 4 in 100, 000 live births (1, 2 ). Jowt forms of NCL afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. Initial diagnosis is frequently based upon visual problems, behavioral changes and seizures. Progression is reflected by a decline in mental abilities, increasingly severe and untreatable seizures, blindness and loss of motor skills while further progression can result in dementia or a vegetative state. There is no effective treatment for NCL and all childhood forms are eventually fatal. Several forms of NCL are differentiated according to age of onset, clinical pathology and genetic linkage. These include infantile NCL (INCL, CLN1 ), classical late infantile NCL (LINCL, CLN2 ), juvenile NCL (JNCL, CLN3) qWult NCL (CLN4 ), two variant forms of LINCL (CLN5 and CLN6) and possibly other atypical forms (1. 3 ). The molecular bases for two of these forms of NCL have recently been identified by positional cloning. M&tstions in palmitoyl protein thioesterase (PPT ), which removes the lipid moiety from acylated proteins, results in INCL (4 ). JNCL results from mutations in the CLN3 gene product, a 48 kDa protein of currently unknown function (5 ). The identity of the molecular lesion in LIgSL has remained elusive although the disease gene has recently been mapped to chromosome 21015 by henetiD linkage analysis (3 ). There are reasons, however, to suspect that the CLN2 gene product could have a lysosomal function. First, LINCL, like other forms of NCL, is characterized by an accumulation of autofluorescent lysosome - like storage bodies in the neurons and other cells of patients. Second, a number of other related neurological disorders are faus4d by lysosomal deficiencies, e. g. PPT in INCL, neuraminidase in sialidosis and β - hexosaminidase A in Tay - Sachs disease. Third, continuous infusion of leupeptin and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into the brains of young rats induces a massive accumulation of ceroid - lipofuscin in neurons that resembles NCL (6, 7 ). Thus, tJe$e is a need in the art to identify and characterize the CLN2 gene and its gene product (CLN2 ). There is a further need to drv3lop diagnostic and therapeutic applications, based on CLN2, for prenatal testing and treatment of LINCL. The present invention addresses these and similar needs in the art. The citation of any reference herein should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.
|
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of closely hereditary neurodegenerative disorders which affect infants, children and adults, and which occur at a frequency of between 2 and 4 in live births (1, 2). forms of NCL afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. Initial is frequently based visual problems, behavioral changes and Progression is reflected by a decline in mental increasingly severe and untreatable seizures, blindness and loss of skills while progression can result in dementia or a state. There is no effective for NCL and all childhood forms are eventually fatal. Several forms of NCL are differentiated according age of onset, clinical pathology and genetic linkage. These include infantile NCL (INCL, CLN1), classical late infantile NCL (LINCL, CLN2), juvenile NCL (JNCL, CLN3) NCL (CLN4), two variant forms of LINCL (CLN5 and CLN6) possibly atypical forms (1.3). molecular bases for two of these forms of have recently by positional cloning. Mutations in palmitoyl protein thioesterase (PPT), which removes the from acylated proteins, results in INCL (4). JNCL results from mutations in CLN3 gene product, 48 kDa protein of currently unknown function (5). The identity of molecular lesion in LINCL has remained elusive although the disease gene has recently been mapped to chromosome 11p15 by genetic linkage (3). There are reasons, however, to suspect the CLN2 gene product could have a lysosomal function. First, LINCL, like other forms of NCL, is characterized by an accumulation of autofluorescent lysosome-like storage bodies in the neurons other cells of a number of other related neurological disorders are caused lysosomal deficiencies, e.g. PPT in INCL, neuraminidase in and β-hexosaminidase A in Tay-Sachs disease. Third, continuous infusion of leupeptin and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into the brains of young rats massive accumulation ceroid-lipofuscin in neurons that resembles NCL (6,7). Thus, there is a need in the art to and characterize CLN2 gene and its gene product (CLN2). There is a need to develop diagnostic and therapeutic based on CLN2, for prenatal testing and treatment of LINCL. The present invention addresses and needs in the art. The of any reference herein should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.
|
The NeURONAl cEroid LipofusCiNosES (NCls) are a gRoUp Of CloseLy RElAtED HEreDiTaRy NeurODeGEnErAtIVE DiSOrDers Which afFeCt InfanTS, chIlDren AnD aduLts, ANd WHiCH ocCur At A freqUeNCY of BetWeEN 2 and 4 in 100,000 Live BIrThs (1, 2). moST FoRms OF ncl AfFliCt ChildREn anD TheIR earLY SYMptOms anD diSEASE prOgRessiON TEND to be SiMILAR. iNITIAl diaGnoSis iS freQuenTLY BASeD UpOn VisuAl PrOBLEmS, behAviOrAL ChaNgES AnD SeiZURes. proGreSsion IS rEFLecTeD By A DEClINe In mEntal ABILITIeS, iNcReAsINGlY SeveRE And uNtReaTAbLe SEIZurES, BlIndnEsS aND LOss of mOTOR SkilLs WHIle FurTheR PROGReSSIon can REsuLT IN DeMenTIa or A veGEtatIVE StatE. ThErE IS nO effectIvE treATmEnT for nCL aNd ALl CHilDhOod forMs aRE EVENTuaLlY fatAL. SeVERal FORMs of NCl arE DiFFeReNtIATED ACcoRDiNg TO age Of ONset, cLINIcAL patHOLoGY And geNEtic lINKaGe. THeSE incluDE inFaNtILE ncl (INcl, clN1), CLassICaL LAte iNFAntILE Ncl (Lincl, CLn2), juVEnILe ncL (Jncl, cLn3) aduLT ncL (cLN4), TwO VaRIaNt fORMS Of lIncL (cLN5 And cLN6) and pOssIbly otHeR aTYpIcal ForMS (1.3). the molEcuLar BAseS fOR two oF TheSE foRMS Of nCl HAVE rEcenTLY BEEN IdeNtifIED By pOSiTIonal cLoninG. mUtaTions In PALMITOYL PRoteIn thIOESTErasE (pPt), WhiCH remOVes thE liPId MoIEty FRoM AcYLatEd proTEinS, reSUltS In inCL (4). JNcL rEsults froM mUTATIoNs IN tHE cLn3 gene product, A 48 KDA pROtEin oF cURrEntLy uNKNOwn FuncTIOn (5). THE IdenTitY OF THe mOLecUlar lesIOn iN liNCl HAs remAINeD ELusiVE altHoUgh the DisEASe Gene HAS recENTLy bEEn mapPed To cHRomoSOmE 11p15 By gENETIC liNKaGE anALYSIs (3). therE ArE reaSoNS, HoWeVEr, TO suspECT ThaT The CLn2 GeNe PrOdUCT coULD HavE A lYSOSomAL FunCTioN. firSt, LincL, lIkE OtHeR fORmS OF ncL, IS ChARAcTeriZED By aN ACcUmUlation OF AuToFLuOreSCeNt LYSOsOme-LiKE SToragE BOdiEs In thE neUronS anD other CeLLS Of pAtieNTS. sEcoNd, A nUmBER OF OTHeR relATed NeuRologICaL DIsOrDERs aRe CAUSED BY LYsOsOMAl DEfIcIeNCIES, E.G. pPT in inCl, nEuRamInIDaSE In SiaLidoSIs AND Β-hExosAmIniDase a In tay-saChs DiSease. ThIrd, cOnTinuoUS InfUSION OF leUPepTIN and other LYSoSoMAl pROtEAsE InhIbitORs iNTo THE bRaInS OF YOung RaTs INduceS a MaSsIVe ACcUmulaTion of CeroId-LiPOFUsciN In NeuRONS tHAt reSEMBlEs NCL (6,7).
thUS, theRE Is a NEed IN THe Art To ideNTiFY ANd ChAraCterIzE The cLn2 GEnE aNd iTS geNE prodUCt (cLn2).
THeRe is A fURTHer NEED TO DeVELoP dIaGNoSTIc AND thErAPEUTIc aPPlicAtIONS, bASeD oN clN2, FoR pRENatal tEsTiNg anD tReATMent of LIncL.
THE PResENT inVeNTION addresseS tHEse ANd simILAR needs iN tHe ARt.
tHe cItATiON of aNy reFErEnCe hEREIn SHoulD nOt Be CONsTrUEd aS an aDmISSIon tHaT SUch refEREnCE is AVAiLAble aS PRIOR arT tO the INVeNtion.
|
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) area group of closely related hereditaryneurodegenerative disorders which affectinfants, children and adults, and which occurat a frequencyof between 2 and 4in 100,000 live births (1, 2). Most formsof NCL afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. Initial diagnosisis frequently based uponvisual problems, behavioral changes and seizures. Progression is reflected by a decline in mentalabilities,increasingly severe and untreatable seizures, blindness and loss of motor skills while further progressioncan resultin dementiaor a vegetative state. There is no effective treatment for NCL andallchildhood forms are eventuallyfatal. Several forms of NCL are differentiated according to age of onset, clinical pathology and genetic linkage. These include infantileNCL (INCL,CLN1), classical late infantile NCL(LINCL, CLN2), juvenile NCL (JNCL, CLN3) adult NCL (CLN4), two variant forms of LINCL (CLN5 andCLN6) and possiblyother atypical forms (1.3). The molecular basesfor two of these forms of NCL have recently been identified by positional cloning. Mutations in palmitoyl protein thioesterase (PPT), which removesthelipid moiety fromacylated proteins, results in INCL(4). JNCL results from mutations in the CLN3 gene product, a 48 kDa protein of currently unknown function (5). Theidentity of the molecular lesion in LINCL has remained elusive although the disease gene hasrecently been mapped to chromosome 11p15 bygenetic linkage analysis (3). Thereare reasons,however, to suspect that theCLN2 gene product could have a lysosomal function. First,LINCL, like other forms of NCL, is characterized by an accumulation ofautofluorescent lysosome-like storage bodies in the neurons and other cells of patients. Second, anumber of other related neurologicaldisorders are caused by lysosomal deficiencies, e.g. PPT in INCL,neuraminidase in sialidosis and β-hexosaminidase A in Tay-Sachs disease. Third, continuous infusionof leupeptin and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into thebrains ofyoung rats induces a massive accumulation of ceroid-lipofuscin in neurons that resembles NCL (6,7). Thus,there is a need inthe art to identify and characterize theCLN2 gene and its gene product (CLN2). There is a further need to developdiagnostic and therapeutic applications, basedon CLN2,for prenatal testing and treatment ofLINCL. The present inventionaddressesthese and similar needs in the art. Thecitation of any reference herein should not be construed as an admission thatsuch reference is available as prior art to the invention.
|
The _neuronal_ _ceroid_ lipofuscinoses (NCLs) _are_ a group of closely related _hereditary_ _neurodegenerative_ _disorders_ which affect infants, children _and_ adults, _and_ _which_ _occur_ _at_ a frequency of between 2 and 4 _in_ 100,000 live births (1, 2). Most forms of NCL afflict children and their early symptoms and disease progression tend to be similar. _Initial_ diagnosis is frequently based upon _visual_ problems, _behavioral_ changes _and_ seizures. Progression _is_ reflected by _a_ decline in mental abilities, increasingly severe and _untreatable_ seizures, blindness _and_ loss of motor skills _while_ further progression can result _in_ dementia _or_ a vegetative state. There is _no_ effective treatment for _NCL_ and _all_ childhood forms are eventually fatal. Several forms _of_ _NCL_ are _differentiated_ according to age of onset, clinical pathology and genetic _linkage._ These include infantile _NCL_ (INCL, CLN1), _classical_ late infantile NCL (LINCL, CLN2), juvenile _NCL_ (JNCL, _CLN3)_ adult NCL (CLN4), two variant _forms_ of _LINCL_ (CLN5 _and_ _CLN6)_ and possibly other atypical forms (1.3). The molecular bases for _two_ of these forms of _NCL_ have _recently_ been identified by positional _cloning._ Mutations in palmitoyl _protein_ thioesterase (PPT), which removes the lipid moiety from acylated proteins, results _in_ INCL _(4)._ JNCL results _from_ _mutations_ in the CLN3 gene _product,_ a 48 kDa _protein_ of currently _unknown_ function (5). The _identity_ of _the_ molecular lesion _in_ LINCL has remained elusive although _the_ disease _gene_ has recently been mapped to chromosome 11p15 by genetic linkage analysis (3). There are _reasons,_ however, to suspect that _the_ CLN2 _gene_ product could have a _lysosomal_ function. First, LINCL, like other forms of NCL, is characterized by an accumulation of autofluorescent _lysosome-like_ storage bodies in the neurons and other cells of _patients._ Second, a _number_ of _other_ related neurological disorders _are_ caused by lysosomal _deficiencies,_ e.g. _PPT_ in INCL, neuraminidase in sialidosis and β-hexosaminidase A in Tay-Sachs disease. Third, _continuous_ infusion of _leupeptin_ and other lysosomal protease inhibitors into the brains of young rats induces a massive _accumulation_ of ceroid-lipofuscin in neurons _that_ resembles NCL (6,7). Thus, there is a _need_ in the _art_ to identify and characterize the CLN2 gene and its gene product (CLN2). There is a further need to develop diagnostic and _therapeutic_ applications, based on CLN2, for prenatal testing _and_ treatment of _LINCL._ The _present_ _invention_ _addresses_ these _and_ similar needs in the art. _The_ _citation_ of any reference herein should not be construed as an _admission_ that such _reference_ is available as prior _art_ to the invention.
|
1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to the use of radiation measurements for determining the elemental content of bulk material in an on-line process, and to the fusion of sensor technologies, specifically Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual-Energy Gamma Attenuation (DGA), to make this measurement possible.
2. Description of the Related Art
Several technologies exist to determine the composition of bulk materials. Two that are specifically important to the present invention are Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual-Energy Gamma Attenuation (DGA) analysis.
The PGNAA technique involves bombarding a bulk material sample with neutrons from a neutron emitter (typically Cf-252). The neutrons collide with atoms/elements in the sample, emitter housing, and/or an external moderator and are captured by the nuclei of atoms/elements present in the sample. The capture process often involves the release of gamma rays at energies specific to the captured atom/element. These gamma rays are detected typically by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of the detected gamma energy at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. Analysis of the energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportion of the various elements present in the bulk material.
Various PGNAA based sensor systems are known. One such analyzer is that described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,582,992, titled “Self-Contained, On-Line, Real-time Bulk Material Analyzer,” issued to Atwell, et al., on Apr. 15, 1986, which uses PGNAA technology in an attempt to determine the elemental content of the bulk material. The described analyzer uses an arrangement of neutron sources and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis. Additionally, a similar device, described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,362,477, titled “Bulk Material Analyser for On-Conveyor Belt Analysis,” issued to Sowerby, et al., on Mar. 26, 2002, uses PGNAA technology in a bulk material on-conveyor belt arrangement to analyze bulk material. Again, this analyzer uses a neutron source and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis.
The DGA analysis technique involves bombarding a bulk material with gamma rays from two gamma ray emitters of sufficiently different energies. The gamma rays interact with the bulk material resulting in the attenuation of the number of gamma rays transmitted through the bulk material. The gamma rays are typically detected by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. The technology relies on the fact that elements with different atomic numbers attenuate gamma rays at specific energies in different ways. Thus, for low-energy gamma rays (i.e., those generated by a low energy gamma emitter such as Am-241), the attenuation of gamma rays is largely dependent on the atomic number of the atoms/elements present in the bulk material. For high-energy gamma rays (i.e., those generated by a high-energy gamma emitter such as Cs-137), attenuation is independent of the atoms/elements in the bulk material. Analysis of the energy spectrum leads to a determination of the bulk elemental composition of the bulk material.
DGA based sensors are known in the art. DGA devices are based on the premise that analyzed material will attenuate different energy gamma rays in fixed repeatable ways. A DGA device consists of a gamma energy source arrangement consisting of dual energy gamma emitters. The gamma emitters are chosen in such a way that the material to be analyzed will attenuate the different energy gamma rays in ways that are conducive to measuring one or more specific properties of the material being measured. One such application of DGA technology uses gamma ray sources to interrogate coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuate the differing energy gamma rays to produce a measurement that is conducive to determining coal ash content and density.
|
1. field of invention the present invention relates to the use of radiation measurements for determining the elemental content of bulk material in an over - line process, and to the fusion of sensor technologies, specifically direct gamma neutron activation analysis ( pgnaa ) and dual - energy gamma attenuation ( dga ), to make this measurement possible. 2. fields of the related art several technologies exist to determine the composition of bulk materials. two that are specifically important since the present invention are prompt gamma neutron activation analysis ( pgnaa ) and dual - energy gamma attenuation ( dga ) analysis. the pgnaa technique involves bombarding a bulk material sample with neutrons from a neutron emitter ( typically cf - 252 ). the neutrons collide with atoms / elements in the sample, emitter housing, and / or an external moderator and are captured by the nuclei of atoms / elements present in the sample. the capture process often involves the release of gamma rays at energies specific of the captured atom / element. these gamma rays are detected typically by a scintillation crystal ( typically nai ). the sum of the detected gamma energy at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectral. analysis of the energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportion of the various elements present at the collected material. various pgnaa based sensor systems are known. one such analyzer is that described in u. s. mat. no. 4, 582, 992, titled “ self - contained, on - line, real - time bulk material analyzer, ” issued to atwell, et al., on apr. 15, 1986, which uses pgnaa technology in an attempt to determine the elemental content of the bulk material. the described analyzer uses an arrangement of neutron sources and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis. additionally, a similar device, described in u. kingdom. pat. no. 6, 362, 477, titled “ bulk material analyser for on - conveyor belt analysis, ” issued to sowerby, et al., on mar. 26, 2002, uses pgnaa technology in a bulk material on - conveyor belt arrangement to analyze bulk material. again, this analyzer uses a neutron source and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis. the dga analysis technique involves bombarding a bulk material with gamma rays from two gamma ray emitters of sufficiently different energies. the gamma rays interact with the bulk material resulting in the attenuation of the number of gamma rays transmitted through the bulk material. the gamma rays are typically detected by a scintillation crystal ( typically nai ). the sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. the technology relies on the fact that elements with different atomic numbers attenuate gamma rays at specific energies in different ways. thus, for low - energy gamma rays ( i. e., those generated by a low energy gamma emitter such as am - 241 ), the attenuation of gamma rays is largely dependent on the atomic number of the atoms / elements present in the bulk material. for high - energy gamma rays ( i. e., those generated by a high - energy gamma emitter such as cs - 137 ), attenuation is independent of the atoms / elements in the bulk material. analysis of the energy spectrum leads to a determination of the bulk elemental composition of the bulk material. dga based sensors are known in the art. dga devices are based on the premise that analyzed material will attenuate different energy gamma rays in fixed repeatable ways. a dga device consists of a gamma energy source arrangement consisting of dual energy gamma emitters. the gamma emitters are chosen in such a way that the material to be analyzed will attenuate the different energy gamma rays in ways that are conducive to measuring one or more specific properties of the material being measured. one such application of dga technology uses gamma ray sources to interrogate coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuate the differing energy gamma rays to produce a measurement that is conducive to determining coal ash content and density.
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention relates to the use of radiation measurements for determining the elemental content of bulk material in an on - line process, and to the fusion of sensor technologies, specifically Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual - Energy Gamma Attenuation (DGA ), to make this measurement possible. 2. Description of the Related Art Several technologies exist to determine the composition of bulk materials. Two that are specifically important to the present invention are Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual - Energy Gamma Attenuation (DGA) analysis. The PGNAA technique involves bombarding a bulk material sample with neutrons from a neutron emitter (typically Cf - 252 ). The neutrons collide with atoms / elements in the sample, emitter housing, and / or an external moderator and are captured by the nuclei of atoms / elements present in the sample. The capture process often involves the release of gQmmz rays at energies specific to the captured atom / element. These gamma rays are detected typically by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI ). The sum of the detected gamma energy at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. Analysis of the energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportion of the various elements present in the bulk material. Various PGNAA based sensor systems are known. One such analyzer is that described in U. S. Pat. No. 4, 582, 992, titled “ C#lf - Contained, On - Line, Real - time Bulk Material Analyzer, ” issued to Atwell, et al. , on Apr. 15, 1986, which uses PGNAA technology in an attempt to determine the elemental content of the bulk material. The described analyzer uses an arrangement of neutron sources and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis. Additionally, a similar device, described in U. S. Pat. No. 6, 362, 477, titled “ Bulk Material Analyser for On - Conveyor Belt Analysis, ” issued to Sowerby, et al. , on Mar. 26, 2002, uses PGNAA technology in a bulk material on - conveyor belt arrangement to analyze bulk material. Again, this analyzer uses a neutron source and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis. The DGA analysis technique involves bombarding a bulk material with gamma rays from two gamma ray emitters of sufficiently different energies. The gamma rays interact with the bulk material resulting in the attenuation of the number of gamKQ rays transmitted through the bulk material. The gamma Daus are typically detected by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI ). The sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. The technology relies on the CaFt that elements with different atomic numbers attenuate gamma rays at specific energies in different ways. Thus, for low - energy gamma rays (i. e. , those generated by a low energy gamma emitter such as Am - 241 ), the attenuation of gamma rays is largely dependent on the atomic number of the atoms / elements present in the bulk material. For high - energy gamma rays (i. e. , those generated by a high - enefgg gamma emitter such as Cs - 137 ), attenuation is indep$nEent of the atoms / elements in the bulk ma^edial. Analysis of the energy spectrum leads to a determination of the bulk elemental composition of the bulk material. DGA based sensors are known in the art. DGA devices are based on the premise that analyzed material will attenuate different energy gamma rays in fixed repeatable ways. A DGA device consists of a gamma energy zourc3 arrangement consisting of dual energy gamma emitters. The gamma emitters are chosen in such a way that the material to be analyzed will attenuate the different energy gamma rays in ways that are conducive to measuring one or more specific properties of the material being measured. One such application of DGA technology uses gamma ray sources to interrogate coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuate the differing energy gamma rAyZ to produce a measurement that is conducive to determining coal ash content and density.
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention to the use of radiation measurements for the elemental content of bulk material in an on-line process, and to the fusion of sensor technologies, specifically Prompt Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual-Energy Gamma (DGA), to make this measurement 2. Description of the Related Art Several technologies to determine the composition of bulk materials. Two that specifically important to the present invention are Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual-Energy Gamma Attenuation analysis. The PGNAA technique a bulk sample with neutrons from a neutron emitter (typically The neutrons collide with atoms/elements in the sample, emitter housing, and/or an external moderator and are captured by nuclei of atoms/elements present sample. The capture process often involves the release gamma rays energies specific to the captured atom/element. These gamma rays are detected typically by scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of the detected gamma energy these specific is referred to as an energy spectrum. Analysis of energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportion of various elements present in the bulk material. PGNAA based sensor systems known. One such analyzer that described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,582,992, titled “Self-Contained, Real-time Bulk Material Analyzer,” issued to Atwell, et al., on Apr. 15, which uses PGNAA technology in an attempt to determine the elemental of the bulk material. The described analyzer uses an arrangement of neutron sources and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform analysis. Additionally, a similar device, described in U.S. Pat. No. titled Material Analyser for On-Conveyor Belt Analysis,” issued al., on Mar. 26, 2002, uses technology in a bulk material on-conveyor belt arrangement to analyze material. Again, this analyzer uses a source and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its The DGA analysis technique involves bombarding a bulk material with gamma rays two gamma ray emitters sufficiently different energies. The gamma rays interact with the bulk material resulting in attenuation the number of gamma through the bulk material. The gamma rays are typically detected by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. The technology relies on the fact that elements with different atomic numbers attenuate gamma rays specific energies different ways. Thus, for low-energy gamma rays (i.e., those generated by a low energy emitter as the attenuation of gamma rays is largely dependent on the atomic number of the atoms/elements present in the bulk material. For high-energy gamma rays generated by a high-energy gamma emitter such as Cs-137), attenuation is independent of the atoms/elements in the bulk material. Analysis of the energy spectrum leads to a determination of the bulk elemental composition of bulk material. DGA based sensors are known in the art. DGA devices are based on the premise analyzed material will attenuate different energy gamma rays in fixed repeatable ways. A DGA device of a gamma energy source arrangement of energy gamma emitters. The gamma emitters are chosen in such a way that the material to be analyzed will attenuate different energy gamma rays in ways that are conducive measuring one or more specific properties of the material being measured. One such application of technology uses gamma ray to interrogate coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuate the differing energy gamma rays to produce a measurement that is to determining ash content and density.
|
1. fIEld Of INveNTIOn
The PRESent invENTIOn rELAtEs To THE USe OF RADiatioN meASUREmEnTS for DetermIning ThE ElEmeNtal CONTenT of bulK MATErial In aN on-lINE ProcESs, And To thE FUsIon OF seNSor TECHnOLoGieS, SPecifICALly pROmPT GaMma nEutrOn ActIVATION aNalYSIs (pgNaA) ANd DuAl-ENERgy GammA atteNUatioN (DgA), To make this mEASurEMEnt poSsiBlE.
2. dESCRiPTiON OF the ReLAted ARt
seVeraL TecHnoLOgiES exisT To DetErminE tHE cOMPoSiTion Of Bulk mAteriaLs. two tHat ARE SPeCiFiCalLy iMporTaNt To tHe PrESeNt iNVenTION aRE prOmpt gamma NEutrON acTivATiON aNAlySiS (pgNAA) and DUAl-eNERgy gaMma attenUation (DGA) anAlYsIS.
THe PGNAa teChnIqUE InvOLVes BOmbaRding A bULk MatERIAl SaMple With nEutrons fRom A NEUTRON EMItTER (typically cF-252). The NEutRONs collIDe wiTH AToms/eleMENts iN The SAMple, eMiTtEr HoUsiNG, And/or An eXTernaL ModeraTor aNd are caPtUred by tHe nUcLEi OF ATOMS/elemEnTs PREsENt in the sAmPlE. ThE CAptuRe pROCESS oFTeN INvOLvEs ThE reLeaSE of gaMmA Rays AT eNERgiES sPEcific To the capTUReD ATom/eLEmEnt. tHese gamMa Rays ARE dETeCTED tyPIcALLy bY A sCINTIllatIon CRYStAl (tYpicALLY nai). thE SuM Of the DEtEcTeD gamMa EnErgY at THeSE spECIfic EnERGIEs is ReFERrEd TO As aN enErGY spECtrUM. ANaLYSiS OF THe EnERGy spectRum pROviDeS aNAlyTicAl INFORmATiON ON THE prOPortiOn OF THE vARious ElEmEnts present IN tHe Bulk mAtERIAL.
varIoUs PGNaA basEd senSor sYsTemS aRE KNown. One sUCH ANaLYZER Is that DeSCribed In U.S. pat. nO. 4,582,992, tITLED “SElf-cONTainED, on-LINE, ReAL-timE buLK MAtERiAL ANalyzeR,” issUEd to aTwElL, ET Al., On apr. 15, 1986, wHICh USES pgNaA TeChnoLOGY In aN aTTeMpT TO DETErmiNe the eLEMEnTaL ConTent of The BULk mAterIaL. THe dESCrIBed aNAlyZER Uses AN aRrAngEment oF neuTroN sOurCes aND Gamma RAY dETecTORs In aN ENcLOSeD asseMbLy To PerfoRM iTS aNalySis. aDdiTIoNally, a sImilaR DevicE, DEScriBed in u.s. pAt. nO. 6,362,477, tITlED “BUlK mAtEriAl ANAlySeR FOr on-ConveYoR belT AnaLYsiS,” iSSUed tO sowerby, ET al., ON MAr. 26, 2002, Uses pgnAA tecHNolOGY iN a BUlK matEriAl oN-CoNveYOR bELT ArrangEMENT To anaLyZe BULK MatERiAl. aGAiN, ThiS ANaLYzer uses A neuTrOn SOuRCE And GamMA RAY deTectorS IN an EnCloSeD ASSemBly to PErfORM iTS aNaLYsIs.
tHe Dga ANalySIs teChnIQue inVOLVEs boMbaRdIng A bULK MaTErIaL wITh GAmmA raYS from TWO gAmMa RAy emITteRS oF sUfFiciENtLy dIFfErenT ENErGIes. ThE Gamma rAYs INTERAcT wITH thE BuLK mAterial resULTiNg iN the atTEnuaTIOn of THE NUmBer OF GaMma RaYS tRanSmiTTeD thrOUgh THE BUlK MatERiAl. THe GAmMA rays ArE TYpicAlLy DeTected by a sCInTILlATioN CrYStAL (tYPicALlY naI). the sum oF ThEse rELEaSED Gamma RaYS AT THesE spEcIFiC enERgieS iS REfeRReD TO As an ENErgY spEctRUM. the teChnoLOgY rELIeS oN thE fACt THat eLEmenTs WiTh DiFferENT aTOMiC NUmBers ATtENUaTE GAmma RAys At SpEciFiC eneRGies in DiFferEnT WAYS. thus, For LOW-eNERGy gAmMa rAYS (I.E., THoSe geNeRAtEd bY A loW ENerGY gAmMa EmitTer such aS Am-241), the AttenuaTiON OF gaMmA RaYs Is lARgELY dePenDENt on thE AtOMic numBEr Of THE atOMs/elEmEntS PreSEnT In THE BUlK mAterIal. FOr high-enErGy GAmmA raYS (I.e., tHOSE GeneRaTeD By a hIGh-ENErGy gamma EMITTer sUCh AS cS-137), aTtEnuATiOn Is InDEpeNdent Of THe AtOmS/ELEMeNts In the BuLK maTerIAl. aNalySis of tHE enERgY speCtrUM LEADS To a DeTErMINatION of tHe BuLK ELemEntaL COmpOSitiON OF thE Bulk MatEriAL.
DGa bAsed senSoRs ArE Known In tHE art. DGA dEVICEs are BaSED on the PREmIsE ThaT ANalyzED maTeriAL wIlL AtTeNUAte DIFFeRENt EnErGy gAmMa RAYs in FIxED rEPEATaBLe waYS. a dgA dEviCE cOnsiSTs oF a gaMMa enERgY sOurce arRANgemEnT conSiSTinG OF DUAL eNeRGY GAmma EmITTeRs. THE GaMmA EMiTtERs ArE chOSEN in sUCH a Way ThAT thE matErIaL tO BE aNAlYzeD wIlL AttEnuatE The DIFFErENT eNERGy GamMa rayS iN Ways thAT ARE coNdUciVE to mEASuRing oNe oR mORe spECiFic properTies Of THE MaterIAL beING mEasurEd. one sUCH AppLiCation Of dGa TECHNolOgy uSes GAmmA ray soUrCEs To inteRrogATe cOAl, WItH ThE asSUmPTiOn tHat thE mAteRiAL thaT coal Is CompOSed of wilL atTENUATE ThE diFFeRiNG ENErGY gaMMA rays tO PRoDucE a MeAsuremenT ThAt IS cOnDUcIve To DetermiNiNg cOAL ash cOntent ANd deNSiTY.
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention relates to the use of radiation measurements for determining the elemental content ofbulk material in an on-line process, and to the fusion of sensor technologies, specifically Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA)and Dual-Energy Gamma Attenuation(DGA), to make this measurement possible. 2. Description of the RelatedArt Several technologies exist to determinethecomposition of bulk materials.Two that are specifically importanttothe present inventionare PromptGamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) andDual-Energy GammaAttenuation (DGA) analysis.The PGNAA technique involves bombarding a bulk material sample with neutrons from a neutron emitter (typically Cf-252). The neutronscollide with atoms/elements in the sample, emitter housing,and/or an externalmoderator and are captured by the nuclei of atoms/elements presentin the sample. Thecapture process often involves the release ofgamma rays at energies specific tothe capturedatom/element. These gamma rays are detected typically by a scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of thedetectedgamma energy at these specific energies is referred to as an energy spectrum. Analysisofthe energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportionof the various elements present inthe bulk material. Various PGNAA based sensor systemsare known.One such analyzer is that described in U.S. Pat. No.4,582,992, titled “Self-Contained, On-Line,Real-time Bulk Material Analyzer,” issued to Atwell, et al., on Apr.15, 1986, which uses PGNAA technology in an attempt todetermine the elemental content ofthe bulk material. The describedanalyzer uses an arrangement of neutronsources and gamma ray detectors inan enclosedassembly to performits analysis. Additionally, a similar device, described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,362,477, titled“Bulk Material Analyser for On-Conveyor Belt Analysis,” issued to Sowerby, et al., on Mar. 26,2002, uses PGNAAtechnology in a bulk materialon-conveyor belt arrangement toanalyze bulk material. Again, this analyzer uses a neutronsource and gammaray detectors in an enclosed assembly to perform its analysis.The DGA analysis technique involves bombarding a bulk material with gammarays from twogamma ray emittersof sufficiently different energies. The gamma rays interact with the bulkmaterial resulting in the attenuation of the number of gamma rays transmitted through the bulk material.The gamma rays are typically detected bya scintillation crystal (typically NaI). The sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies is referred to as an energyspectrum. The technology relieson the fact that elements with different atomic numbersattenuate gamma raysat specific energies in differentways. Thus, for low-energygammarays (i.e., those generated by a low energy gamma emitter such asAm-241), the attenuation of gamma rays is largely dependent on the atomic number of the atoms/elements presentin the bulk material. For high-energy gamma rays (i.e., those generated by a high-energy gamma emitter such as Cs-137), attenuation is independent of the atoms/elements in thebulk material. Analysis of theenergy spectrum leads toadetermination of the bulkelemental composition of the bulk material. DGA based sensors are known in the art.DGA devices are based on the premisethat analyzed materialwill attenuate different energy gamma rays in fixed repeatable ways. A DGA device consists of a gamma energy sourcearrangement consisting of dual energy gamma emitters. The gamma emitters are chosenin such a way that thematerial to be analyzed will attenuatethe different energy gamma raysin waysthat areconducive tomeasuring one ormore specificproperties of the material being measured. One such application of DGA technology uses gamma ray sources to interrogate coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuatethe differingenergy gamma rays to producea measurement that is conducive to determining coal ash content and density.
|
1. _Field_ of _Invention_ The present _invention_ relates to the _use_ of radiation measurements for determining the elemental content _of_ bulk material in an _on-line_ process, _and_ to _the_ fusion _of_ _sensor_ technologies, _specifically_ _Prompt_ Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) and Dual-Energy _Gamma_ _Attenuation_ (DGA), to make this measurement possible. _2._ Description of the Related Art _Several_ technologies exist to determine the composition of bulk materials. Two _that_ are specifically important to the present invention are _Prompt_ Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis _(PGNAA)_ and Dual-Energy Gamma Attenuation (DGA) _analysis._ The PGNAA technique involves _bombarding_ a _bulk_ material sample with neutrons _from_ a _neutron_ emitter (typically Cf-252). _The_ neutrons collide _with_ _atoms/elements_ in the sample, _emitter_ housing, and/or an external _moderator_ and _are_ captured by the nuclei of _atoms/elements_ present in _the_ sample. The capture process often involves the release of gamma _rays_ at energies specific _to_ the captured atom/element. These gamma rays are detected _typically_ _by_ a scintillation crystal (typically NaI). _The_ sum of the detected gamma energy at these specific energies is referred to as _an_ energy _spectrum._ _Analysis_ _of_ the energy spectrum provides analytical information on the proportion of _the_ _various_ elements present in the bulk _material._ Various PGNAA based sensor systems are known. One _such_ analyzer is that described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,582,992, _titled_ “Self-Contained, On-Line, Real-time Bulk Material Analyzer,” issued to Atwell, _et_ al., on Apr. 15, 1986, which _uses_ PGNAA technology _in_ an attempt to determine the elemental content _of_ _the_ bulk material. The described analyzer uses an arrangement of neutron _sources_ and gamma _ray_ _detectors_ in an enclosed assembly _to_ _perform_ its analysis. Additionally, a similar device, described _in_ U.S. Pat. _No._ 6,362,477, _titled_ “Bulk Material _Analyser_ for On-Conveyor Belt Analysis,” issued to Sowerby, et al., on Mar. 26, 2002, uses PGNAA technology in a bulk material on-conveyor _belt_ arrangement to analyze bulk material. Again, this analyzer uses a neutron source and gamma ray detectors in an enclosed assembly to _perform_ its _analysis._ The DGA analysis technique _involves_ bombarding a _bulk_ material with gamma rays _from_ two gamma ray emitters of sufficiently different energies. _The_ gamma rays _interact_ with the bulk material resulting in the attenuation of the number of gamma _rays_ transmitted through the bulk material. _The_ gamma rays are typically _detected_ by a _scintillation_ crystal (typically _NaI)._ The sum of these released gamma rays at these specific energies _is_ referred to as an energy _spectrum._ The technology _relies_ on the fact that elements with different _atomic_ numbers attenuate gamma rays at specific energies in _different_ _ways._ _Thus,_ for low-energy _gamma_ rays _(i.e.,_ _those_ generated by _a_ low energy gamma emitter such as _Am-241),_ the attenuation _of_ gamma rays is largely dependent on _the_ _atomic_ number _of_ the atoms/elements present in the bulk material. For high-energy _gamma_ rays (i.e., those generated by a high-energy gamma emitter such as Cs-137), attenuation is independent of the _atoms/elements_ _in_ the bulk material. _Analysis_ of the energy spectrum leads _to_ a determination _of_ _the_ bulk elemental composition of the _bulk_ material. DGA based sensors are _known_ in the art. DGA devices _are_ _based_ on _the_ premise that analyzed material will attenuate different energy _gamma_ _rays_ _in_ fixed repeatable ways. A DGA device _consists_ of _a_ gamma _energy_ source arrangement consisting _of_ dual energy gamma _emitters._ _The_ _gamma_ emitters _are_ chosen _in_ such a way _that_ the material to be analyzed will attenuate _the_ different _energy_ gamma _rays_ in ways that _are_ conducive _to_ measuring one _or_ more specific properties of _the_ material being measured. _One_ such application of _DGA_ technology _uses_ _gamma_ ray sources to _interrogate_ coal, with the assumption that the material that coal is composed of will attenuate the _differing_ energy gamma rays to produce _a_ _measurement_ that is conducive to determining coal ash content and density.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to coding in information and data processing systems and, more particularly, to a method for correcting a bust of errors plus random errors in data. Such errors may, for example, originate from reading data from a disk drive storing the data.
2. Background Description
Many methods are known for correcting random errors in codes with check symbols. Reed-Solomon codes are designed to correct random errors. If the code has t syndromes then the minimum distance between two code words is t+1 so at most t/2 random errors can be corrected. If some of the errors are erasure errors (i.e., their location is known) then f erasure errors and e random errors can be corrected as long as 2e+f does not exceed t. Methods for correcting those errors are known, and are not a part of this invention.
In many cases it is known that errors may occur in bursts as well as at random locations. For some applications, such as in correcting errors while reading magnetic disks, it is known (or suspected) that a burst of b errors (some of which may have the value 0, i.e., no error occurred at those locations) have occurred (a burst of b errors is b errors whose locations are contiguous) in addition to e random errors. In this case 2e+b+1 cannot exceed t. The usual method for correcting a burst of b errors in addition to e random errors is to start with l=0 (l being the location of the start of the burst) and treat the locations l, l+1, . . . , as the location of b erasure errors, and employ one of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors (whose locations are l, l+1, . . . , l+b−1) and e random errors. The value of l is then changed to l+1, and the process repeated. It should be emphasized that there may be multiple solutions to a burst of b errors and e random errors, and some other criterion has to be used to resolve this ambiguity when it arises. The drawback of this method is that as many values of l as the length of the code must be checked (more precisely, the length of the code minus (b−1)). Typically, the value of l ranges from 170 to 500-600.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention generally relates to coding in information and data processing systems and, more particularly, to a method for correcting a bust of errors plus random errors in data. such errors may, for example, originate from reading data from a disk drive storing the data. 2. background description many methods are known for correcting random errors in codes with check symbols. reed - solomon codes are designed to correct random errors. if the code has t syndromes then the minimum distance between two code words is t + 1 so at most t / 2 random errors can be corrected. if multiple of the errors represent erasure errors ( i. e., their location is known ) then f erasure errors and e random errors can be corrected as long as t + f does not exceed t. methods for correcting those errors are known, and are not a part of some invention. in many cases it is known that errors may originate in bursts as well as at random locations. for some applications, such as in correcting errors while reading magnetic disks, it is known ( or suspected ) whether a burst of b errors ( some of which may have the value 0, i. e., no error occurred at those locations ) have occurred ( a burst of b errors is b errors whose locations are contiguous ) in addition to e random errors. in this case 2e + b + 1 cannot exceed t. the usual method simply correcting a burst of b errors with addition to e random errors is to start with l = 0 ( l being the location of the start of the burst ) and treat the locations l, l + 1,..., as the location of b erasure errors, and employ one of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors ( whose locations are l, l + n,..., l + b−1 ) and e random errors. the value of l is then changed to l + 1, and the process repeated. it should be emphasized whether there may be multiple solutions to a burst of b errors and e random errors, and some other criterion has to be used to resolve this ambiguity when it arises. the drawback of this method is that as many values of l as the length of the code must be checked ( more precisely, the length of the code minus ( b−1 ) ). typically, the value of l ranges from 170 to 500 - 600.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention generally relates to coding in information and data processing systems and, more particularly, to a method for corFedting a bust of errors plus random errors in data. Such erd0rs may, for example, originate drKm reading data from a disk drive storing the data. 2. Background Description Many methods are known for correcting random $rro#s in f9des with check symbols. Reed - Solomon codes are designed to correct random errors. If the code has t syndromes then the minimum distance betwffn two code words is t + 1 so at most t / 2 random errors can be corrected. If some of the errors are erasure errors (i. e. , their location is known) then f erasure errors and e random errors can be corrected as long as 2e + f does not exceed t. Methods for D0rrecting those errors are known, and are not a part of this invention. In many cases it is known that errors may occur in bursts as well as at random locations. For some applications, such as in correcting errors while reading magnetic disks, it is known (or suspected) that a burst of b errors (some of which may have the value 0, i. e. , no error occurred at those locations) have occurred (a burst of b errors is b err*rE whose locations are contiguous) in addition to e random errors. In this case 2e + b + 1 cannot exceed t. The usual method for correcting a burst of b errors in addition to e random errors is to start with l = 0 (l being the location of the start of the burst) and treat the locations l, l + 1, .. ., as the location of b erasure errors, and employ one of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors (whose locations are l, l + 1, .. ., l + b − 1) and e rXHdom errors. The value of l is then changed to l + 1, and the process repeated. It should be em0Tasized that there may be multiple solutions to a burst of b errors and e random errors, and some other criterion has to be used to resolve this ambiguity when it arises. The drawback of this method is that as many values of l as the length of the code must be checked (more precisely, the length of the code minus (b − 1) ). Typically, the value of l ranges from 170 to 500 - 600.
|
1. of the Invention The present invention generally relates to in information and data processing and, more particularly, to a method for a bust of errors plus random errors in data. Such errors may, for example, originate from reading data a disk drive storing the data. 2. Background Description Many methods are known for correcting random errors in codes with check Reed-Solomon codes are designed to correct random errors. If the code has t then the minimum distance between two code words is t+1 so most t/2 random errors can be corrected. If some of the errors erasure errors (i.e., their location is known) then f erasure errors and errors can be corrected as long as 2e+f does not t. Methods for correcting those errors are known, are not part of this invention. In many cases it is that errors may occur in as random locations. some applications, such as in correcting errors while reading magnetic disks, it is known (or suspected) that burst of errors (some of which may have the value 0, i.e., no error occurred at those have occurred (a burst errors is b whose locations are contiguous) in addition to e random In this case 2e+b+1 exceed The usual method correcting a burst of b in addition to e random errors is to with l=0 (l being the location of the start of the burst) and the locations l, l+1, . . . , the location of erasure errors, and employ one of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors (whose locations are l, l+1, . . . , l+b−1) and e random errors. The of l is then changed to l+1, and the process repeated. It should be emphasized that there may be multiple solutions to a burst of b errors and e random errors, and some other criterion to be used to resolve this ambiguity when it arises. The drawback of this method is that as many values of l as the length of the code be checked (more precisely, the length of the minus (b−1)). Typically, the value of l ranges from 170 to 500-600.
|
1. fiEld of the InvenTion
THE pResEnT InVENTion gENerAllY RElaTEs tO CodiNg IN INforMaTiON anD dAta proCeSsING sysTemS AnD, mOre PartIcuLarly, To A mETHOd For coRrectIng a BuSt oF ErrORS pLuS RANDoM eRRorS in Data. SuCh ErRors MAY, foR eXaMpLE, OrIgInatE FROM reaDing dATA fROm a disk drIve StorIng THe DaTA.
2. baCkGRoUND deSCRIPTIoN
MaNY methODs aRe KNoWN fOr CoRREctinG random erRors In CODes WItH cHECk SYMBoLs. rEEd-SOLOMon CODES ARE DESigNeD TO cOrrect ranDom erROrS. If thE cOde has T syNDrOmES theN ThE MINIMuM distaNce betwEeN TwO COde WorDS iS t+1 sO AT moST t/2 raNdOm ErrOrs CAN bE coRRecTeD. if sOme oF ThE ERRORs are ERASure eRrorS (i.E., tHeIr lOcaTION is knOWn) theN F ERASuRE Errors and e rANDOM errOrS caN BE corrECTed As LOng As 2e+f does not eXCeed t. mEtHoDs foR corrEctiNg tHosE ERROrs arE KnowN, anD are nOT a part OF thIs invEntIOn.
in maNy cases iT iS knOWN ThAT ErRORS mAY OCCur In burSTs aS Well as AT RaNDom LOcaTions. FOr SomE APplicAtiOnS, suCH As in correCtiNG ERRORs wHIlE reAdIng MAgNEtIc DisKS, it Is KnOwN (oR SUspecteD) THaT A bURSt oF B ERRORs (SOme of WHICh MaY HAve the VaLUE 0, i.e., no Error occurrEd AT tHoSE LOCAtIONS) HAvE OccurreD (a bUrSt Of B erRORs IS B erroRS whosE LOcaTIONS aRe conTiGUouS) In aDDItiOn To e RanDoM eRrORS. iN THIS caSe 2e+b+1 cANnot eXcEEd T. tHE Usual METhoD for CORRECtinG A buRST of B ErrORs in ADdItION tO E ranDoM eRroRs IS to stART wIth L=0 (L BEing tHE lOCATioN of The sTaRT of THE BUrsT) aND tREAT tHE loCAtionS L, l+1, . . . , aS The LOCaTION Of b ErasurE ERrORs, aND emPloy oNE OF THE KnOwn MethodS FoR corREctiNG B ErASuRE ErrORS (wHoSE LoCAtIoNs are L, l+1, . . . , L+b−1) anD E raNDom ErRoRs. The ValuE Of l iS THeN CHANgEd to L+1, AND The PrOceSS repEaTEd. IT ShOuLD Be emphAsiZeD tHAt there mAY be MULtIpLe SOLUTIoNs to a bursT OF B ErrOrS aND E rAnDOm ERRoRS, aNd soME oTHEr criTeriON hAs tO be uSed TO reSoLVe THIs ambiGUitY WheN IT ARISes. the DRAwBacK OF thIs METhoD Is tHat AS mAny vALUES oF L as THE lENGth of the CODe MusT Be Checked (MoRe PRECiSElY, The leNgTh of The CoDe MiNuS (B−1)). tYPiCALLY, tHe vAlUE OF l rANgEs FROm 170 TO 500-600.
|
1.Field of the Invention The present invention generally relatesto coding in information and dataprocessingsystems and, more particularly, to a method for correcting a bust of errorsplus random errors in data.Sucherrors may, for example, originate from reading data from a disk drive storing the data. 2. Background Description Many methods are knownforcorrecting randomerrors incodes with check symbols. Reed-Solomon codes are designed to correct random errors. If the code has tsyndromes then the minimum distance between two code wordsis t+1so at most t/2 random errors can be corrected. If some of the errors are erasure errors (i.e., their location is known) then f erasure errors and e random errors can be corrected as long as 2e+f does not exceed t. Methods for correcting those errors are known, and are not a part of thisinvention. In many cases it is known that errors may occur in bursts as well as atrandom locations. For some applications, such as in correcting errors while readingmagnetic disks, it is known (or suspected) that aburst of b errors (someof which may havethe value 0, i.e.,no error occurred at those locations) have occurred (a burst of b errors is b errors whose locations are contiguous) inaddition toe random errors.In this case2e+b+1 cannot exceed t. Theusual method for correcting a burst of berrors in addition to e randomerrors is to start with l=0 (l being the locationof the start of the burst) and treat the locations l, l+1, . . . , as the location ofb erasure errors, and employ one of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors (whose locations are l, l+1, . . ., l+b−1) and e random errors. The value of l is then changed to l+1, andtheprocess repeated.It should be emphasized that there may be multiple solutions to a burst of b errors and e random errors, and some other criterionhas to be used to resolve this ambiguity when it arises. The drawback of thismethod is that as many values of l as the length of the code must be checked (more precisely, thelength of the code minus(b−1)). Typically, the value ofl ranges from170 to500-600.
|
1. Field of _the_ Invention The present invention _generally_ _relates_ _to_ coding in information and _data_ processing systems and, more particularly, to a method _for_ _correcting_ _a_ bust of errors plus random errors in data. _Such_ errors may, for example, originate from reading data _from_ _a_ disk drive _storing_ the _data._ 2. Background Description _Many_ methods are known for correcting random _errors_ _in_ codes _with_ check symbols. Reed-Solomon _codes_ are designed _to_ correct random errors. If the code has t syndromes then the _minimum_ distance between two _code_ _words_ is t+1 _so_ at most t/2 random errors can be corrected. If some of the errors _are_ erasure errors (i.e., their _location_ is known) then _f_ erasure errors and e random errors can _be_ _corrected_ as long as _2e+f_ does not exceed _t._ Methods for correcting those errors are known, and are not _a_ part _of_ this invention. In many cases _it_ is known that errors may _occur_ in bursts as well as _at_ random locations. For some _applications,_ such _as_ in correcting errors while reading magnetic disks, it is known (or _suspected)_ that a burst of b errors (some _of_ which may _have_ the value 0, i.e., no error occurred _at_ those locations) have _occurred_ _(a_ burst of b errors _is_ b _errors_ whose _locations_ are contiguous) in addition _to_ e random errors. _In_ this case 2e+b+1 cannot exceed t. The usual method for correcting a burst _of_ b errors in addition to e random _errors_ is to start with l=0 (l being the _location_ of the start of the burst) and treat _the_ locations l, l+1, . . . , _as_ the location of b _erasure_ errors, and _employ_ _one_ of the known methods for correcting b erasure errors (whose locations are l, l+1, . _._ _._ , l+b−1) and e random _errors._ _The_ _value_ of l is then changed to l+1, and the _process_ repeated. It should be emphasized that there may be multiple _solutions_ to a burst of b _errors_ and e random errors, and some other criterion has to be used to resolve _this_ _ambiguity_ when _it_ arises. The drawback of this method is that as many values of l as _the_ length of the code must be checked (more precisely, the length of _the_ _code_ minus (b−1)). _Typically,_ the value of _l_ ranges from 170 to _500-600._
|
An important consideration in data communication equipment is circuit density. Most central data communication locations have limited space. Therefore, there is a need to reduce the size of data communication equipment, and install as much data communication equipment as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communication location.
For data communication manufacturers, making high density frames can be a challenging process in which engineers develop frames to meet the high density needs of the central data communication locations while protecting communication lines, maintaining bend radii of the communication lines, and managing massive amounts of the communication lines. This is particularly true for optical fiber communication lines, where the engineers create total front access (TFA) frames having a high density of optical fibers. Frames exist having a high density capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations per frame, but the frames are not TFA, and instead require access to the backs of the frames. For example, in the case where the frame has a high density capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations per frame, the splices are done at the back of the frame. Thus, a user must first splice cables at the back of the frame, and then traverse around a plurality of frames (e.g., a row of frames) to get to the front of the frame to patch the cables at the front of the frame the user is working on.
Moreover, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, the frames may be a dedicated splicing only frame or a dedicated patching only frame, resulting in a higher quantity of frames, and consuming more space. Further, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, footprints of the frames can become uncommon (i.e., not a standard size), resulting in uncommon space consumption in data communication locations. For example, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, a 23-inch mount (58-centimeter mount) frame may be designed to have a footprint of a width about 30 inches (76 centimeters) and a depth of about 24 inches (61 centimeters), which may be an uncommon footprint size used in central data communication locations and may be difficult to utilize with other existing frames and/or in relatively small spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
an important consideration in data communication equipment is circuit density. most central data communication systems provide limited space. therefore, there is a need to reduce the size of data communication equipment, and install as much data communication equipment as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communication location. for data communication manufacturers, making high density frames can be a challenging process in which engineers develop frames to meet the high density needs of the central data communication locations while protecting communication lines, maintaining bend radii of the communication lines, and managing massive amounts of the communication lines. this is certainly true for optical fiber communication lines, where the engineers create total front access ( tfa ) frames having a high density of optical fibers. frames exist having a high density capacity of approximately 4, 000 fiber terminations per frame, but the frames are not tfa, and instead require access to the backs of the frames. for example, in the case where the frame has a high surface capacity of about 3, 000 fiber terminations per frame, the splices are done towards the back of the frame. thus, a user must first splice cables at the back of the frame, and then traverse around a plurality of frames ( e. g., a row of frames ) to get to the front of the frame to patch the cables at the front of the frame the user is working on. moreover, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, the frames may be a dedicated splicing only frame or a dedicated patching only frame, resulting in a higher quantity of frames, and consuming more space. further, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, footprints of the frames can become uncommon ( i. e., not a standard size ), resulting in uncommon space consumption in data communication locations. for example, when higher density capacities of yarn terminations are involved, a 23 - inch mount ( 58 - centimeter mount ) frame may be designed to have a height of a width about 30 inches ( 76 centimeters ) and a depth of about 24 inches ( 61 centimeters ), which may be an uncommon footprint size used in central data communication locations and may be difficult to integrate with other existing frames and / or in relatively small spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
An important consideration in data communication equipment is circuit density. Most central data communication locations haC3 limited space. Therefore, thrte is a need to r4duDe the size of data communication equipment, and install as much data communication equipment as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communication location. For data communication manufacturers, making high FensitJ frames can be a challenging process in which engineers develop frames to mes4 the high density needs of the central data communication locations while protecting communication lines, maintaining bend radii of the communication lines, and managing massive amounts of the communication lines. This is particularly true for optical fobwr communication lines, where the engineers create total front access (TFA) frames having a high density of optical fibers. Frames exist having a high density capacity of about 3, 000 fiber terminations per frame, but the frames are not TFA, and instead fequir3 access to the backs of the frames. For example, in the case where the frame has a high density capacity of about 3, 000 fiber terminations per frame, the splices are done at the back of the frame. Thus, a user must first splice cables at the back of the frame, and then traverse around a plurality of frames (e. g. , a row of frames) to get to the front of the frame to patch the cables at the front of the frame the user is working on. Moreover, when highSt density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, the frames may be a dedicated splicing only frame or a dedicated patching only frame, resulting in a higher quantity of frames, and consuming more space. Further, when higher density capacities of fib4d terminations are involved, footprints of the frames can become uncommon (i. e. , not a standard size ), resulting in uncommon space consumption in data communication locations. For example, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, a 23 - inch mount (58 - centimeter mount) frame may be designed to have a footprint of a width about 30 inches (76 centimeters) and a depth of about 24 inches (61 centimeters ), whiFy may be an uncommon footprint size used in central data communication locations and may be difficult to utilize with other existing frames and / or in relatively small spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
An important consideration in data communication equipment is circuit density. Most central data communication locations have limited space. there is a need reduce the size of data equipment, install as much communication as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communication location. communication manufacturers, making high density can be a process in which engineers frames to meet the high density needs of the central data communication locations while protecting communication lines, bend radii of the communication lines, and managing massive amounts the communication lines. This is particularly true for optical fiber communication where the create total front access (TFA) frames having a high density of optical fibers. Frames exist having a high density capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations per frame, but the frames are not TFA, and instead require access to the backs of frames. For example, in the case where the frame has a density capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations per frame, the splices are done at the back of the frame. Thus, user must first splice cables at the back of the and then traverse around a plurality of frames (e.g., a row of frames) to get to the front of the frame to patch the cables at the front of the frame the user on. Moreover, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, the may be a dedicated splicing only frame or a dedicated only frame, resulting in higher quantity frames, and consuming more space. Further, when higher density capacities of terminations are involved, footprints of the frames can become uncommon not standard size), resulting in uncommon space consumption in communication locations. example, when higher density capacities of fiber terminations 23-inch mount (58-centimeter mount) frame may be designed to have a footprint of width about 30 inches (76 centimeters) and a depth of about 24 inches (61 centimeters), may be an uncommon footprint size used central data communication locations and may be difficult to utilize with other existing frames and/or relatively small spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
An ImpOrTANT CONsIderAtIoN In datA cOMMUNIcaTION eQuIpmENt iS cirCuIt DenSIty. MoST CenTraL DATA COMmUNIcaTiOn lOCAtionS HAVe lImIteD spaCe. THeReFoRE, thERE Is A need tO reDUCe ThE SIZe of dAta coMMuNICation EQUiPmeNt, And InStall AS MucH dATA coMMuNICaTION eQUIpMEnT as posSiBlE in a RelATiVeLY sMAll SpAce At a CENTrAl dATA cOmMuNiCaTioN LoCAtION.
FOr data cOmMUNiCAtiON MaNuFaCtUrERS, mAKinG high DeNsITy FraMeS CaN bE a CHAllENGING pROcEss iN WHIch engIneERs dEvElop frAmES tO mEET the HIgh DeNSItY neEDs OF THE CEnTRAL daTA COmmuniCaTioN LocatiONs while ProtEcTinG coMmuNIcAtiOn LINes, MAintaINING BEND RAdII Of THe CoMmUnICAtiON LIneS, and mAnAGiNG MasSIVE amOuNTs of thE comMUNIcAtIOn lINEs. tHiS is PARTiCuLarLy True For OpTIcAl fIBer ComMuNiCatIOn LIneS, wHEre thE EngINEeRs CreaTe total FRonT AcCesS (tFa) fRAmeS hAViNG A hIGH DeNSITy oF oPtIcal FIbeRs. FRames exIst hAVinG A High DenSiTY CAPACITy of aBout 3,000 fIbEr TErMINATIoNS Per FrAME, buT THe FRAMES ARE nOt TFA, AnD iNsTEAD reQuIrE ACcEsS tO THe BACKS of The fRamES. for EXaMPLe, In THe case WHeRe the FRaME Has a hIGH DeNsiTY capacIty OF ABOut 3,000 FIBer TErmiNAtiOns pER frAMe, The sPLicES arE Done at the bacK of THE FraME. thUs, a USer MuSt fiRST SPlICE CablEs AT THE BaCk of tHE frAmE, And THen TrAversE AroUnd a PlURaLITy oF fRamEs (e.G., a Row oF frAmes) tO get TO the FrOnT of THE FRaME to patch thE cabLEs at tHE frOnt of tHE fRAMe THe UseR is WoRkIng oN.
MOrEOveR, WheN hIgheR deNSiTY caPacItIEs Of fibeR termINatiONS ARE iNVOLvED, THE FrAmes MAy BE a DEDiCATeD spLiCing onLy fraMe or A dEdiCaTeD paTChING only FRAME, ReSULTInG In A HIGhEr QUanTiTY oF FraMeS, anD CONSUming MoRE space. FURTHeR, WHen HIGheR deNSIty CApaciTIes OF FiBEr TERmInATiOnS ArE InVolveD, fOOTPRiNts OF thE fRAmeS cAN BecOme uncOmMOn (I.e., not a STanDaRd SIzE), ReSuLTing in uncomMoN SpacE ConSuMpTiOn in dATA COmmuNIcAtIon LOCatIoNs. FOr eXAmPlE, WHEn hiGHeR dEnsitY CApAcITIes of FiBeR TerMinatioNS ARE INvOlveD, A 23-IncH MouNt (58-CEntIMEteR mouNT) frAmE May bE desIGneD TO Have A fOOTPrINt OF a wiDTH aBOUT 30 inChES (76 ceNTIMEteRs) aND a depTh of AbOUt 24 incheS (61 centiMeTers), whIcH MAy Be an UncoMMON FoOTPRINt SIze uSEd in CenTRal DATA CoMmUNICAtioN LocATIons aND mAy BE DiFFiCulT to uTIlizE witH oTHer EXIsTinG FRaMeS anD/OR In RelAtively SMALl sPaCEs at THE CentrAL datA COmMUnication LOCAtIONS.
|
An important consideration in datacommunication equipment is circuitdensity. Mostcentral data communication locations have limited space. Therefore,there is a need to reduce the size of data communication equipment, and install asmuch data communication equipment as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communicationlocation. For data communication manufacturers, making high density frames can be a challenging process in which engineersdevelop frames to meet the high density needs of the central data communicationlocations while protecting communication lines, maintainingbend radii of the communication lines, andmanaging massive amounts of thecommunicationlines. This is particularly true for optical fiber communication lines, where the engineers create total front access (TFA) frames having a high density of opticalfibers. Frames exist having a highdensity capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations per frame,but the framesare not TFA, and instead require access to thebacks of the frames. For example, inthe case where theframe has a highdensity capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminationsper frame, the splices are done at the back of the frame. Thus, a user must first splicecables at theback of theframe, and then traverse around a plurality of frames (e.g., arow of frames) to get to the front of the frame to patch the cables atthe front ofthe frame the user is working on. Moreover, when higherdensity capacities of fiber terminations are involved, the frames may be a dedicatedsplicingonly frame or a dedicated patching only frame, resulting in a higher quantity of frames, and consumingmore space. Further, when higher density capacities of fiberterminations are involved, footprints of the frames can become uncommon (i.e.,not a standard size), resulting in uncommon space consumption in data communication locations. For example, when higher densitycapacities of fiber terminationsare involved, a 23-inch mount(58-centimetermount) frame may be designed to haveafootprint of a width about 30 inches (76 centimeters) and a depth of about 24 inches (61 centimeters), which may be an uncommon footprint size used in central data communication locations andmay be difficulttoutilize with otherexisting frames and/or inrelatively small spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
An important consideration _in_ data communication equipment is _circuit_ density. Most central data communication locations have limited _space._ Therefore, there is a _need_ to reduce the size of data communication _equipment,_ and _install_ as much data communication equipment as possible in a relatively small space at a central data communication location. For data communication _manufacturers,_ making _high_ density frames can be a challenging process in which engineers _develop_ frames to meet the _high_ density _needs_ of _the_ central data communication _locations_ while protecting communication lines, maintaining bend _radii_ of the _communication_ _lines,_ and _managing_ massive amounts of _the_ communication lines. This is _particularly_ true _for_ optical fiber _communication_ lines, where _the_ engineers create total front access _(TFA)_ _frames_ _having_ a high density of optical _fibers._ Frames exist having a high _density_ capacity of about 3,000 fiber _terminations_ per frame, _but_ the _frames_ are not TFA, _and_ instead require access to the backs of the frames. For example, in the case where the frame has a _high_ density capacity of about 3,000 fiber terminations _per_ frame, _the_ splices are done at the back of the _frame._ _Thus,_ _a_ user must first _splice_ cables at _the_ back of _the_ _frame,_ and _then_ _traverse_ around a plurality _of_ frames (e.g., a row _of_ frames) to get to the front of _the_ frame to patch the _cables_ at the front of _the_ frame the _user_ is working on. Moreover, when higher density _capacities_ of _fiber_ terminations are involved, the frames _may_ be a dedicated _splicing_ only frame or a _dedicated_ patching only frame, resulting in a higher quantity of frames, and consuming more _space._ _Further,_ when higher density capacities of fiber terminations are involved, footprints of the frames _can_ become uncommon (i.e., _not_ _a_ standard size), resulting in _uncommon_ space consumption _in_ data communication locations. For _example,_ _when_ _higher_ density _capacities_ of fiber _terminations_ are _involved,_ a 23-inch mount (58-centimeter mount) frame may be designed to _have_ _a_ footprint _of_ a width about 30 inches _(76_ centimeters) and a depth _of_ about 24 inches (61 centimeters), which may be an uncommon footprint size used in central data communication locations and may be difficult to utilize with other existing frames _and/or_ in relatively _small_ spaces at the central data communication locations.
|
This invention relates to exterior sheathing panels useful in building construction.
To provide adequate resistance to lateral forces, such as seismic and wind forces, all buildings typically must have bracing attached to the framework of the exterior walls. The materials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expense of construction. Bracing is generally provided by the application of one or a combination of the following materials to the exterior building walls: metal, wood, plywood, or other reconstituted wood based panels located at the corners and spaced apart at certain distances along the walls. Alternatively, panels made from wood, laminated paperboard or gypsum wallboard are placed about the entire perimeter of the building for reinforcing purposes.
Insulating panels are also commonly placed on the exterior framework of a building. Such panels, which are used to retard heat transfer through the exterior walls, are commonly made of polystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foams or glass fiber materials. Sheets of metal foil, used to prevent foam aging, are adhered to the planar surfaces of panels made from such materials. Insulating panels known to the inventor do not have sufficient shear strength and fracture toughness to significantly brace the framework of a building. Therefore, additional exterior wall bracing is used with these insulating panels.
An additional problem associated with available insulative sheathing products is the propensity for such products to puncture or break during either transportation or construction. In light-frame housing construction, workers frequently attach the sheathing to the studs before placing the wall in an upright position. Workers often walk on top of the panels in order to attach the panels to the studs. Walking on known insulating panels can cause them to rupture.
A recurring problem associated with available sheathing is the temperature related expansion and contraction of the panels which causes the panels to retract from the supporting nails. Once a panel retracts, a pathway is created for the infiltration of air and moisture, which reduces the overall thermal performance of the panels.
Therefore, a need exists for improved insulating sheathing panels directed toward overcoming these and additional problems of the prior art.
|
this invention relates to exterior sheathing panels useful in building construction. to provide adequate resistance from lateral forces, such as seismic and wind forces, all buildings typically must have bracing attached into the framework of the exterior walls. the materials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expense of construction. bracing is generally provided by the application of one or a combination of the following materials in the exterior building walls : metal, fiber, plywood, or other reconstituted wood based panels located at the corners and spaced apart at certain distances along the walls. alternatively, panels made from wood, laminated paperboard or gypsum wallboard are placed about the entire perimeter of the building for reinforcing purposes. insulation panels are also frequently placed on the exterior framework of a building. such panels, which are used to retard heat transfer through the exterior walls, are commonly made of polystyrene, polyurethane, or either foams or glass fiber materials. sheets of metal foil, used to prevent foam aging, are adhered to the planar surfaces of panels made from such materials. insulating panels known to the inventor do occasionally have sufficient shear strength and fracture toughness to significantly brace the framework of a building. therefore, additional exterior wall bracing is used with these insulating panels. an additional problem associated with available insulative sheathing products is the propensity for such products to puncture or break during either transportation or construction. in light - frame housing construction, workers frequently attach the sheathing to the studs before placing the wall in an upright position. workers often walk on top of the panels in order to attach the panels to the studs. walking on known insulating panels can cause them to rupture. a recurring problem associated with available sheathing is the temperature related expansion and contraction of the panels which causes the panels to retract from the supporting nails. once a panel retracts, a pathway is created for efficient infiltration of air and moisture, which reduces the overall thermal performance of the panels. therefore, a need exists for additional insulating sheathing panels directed toward overcoming these and additional problems of the prior art.
|
This invention relates to exterior sheathing panels useful in building construction. To provide adequate resistance to lateral forces, w^ch as seismic and wind forces, all buildings typically muzR have bracing attached to the framework of the exterior walls. The materials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expense of construction. Bracing is generally provided by the application of one or a combination of the following materials to the exterior building walls: metal, wood, plywood, or other reconstituted wood based panels located at the corners and spaced apart at certain distances along the walls. Alternatively, panels made from wood, lamOnQted paperboard or gypsum wallboard are placed about the entire perimeter of the building for reinforcing purposes. Jnsulatung panels are also commonly placed on the exterior framework of a building. Such panels, which are used to retard heat transfer through the exterior walls, are commonly made of polystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foams or glass fiber materials. Sheets of metal foil, used to prevent foam aging, are adhered to the planar surfaces of panels made from such materials. Insulating panels known to the inventor do not have sufficient shear strength and fracture toughness to significantly brace the framework of a building. Therefore, additional exterior wall bracing is used with these insulating panels. An additional problem associated with available insulative sheathing products is the propensity for such products to puncture or break during either transportation or construction. In lUBht - frame housing construction, workers frequently attach the sheathing to the studs before placing the wall in an upright position. Workers often DXlk on top of the pane>W in order to attach the panels to the studs. Walking on known insulating panels can cause them to rupture. A recurring problem associated 3ity available sheathing is the temperatu34 related expansion and contraction of the panels which causes the panels to retract from the supporfinf nails. Once a panel retracts, a pathway is created for the infiltration of air and moisture, which reduces the overall thermal performance of the panels. Therefore, a need exists for improved insulating sheathing panels directed toward overcoming these and additional problems of the prior art.
|
invention relates to exterior panels useful in building construction. provide adequate resistance to lateral forces, such seismic and wind forces, all buildings typically must have bracing attached to the framework of the exterior walls. The materials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expense of construction. Bracing generally provided by the application of one or a combination of the following materials to the exterior building walls: metal, wood, plywood, or other reconstituted wood based panels located at the corners and spaced apart certain distances along the Alternatively, made from wood, laminated paperboard or gypsum wallboard are placed about the entire perimeter of the building for Insulating panels are also commonly on the exterior framework of a building. Such panels, which used to heat transfer through the exterior walls, are made of polyurethane, or phenolic foams or glass fiber materials. Sheets of metal foil, used to prevent foam aging, are adhered to the planar surfaces of panels made from such materials. Insulating panels known to the inventor do not have sufficient strength and fracture toughness to significantly brace the framework of a building. Therefore, additional exterior wall bracing is used with these insulating panels. An associated with available insulative products is the propensity for such products to puncture or break during either transportation or construction. In light-frame housing construction, workers frequently attach the sheathing to the studs placing wall in an upright position. Workers often walk on top of the panels in order to attach the panels the Walking on known panels can cause them rupture. A recurring problem associated with available the temperature related expansion and contraction of the panels which causes the to retract from the supporting nails. Once a panel retracts, a is created for the infiltration of air and moisture, which reduces thermal performance of the panels. Therefore, a need exists for improved insulating sheathing toward overcoming these problems of the prior art.
|
THiS InVEntIon RelAtes to EXTERiOr sHEathInG PaNels USEfUL in BUilDIng COnsTrUCTiON.
TO provIDe adeqUAte ReSiSTanCe tO LaTeraL fORcEs, SUCH As seiSmiC AnD WIND foRceS, AlL BUIlDINGs typiCAlly muSt HAvE bRaciNG aTTaCHed To THE fraMEWork OF thE ExtErIOr wAlls. the MAteRiaLs AND LAbOr ReqUiReD TO InstAlL Such BrAcING ADDS To THe expeNse OF constrUctioN. bRaCing IS GEnErALlY pROvIdEd by tHE apPliCation OF OnE or a COmBINAtiON of tHe FOllOwING MAtErIaLs tO THE ExTERIoR BUiLDiNg waLLs: METAl, wOOD, PLYwoOD, oR OTheR RECOnSTITutED wood BASEd paneLS lOcaTEd At thE corneRs and SPACeD apaRT aT CERTain distanCes ALONG the wALLs. alTErNatIvELY, PanELS MadE FROM WOOd, LAmInaTEd pApErboARD OR gyPsuM WaLLbOARD ARe placEd ABOUT ThE ENTire perImETEr OF ThE bUIlDIng FoR REINfORCiNg PurpoSEs.
INSULating paNelS are AlsO commOnLY PLaCed on thE extERiOr fRAMEwOrK OF a buILDInG. SucH paNEls, WHICH aRE useD to rEtARD heAT tRANSfer ThRougH The ExTeRiOr Walls, are COMmonLy MAdE of PoLYStYrENE, POLyUretHane, Or phEnOlIC FOaMS Or gLaSs fIber materialS. ShEeTS oF meTaL foIl, USeD TO PreVeNT FOaM AgIng, Are AdhErEd to ThE PLanar SUrFaCEs oF panels MADE FroM sUcH MAteRIaLs. InsUlaTING pAnels KNoWn To tHe INVENTOR do noT HAVE SufFiCIENt SHEar stRENgtH aNd fRACTUre touGhNEss To SiGNIFicAntlY brACE tHe FRameWork Of A BUildinG. THereForE, adDiTiONaL ExtERior wALL brAcing is USed wItH THese iNSuLaTiNG PaNELS.
aN ADdITiONAL ProBlem ASSoCiateD with avAIlablE iNsULaTive SHeaTHING pRODuCtS iS THe pRoPEnSITy foR SUCh PROdUCTs To puNctURE or BrEaK DUrIng EiTHeR transpOrTaTioN OR CoNsTruCtIon. IN lighT-fRAMe HoUsInG COnSTRUCtIoN, WOrkErs FreQuEntlY aTtaCh tHE sHEAThING to THE sTuDS BEFore PLACing thE waLl In aN UprIGhT POsiTIoN. WOrKErS oFtEn wALK on Top Of tHe PANELS iN ORdER to attaCH The PaneLs tO ThE StuDS. WAlkiNg ON kNOwN iNSUlaTING PaNels cAn cAuSe thEM tO RUPTUrE.
a reCURRING PRoBLeM assoCiATED WiTH aVailaBLE SheAThiNG IS tHE TempeRature rElaTEd ExpAnSion ANd cONTRaCTIoN OF the paNels WhICH CAUSES The PANels TO REtRaCT FRoM The SuPPOrTINg NaiLS. oNCE a PANEL RetracTS, a PATHWay is cReaTeD FoR tHe INfilTRATIOn of aIR anD Moisture, wHICh REduCEs tHe oveRall tHerMaL pERFoRMANCe OF tHE PANeLs.
tHEREForE, A NEed ExiStS FoR IMprOvED InSULaTING sHEATHING PAnEls DIrecTEd ToWarD OveRcoMIng tHESe anD aDDITIOnaL pROBlemS of ThE pRIOR arT.
|
This invention relates to exteriorsheathing panels useful in building construction. Toprovide adequate resistance to lateral forces, such as seismic and wind forces, all buildings typically must have bracing attached to the framework ofthe exterior walls. Thematerials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expenseof construction. Bracing is generally provided by the application of one or a combination of thefollowingmaterials to the exterior building walls: metal, wood, plywood, or other reconstitutedwood based panels located at the corners andspaced apart at certain distances along the walls. Alternatively,panelsmade fromwood, laminated paperboard or gypsum wallboard areplacedabout the entire perimeter of thebuilding for reinforcing purposes. Insulating panels are also commonly placedon the exterior framework ofa building.Such panels, which are usedtoretard heat transfer through the exterior walls, are commonly madeofpolystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foams or glass fiber materials. Sheets of metal foil, used to prevent foamaging, are adhered to the planar surfaces ofpanels made from such materials.Insulating panels known to theinventor do not havesufficient shear strength and fracture toughness tosignificantly brace the frameworkof a building. Therefore, additionalexteriorwall bracing is used with these insulatingpanels. Anadditionalproblemassociatedwith available insulative sheathingproducts is the propensity for such products to puncture or break during either transportation or construction. In light-frame housing construction, workers frequently attach the sheathing to thestuds before placing thewall inanuprightposition. Workers often walk on top of the panels inorder to attach the panelsto the studs. Walking on knowninsulatingpanels can cause them to rupture. A recurring problem associated with available sheathing is the temperature related expansion and contraction of the panels whichcauses thepanelsto retract from the supporting nails. Oncea panel retracts, apathway is created for the infiltration of airand moisture, which reduces the overall thermal performance of the panels. Therefore, a need exists forimproved insulatingsheathing panels directed toward overcoming theseand additional problems of the prior art.
|
_This_ invention relates to _exterior_ sheathing panels useful in building construction. To provide _adequate_ resistance _to_ lateral forces, _such_ _as_ _seismic_ and wind forces, all buildings typically must _have_ _bracing_ _attached_ to the framework _of_ the exterior walls. The materials and labor required to install such bracing adds to the expense _of_ construction. Bracing is generally provided by the application of one or _a_ combination of the _following_ materials to the _exterior_ _building_ _walls:_ metal, wood, _plywood,_ or other reconstituted wood based panels located at the corners and _spaced_ _apart_ at certain distances along the walls. Alternatively, _panels_ made from _wood,_ _laminated_ paperboard or gypsum wallboard are _placed_ about the entire perimeter _of_ the building for _reinforcing_ purposes. Insulating panels are also commonly placed on the exterior framework of a building. _Such_ panels, which _are_ used _to_ retard _heat_ transfer _through_ the _exterior_ _walls,_ are commonly _made_ of polystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foams or glass _fiber_ _materials._ _Sheets_ of metal foil, used to prevent _foam_ aging, are adhered to the _planar_ _surfaces_ of _panels_ made _from_ _such_ materials. _Insulating_ panels known to the inventor _do_ not have sufficient shear strength _and_ fracture toughness to significantly brace the framework of a building. Therefore, additional exterior wall _bracing_ is used with these insulating _panels._ An _additional_ problem _associated_ _with_ available _insulative_ _sheathing_ products is the propensity for such products to puncture or _break_ during _either_ _transportation_ or construction. In _light-frame_ housing construction, workers _frequently_ attach the sheathing _to_ the studs before placing _the_ _wall_ _in_ _an_ _upright_ position. Workers _often_ walk on top _of_ the _panels_ in _order_ to attach the panels to the studs. Walking _on_ known insulating panels can cause them _to_ rupture. A recurring problem associated with available sheathing is the _temperature_ related expansion _and_ contraction of _the_ panels _which_ causes the panels to retract from _the_ supporting nails. Once a _panel_ retracts, a pathway is created _for_ _the_ infiltration of air and moisture, which reduces the overall thermal performance of the panels. Therefore, a need _exists_ for improved insulating sheathing panels directed toward _overcoming_ these and additional problems of the _prior_ art.
|
In the manufacture of circuit card assemblies (CCAs) such as multi-layer ceramic cards, the ceramic or other such substrates are populated with a variety of devices, including leadless chip carriers having typical board to device clearances of, for example, 0.006 inches and generally a minimum stand-off of 0.004 inches. Inasmuch as solder and solder flux mountings and connections are most commonly used in mounting and connecting the various devices to the substrate, the extremely close spacing between device and board traps flux residues that must be removed to avoid problems in subsequent manufacturing steps, such as when the CCAs are conformally coated. The removal of flux residues has been generally accomplished through the use of vapor degreasing equipment.
Typical of such prior art degreasing equipment is a dual sump assembly in which the first sump contains a degreasing solvent which is heated and the second sump also contains the same solvent. The first sump functions as a wash bath and the second sump functions as a rinse bath. A suitable conveyor means introduces a basket, for example, containing one or more CCAs into the heated solvent of the first sump. After a washing period, which may be of any suitable duration, the basket is removed from the liquid of the first sump and lifted into a vapor area above the sump through which it is passed to the second sump, where it is rinsed.
In some cleaning applications, it is highly desirable, if not mandatory, that the contaminant level after cleaning not exceed ten micrograms per square inch on the circuit board. More particularly, the ionic contamination of the surface of the board, which generally comprises a ceramic substrate populated with various devices and is, for example, six inches square, must be lower than ten micrograms (NaCl equivalent) per square inch; ion chromatography requirements by type must be less than one microgram per square inch for each of the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate; and there should be no visible residue left on the surface under 7.times. magnification. Heretofore, excellent cleaning results which met the foregoing criteria had been achieved with 1,1,1 trichlorethane in both of the sumps of the previously described vapor degreasing equipment. However, that particular solvent is a Class 1 ozone depleting substance (ODS-1) CFC covered under the Montreal Protocol, the use of which is restricted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and international treaties.
As a consequence of the foregoing, it is extremely important that there be a cleaning system for circuit boards that uses environmentally "friendly" materials while meeting or exceeding the aforementioned cleanliness criteria.
|
in the manufacture of circuit card assemblies ( ccas ) such as multi - layer semiconductor cards, the ceramic or other such substrates are populated with a variety of devices, including leadless chip carriers having typical board to device clearances required, for example, 0. 006 inches and generally a minimum stand - off of 0. 004 inches. inasmuch as solder and solder flux mountings and connections is most commonly used in mounting and connecting the various devices to the substrate, the extremely close spacing between device and board traps flux residues that must be removed to avoid problems in subsequent manufacturing steps, such as when the ccas are conformally coated. the removal of flux residues has been predominantly accomplished through the use of vapor degreasing equipment. typical of such prior art degreasing equipment is a dual sump assembly in which the first sump contains a degreasing solvent which is heated and the second sump also contains the same solvent. the first sump functions as a wash bath and the second sump functions as a rinse bath. a suitable conveyor means introduces a basket, for example, containing one or more ccas into the heated solvent of the first sump. after a washing period, which may be of any suitable duration, the basket is removed from the liquid of the first sump and lifted into a vapor area above the sump through which it is passed to the second sump, where it is rinsed. in some ceramic applications, it is highly desirable, if not mandatory, that the contaminant level after cleaning not exceed ten micrograms per square foot on the circuit board. more particularly, the ionic contamination of the surface of the board, which generally comprises a ceramic substrate populated with various devices and is, for example, six inches square, must be lower than ten miles ( nacl equivalent ) per square inch ; ion chromatography requirements by type must be less than one microgram or square inch for each of the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate ; and thereafter should be no visible residue left on the surface under 7. times. magnification. heretofore, excellent cleaning results which met the foregoing criteria had been achieved with 1, 1, 1 trichlorethane in both of the sumps of the previously described vapor degreasing equipment. however, that particular solvent is a class 1 ozone depleting residue ( ods - 1 ) cfc covered under the montreal protocol, the use of which is restricted by u. s. environmental protection agency regulations, and international treaties. as a consequence of the foregoing, it is extremely important that there be a cleaning system for circuit boards that uses environmentally " friendly " materials while meeting or exceeding the aforementioned cleanliness criteria.
|
In the manufacture of circuit card assemblies (CCAs) such as multi - layer ceramic cards, the ceramic or other such substrates are populated with a variety of devices, including leadless chip carriers having typical board to device clearances of, for example, 0. 006 inches and generally a minimum stand - off of 0. 004 inches. Inasmuch as solder and solder flux mountings and connections are j9st commonly used in mounting and connecting the various devices to the substrate, the extremely close spacing between device and board traps flux residues that must be removed to avoid problems in subsequent manufacturiJy steps, such as when the CCAs are conformally coated. The removal of flux residues has been generally accomplished through the use of vapor degreasing equipment. Typical of such prior art degreasing equipment is a dual sJm) assembly in which the first sump contains a degreasing solvent which is heated and the second sump also contains the same solvent. The first sHmO functions as a wash bath and the second sump EunctiLns as a rinse bWrh. A suitable conveyor means introduces a basket, for example, containing one or more CCAs into the hfat$d solvent of the first sump. Zftet a washing period, which may be of any suitable duration, the basket is removed from the liquid of the first sump and lifted into a vapor area above the sump through which it is passed to the second sump, where it is rinsed. In some cleaning applications, it is highly desirable, if not mandatory, that the contaminant level after cleaning not exceed ten micrograms per square inch on the circuit board. More particularly, the ionic contamination of the surface of the board, which generally comprises a ceramic substrate populated with various devices and is, for example, six inches square, must be lower than ten micrograms (NaCl equivalent) per square inch; ion chromatography requirements by type must be less Ghag one microgram per square inch for each of the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate; and there should be no visible residue left on the surface under 7. times. magnification. Heretofore, excellent cleaning results which met the foregoing criteria had been achieved with 1, 1, 1 trichlorethane in both of the sumps of the previously described vapor degreasing equipment. However, that particular solvent is a Class 1 ozone depleting substance (ODS - 1) CFC covered under the Montreal Protocol, the use of which is restricted by U. S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and international treaties. As a consequence of the foregoing, it is extremely important that there be a cleaning system for circuit boards that uses environmentally " friendly " materials QYile meeting or exceeding the aforementioned cleanliness criteria.
|
In the manufacture of circuit card such as multi-layer cards, the ceramic or other substrates are populated with a variety of devices, including carriers having typical board to device clearances of, example, inches and generally a minimum stand-off of 0.004 inches. Inasmuch as solder solder mountings and connections are most used mounting and connecting the various devices to the substrate, the extremely close spacing between device and board traps flux residues that must be removed to avoid problems in subsequent manufacturing steps, such as when the CCAs are conformally coated. The removal of flux residues has been accomplished the use vapor equipment. Typical of such prior art degreasing equipment is a dual sump assembly in which the first sump contains a degreasing solvent which is heated and the sump also contains the same solvent. The first sump functions as a wash bath and the second sump functions as a rinse bath. A suitable means introduces a for example, containing one or more CCAs into the heated solvent of the first sump. After a period, which be of any suitable duration, the basket is removed from the liquid of the first sump and lifted into a vapor above sump through which is passed to the second sump, where it is rinsed. some cleaning applications, it is highly desirable, if not mandatory, the contaminant level after cleaning not exceed ten micrograms per square inch on the circuit More particularly, the ionic contamination of the surface of the which generally ceramic substrate populated devices and is, example, inches square, must lower than ten micrograms (NaCl equivalent) per square ion chromatography requirements by type must be less than one microgram per square inch for each of the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate; and there should be no visible residue left on the under 7.times. magnification. Heretofore, excellent cleaning results which met the foregoing criteria had been achieved with 1,1,1 trichlorethane in both of the sumps of the previously described vapor degreasing equipment. However, that particular solvent is Class 1 ozone depleting (ODS-1) CFC covered under the Montreal Protocol, the of which is restricted U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and international treaties. As a consequence of the foregoing, it is extremely important that there be a cleaning system for boards that uses "friendly" materials while meeting or exceeding the aforementioned cleanliness criteria.
|
In THe MaNufActUrE of cIrcuit CarD ASsEmblIeS (ccAS) sUCh AS muLti-LAYEr cERAMIc CARds, thE CeraMiC or OtHeR sUCh suBStrAteS aRe PoPuLAtEd WiTh a VARietY of dEViCES, InClUDiNG LEADLeSs cHIP CarriERs HavINg TYPIcAl BOarD tO devICE CleARancES oF, fOR examPle, 0.006 inCheS AND GenerALly A Minimum STANd-oFf OF 0.004 inCheS. inAsmucH as soLDer And SOlDER fLUX MOunTiNGS And ConNecTiOns ARE MoSt COMmONly usED in moUntINg aNd CONNeCtIng thE VARioUs DevIcEs to the sUBStRATE, tHe EXtrEmeLY CLoSe spaCINg betwEEn deviCe anD BoArd tRAPs flUX rESIdUES THAt muSt bE reMoVED TO AvoId PRoblEMs IN sUbseqUenT manUfacTUrIng StepS, Such As whEN the ccaS ARE CoNforMALLy cOAtEd. ThE RemOvAL Of FlUx resIDueS hAS BEen gENeRALlY AccoMPLIsHed THRouGH thE usE Of VaPoR dEgREAsING eQUiPMent.
typicAL of SucH priOR ARt dEGreAsINg EQUIpMENT is A DUAL sUMP aSSembLY in Which thE fIRst suMp cONtAins a dEgREAsIng soLvenT whicH iS heATed And The SEcoND SuMP ALSO conTAiNS the SAmE sOlVenT. The FirSt sUmp funcTIONs As a WaSH BAtH aNd THE SecOND sUMP FuNCtIOns aS A RiNSe Bath. a SUItaBLe conVeyOr meaNs InTrOdUCES A BasKET, FoR eXaMpLE, cOnTAIninG oNE Or mOre CcAS iNto tHe HEATeD SOlvENt oF tHe FiRSt SUMP. AFteR A waShiNg perioD, whICh mAy Be of anY SUiTaBle duraTiON, The BAskET iS RemOVeD frOM the LIQuID Of ThE FIrst sUMP AnD LIfTeD iNTO a VapOR areA aBOvE ThE SuMp throuGH wHICH It iS pAssEd to THe sEcOnD SumP, where iT iS riNSed.
in SOmE CleANING AppLIcatIONs, it is hIgHly dESiraBLE, IF NOT mandAtORY, ThaT tHe CoNtAMInAnt LEVEL AfTer cLeaNInG NOT exceEd TEn mICrogrAmS PEr SquARE iNCh on ThE CiRcuit bOArd. moRE PartICUlArLY, tHe iONic ConTAmINaTIon OF tHE SuRfacE OF THe boARD, WhiCh GEnErALly COmprISes a CeraMiC subStRaTE pOPUlaTEd WITh VARIOUs DeVICES and IS, for eXampLe, SIx IncHeS SqUarE, muST BE lowER ThAN teN MicROGRamS (NAcL eQUiValENT) Per SqUARE INch; IoN chrOMatOGrAphy RequIremENTs BY type MuSt be lEss tHAn onE MicrogRaM pER squaRE inCH FOr eaCH oF tHe IONs chLorIDe, BROMide, aNd sulfate; And There SHouLd be NO VIsIBlE rESidUe LEFt On tHe sURFace undeR 7.tiMeS. MAGniFICaTiON. HEREtOFORe, ExcELlEnt CLeANIng rEsulTS which meT the foRegoiNG criTeRIa HaD beEN aChIeVed WIth 1,1,1 TrIcHlOReThaNE IN both of thE sUmPS of ThE prevIOUsly DESCrIbED vaPoR DEGREASing EquIPmeNt. HoWEveR, thAt PaRtICulAR SolVEnt Is A cLASS 1 ozonE DepLetiNG SuBstAnCE (ods-1) cfC COveRed uNDer tHE mONtreaL prOTOcOl, tHe uSE of wHICH iS restRiCTeD by u.s. eNvIrOnmenTAl prOtectIoN agency REGULaTiOnS, ANd INTernaTiOnal trEaTies.
as A conseQUEncE oF ThE foreGoINg, it iS eXTrEMeLy impORTant thAT tHERE be a cleAning sysTEm FoR CIRCuIt boARds THAT UsES EnVIROnMeNTalLy "friEnDLy" mAtErIalS wHile MeETinG or eXcEeDiNg ThE AFoReMENtioNED cleAnlinEsS CRITEria.
|
In the manufacture ofcircuit card assemblies (CCAs) suchas multi-layer ceramic cards, the ceramic orother such substrates arepopulatedwith a variety of devices, including leadless chip carriers having typical board to device clearances of,for example,0.006inches and generally a minimum stand-off of 0.004 inches.Inasmuchas solder andsolder flux mountings and connections aremost commonly used in mounting and connecting the various devices to the substrate, theextremelyclose spacing between device and board traps flux residues that must be removed to avoid problemsin subsequent manufacturing steps, suchas whenthe CCAs are conformallycoated.Theremovalof flux residues has been generally accomplished through the use of vapor degreasingequipment.Typical of such prior art degreasing equipment isa dual sump assembly in which thefirst sump containsa degreasing solvent which is heated and the second sump also contains the same solvent. The first sump functions as a wash bath and the second sump functions as a rinse bath. A suitableconveyor means introduces a basket,for example, containing oneormore CCAsinto the heated solvent of thefirstsump. Aftera washing period, which may be ofany suitable duration, thebasket is removed from the liquid of the first sump and lifted into a vapor area above the sump through which it is passed to the second sump, where it is rinsed. In some cleaning applications,it is highly desirable, if notmandatory,thatthe contaminantlevel aftercleaningnot exceed ten micrograms persquare inch on the circuit board. More particularly, the ioniccontamination of the surface of the board, which generally comprises aceramic substrate populated with variousdevices and is, for example, six inches square, must be lower than ten micrograms (NaCl equivalent)per square inch; ion chromatography requirementsbytype must be less thanone microgram per square inchforeachof the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate; and there should be novisible residue left on thesurface under 7.times. magnification. Heretofore, excellent cleaning resultswhichmetthe foregoing criteria had beenachieved with 1,1,1 trichlorethane in both of the sumps of thepreviously described vapordegreasing equipment. However, that particular solvent is a Class1 ozonedepleting substance (ODS-1) CFC covered underthe Montreal Protocol, the use of which is restricted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and international treaties. As a consequence of the foregoing, it is extremely important that there be a cleaning system for circuitboardsthat uses environmentally "friendly" materials while meeting or exceedingtheaforementionedcleanliness criteria.
|
In _the_ manufacture of circuit card assemblies _(CCAs)_ such as multi-layer ceramic cards, _the_ ceramic or other such substrates are populated _with_ a _variety_ of devices, _including_ leadless chip carriers having typical board _to_ device clearances of, for example, 0.006 inches and generally a minimum stand-off of _0.004_ _inches._ Inasmuch as solder and solder flux _mountings_ and _connections_ are most commonly used in mounting and connecting _the_ various devices to the _substrate,_ the extremely _close_ spacing between device and _board_ traps flux residues _that_ must _be_ removed to avoid _problems_ in subsequent manufacturing steps, such _as_ when the CCAs are _conformally_ _coated._ _The_ removal _of_ flux residues has been generally accomplished through _the_ use _of_ _vapor_ degreasing equipment. Typical of _such_ prior art degreasing _equipment_ is a dual sump assembly in which the _first_ sump contains _a_ _degreasing_ solvent which is heated and the second sump also contains the same solvent. _The_ _first_ sump functions as a _wash_ _bath_ and the second sump _functions_ as a rinse bath. _A_ suitable conveyor _means_ introduces a basket, for example, containing _one_ or more CCAs into the heated solvent of the _first_ sump. After a washing period, which may be of _any_ _suitable_ duration, the basket is removed _from_ the liquid of the first _sump_ and lifted into _a_ vapor area above the _sump_ through which it is passed to the second sump, where _it_ is rinsed. In some cleaning applications, it is highly desirable, if not mandatory, that the _contaminant_ _level_ after cleaning not exceed ten micrograms per _square_ inch on _the_ _circuit_ board. _More_ particularly, _the_ ionic contamination _of_ the surface of _the_ board, which generally comprises a ceramic substrate populated with various _devices_ and _is,_ for example, six _inches_ _square,_ must be lower _than_ ten micrograms (NaCl equivalent) per square inch; ion chromatography requirements _by_ type must be less than one microgram per square inch _for_ each of the ions chloride, bromide, and sulfate; and _there_ should be no visible residue _left_ on _the_ surface under 7.times. magnification. Heretofore, excellent _cleaning_ _results_ _which_ met _the_ _foregoing_ criteria had been achieved _with_ 1,1,1 _trichlorethane_ in both of the sumps _of_ the previously described vapor degreasing equipment. However, that particular solvent _is_ a Class 1 ozone depleting substance (ODS-1) CFC _covered_ under the Montreal Protocol, the _use_ of which _is_ restricted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations, and international _treaties._ As a consequence of the foregoing, it is _extremely_ important that _there_ be a cleaning system for circuit boards that uses environmentally "friendly" materials while meeting _or_ exceeding the aforementioned cleanliness criteria.
|
The increase in electronic commerce has increased the focus on security of the electronic transactions using this medium of commerce. In the world of computer transactions and electronic contracts, there is no face-to-face acknowledgement to identify the consumer or other person wishing to perform the transaction. As institutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their business infrastructure (i.e., their “business process”) in an attempt to keep up with electronic commerce. The business process of an institution includes the methods used to interact with a customer (e.g., how transactions occur, what information is required from the customer, help desks to support the customer), the information contained in customer accounts, the databases used and how they are modified by the institution, and personnel training.
Institutions and persons desiring to utilize electronic commerce are faced with several issues regarding electronic transactions. The first issue is whether the person requesting the transaction is who they say they are (“identification”). And the second issue is whether the requested transaction is actually the transaction intended to be requested (“accuracy”). In other words, whether the requested transaction has been compromised, either fraudulently or through transmission errors, during the course of transmitting and receiving the request.
To address the identity, of the person requesting the transaction, current financial business processes bind information in accounts to authenticate non-face-to-face transactions. For example, an account holder's mother's maiden name, a personal identification number (PIN), and a social security number have all been used and integrated into the current financial infrastructure to aid in reliably identifying someone requesting a non-face-to-face transaction.
To address the accuracy of the electronic message being sent and the identity of the person sending the electronic message, digital signatures are utilized. Digital signatures are used with electronic messages and provide a way for the sender of the message to electronically “sign” the message as a way of providing proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the message. In a digital signature system, a sender digitally “signs” the message using a private key (encryption software used to create a digital signature). The receiver validates the sender's digital signature by using the sender's public key (software used to decrypt the digital signature) sent to the receiver by the sender.
While, digital signatures provide some assurance of accuracy for the message and the identity of the sender, they are also subject to security risks. These risks include compromised private and public keys or merchant fraud. To address the security risks and validate the digital signatures, computer technology has developed “certification authorities” to be used in a Certificate Authority Digital Signature (“CADS”) system. In a CADS system, certification authorities are third parties that essentially “vouch” for the validity of a digital signature's public key and, hence, the validity of the digital signature.
However, certification authorities used in the CADS system come with inherent risks, such as an expired certification authority and a compromised private key, which affect the entire public key infrastructure. In addition, the increased reliability provided by certification authorities does not easily combine with the business process currently established.
Therefore, there is a need in the art for a method to increase the reliability of electronic transactions while not imposing significant modifications on the business processes already in place.
|
the increase in electronic commerce has increased the focus on security of the electronic transactions over this medium of commerce. in the world of computer transactions and electronic contracts, there is no face - to - face acknowledgement to identify the consumer or other person wishing to perform the transaction. as institutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their business infrastructure ( i. e., their “ business process ” ) in an attempt to keep up with electronic commerce. the design process of an institution includes the methods used to interact with a customer ( e. g., how transactions occur, what information is required from the customer, help programs to support the customer ), the information contained in customer accounts, the databases used and how they are modified by the institution, and personnel training. institutions and persons desiring to utilize electronic commerce are faced with several issues regarding electronic transactions. the first issue is whether the person requesting the transaction is who they say they are ( “ identification ” ). and the second issue is whether the requested transaction is actually the transaction intended to be requested ( “ accuracy ” ). in other words, whether the requested transaction has been compromised, either fraudulently or through transmission errors, during the course of transmitting and receiving the transaction. to address the identity, of the person requesting the transaction, current financial business processes bind information in layers to authenticate non - face - to - face transactions. for example, an account holder ' s mother ' s maiden name, a personal identification number ( pin ), and a social security number have all been used and integrated into the current financial infrastructure to aid in reliably identifying someone requesting a non - face - to - face transaction. to address the accuracy of the electronic message being sent onto the identity of the person sending the electronic message, digital signatures are utilized. digital signatures are used with electronic messages and provide a way for the sender of the message to electronically “ sign ” the message as a way of providing proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the message. designing a digital signature system, a sender will “ signs ” the message using a private key ( encryption software used to create a digital signature ). the receiver validates the sender ' s digital signature by using the sender ' s public key ( software used to decrypt the digital signature ) sent to the receiver containing the sender. while, digital signatures provide some assurance of accuracy for the message and the identity of the sender, requirements are also subject to security risks. these risks include compromised private and public keys or merchant fraud. to address the security risks and validate the digital signatures, computer technology has developed “ certification authorities ” to be used in a certificate authority digital signature ( “ cads ” ) system. in a cads system, certification authorities are third parties that essentially “ vouch ” for the validity of a digital signature ' s public key and, hence, the validity of the digital signature. however, certification authorities used in the cads system come with inherent risks, such as an expired certification authority and a compromised private key, which affect the entire public key infrastructure. in addition, the increased reliability provided by certification authorities does not easily combine with the business process currently established. therefore, there is a need in the art for a method to increase the reliability of electronic transactions while not imposing significant modifications on the business processes already in place.
|
The increase in electronic commerce has increased the focus on security of the electronic transactions using this medium of commerce. In the world of computer transactions and electronic contracts, there is no face - to - face acknowledgement to identify the consumer or other person wishing to perform the transaction. As institutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their business infrastructure (i. e. , their “ business process ”) in an attempt to keep up with electronic commerce. The business process of an institution includes the methods used to interact with a customer (e. g. , how transactions occur, what information is required from the customer, help desks to support the customer ), the information contained in customer accounts, the databases used and how they are modified by the institution, and personnel training. Institutions and persons desiring to uGiliXe electronic commerce are faced with several issues regarding electronic transactions. The first issue is whether the person requesting the transaction is who they say they are (“ identification ” ). And the second issue is whether the requested transaction is actually the transaction intended to be reAuestsd (“ accuracy ” ). In other words, whether the requested transaction has been compromised, either fraudulently or through transmission errors, during the course of transmitting and receiving the reqkesH. To address the identity, of the person requesting the transaction, current financial business processes bind information in accounts to authenticate non - face - to - face trWnsact8ons. For example, an account holder ' s mother ' s maiden name, a personal identification number (PIN ), and a social security number have all been used and integrated into the Surreny financial infrastructure to aid in reliably identifying someone requesting a non - face - to - face transaction. To address the accuracy of the electronic message being sent and the identity of the person sending the electronic message, digital signatures are utilized. Digital signatures are used with electronic messages and provide a way for the sender of the message to electronically “ sign ” the message as a way of providing proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the message. In a digital signature system, a sender digitally “ signs ” the message using a private key (encryption software used to create a digital signature ). The receiver validates the sender ' s digital signature by using the sender ' s public key (software used to decrypt the digital signature) sent to the receiver by the sender. While, digital signatures provide some assurance of accuracy for the message and the identity of the sender, they are also subject to security risks. These risks include compromised private and public keys or merchant fraud. To address the security risks and validate the digital signatures, computer technology has developed “ certification authorities ” to be used in a Certificate Authority Digital Signature (“ CADS ”) system. In a CADS system, certification authorities are third parties that essentially “ vouch ” for the validity of a digital signature ' s pIbkic key and, hence, the validity of the digital signature. However, certification authorities used in the CADS system come with inherent risks, Euxh as an eZpjred certification authority and a compromised private key, which affect the entire public key infrastructure. In addition, the increased reliability provided by certification autBo#ities does not easily combine with the business process currently established. Therefore, there is a need in the art for a method to increase the reliability of electronic transactions wMiie not imposing significant modifications on the business processes already in place.
|
The increase in electronic commerce has increased the focus on security of the electronic transactions using medium of commerce. In of computer transactions electronic contracts, there is face-to-face acknowledgement to the consumer or other person wishing to perform the transaction. As institutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their business infrastructure (i.e., their “business process”) in an attempt to keep up with electronic commerce. The business process of an institution includes the methods used to interact with a customer (e.g., how occur, what information required from the customer, help to support the information contained in customer accounts, the databases used and how they are modified by the institution, and personnel training. Institutions and persons desiring to utilize electronic commerce are faced with several issues regarding electronic transactions. The first issue is whether the person requesting the transaction is who they say they are And the second issue is the requested transaction is actually the transaction intended to be (“accuracy”). In other words, whether the requested transaction has been compromised, either fraudulently through transmission during the of transmitting and receiving the request. To address the identity, of person requesting the transaction, current financial business processes bind information in accounts to non-face-to-face transactions. For example, an account holder's mother's maiden name, a personal identification number (PIN), and a social security number have all been used and integrated into the current financial infrastructure to aid in reliably identifying someone requesting a non-face-to-face transaction. To address the accuracy of electronic message of the person sending the electronic message, digital are utilized. Digital signatures are used with electronic messages and a way for the sender of the message to electronically “sign” the message as a way of providing proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the a digital system, a sender digitally “signs” the message using a private key (encryption software used to create a digital signature). The receiver validates the sender's digital by using the sender's public key (software used to decrypt the digital signature) sent to the receiver by sender. While, digital signatures provide some assurance of accuracy for message and the identity of the sender, they are also subject to security risks. These risks include compromised private and keys or merchant fraud. To address the security risks and validate signatures, computer technology has “certification authorities” to be used in a Certificate Authority Digital Signature (“CADS”) system. a CADS system, authorities parties that essentially for the validity of a digital signature's public and, hence, validity of the digital signature. However, certification authorities in the CADS system come with inherent such as an expired certification authority and a compromised private key, which affect the entire public key infrastructure. addition, the increased reliability provided by certification authorities does easily combine with the process currently established. there is a need in art for a method to increase the reliability of while not imposing significant modifications on business processes already in place.
|
ThE incREAse iN elecTRoniC commERCE haS iNcreAseD thE focus on SeCURiTy OF The elEcTROnIC trANsACTiONS UsIng THIS medIum oF COmmerCe. In tHe WorlD of COmPutEr TrANsActIONs anD ELEctRoniC CONTraCts, tHere iS no FaCe-TO-FACe AcKNowLeDGeMEnt tO IDeNTiFY The cONsumeR or OThER PERsON Wishing To PERfoRm The tRANsaCTIon. as instituTIonS BEcomE mORE REliANt ON cOMPuteRs, THeY HAvE ModIFIEd THEiR BUsinESS infRastrucTUrE (i.e., THeir “BUsinEss procESs”) iN AN aTtEmPT TO KeeP Up wIth ELEctrOnIC COMmeRCe. thE BusINEsS pRocESs Of AN INstITUTIon INCLUDeS thE mEthODs UsEd to iNTERAct WIth a cUStOMer (E.g., HOW TRANSacTIONS oCCur, WHAt iNFORMaTIon is rEquirEd fROM The CUSTomeR, HElP DESKS to suPPort thE cUsTOMER), the INforMATion ConTaiNed in CUstOMER AccOUnTs, the DAtabaSES useD ANd How ThEy ARE mOdIFIeD bY The InstitUTIoN, AnD PERSoNNEL Training.
INSTITUtIONS aND PERSOns DEsIRiNg to utilizE eLECtrOnic COMmerCE aRE FACED with seVeRAL iSSues rEGArdINg EleCtRONiC TRANsAcTIons. the FIrST IssUE is WheTHer The PersOn reQuesTinG the tRansacTIOn Is who ThEy SaY tHeY ARe (“IDeNtifICatiOn”). AND THE SEcoND ISSue iS WHEtHer the REqUESTED tRaNSacTiON iS AcTUaLLY THe tranSACtIon iNTenDED to bE ReQUEsTEd (“acCUrACy”). in OtheR woRDs, WHetHer THE ReQUesteD TraNsACtION Has bEeN coMpROmIseD, EiTHER fRauDuLentLy or thROugh TrAnSmissiON ErRorS, DuRiNg tHE COuRSe OF TraNsMiTTiNg And receIvInG THe reQUesT.
tO AddrEsS tHe IDENTiTy, OF tHE PeRsOn reQUESTIng THe tRAnsACTion, cURRent fINANciAL bUSINesS PrOcESses BIND inFOrmaTIon IN AccOUNTs tO AUthEnTICAtE non-fAcE-TO-FACE TRANSaCTIONs. fOR eXAMple, AN aCCOUnt hoLDEr'S MoTHEr's mAIDen NamE, a PeRSoNAl IDENtIfICAtiOn nUmBEr (piN), AnD A sOcIal seCURitY nUMbER HaVe ALL been usEd AnD intEgRATEd INTo tHE CURRENT fInAnCiAl inFrasTRUCTURE to aID IN RELIAbLY IDENtifying sOMeonE ReQUeStING a NON-FaCE-To-FAcE tRANsaCtion.
to ADdrESs THE acCuRacy Of The eLeCtroNiC mEsSAgE BEiNg sEnt AND the IdENTiTY Of ThE peRSOn SenDing THE elECTroniC mEsSaGe, DiGiTAl SIgNAtUREs arE utiLIZed. DigiTAl sIgnatURES ArE UsED wItH eLECTRoNIc MessagEs aND pRoVidE A wAY FoR THE SENdEr Of the mESsage to eLecTronIcalLY “sIGN” THE mEsSAgE aS A WaY oF ProvIDING PROof Of tHe iDeNTItY OF thE SendEr aNd thE aCcuracy Of THE mESsaGE. iN a digiTAl SIGnatuRE sYstEm, a seNDeR dIGiTAllY “sIgNs” tHE MEsSaGe USIng A PrIVAtE keY (eNCRyPTioN sOFTwARe USEd to crEatE a DigiTAl sIGnaTuRE). tHe receiveR vALidaTeS The SenDer's dIGItAL SIGnAturE By uSiNg tHe SENdeR'S pubLic kEy (SOfTwaRe useD to decrYPt ThE DigiTAL sigNatURe) sent To The rEceIvER bY thE SEnder.
WHIlE, DiGITaL SiGnAturES pROvIdE SOMe ASsURAnCe oF accurAcY for tHE meSsAge and the IdentITY oF tHe sendER, they aRE aLSo SubJect to secURity RIskS. THese RiskS IncLUDE CoMpRomISEd PRIVATe AnD pUBLIC keys oR MercHANT Fraud. to ADDresS ThE SecUriTy risks ANd VALidate thE digitAl sIgNaTUreS, CompuTER TecHnoLoGy hAs dEVelopED “CeRtiFiCatION autHoRiTiEs” TO be UsED iN A CertiFiCAte AUthorITy DIgitaL siGnatUrE (“cAdS”) system. IN a CAds SysteM, cERTiFicATIoN AuthoRITiES aRE THirD PArtiES THat eSSeNtIALly “Vouch” fOr ThE VALiDiTy of a DIGitAL signAturE's public keY anD, heNcE, ThE VAlIDIty oF THE DIGitAl sigNatURE.
HOwevEr, CERtIfIcATiON auThOritIES UseD In ThE caDs sYsTeM COMe wITH iNHeReNt RiSks, sUCH AS an expIreD CeRTiFiCATIoN auThoRItY anD a comProMiseD PrIVATe KeY, whICH aFFeCT ThE entiRE PUBlIc KEY iNfrAStrUcTure. IN adDItIon, the IncReAsED rElIabIlIty pRoVIdED by ceRTIficATIon AUtHorITIES doEs nOT eAsIlY cOMbiNE WITh THE BuSIness pRocESS curRenTLy eStABLisHeD.
thErefOre, theRe IS A nEeD iN ThE aRT FoR A meThOd tO incrEAse The ReLiABIliTy OF ELEctrONIc tRAnSactions whiLE noT IMposinG siGniFIcant mOdIFicAtioNS On tHE buSiness pROcEsSES alreADy iN PLAce.
|
The increase in electronic commercehasincreasedthefocus on security of the electronic transactionsusing this medium of commerce. In the world of computer transactionsandelectronic contracts, there is no face-to-face acknowledgement to identify the consumer or other person wishing to perform the transaction. Asinstitutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their businessinfrastructure (i.e., their “businessprocess”) in an attempt to keep up with electronic commerce.The business process of aninstitution includes themethods used tointeractwith a customer (e.g., how transactions occur, what information isrequired fromthe customer, helpdesks to support the customer), the information containedin customer accounts, the databases used and how they are modified by the institution, and personnel training.Institutions and personsdesiring to utilize electronic commerce are facedwith several issues regarding electronic transactions. The firstissue is whether the person requesting the transaction is whothey say they are (“identification”). Andthe second issue iswhether the requested transactionis actually the transaction intended to be requested (“accuracy”). In other words,whether therequested transaction has beencompromised, either fraudulently or through transmissionerrors, during thecourse of transmitting and receivingthe request. Toaddress the identity, of the personrequesting the transaction, current financial business processes bindinformation in accounts to authenticate non-face-to-face transactions. For example,anaccount holder's mother'smaiden name, a personal identification number (PIN), and a social security numberhave all been used and integrated intothe current financial infrastructure to aid inreliably identifying someone requestinga non-face-to-face transaction. To address the accuracy of the electronic message being sent and the identity of the person sending the electronic message, digital signaturesare utilized. Digital signatures are used with electronic messages and provide a wayfor thesender of the messageto electronically “sign”the message as a way ofproviding proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the message. Ina digital signature system, a sender digitally “signs” the message using a private key (encryption softwareused to create adigitalsignature). The receiver validates the sender's digital signature by using thesender's public key (softwareused to decrypt the digitalsignature) sentto the receiver by the sender. While, digital signatures provide some assurance ofaccuracyfor the message andthe identity of the sender, they are also subject to security risks. Theserisks include compromised private and public keys or merchant fraud. To address the security risks and validate the digital signatures, computer technology has developed “certificationauthorities” to be used in a Certificate Authority Digital Signature (“CADS”) system. In aCADSsystem, certification authorities are third parties thatessentially “vouch” for the validity of a digital signature's publickey and, hence, the validity of the digital signature. However, certification authorities used in the CADS system come with inherent risks,such as an expired certification authority and a compromised privatekey, which affectthe entire public key infrastructure. In addition, the increased reliability provided by certification authoritiesdoes not easily combine with the business process currently established. Therefore,there is a need in theart for a method to increase thereliability of electronic transactions while notimposing significant modifications on the businessprocesses already in place.
|
The increase _in_ electronic commerce has increased the _focus_ on _security_ of the electronic transactions _using_ _this_ medium of _commerce._ In the world of computer transactions and electronic contracts, there _is_ no face-to-face acknowledgement to identify the consumer _or_ other person _wishing_ to perform the transaction. As institutions become more reliant on computers, they have modified their business infrastructure (i.e., their “business process”) in an attempt _to_ keep up with electronic commerce. The business process of an institution includes the methods used to interact with a customer (e.g., _how_ transactions occur, _what_ information is required from the customer, help desks to support the customer), the information contained _in_ customer accounts, the databases used _and_ how they are modified by the institution, and _personnel_ training. Institutions and persons desiring _to_ utilize _electronic_ commerce are faced with several issues regarding electronic _transactions._ The first issue is whether the _person_ requesting the transaction is who _they_ say they are _(“identification”)._ And the _second_ issue is whether the _requested_ transaction is _actually_ the transaction intended to be requested (“accuracy”). In _other_ _words,_ _whether_ the requested _transaction_ has been compromised, _either_ fraudulently or through _transmission_ errors, during the course _of_ transmitting _and_ receiving the request. _To_ address the identity, of the person _requesting_ the transaction, current financial business processes bind information in accounts to authenticate _non-face-to-face_ transactions. For example, an account _holder's_ mother's maiden name, a _personal_ _identification_ number (PIN), and a social security _number_ have _all_ _been_ used and _integrated_ into the current _financial_ infrastructure to _aid_ in _reliably_ identifying _someone_ requesting a non-face-to-face transaction. _To_ _address_ the accuracy _of_ the electronic message being sent and _the_ identity of the person sending _the_ electronic message, _digital_ signatures are utilized. Digital signatures are _used_ with electronic messages _and_ _provide_ a way for the _sender_ _of_ the message to electronically “sign” the message as a _way_ of providing proof of the identity of the sender and the accuracy of the message. In a digital signature system, a _sender_ digitally “signs” _the_ message using a private key (encryption software _used_ to create a digital signature). The receiver _validates_ the sender's digital _signature_ _by_ _using_ the sender's public key (software _used_ to decrypt _the_ digital _signature)_ sent to _the_ _receiver_ _by_ the sender. _While,_ digital signatures provide some assurance of accuracy for _the_ message and the identity of _the_ _sender,_ they _are_ also subject to security risks. These _risks_ include compromised private _and_ public keys _or_ _merchant_ fraud. _To_ _address_ the security risks _and_ validate _the_ digital signatures, computer technology has _developed_ “certification authorities” _to_ be used in a Certificate _Authority_ Digital Signature _(“CADS”)_ system. In _a_ _CADS_ system, certification authorities are third parties _that_ essentially _“vouch”_ for the validity of a digital signature's _public_ key and, _hence,_ the validity of the digital signature. However, certification authorities used in the CADS _system_ come with inherent risks, such as _an_ expired certification authority _and_ a compromised private key, which _affect_ the entire public _key_ infrastructure. In addition, the increased reliability provided by certification authorities _does_ not easily combine _with_ _the_ business process _currently_ established. Therefore, there is a need _in_ the art for a method to increase the reliability of _electronic_ _transactions_ _while_ not imposing significant modifications on the business _processes_ already in place.
|
Many electronic devices such as personal computers, mobile devices including phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) use some form of authentication, typically a password that must be input into the device to gain access. The password is most often typed onto a keyboard or other interface which then allows the user to gain partial or full access to the utility of the device and/or network. A problem associated with using passwords is that they are time consuming and inconvenient for the user to enter. Users often use informal passwords or share their password with others which works to compromise system security. These practices negate the password's value and make it difficult to have an accurate auditing of access. Moreover, passwords are expensive to administer when forgotten or misplaced. Although the use of other types of security access systems such as voice recognition, fingerprint recognition or iris scans have been implemented, these types of systems require a different procedure to access and use the device. These techniques also require a specific and time-consuming enrollment process in order to be operational.
Additionally, radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), and ultrasonic transmitter devices have also been used as proximity-type devices to allow access when the transmitter is in a predetermined range of the device. The problem associated with these types of systems is the transmitter must be continuously worn or otherwise carried by the user. Should the transmitter signal be lost, misplaced or become inoperative, the user will no longer have any access to the device. Moreover, if another user has possession of the transmitter, the other user gains full access to the device. Obviously, this can lead to all types of security issues should the transmitter be lost or stolen.
Finally, biometric authentication using facial recognition is also often used to gain access to electronic devices. U.S. Pat. No. 6,853,739 to Kyle and U.S. Pat. No. 6,724,919 to Akiyama et al., which are both herein incorporated by reference, disclose examples of identity verification systems wherein a database is employed to compare facial features of a user to those in the pre-established database. Once a comparison is made, then authentication is verified and access is granted to the system. The disadvantage of this type of system is the requirement of a separate and specific enrollment procedure by the user to create the database. As with this type of facial recognition system and others in the prior art, the database must be populated before being used; otherwise, the system will not operate. This puts an unnecessary burden on the system operator, requiring detailed education on the steps to populate the database before the system may become operational. Additionally, this type of security system does not permit the automatic updating of the database to accommodate changes in head position, user features (such as different glasses), a change in the camera's operational characteristics, lighting and other environmental factors. This can limit the speed, accuracy, and even the success of database matching (recognition). Also, these prior art facial recognition and other biometric systems operate only at the instant of authentication.
Thus, these systems have no way of confirming the identity of the user even milliseconds after the actual authentication. The device has no way of knowing when a user has stepped away from the device, leaving the device unsecured. Existing methods of locking based on inactivity of data entry, such as keyboard or mouse activity, do not provide the needed flexibility. If they are set to lock on a very short delay, the user is locked out as the user is using the device. Conversely, if the delays are set long enough to not impact the user, the device is vulnerable to unauthorized access when the user steps away.
Hence, the need exists to provide a system and method for providing secure access to an electronic device using facial recognition that provides continuous authentication, no special enrollment process, automatic updates to the biometric database to improve recognition performance and multi-factor authentication while not requiring unnecessary data processing. The recognition system and method should be capable of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power so as to provide an inexpensive and responsive approach to providing biometric user authentication with a high level of security.
|
many electronic devices such as personal computers, mobile devices including phones and personal digital assistants ( pdas ) use some form of authentication, typically a password that must be input into the device to gain access. the password is most often typed onto a keyboard or other interface which then allows the user to gain implicit or full access to the utility of the device and / or network. a problem associated with using passwords is that they are time consuming things inconvenient for the user cannot enter. users often use informal identities or share their password with others which works to compromise system security. these practices negate the password ' s value and make it difficult to have an accurate auditing of access. moreover, passwords are expensive to administer when forgotten or misplaced. although the use of other types of security access systems such as voice recognition, fingerprint recognition or iris scans have been implemented, these types of systems require a different procedure to access and use the device. these techniques also require a multiple and time - consuming enrollment process in order to be operational. additionally, radio frequency ( gr ), infrared ( ir ), and ultrasonic transmitter devices have also been used amongst proximity - sensors devices to allow access when the transmitter is in a predetermined range of an device. the problem associated with these types of systems is the transmitter must be continuously worn or otherwise carried by the user. should the transmitter signal be lost, misplaced or become inoperative, the user will no longer have any access to the device. moreover, if another user has possession of the transmitter, the other user gains full access to the device. obviously, this can lead to all types of security issues should the transmitter be lost or stolen. finally, biometric authentication using facial recognition is also often used to gain access to electronic devices. u. s. pat. no. 6, 853, 739 to kyle and u. s. pat. no. 6, 724, 919 to akiyama et al., which are both herein incorporated by reference, disclose examples of identity verification systems wherein a database is employed to compare facial features of a user to those in the pre - established database. once a comparison is made, then authentication is verified and access is granted to that system. the disadvantage of this type of system is the requirement of a separate and specific enrollment procedure by the user to create the database. as with this type of facial recognition system and others in the prior art, the database must be populated before being used ; otherwise, the system will not operate. this puts an unnecessary burden on the system operator, requiring detailed education on the steps to populate the database before the system may become operational. additionally, this type of security system does not permit the automatic updating of the database to accommodate changes in head position, user features ( such as different glasses ), a change in the camera ' s operational characteristics, lighting and other environmental factors. this can limit the speed, accuracy, and even the success of database matching ( recognition ). also, these prior art facial recognition and other biometric systems operate only at the instant of authentication. thus, these systems have no way of confirming the identity of the user even milliseconds after the actual authentication. the device has no way of knowing when a user has stepped away from the device, leaving the device unsecured. existing methods of locking based on inactivity of data entry, such as keyboard or mouse activity, do not provide the needed flexibility. if they are set to lock on a very short delay, the user is locked out as the user is using the device. conversely, if the delays are set long enough to not impact the user, the device is vulnerable to unauthorized access when the user steps away. hence, the need exists to provide a system and method for providing secure access to an electronic device using facial recognition that provides continuous authentication, no special enrollment process, automatic updates to the biometric database to improve recognition performance and multi - factor authentication while not requiring unnecessary data processing. the recognition system and method should be capable of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power so as to provide an inexpensive and responsive approach to providing biometric user authentication with a high level of security.
|
Many electronoX devices such as personal computers, mobile devices including phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) use some form of authentication, typically a password that must be input into the device to gain acxesA. The password is most often typed onto a keyboard or other interface which then allows the user to gain partial or full access to the utility of the device and / or network. A problem associated with using passwords is that they are time fonsuminv and inconvenient for the user to enter. Users often use informal passwords or share their password qitT others which works to compromise system security. These practices negate the password ' s value and make it difficult to have an accurate auditing of access. Moreover, passwords are expensive to administer when forgotten or misplaced. Although the use of other types of security access systems such as voice recognition, fingerprint recognition or iris scans have been implemented, these types of systems require a different procedure to asceZs and use the device. These techniques also require a specific and time - consuming enrollment process in order to be operational. Additionally, radio frequency (RF ), infrared (IR ), and ultrasonic transmitter devices have also been used as proximity - type devices to allow access when the transmitter is in a predetermined range of the device. The problem associated with these types of systems is the transmitter must be continuously worn or otherwise carried by the user. Should the transmitter signal be lost, misplaced or become inoperative, the user will no longer have any access to the device. Moreover, if another user has possession of the transmitter, the other user gains full access to the device. Obviously, this can lead to all types of security issues should the transmitter be lost or stolen. Finally, biometric authentication using facial recognition is also often used to gain access to electronic devices. U. S. Pat. No. 6, 853, 739 to Kyle and U. S. Pat. No. 6, 724, 919 to Akiyama et al. , which are both herein incorporated by reference, disclose examples of identity verification systems wherein a database is employed to compare facial features of a user to those in the pre - established database. Once a comparison is made, then authentication is verified and access is granted to the system. The disadvantage of this type of system is the requirement of a separate and speXiTic enrollment procedure by the user to create the database. As with this type of facial recognition system and others in the prior art, the database must be populated before being used; o$hefwise, the system will not operate. This puts an unnecessary burden on the system operator, requiring detailed education on the steps to populate the database before the system may become operational. Additionally, this type of security system does not permit the automatic updating of the database to accommodate changes in head position, user features (such as different glasses ), a change in the camera ' s operational characteristics, lighting and other environmental factors. This can limit the speed, accuracy, and even the success of database matching (recognition ). Also, these prior art facial recognition and other biometric systems operate only at the instant of authentication. Thus, these systems have no way of confirming the identity of the user even milliseconds after the actual authentication. The device has no way of knowing when a user has stepped ADay from the device, leaving the device unsecured. Existing Hetmods of locking based on inactivity of data entry, such as keyboard or mouse activity, do not provide the needed flexibility. If they are set to lock on a very short delay, the user is locked out as the user is using the device. Conversely, if the delays are set long enough to not impact the user, the device is vulnerable to unauthorized XcceXs when the user steps away. Hence, the need exists to provide a system and method for providing secure access to an electronic device using facial recognition that provides continuous authentication, no special enrollment process, automatic updates to the biometric database to improve recognition performance and multi - factor authentication while not requiring unnecessary data processing. The recognition system and method should be capable of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power so as to provide an inexpensive and responsive approach to providing biometric user authentication with a high level of security.
|
Many electronic devices such as personal computers, mobile devices including phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) use some form of authentication, a password that be input into the to gain access. password is most often typed onto a keyboard or other interface which then allows the user to gain partial or full access to the utility of the device and/or network. A problem associated with using passwords that are time inconvenient for the user to enter. Users often use informal passwords or share password with others which works to compromise system security. These practices negate the value and make it to have an accurate of Moreover, passwords are expensive to administer when forgotten or misplaced. Although the of other types of security access systems as voice recognition, fingerprint recognition or iris scans have been these types of systems a different procedure to and use the device. These also require a specific and time-consuming enrollment process in order to be operational. Additionally, radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), and ultrasonic transmitter devices have also been used as proximity-type devices allow access when the transmitter is a range of the device. The problem associated with these types of systems is the transmitter must continuously worn or otherwise carried by the Should the transmitter signal lost, misplaced become inoperative, the user will no longer have any access to the device. Moreover, if another user has possession the transmitter, the user gains full access the device. Obviously, this can lead all types of issues the be lost or stolen. Finally, biometric authentication using facial recognition is also often used gain access devices. U.S. Pat. No. 6,853,739 to Kyle and U.S. Pat. No. 6,724,919 Akiyama et which are both herein incorporated by reference, disclose examples identity verification systems wherein a database is employed to compare facial features of a user to those in the pre-established database. Once a comparison is made, then authentication is access is granted to the system. The disadvantage of this type system is the requirement of a separate and specific enrollment procedure by the user to create the database. As with this type of facial recognition and others the prior art, the database must be populated before being used; the system will not operate. This puts an unnecessary burden on the system operator, requiring detailed on the steps to the database before the system become operational. Additionally, this type of security system does not permit the updating of the database to accommodate changes in head position, user features (such as different glasses), a change in the camera's operational characteristics, lighting and other environmental factors. can the speed, accuracy, and even the success of matching (recognition). Also, prior facial recognition and biometric systems operate only at the instant of authentication. Thus, these systems have no of confirming identity of the user even milliseconds after the actual authentication. The device has no way of knowing when a user has stepped from the device, leaving the device unsecured. methods of locking based on inactivity of data entry, such as or mouse activity, do not provide the needed flexibility. If they are set to lock on a very delay, user is locked out as the user is using the device. Conversely, if the delays are set long enough to the user, the device is vulnerable to unauthorized access when the user steps away. Hence, the need exists to provide a system and method for providing secure an electronic device using facial recognition that provides continuous authentication, no special enrollment automatic updates to the biometric database to recognition performance and multi-factor authentication while not requiring unnecessary data processing. The recognition system and method should be capable of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power as to provide an inexpensive and responsive approach to providing biometric user authentication with high level of security.
|
maNY ELecTRonIC DEviCEs SUCh aS peRsonAL coMPUters, MOBiLe DEvIcEs iNCLUdiNg phoNes And peRSOnaL DigITal ASsISTANts (Pdas) Use soMe FOrM oF AUTHENticaTion, TYpicallY a pAsswORD THAt mUsT be InPut inTo thE DEVICe TO GAIN AcCesS. tHe PAsSWord iS Most oFten TyPED ONto A kEYBoard OR OtHeR iNTeRfacE whiCh THeN ALLoWS tHE usER To Gain ParTIaL Or fulL acCeSS to THe UtiLity oF THE DeViCE AND/Or NeTWOrK. a PROBlEM aSsOcIAtEd wiTh usiNG PASSwOrDs Is ThAT They are TiME ConSuMiNg ANd INcOnvENiENT FOR the UsEr To EntEr. uSeRs OFtEN usE iNfORmaL PAsSWordS oR SHARE THeIR paSsWOrd WiTH oThErs WhiCh WOrkS tO COMPRoMiSE SYstEM securitY. theSe pRACTiCES NegaTe THe passWOrd'S vaLUE anD mAKE It dIfFiCulT tO haVe aN acCUrATE AUdiTiNG oF aCceSs. MoReoVER, pAssWoRds aRE EXpENSiVe tO ADminiSTER when foRGotTEn Or mISPLacEd. AlTHOUgh the USE oF OtHEr tYpes oF sEcurITY aCcESS SysTEMS sUch AS voiCe recOGnitIOn, fiNgeRPrinT RECOgniTion or Iris scAns have bEEn ImpLeMEnTed, THESe typES of sYStEmS REquIrE A dIFfERENT pROCEDURe To acceSS ANd USE tHE dEvICe. These tEcHNIQUEs alsO REQuIre A SpEcIFiC and TimE-COnSumiNg enrOLLMent prOCEss iN oRdEr To be oPERatIonal.
ADdiTIoNalLY, radIO fREqUEncy (rF), inFraReD (Ir), and uLtRAsOnIc TransmIttER dEviCES Have aLSo BEEN UsED AS PrOxImiTY-TyPE DevIces tO alloW accesS wheN thE TRaNSmITter Is in A prEdEtermINED RaNgE Of The devIcE. tHe ProBlEM aSsOCIAtED WiTH THese tyPEs Of SyStEMS Is tHE TRaNSmITTEr MuSt BE ConTiNUOUsLy wORN or OthERwiSE CarRied BY the USEr. Should tHe TRANsMiTteR SiGNAL BE lOsT, mIsplACed OR BEcOMe INopERATiVe, tHe USeR wiLl No loNGEr HAVe aNY aCcesS tO THe dEvice. moREoVER, If aNOtHER UseR has POSsEsSiOn Of The TrANSMItTeR, thE oTher UsER GaiNS fulL aCcesS TO The DEVIce. OBVIOuSlY, THis caN lEad TO ALl typEs of sECurIty ISsuES SHoULD thE traNSmittEr be LOst or sToLEn.
FiNAlLY, BioMeTrIC aUThentICation USING FAciAL RecogNITIon IS ALSo OftEN UseD To GAIn AcceSS tO EleCtRONic dEVIces. U.S. paT. No. 6,853,739 to kYle and U.s. paT. nO. 6,724,919 tO AKIyaMa ET al., whIcH ARE BoTh HeREiN inCorpoRAteD By refERenCe, disCLosE ExAmPles OF idEntiTY vEriFiCAtION SYsTEMs wHEreIN a dATAbaSE iS EmplOYEd To coMpAre faCIAl FEAtuRes of a USEr To ThOse In The PRe-esTABlisHEd dATABASE. once a coMpaRisOn IS MADE, ThEN AUtHeNticATion is verIfiEd AnD aCCESs Is GraNted tO tHE SYSteM. the DISAdVANTaGE of ThIS TyPe Of sYstEM is the REQUIReMENT Of a sEPARaTe aND SPecific enroLlmeNt PRoCeDURE BY tHe usER TO CrEAte THe DaTAbaSe. As With tHis TYpE oF FAcIAL RecOGNItiON SysTem AnD oTHErs IN The prIoR art, the daTABaSE mUST Be POPulaTeD bEfORe bEiNG usEd; oTheRWIsE, ThE SyStEM wiLl nOt OPErATe. tHiS putS an UNNECESSaRy bURdEn oN the SysTem OPERatOr, REqUIRINg detaiLED educAtion on THE STeps TO PopuLaTE the daTaBaSe BeFOre tHE SYstem may bEcomE OpErAtiONAl. ADdiTiONally, THiS tYPe of sEcURIty syStEm doeS noT perMIT ThE AUTOMAtiC UpDATing oF tHe DAtABase tO acCOmmOdatE CHAngEs iN hEAD POsitiOn, User featuRes (SuCH AS diFferENt GLASSeS), A CHAnge iN THe cAMeRA's opERAtiOnal ChaRaCTerIstIcS, liGHtiNg aND OThEr eNviRonmenTAL factoRs. THis CAN lImiT tHE SpeEd, acCuraCy, aND EVEN The SucCess Of DATaBasE mATCHing (RECOgNItioN). Also, ThesE priOr Art FaCIaL rECOgNItION and oTher BIoMETRIc sYSteMS Operate oNly At ThE iNStAnT of AutHEntICatION.
tHUS, tHESE sysTeMS have No wAY oF conFirmIng ThE idENtiTY Of the UsER evEn MiLLISEcoNDS aftER ThE aCtual AUtHENTicATIoN. THe deviCE HAS No WaY OF KNOwING WHEN a uSeR HAs stEPPEd Away from ThE DeVice, LEAvING thE DEvicE UNsecUrEd. eXIsTiNg mEThoDS OF LocKINg BASEd oN inaCTIVitY OF DATa ENTrY, such as kEyBOArd Or MOUsE ACTIVItY, do nOt proVIDE THe NeeDEd FlExiBILity. IF thEy ArE sEt To loCk ON a vErY ShorT DElay, THE usEr Is lOCkeD OUT aS thE USer Is USiNg the DevIcE. CONVErsELy, iF thE deLaYs aRe Set LONg enOugh TO nOt IMPACt The USer, tHE DeVICe is vULNeRaBLe TO uNAuthoriZED ACcesS whEn ThE uSER sTEPs aWAY.
HenCE, THE Need eXIStS TO ProVidE a sYstEM AnD meThOd For pROVIdinG SeCurE ACceSs to AN elECtRonIc devicE uSINg FaCiAL RecoGNitIOn THat PROViDES cONTiNuOus AuThENticatIon, NO SpECIAl enrOLlMEnT PrOcEsS, AUtOMAtiC UPDAtES to The BIOmEtRIC DaTAbaSe tO iMProve reCOgnitiOn Performance aND mulTI-faCtOR AuTHENtiCatIon wHilE noT rEQuIRIng unNecessARY daTa PRoCesSIng. ThE reCoGniTIOn systEm anD MeTHOD SHouLd be cAPABle Of RUnNINg On DEvIcEs reQuIRInG relaTIVelY low ComPuTiNG pOwEr sO as tO ProVIdE an InExpeNsive And ResPoNsIVe aPpROAcH tO pRovIDINg BiomeTric USER autHEnTiCAtIon WiTH A HiGH lEVel oF sEcurItY.
|
Many electronic devices such as personal computers, mobile devicesincludingphones and personal digital assistants (PDAs)use some form of authentication, typically a password that must be input intothe device to gain access. The password is most oftentyped onto a keyboard or other interface which then allows the userto gain partial or full access to the utility ofthe device and/or network. A problem associatedwith using passwords is that they are time consuming and inconvenient for the user to enter. Users often use informal passwords or share theirpassword with otherswhich works to compromise system security. These practices negate the password's value and make it difficult to havean accurate auditing of access. Moreover, passwords are expensive to administer when forgotten or misplaced. Although the use of other types of security access systems suchas voicerecognition, fingerprintrecognition or iris scanshavebeen implemented, these types ofsystems require a differentprocedure to access and use thedevice. These techniquesalso require aspecific and time-consuming enrollmentprocess in order to be operational. Additionally,radio frequency (RF), infrared(IR), and ultrasonictransmitter devices have also been used as proximity-type devices to allow accesswhen the transmitter is ina predetermined rangeof the device. The problem associated with these types of systems is thetransmitter must be continuously worn orotherwise carriedby the user. Should the transmittersignal be lost,misplaced or become inoperative, the user will no longerhave any access to the device. Moreover, ifanother user haspossession of thetransmitter, the other user gainsfullaccess to thedevice. Obviously, this can lead to all types of security issuesshould thetransmitter be lost or stolen.Finally, biometricauthentication using facial recognition is also often used to gain access to electronic devices. U.S.Pat. No. 6,853,739 to Kyle and U.S. Pat. No. 6,724,919 to Akiyama et al., which are both herein incorporated by reference,disclose examples of identityverification systems wherein a databaseis employed to compare facial features of a user to those in the pre-established database.Once a comparisonis made, then authenticationis verified and access is granted to the system.The disadvantage ofthis type of system is the requirement of a separate and specific enrollment procedure by the userto create the database. As withthis type of facialrecognition systemand others in the prior art, the database must bepopulated before being used; otherwise, the system will notoperate. This putsan unnecessary burden on thesystem operator, requiring detailed education on the steps to populate the databasebefore thesystem may become operational. Additionally, this type of security system does not permit the automatic updating ofthedatabase to accommodate changes in head position, user features (suchas different glasses), a change in the camera's operationalcharacteristics, lighting and other environmental factors. This can limit the speed, accuracy, and eventhe success ofdatabase matching (recognition). Also, these prior art facial recognition and other biometric systems operate only at theinstant of authentication. Thus, thesesystems haveno way of confirming the identityof theuser even milliseconds after the actual authentication. The device has no way ofknowing when a user has stepped away from the device,leavingthe device unsecured. Existing methods of locking basedon inactivity of data entry, such as keyboard or mouseactivity, do not providethe needed flexibility. If they are set to lockon a very short delay, the user is locked out as the user is using the device. Conversely, if the delays are set long enough tonot impact the user, the device is vulnerable to unauthorized access whenthe user steps away.Hence, the need exists to provide a system and method for providing secure access to an electronic device using facial recognition that provides continuousauthentication, no special enrollment process, automatic updates to the biometric database to improve recognition performance and multi-factor authentication while not requiring unnecessary data processing.Therecognition system and method should be capable of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power so as toprovide aninexpensive and responsive approach to providingbiometric user authentication witha high level of security.
|
Many electronic devices _such_ as personal computers, mobile devices including phones and personal digital assistants _(PDAs)_ use _some_ form of authentication, typically a _password_ _that_ must be input _into_ the device _to_ gain _access._ The _password_ is most often typed onto a keyboard _or_ other interface which _then_ allows the user to gain partial or full access to the utility _of_ the device and/or network. A _problem_ associated with using passwords is that they are time _consuming_ and inconvenient for the _user_ to _enter._ Users often use informal passwords or share _their_ password with _others_ which _works_ to _compromise_ system security. These practices negate _the_ password's value and make it _difficult_ to have an accurate auditing of access. Moreover, _passwords_ _are_ expensive to _administer_ _when_ forgotten or _misplaced._ Although the use _of_ _other_ types of security access systems such as _voice_ recognition, fingerprint recognition or iris _scans_ _have_ been _implemented,_ _these_ types _of_ _systems_ require a _different_ procedure _to_ access and _use_ _the_ device. These techniques _also_ require a specific and time-consuming enrollment process in _order_ to _be_ operational. _Additionally,_ radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), and ultrasonic transmitter devices have also been used as proximity-type devices to allow access when the _transmitter_ is _in_ a predetermined range of the device. The problem _associated_ with these types of _systems_ is the transmitter _must_ be continuously _worn_ or otherwise _carried_ by the user. Should the transmitter signal be lost, misplaced or become _inoperative,_ the user will no longer have any access to the device. _Moreover,_ if another user has possession _of_ the transmitter, _the_ _other_ _user_ gains full access to _the_ device. Obviously, this can _lead_ to _all_ _types_ _of_ security _issues_ should the transmitter be lost or stolen. Finally, biometric authentication _using_ _facial_ recognition is also often used to _gain_ access to electronic devices. U.S. Pat. No. 6,853,739 to Kyle and _U.S._ _Pat._ No. 6,724,919 to _Akiyama_ et _al.,_ _which_ _are_ both herein incorporated by reference, disclose _examples_ of identity verification systems wherein a database is _employed_ to compare facial features of _a_ user to _those_ in the _pre-established_ database. Once a comparison is made, then _authentication_ is verified and access is _granted_ to the system. _The_ disadvantage _of_ this type _of_ system is the requirement of a separate and specific enrollment procedure by the user to _create_ _the_ database. As with _this_ _type_ of facial recognition system and others in the prior art, the database must be populated before being _used;_ otherwise, the system will not operate. This puts an unnecessary burden on the _system_ operator, _requiring_ detailed education _on_ the steps to _populate_ the database before the system _may_ become _operational._ _Additionally,_ _this_ type of _security_ _system_ does not _permit_ the automatic updating of the database _to_ accommodate changes _in_ head position, user features (such as different glasses), a _change_ in the camera's operational characteristics, lighting and _other_ environmental factors. This _can_ _limit_ the _speed,_ accuracy, and even the success of database matching (recognition). Also, these prior art _facial_ recognition and other biometric systems operate only _at_ the instant of authentication. Thus, these systems have no way _of_ confirming the identity of the user even milliseconds after the actual authentication. The device has no _way_ of knowing when _a_ user has stepped away from the device, leaving the device unsecured. _Existing_ methods of locking _based_ on inactivity of data entry, such _as_ keyboard or mouse activity, do not provide the needed _flexibility._ _If_ they are set to lock on a very short delay, the _user_ is locked out as the user is _using_ the device. _Conversely,_ if the delays are set long enough to not _impact_ the user, the device is _vulnerable_ to unauthorized access when the user steps away. Hence, the need exists to _provide_ a system and method for _providing_ _secure_ _access_ to an _electronic_ device using facial recognition that provides continuous authentication, _no_ special enrollment process, automatic updates to _the_ biometric database to _improve_ recognition performance and _multi-factor_ _authentication_ _while_ not _requiring_ unnecessary data processing. The recognition system and method _should_ be _capable_ of running on devices requiring relatively low computing power so as _to_ provide an inexpensive _and_ _responsive_ approach to _providing_ biometric user authentication with a high level of security.
|
1. Technical Field
This application generally relates to computer data storage, and more particularly to a cache used with computer data storage.
2. Description of Related Art
Computer systems may include different resources used by one or more host processors. Resources and host processors in a computer system may be interconnected by one or more communication connections. These resources may include, for example, data storage devices such as the Symmetrix™ family of data storage systems manufactured by EMC Corporation. These data storage systems may be coupled to one or more host processors and provide storage services to each host processor. An example data storage system may include one or more data storage devices, such as those of the Symmetrix™ family, that are connected together and may be used to provide common data storage for one or more host processors in a computer system.
A host processor may perform a variety of data processing tasks and operations using the data storage system. For example, a host processor may perform basic system I/O operations in connection with data requests, such as data read and write operations and also administrative tasks, such as data backup and mirroring operations.
Host processor systems may store and retrieve data using a storage device containing a plurality of host interface units, disk drives, and disk interface units. Such storage devices are provided, for example, by EMC Corporation of Hopkinton, Mass. and disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,939 to Yanai et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,778,394 to Galtzur et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,147 to Vishlitzky et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,208 to Ofek. The host systems access the storage device through a plurality of channels provided therewith. Host systems provide data and access control information through the channels to the storage device and storage device provides data to the host systems also through the channels. The host systems do not address the disk drives of the storage device directly, but rather, access what appears to the host systems as a plurality of logical disk units. The logical disk units may or may nor correspond to the actual disk drives. Allowing multiple host systems to access the single storage device unit allows the host systems to share data stored therein.
Performance of a storage system may be improved by using a cache. In the case of a disk drive system, the cache may be implemented using a block of semiconductor memory that has a relatively lower data access time than the disk drive. Data that is accessed is advantageously moved from the disk drives to the cache so that the second and subsequent accesses to the data may be made to the cache rather than to the disk drives. Data that has not been accessed recently may be removed from the cache to make room for new data. Often such cache accesses are transparent to the host system requesting the data.
Data may be stored in a cache in order to increase efficiency. However, there can be a cost associated with performing cache management operations, such as storing and retrieving data from the cache, in particular if the cache is locked for exclusive access in a particular implementation.
One technique for implementing a cache is to store the data in blocks and link each of the blocks together in a doubly linked ring list referred to herein as a replacement queue. Each block of the replacement queue represents a block of data from a logical disk unit. The blocks or slots are placed in the doubly linked ring list in the order in which they are retrieved from the disk. A pointer may point to the block that was most recently added to the list. Thus, when a new block is to be added to the cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combination with the head pointer, may be used to determine the oldest block in the replacement queue that is to be removed to make room for the new block. An implementation of the replacement queue may use both a “head” pointer and a “tail” pointer identifying, respectively, the beginning and end of the replacement queue. The “tail” may determine the oldest block or slot in the replacement queue. Two such pointers may be used in an replacement queue arrangement as it may be desirable in accordance with cache management schemes in which some data may remain permanently in the cache and the “oldest” and “newest” data may not be adjacent to one another.
Cache management techniques are described, for example, in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,381,539, Jan. 10, 1995, entitled “System and Method for Dynamically Controlling Cache Management”, Yanai et al., assigned to EMC Corporation of Hopkinton, Mass., which is herein incorporated by reference, in which a data storage system has a cache controlled by parameters including: (a) a minimum number of data storage elements which must be retrieved and stored in cache memory and used by the system before the cache management system recognizes a sequential data access in progress; (b) the maximum number of tracks or data records which the cache management system is to prefetch ahead; and (c) the maximum number of sequential data elements to be stored in cache before the memory containing the previously used tracks or data records are reused or recycled and new data written to these locations. The cache memory is in a least-recently used circular configuration in which the cache management system overwrites or recycles the oldest or least recently used memory location. The cache manager provides monitoring and dynamic adjustment of the foregoing parameters.
Described in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,432, Jan. 7, 1997, entitled “Cache Management System Using Time Stamping for Replacement Queue”, Vishlitzky et al., which is herein incorporated by reference, is a system that includes a cache directory listing data elements in a cache memory and a cache manager memory including a replacement queue and data structures. A cache manager determines which data element should be removed or replaced in the cache memory based on the elapsed time the data element has been in the memory. If the elapsed time is less than a predetermined threshold, the data element will be maintained in the same location in the replacement queue saving a number of cache management operations. The predetermined threshold is established as the average fall through time (FTT) of prior data elements in the memory. A modified least-recently-used replacement procedure uses time stamps indicating real or relative time when a non-write-pending data element was promoted to the tail of the replacement queue, the most-recently used position. Also disclosed is another embodiment in which the number of times the data element is accessed while in the memory is compared to a fixed number. If the data element has been accessed more than the fixed number, it is placed at the tail of the replacement queue ensuring a longer period for the data element in the memory.
Described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,939, Apr. 27, 1993, entitled “System and Method for Disk Mapping and Retrieval”, Yanai et al, which is herein incorporated by reference, is a device-by-device cache index/directory used in disk mapping and data retrieval.
An embodiment using the foregoing queue may have a drawback in that an exclusive access policy may be enforced using an “expensive” locking mechanism in connection with the queue as a shared resource such that only one process may access and manipulate the queue at a time. Additionally, in connection with performing queue management operations, for example, such as adding elements, the complexity of the queue structure may make it difficult to allow more than one process to manipulate to the data structure at any time. One way to enforce this one-at-a-time access is to use a locking technique that allows a process exclusive access to the queue. However, when multiple processors may need to use the cache, then the exclusive access policy may become a bottleneck.
An embodiment having a complex cache management scheme may also have increased traffic within a system. Accordingly, the number of times that a cache lock operation is performed may also increase.
Thus, it may be desirous and advantageous to have a cache management scheme which is efficient and flexible minimizing the costs associated with accessing a cache.
|
1. technical field this application generally relates to computer peripheral storage, and more particularly to a cache used with computer data storage. 2. description of related art computer systems may include different resources used by one or more host processor. resources and host processors in a computer system may be interconnected through one or more communication connections. these resources may include, for example, data storage devices such as the symmetrix™ family of data storage systems manufactured by emc corporation. these data storage systems may be coupled to one or more host processors and provide storage services to each host processor. an example data storage system may include one or more data storage devices, such as those of the symmetrix™ processor, that are connected together and may be used to provide common data storage for one or more host processors in a computer system. a host processor may perform a variety of data processing tasks and operations using the data storage system. for example, a host processor may perform basic system i / o operations in connection with memory requests, such as data read and write operations and also administrative tasks, such as data backup and mirroring operations. host processor systems may store and retrieve data using a storage device containing a group of host interface units, disk drives, and disk interface units. such storage devices are provided, for example, by emc corporation of hopkinton, mass. and disclosed in u. s. pat. no. 5, 206, 939 to yanai et al., u. s. pat. no. 5, 778, 394 to galtzur et al., u. s. pat. no. 5, 845, 147 to vishlitzky et al., and u. s. pat. no. 5, 206, 208 to ofek. the host systems access the storage device through any plurality of channels provided therewith. host systems provide data and access control information through the channels to the storage device and storage device provides data to the host systems also through the channels. the host systems do not address the disk drives of the stored device directly, but rather, access what applies to the host systems as a plurality of logical disk units. the logical disk units may or may nor correspond to the actual disk drives. allowing multiple host systems to access the single storage device unit allows the host systems to share data stored therein. performance of a storage system may be improved by using a cache. in the case of a disk drive system, the cache may be implemented using a block of semiconductor memory that has a relatively lower data access time than the disk drive. data that is accessed is advantageously moved from the disk drives to the cache so that the second and subsequent accesses to the data may be made to the cache rather than to the disk drives. data that has not been accessed recently may be removed from the cache to make room for new data. often such cache accesses are transparent to the host system requesting the data. data may be stored in a cache in order to increase efficiency. however, there can be a cost associated with performing cache management operations, such as storing and retrieving data from the cache, in particular if the cache is locked for exclusive access in a particular implementation. one technique for implementing a cache is to store the data in blocks and link each of the blocks together in a doubly linked ring list referred to herein as a replacement queue. each block of the replacement queue represents a block of data from a logical disk unit. the blocks or slots are placed in the doubly linked ring list in the order in which they are retrieved from the disk. a pointer may point to the block that was most recently added to the list. thus, when a new block is to be added to the cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combination with the head pointer, may be used to determine the oldest block in the replacement queue that is to be removed to make room for the new block. an implementation of the replacement queue may use both a “ head ” pointer and a “ tail ” pointer identifying, respectively, the beginning and end of the replacement queue. the “ tail ” may determine the oldest block or slot in the replacement queue. two such pointers may be used in an replacement queue arrangement as it may be desirable in accordance with cache management schemes in which some data may remain permanently in the cache and the “ oldest ” and “ newest ” data may not be adjacent to one another. cache management techniques are described, for example, in issued u. s. pat. no. 5, 381, 539, jan. 10, 1995, entitled “ system and method for dynamically controlling cache management ”, yanai et al., assigned to emc corporation of hopkinton, mass., which is herein incorporated by reference, in which a data storage system has a cache controlled by parameters including : ( a ) a minimum number of data storage elements which must be retrieved and stored in cache memory and used by the system before the cache management system recognizes a sequential data access in progress ; ( b ) the maximum number of tracks or data records which the cache management system is to prefetch ahead ; and ( c ) the maximum number of sequential data elements to be stored in cache before the memory containing the previously used tracks or data records are reused or recycled and new data written to these locations. the cache memory is in a least - recently used circular configuration in which the cache management system overwrites or recycles the oldest or least recently used memory location. the cache manager provides monitoring and dynamic adjustment of the foregoing parameters. described in issued u. s. pat. no. 5, 592, 432, jan. 7, 1997, entitled “ cache management system using time stamping for replacement queue ”, vishlitzky et al., which is herein incorporated by reference, is a system that includes a cache directory listing data elements in a cache memory and a cache manager memory including a replacement queue and data structures. a cache manager determines which data element should be removed or replaced in the cache memory based on the elapsed time the data element has been in the memory. if the elapsed time is less than a predetermined threshold, the data element will be maintained in the same location in the replacement queue saving a number of cache management operations. the predetermined threshold is established as the average fall through time ( ftt ) of prior data elements in the memory. a modified least - recently - used replacement procedure uses time stamps indicating real or relative time when a non - write - pending data element was promoted to the tail of the replacement queue, the most - recently used position. also disclosed is another embodiment in which the number of times the data element is accessed while in the memory is compared to a fixed number. if the data element has been accessed more than the fixed number, it is placed at the tail of the replacement queue ensuring a longer period for the data element in the memory. described in u. s. pat. no. 5, 206, 939, apr. 27, 1993, entitled “ system and method for disk mapping and retrieval ”, yanai et al, which is herein incorporated by reference, is a device - by - device cache index / directory used in disk mapping and data retrieval. an embodiment using the foregoing queue may have a drawback in that an exclusive access policy may be enforced using an “ expensive ” locking mechanism in connection with the queue as a shared resource such that only one process may access and manipulate the queue at a time. additionally, in connection with performing queue management operations, for example, such as adding elements, the complexity of the queue structure may make it difficult to allow more than one process to manipulate to the data structure at any time. one way to enforce this one - at - a - time access is to use a locking technique that allows a process exclusive access to the queue. however, when multiple processors may need to use the cache, then the exclusive access policy may become a bottleneck. an embodiment having a complex cache management scheme may also have increased traffic within a system. accordingly, the number of times that a cache lock operation is performed may also increase. thus, it may be desirous and advantageous to have a cache management scheme which is efficient and flexible minimizing the costs associated with accessing a cache.
|
1. Technical Field This application generally relates to computer data storage, and more particularly to a cache used with computer data storage. 2. Description of Related Art Computer systems may include different resources used by one or more host processors. Resources and host processors in a computer system may be interconnected by one or more communication connections. These resources may include, for example, data storage devices such as the Symmetrix ™ faKi>y of data storage systems manufactured by EMC Corporation. These data storage systems may be coupled to one or more host processors and provide storage services to each host processor. An example data storage system may include one or more data storage devices, such as those of the Symmetrix ™ family, that are connected together and may be used to provide common data storage for one or more host processors in a computer system. A host processor may perform a variety of data processing tasks and operations using the data storage system. For example, a host processor may perform basic system I / O operations in connection with data requests, such as data read and write operations and also administrative tasks, such as data backup and mirroring operations. Host processor systems may store and retrieve data using a storage device containing a plurality of host interface units, disk drives, and disk interface units. Such storage devices are provided, for example, by EMC Corporation of Hopkinton, Mass. and disclosed in U. S. Pat. No. 5, 206, 939 to Yanai et al. , U. S. Pat. No. 5, 778, 394 to Galtzur et al. , U. S. Pat. No. 5, 845, 147 to Vishlitzky et al. , and U. S. Pat. No. 5, 857, 208 to Ofek. The host systems access the storage device through a plurality of channels provided therewith. Host systems provide data and access control information through the channels to the storage device and storage ceCice provides data to the host systems also through the channels. The host systems do not address the disk drives of the storage device directly, but rather, access what appears to the host systems as a plurality of logical disk units. The logical disk units may or may nor correspond to the actual disk drives. Allowing multiple host syst3mx to access the single storage device unit allows the host systems to share data stored therein. Performance of a storage system may be improved by using a cache. In the case of a disk drive system, the cache may be implemented using a block of semiconductor memory that has a relatively lower data access time than the disk drive. Data that is accessed is advantageously moved from the disk drives to the cache so that the second and subsequent accesses to the data may be made to the cache rather than to the disk drives. Data that has not been accessed recently may be removed from the cache to make room for new data. Often such cache accesses are transparent to the host system requesting the data. Data may be stored in a cache in order to increase efficiency. However, there can be a cost associated with performing cache management operations, such as storing and retrieving data from the cache, in particular if the cache is locked for exclusive accDsx in a particular implementation. One technique for implementing a cache is to store the data in blocks and link each of the blocks together in a doubly linked ring list referred to herein as a replacement queue. Each block of the replacement queue represents a block of data from a logical disk unit. The blocks or slots are placed in the doubly linked ring list in the order in which they are retrieved from the disk. A pointer may point to the block that was most recently awddd to the list. Thus, when a new block is to be added to the cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combination with the head pointer, may be used to determine the oldest block in the replacement queue that is to be removed to make room for the new block. An implementation of the replacement queue may use both a “ head ” pointer and a “ twip ” pointer identifying, respectively, the beginning and end of the replacement queue. The “ tail ” may determine the oldest block or slot in the replacement queue. Two such pointers may be used in an replacement queue arrangement as it may be desirable in accordance with cache management schemes in which some data may remain permanently in the cache and the “ oldest ” and “ newest ” data may not be adjacent to one another. Cache management techniques are described, for example, in issued U. S. Pat. No. 5, 381, 539, Jan. 10, 1995, entitled “ System and Method for Dynamically Controlling Cache Management ”, Yanai et al. , assigned to EMC Corporation of Hopkinton, Mass. , which is herein incorporated by reference, in which a data storage system has a cache controlled by parameters including: (a) a minimum number of data storage elements which must be retrieved and stored in cache memory and used by the system before the cache management system recognizes a sequential data access in progress; (b) the maximum number of tracks or data records which the cache management system is to prefetch ahead; and (c) the maximum number of sequential data elements to be stored in cache before the memory containing the previously used tracks or data records are reused or recycled and new data written to these locations. The cache memory is in a least - recently used circular configuration in which the cache management system overwrites or recycles the oldest or least recently used memory location. The vaxhe manager provides monitoring and dynamic adjustment of the foregoing parameters. Described in issued U. S. Pat. No. 5, 592, 432, Jan. 7, 1997, entitled “ Cache Management System Using Time Stamping for Replacement Queue ”, Vishlitzky et al. , which is herein incorporated by reference, is a system that includes a cache directory listing data elements in a cache memory and a cache manager memory including a replacement queue and data structures. A cache manager determines which data element should be removed or replaced in the cache memory based on the elapsed time the data element has been in the memory. If the elapsed time is less than a predetermined threshold, the data element will be maintained in the same location in the replacement queue saving a number of cache management operations. The predetermined threshold is established as the average fall through time (FTT) of prior data elements in the memory. A modified least - recently - used replacement procedure uses time stWm9s indicating real or relative time when a non - write - pending data element was promoted to the tail of the replacement queue, the most - recently used position. Also disclosed is another embodiment in which the number of times the data element is accessed while in the memory is compared to a fixed number. If the data element has been accessed more than the fKaed number, it is placed at the tail of the replacement queue ensuring a longer period for the data element in the memory. Described in U. S. Pat. No. 5, 206, 939, Apr. 27, 1993, entitled “ System and Method for Disk Ma(Ling and Retrieval ”, Yanai et al, which is herein incorporated by reference, is a device - by - device cache index / directory used in disk mapping and data retrieval. An embodiment using the foregoing queue may have a drawback in that an exclusive access policy may be enforced using an “ expensive ” locking mechanism in connection with the queue as a shared resource such that only one process may access and manipulate the queue at a time. Additionally, in connection with performing queue management operations, for example, such as adding elements, the complexity of the queue structure may make it difficult to allow more than one process to manipulate to the data structure at any time. One way to enforce this one - at - a - time access is to use a locking technique that allows a process exclusive access to the queue. However, when multiple processors may need to use the cache, then the exclusive access policy may become a bottleneck. An embodiment having a complex cache management scheme may also have increased traffic within a system. Accordingly, the number of times that a cache lock operation is performed may also increase. Thus, it may be desirous and advantageous to have a cache management scheme which is efficient and flexible minimizing the costs associated with accessing a cache.
|
1. Field This application generally relates to computer data storage, and more particularly to cache used with computer data storage. 2. Description of Related Art Computer systems may include different resources used by one or more host Resources and processors in a computer system interconnected by one or communication connections. These resources may for data devices such the Symmetrix™ family of data storage systems manufactured by EMC Corporation. These data storage systems be coupled to one or more host processors provide storage services to each host processor. An example data storage system may include one or more data storage devices, such as those of the Symmetrix™ family, that are connected together and may be used to common data storage for one or more host processors in a computer system. host processor may a variety of data processing tasks and using the data system. For example, host processor perform basic system I/O operations in connection with data requests, such as data read and write operations and also administrative tasks, data backup mirroring operations. Host processor systems may store retrieve data using storage device containing a plurality of host interface units, disk drives, and disk interface units. Such storage devices are provided, for example, by EMC Corporation of Hopkinton, Mass. and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,939 Yanai et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,778,394 to et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,147 to Vishlitzky al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,208 to Ofek. The host systems access the storage device through a plurality of channels provided therewith. Host systems data and access control information through the channels to the storage device and storage device data to the host systems also through the channels. The host systems do not address the disk drives of the storage device directly, but rather, access what appears the host systems as a plurality of logical disk units. logical disk units may or may nor correspond to the actual disk drives. multiple host to access the storage device allows the host systems to share data stored therein. Performance of a storage system may be improved by using a cache. In the case of a disk drive system, the cache may be implemented using a block of semiconductor memory that a relatively data access time than the disk drive. Data is accessed is advantageously moved from disk drives to the cache so that the second and subsequent accesses to data may be made to the cache rather than to the disk drives. Data that has not been accessed recently be removed from the cache to make room for new data. Often such accesses are to the host system requesting the data. Data may be stored in a cache in order to efficiency. However, there can a associated with cache management operations, such as and retrieving from the cache, in particular if the cache is locked for exclusive access a particular implementation. One technique for implementing a is to store the in blocks and link each of the blocks together in a doubly list referred to as a replacement queue. Each block of the replacement queue represents a block of data from a logical disk unit. The blocks or slots are placed in the doubly linked ring list in the order in which they are retrieved from disk. pointer may point to the block that was most recently added to the list. Thus, a new block is to be added to the cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combination with the head pointer, may be to determine the oldest block in replacement queue that is to be removed to make room for the new block. An implementation of the replacement queue may use both a “head” pointer and a “tail” pointer identifying, respectively, the beginning and end of the replacement “tail” may determine the oldest or slot in the replacement queue. Two such pointers may be used in replacement queue arrangement as it may be desirable in accordance with management schemes in which some data may remain permanently in the cache and the “oldest” and “newest” may not be adjacent to one another. Cache management techniques are described, for example, in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,381,539, 10, 1995, entitled “System and Method for Controlling Cache Management”, Yanai al., assigned EMC Corporation of Mass., which is by reference, in which a data storage system a cache controlled by parameters including: (a) a minimum number of data storage elements which must be retrieved and stored in cache memory and used by the system before the cache management recognizes a sequential data access in progress; (b) the maximum number of tracks or data records which the cache system is to prefetch and (c) the maximum number of sequential data elements to in cache the containing the previously used tracks or data records are reused recycled and new data written to these locations. The cache memory is in a least-recently used circular configuration which the management overwrites or recycles the or least recently used memory location. The manager provides monitoring dynamic adjustment of the foregoing parameters. Described in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,432, Jan. 7, 1997, entitled “Cache Management System Time Stamping for Replacement Queue”, Vishlitzky et al., is herein incorporated by reference, is a system that includes a cache directory data elements in cache memory and a cache manager including a replacement queue and data structures. A cache manager determines data element should be removed in the cache memory based on the elapsed time the data element has in the memory. If the elapsed time is less than a predetermined threshold, the element will maintained in the same location in the replacement queue saving a number of cache operations. The predetermined established as average fall through time (FTT) of prior elements in the memory. A modified least-recently-used replacement uses time stamps real or time when a non-write-pending data element was promoted to the tail of the replacement queue, the most-recently used position. is another embodiment in which the number of times the data accessed while in the memory is compared to a fixed number. the data element has been accessed more than fixed number, it is placed the tail of the replacement queue ensuring a longer period for the data element in the memory. Described in U.S. Pat. No. Apr. 27, 1993, entitled “System and Method for Disk Mapping and Retrieval”, Yanai et al, which is herein incorporated by reference, is a device-by-device cache index/directory in disk mapping and retrieval. embodiment using the foregoing have a drawback in that exclusive policy may be enforced using an “expensive” locking mechanism in with the as a shared resource such that only one process access and manipulate the queue a time. Additionally, in connection with performing queue management operations, for example, such adding the complexity of the queue structure make it difficult to allow more than one process to manipulate to the data structure at any time. One way to enforce this one-at-a-time access is to use a locking technique that allows a process exclusive access to the queue. However, when multiple processors may need to use the cache, then the exclusive access policy may become a bottleneck. An embodiment a complex cache management scheme may also increased traffic within a system. Accordingly, the that a cache lock operation is performed may increase. Thus, it may be desirous and advantageous to have a cache management scheme which is efficient and flexible minimizing the associated with accessing a cache.
|
1. teChNIcal Field
thIs ApPlicatIoN GEnerALlY reLatES tO CoMpUTER dATA stOraGe, AND mORE ParTICULArly TO A cACHe USed wiTh cOMPUTEr DATA stORAGe.
2. deSCrIpTIoN of ReLated Art
comPUTeR syStEmS may iNclUdE dIfFeREnt ReSOURceS used bY One or MORe hosT prOcesSors. ReSourCEs AND Host PrOCESsoRS iN A computeR SYsTEM May be iNTeRconNecTED By One OR MoRe CommuNiCatIon coNnEcTionS. tHese ResOuRcES May inClude, FoR ExAmpLE, dATa sToraGe Devices SUcH AS thE SymmEtrIx™ FAMiLy of DAtA sTORage SYStEMs mANufActURed by emc corPoration. TheSe dAtA storAgE sYstEms may BE coUPLED To ONe Or MOrE HOsT PRoCeSSorS ANd pROvide storaGe SErVicEs To eaCH hOsT PrOCeSSor. an examPLE DaTA sTorAgE SySTEm may INcLUdE ONe or mOre dAtA STOrAgE dEVICES, suCH As ThosE of THE sYmmetrix™ faMILy, ThAt arE ConnectED toGetHeR aND MAY Be Used to PROvIdE COmmoN daTA sTOrage fOr ONe or MORE HOST pROCEsSOrs IN A COMPuTEr SYsTEm.
A hOst prOCesSOR MaY pErfoRM A varIEty OF daTa procEssIng TaSkS aNd OPeraTIOnS USIng The DAta sTOrAGe sYStEM. foR example, a HOst ProceSSOr May pERfOrM basic SYstem i/o oPErations iN cOnnEctIoN wITh daTA rEQUEsTs, SUcH aS Data REaD anD WRIte OpERAtIoNs ANd AlSo ADmiNiSTRaTIVe tASks, SUCh as DATA backup anD mirROrIng OPERATionS.
hOSt pRoceSsor SYsTems MAY STorE aND rEtrievE DatA uSInG a sTorAgE dEVice CONtaIniNG A pLurALity OF hOst iNterface UNits, DiSK driVes, AND disK IntErFACe unIts. SUCh SToragE dEVicEs arE ProViDeD, fOr ExaMple, by Emc CorpOrATIoN OF HoPKInToN, MaSS. AND DisclOSed iN U.S. pAT. nO. 5,206,939 TO yaNAi Et al., U.s. pAT. No. 5,778,394 To GaLtzUR Et al., u.s. PAt. NO. 5,845,147 To vIsHlitZKY eT aL., anD U.S. pat. no. 5,857,208 To oFEk. tHE hoSt sYSteMs ACCEsS the sToraGe DeviCE THroUgh A plUrAlItY OF CHAnNels pRoVIDed tHErewITH. host SYStEms pROviDE daTa ANd ACcESs cONTROL InformatiON tHROugh THE chAnNels tO tHe stoRaGE deVICe ANd storaGe deViCE PrOVides Data TO The hOst sysTEms AlsO thROUgH thE cHANNEls. THE HosT SysteMs DO nOT aDdReSS tHE disk DRIvES oF the stORaGE DeViCe DirEctLy, BUt raTHeR, ACceSs wHaT aPPeARS TO tHe HoSt syStEMS aS A PluRALITY Of loGICal diSk unitS. tHE lOGicAl diSk UNItS MAY or maY nor CorResPONd To thE AcTUAl DIsK DRIves. alloWIng mULTiPlE hoST SyStEmS To AcCEsS ThE sINgLe SToragE deVice UNiT ALLowS ThE Host SYStEms to sHAre DATa stoReD THEreIn.
PErFoRManCe Of a sToRaGe sysTEm mAy be imProvEd bY uSiNG A cAcHE. IN THE CasE oF A dISK drIvE systEM, tHe cacHE MaY Be IMplEmeNTED uSINg A bLOck Of sEmICOnDUcTor mEMoRY THaT has a rELATIvELY lOweR DATa AcCESS TiME thAN THe dISk DRive. dAtA thAt IS ACcessed iS advantageOUsly mOvEd fRom thE Disk DrIVES tO the cACHe So THaT The sEconD ANd SUbseqUent aCcesSes To The daTA may Be MAdE To THe cachE rAthER thAn To the dIsK dRIVES. dAtA tHaT HAs nOt beeN aCcesseD ReCEnTLY maY be reMoVed From The cacHe to Make ROOm for NeW dATA. oFTEN sUch cache acCESsES are TRAnSParEnT To tHE hOst SySteM REQUestInG tHE data.
daTa mAy bE sToRed In a CachE IN OrDeR To INCReaSE EffiCiEncY. HOWeVEr, tHerE cAN BE a Cost ASSocIAted WIth pERForMiNG cache maNAGeMEnt operAtioNS, Such As StOriNG and ReTRiEvIng dAtA froM The cachE, IN PartICuLAR IF tHE caChe Is locKeD FOr exCLusiVE ACCeSs in A pArtIcuLAR IMplemeNtAtioN.
one TeChNIQUE FOr ImplEmENtinG a CAcHe IS TO sToRE THE DAtA iN BLOcks And liNk EACH oF thE bloCks ToGEthEr iN A DOUBly lInKed RInG lISt rEfeRREd To HErein As A REPlaCEmeNT queue. EACH bLoCk OF THe rEPLAcemeNT qUeuE rEpreSenTs A BLocK Of daTA FRom A logIcal DiSK uNiT. The BlOcKs or slots are pLaCEd in THe doubLy LiNKeD rIng LIST in THe orDeR in WhICH THeY arE RetriEVEd FrOm tHE DISK. A PoInTER may poiNt to THE BLock THaT WaS most reCeNtlY ADDED TO thE liST. ThuS, wheN a new blOCk is tO be ADdED To tHe cACHE WIThiN thE RePlACeMENt QuEuE, thE sTruCTUre OF The REpLaCeMENT QUeuE, in ComBInatIoN With THE hEad PoiNTeR, MAY be usEd to dEtERMIne THE olDEst block In thE replAcemENt QuEue tHat IS TO bE removeD tO mAKE rOom FoR tHe NEw bloCK. an imPlEmEntAtiON OF the RepLACEmENt QUEUe May usE bOTH a “heaD” PoiNTER AND a “TAil” POinteR IDentIFYInG, ResPEcTiVEly, the bEgInnInG AnD End of thE rePLAcEmeNT queUe. The “TaIL” MAY dETeRmine The OLdeST blocK OR SlOt iN the rePlacEmEnT quEuE. twO SuCH poiNTERS MaY be UsED IN An replACEmeNt quEUe ARrANGeMENt as IT mAY bE DEsiRaBle IN aCCoRDAnce with cachE MAnaGEMENt SCHeMeS in wHiCH SOme DATA MAY remAIn peRmAnENTLy iN THE CAcHE aNd THe “olDESt” and “NeWeSt” dAta MAY NOT Be aDJaCeNT tO One aNOtHER.
cAChe maNAgement tECHNiquES ARE DEScRIBED, FOR EXamPLE, iN isSUed U.s. paT. No. 5,381,539, jan. 10, 1995, EntITLeD “SYsTem AND meTHoD FOR DynAmicaLly cOntRoLliNg CacHE ManaGEmEnT”, yAnAI eT aL., aSsIGnED to EmC CoRporATIon oF HOPkINTON, mAss., WhiCh iS HEReIN iNCoRPORateD by rEfERenCE, IN whIcH a DaTa sTorAGE sYsTEm HaS a CacHe CoNtrOlLeD By PArAmeTeRs InCluDiNg: (A) A MiNImUm nUMBEr oF DATA sTorAge ELEmenTs wHICh mUSt be RETRIEvED aNd STOreD In CaChE MemorY AnD UsEd BY tHE sysTem BefOre THe CAche MAnagEmeNT SysTEm recoGnIzeS a SEqueNtIal dATa aCcESS in PROGresS; (b) tHe MAxiMum NumBEr of trACks Or DAta RECoRDS wHICh THe CaCHe maNAGEmENT systeM IS To PREFETch AHeAd; AnD (C) thE maXiMuM NUmbEr of SEQUeNtiAl DAtA eleMENTS TO BE SToRed in CAcHe BeFore THe MeMOrY cOnTAinINg tHe PREViOUslY usEd TraCks Or dATa ReCordS ARE reUSED oR RECycLeD anD nEW DATA WrItten tO THESe lOCAtIOns. ThE cACHe MemoRY iS IN A Least-RecEnTlY useD CIrcUlAr cOnFIgurAtioN in WhiCH The cAChE ManAGeMENt sYStEm ovERwrITEs oR ReCYClEs tHe OLdESt or lEAsT rEcENtly UsED mEmoRY locaTIoN. THE CAcHE MAnageR PRovIdES MONitoriNG and dYnaMiC aDJustMeNT oF tHe foREgOinG PARAMetERS.
DeScRiBed In IsSUed u.s. PAT. nO. 5,592,432, Jan. 7, 1997, ENtiTleD “CaCHE MANaGeMEnT sysTEm uSIng Time sTaMpIng fOR repLACemeNt QuEuE”, ViShLItzkY ET aL., wHiCh Is heREIn InCORpORAtED By reFeRence, IS a SysteM tHAt InCLuDeS a cAcHE diREcTOrY lIsTIng DATA ELements in A CaCHE mEmorY anD a CacHE manAgER MemORY INCLUDiNG A rEpLAcemENT quEUE anD data STRuctuRES. A cAcHe mAnAGEr dEteRMinEs WHiCh DAtA eleMEnT ShOuLD Be reMoVed or rEpLACED iN THe caChE MEmory basED On ThE eLapsed TIMe tHe data ELemenT hAS BEen iN ThE meMORy. iF THE ElApsed timE is lEss thaN a predetERmiNed ThReSHOLd, tHe DaTa elEmEnt Will bE maintaINED IN thE sAmE lOcATioN IN THe ReplaCeMENT QUeUE SavING a nUmbEr of CaCHE MANAgeMenT oPeRaTIoNS. tHE pREdetERMIneD ThreshOLD IS eStaBlIshED aS tHe AVErAGe FALL tHrOuGh tiMe (fTT) OF Prior datA eLemENTs iN the MEMory. a moDiFiED LEAst-RecenTLY-useD repLaCEment PROCedUre USes tIMe STampS IndIcaTINg REaL or ReLAtIvE TIMe whEn A nON-WRITE-PEnDIng DatA elEmEnt wAS PromotEd tO THe TAiL oF The repLAcEment qUEUe, THe MoST-RECENtLY usED POSItION. aLSO disClOSed Is ANoTHEr EmbodiMENt in whICH THe nUMbEr OF TIMES thE DaTA ELEMeNt IS accEssEd whiLe IN tHE MEmORY is cOMPArEd tO A FixEd NuMbER. IF tHe dATa eLEMENT has bEeN ACCeSsED mOrE THaN THe FIxeD nUmbEr, IT is PlACed at THe tAil oF tHE REPlacEmENt qUEUe EnsUriNG a LOnGER PERiOd For the DAta ELeMenT iN THe mEMory.
DEscribED in U.S. pat. NO. 5,206,939, APr. 27, 1993, EnTITLeD “sYSteM aNd mEtHod foR diSK MApPing and retRIeVaL”, yanAi et Al, whICH iS heREiN iNCorpORaTeD By ReFerencE, Is a deVice-By-DevIce cAChE INDEx/DIrectoRy UsED iN dISk mappinG ANd DATA rETRIevaL.
AN EmBOdImeNT USING the fOregoInG qUEUe May HAvE A dRawBack IN tHAT AN ExCLusIve ACCESS polIcy May Be eNfORced usING aN “expeNSIve” LOcKiNg meChanIsm IN CoNNectiON WIth THE qUeUe AS a shaREd ResourcE Such thAT only oNE PRocEss mAy acceSs AND ManIpUlatE the QUEUE At a TIME. addiTIoNAlLY, IN CONNecTIoN wIth PeRfORMInG QueUE maNagemENT OpERatIonS, fOr exAMplE, sUCh AS aDDinG ElemeNTs, the cOmPleXITY OF thE queUe sTrUCtURe mAy maKe IT dIFFicULt To aLloW MoRE THAn oNe pRocEss To mANIPUlATe TO THE DaTa STRucTuRe at any tIME. One WaY TO eNfoRCe THIS OnE-At-A-TimE accesS IS tO use A loCkINg techniQUe ThAt aLLOWs A PROcESs ExCLuSIve ACCeSs TO THe QUEUe. HOWEveR, when MuLTIplE proCESSoRS mAy neeD To UsE THE cAcHE, theN THE exclUSive AcCess pOliCY MAy BeCOMe a bOtTleNeck.
aN EMbODIMEnT HavINg a cOmpleX CAChe maNAgeMeNt scHEME may AlSO HAVE IncREaSED tRAffic wiThiN a sYsteM. acCoRdinGLY, THE NUmBer of tImes tHAt a CACHe LOck oPEratiON Is perFOrmeD MAy aLso IncReAse.
ThuS, it mAy BE desIROus aND ADvanTAGEoUS To hAVe A cACHe MANAGeMEnt scHEme which iS eFficiEnt aND fLEXiBLe MINIMiZINg tHe cOstS aSsocIAted WIth ACceSSINg a CACHE.
|
1. Technical Field This application generally relates to computer data storage, and more particularly to a cache used with computer data storage. 2.Descriptionof Related Art Computer systems may include differentresources used by oneor more hostprocessors. Resources and host processors in a computer system may be interconnectedby one or more communicationconnections. These resources may include,for example, data storage devices such as the Symmetrix™ family ofdata storage systems manufactured byEMC Corporation.These datastorage systemsmay be coupled to one or more host processors and provide storage services to each hostprocessor. An example data storage system may include oneor more data storage devices, such as those of the Symmetrix™ family, that are connected together and may be used toprovidecommondata storage forone or more host processors ina computer system. A host processor may perform a variety of data processing tasks and operations using the data storage system. For example, a host processor may performbasic system I/O operations in connection with data requests, such as data read and write operations and alsoadministrative tasks, such as data backup and mirroring operations. Host processor systems may store and retrieve datausing a storage device containing aplurality of host interface units, disk drives, and disk interface units. Such storage devices areprovided, for example, by EMCCorporation of Hopkinton, Mass. and disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,939 toYanai et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,778,394 to Galtzur et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,147 to Vishlitzky et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,208 to Ofek. The hostsystems access the storage device through aplurality of channels provided therewith. Hostsystemsprovide data andaccesscontrol information through the channels to the storagedevice and storage device provides data tothehostsystemsalso through the channels.The host systems do not address the disk drives of the storage device directly, but rather, access what appears to the host systems asapluralityof logical disk units. The logical disk units may or maynor correspond to the actual disk drives. Allowing multiple host systems to access the single storage device unit allows the host systems to share data stored therein.Performanceof astorage system may be improved by using a cache. Inthe case of a disk drive system, the cache maybe implementedusing a block of semiconductor memory that has a relativelylower data access time than the disk drive. Data thatis accessed is advantageously moved fromthe disk drives tothe cacheso that the second andsubsequent accesses to the data may be made to the cache rather than to the disk drives. Data that has not been accessed recently may be removed from the cacheto make room for new data. Often suchcache accesses are transparent tothe host system requesting the data.Data may bestored in a cache inorder to increase efficiency. However, there can be a costassociated withperforming cache managementoperations, suchas storingand retrieving data from the cache, in particularif the cache is locked for exclusiveaccess in a particular implementation. One technique for implementing a cache is to store the data in blocks and link each of the blocks together in a doublylinked ring listreferred to herein as a replacement queue. Each blockof the replacement queue representsa block ofdata from a logicaldisk unit. The blocks or slots are placed in the doubly linked ringlist in the order in which they are retrieved fromthe disk. A pointer may point to the block that wasmost recently added tothe list. Thus, when a new block is to be added to the cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combinationwith the headpointer, may be used to determinethe oldest block in the replacementqueue that is to beremovedto make room for the new block. An implementation of the replacement queue may use both a “head” pointerand a “tail” pointer identifying,respectively, the beginning and end of the replacement queue. The “tail” may determine the oldestblock or slot inthe replacement queue. Two such pointers may be used in an replacement queue arrangement asit may be desirable in accordance with cache management schemes inwhich some datamay remain permanently in the cacheandthe “oldest” and “newest”datamay notbeadjacent to one another. Cache management techniques are described, for example, in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,381,539, Jan. 10,1995, entitled “System and Method for Dynamically Controlling CacheManagement”, Yanai et al., assigned to EMCCorporation of Hopkinton,Mass., which isherein incorporated by reference, in whicha data storage system has a cache controlled by parameters including: (a) a minimum number of data storage elements whichmustbe retrievedandstored in cache memoryand used by the system before the cache management system recognizes a sequential data access in progress; (b)themaximum number oftracks or data records which the cache management systemis toprefetch ahead; and(c) themaximumnumberof sequential data elements to be stored in cachebefore thememory containing the previously used tracks or data records are reused or recycled andnew data written to theselocations. Thecache memory is in a least-recentlyused circularconfigurationin which the cache managementsystem overwrites or recycles the oldest or least recently used memory location.The cachemanager provides monitoring anddynamic adjustment of theforegoing parameters. Described in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,432, Jan. 7, 1997, entitled “Cache Management System Using Time Stampingfor Replacement Queue”, Vishlitzky et al., whichis herein incorporated by reference, is a system that includes a cache directory listing data elements in a cache memoryand a cachemanager memory including a replacementqueue and data structures. A cache manager determines which data element should be removed or replaced in the cache memorybased on the elapsed time the data element has been in the memory. If the elapsed time is less than a predeterminedthreshold,the data element will be maintainedin the same location in the replacementqueue saving a numberof cachemanagementoperations. The predetermined threshold is establishedasthe average fall through time (FTT) of prior data elements in the memory.A modified least-recently-used replacement procedureuses time stamps indicating real or relative time when anon-write-pending data element was promoted to thetail of the replacement queue, the most-recently used position. Also disclosed is another embodiment in which the number of times the dataelement is accessed while in the memory is compared to a fixed number. If the dataelement has been accessed morethan the fixed number, it isplaced at the tailof the replacement queue ensuring alonger period for the data elementin the memory. Describedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,939, Apr.27, 1993, entitled “System and Method for Disk Mapping and Retrieval”, Yanai et al, which is herein incorporated by reference, is a device-by-device cache index/directory used in disk mapping and data retrieval. An embodimentusingthe foregoingqueue mayhave a drawbackin that an exclusive access policy may be enforced using an“expensive” locking mechanism in connectionwith the queue as a shared resource such that only one process may access and manipulate the queueat a time. Additionally, in connection with performing queue management operations, forexample, such as adding elements, the complexity of the queue structure may make it difficult to allow more than one process to manipulate to the data structure atany time. One way to enforce this one-at-a-timeaccess isto usea locking technique that allows a process exclusive access tothe queue. However,when multiple processors may need to usethe cache, then theexclusive access policy may become a bottleneck. An embodiment having a complex cache managementscheme mayalso have increased traffic within a system. Accordingly, the number of times thata cachelock operation is performed may also increase. Thus, it may be desirous and advantageous to have acache management scheme which is efficient and flexible minimizingthecosts associated withaccessing a cache.
|
1. Technical Field _This_ application generally relates to computer _data_ storage, and more particularly to a cache used with computer data storage. 2. Description _of_ Related _Art_ Computer systems may include _different_ resources used by one or _more_ host processors. _Resources_ and host processors _in_ a computer system may be interconnected by one or more _communication_ connections. These resources may include, for _example,_ data storage devices such as the Symmetrix™ _family_ _of_ data storage systems manufactured by EMC _Corporation._ These data storage systems may be coupled to one or more host processors _and_ _provide_ storage services to each host processor. _An_ example data storage system may _include_ one or more data storage devices, _such_ as _those_ of the Symmetrix™ _family,_ that are connected _together_ and _may_ _be_ _used_ to provide common data storage for one or more host _processors_ in a computer system. A host processor may perform a variety of data processing _tasks_ and operations using the data storage system. For example, a _host_ _processor_ may perform basic system I/O operations in connection with data requests, such as _data_ read _and_ _write_ operations and _also_ _administrative_ tasks, _such_ as data _backup_ and _mirroring_ operations. Host _processor_ systems may store and retrieve data using a storage device containing a _plurality_ of host _interface_ units, disk drives, and disk _interface_ units. _Such_ storage devices are _provided,_ for example, by EMC Corporation _of_ Hopkinton, Mass. _and_ disclosed in U.S. Pat. _No._ _5,206,939_ to _Yanai_ et al., U.S. _Pat._ No. 5,778,394 to Galtzur et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,147 to Vishlitzky et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,208 to Ofek. The host systems access the storage device through a plurality of channels provided therewith. Host systems _provide_ data and access _control_ _information_ through the channels to the storage device and storage device provides _data_ to the host systems also through the _channels._ _The_ host systems do _not_ _address_ the disk _drives_ of _the_ storage device directly, but rather, access what _appears_ to the _host_ systems as a plurality _of_ logical disk units. The logical disk units may or may nor correspond to _the_ _actual_ disk drives. Allowing multiple _host_ systems to _access_ the single storage device unit _allows_ the host systems to share data stored therein. Performance of a storage system _may_ be improved _by_ using a cache. _In_ the _case_ of a disk drive _system,_ the cache _may_ be implemented using a block of semiconductor memory _that_ has a _relatively_ lower _data_ access _time_ than the disk _drive._ Data that is accessed is advantageously moved from the _disk_ drives to the _cache_ so that the second _and_ subsequent accesses to _the_ _data_ _may_ _be_ made to the cache _rather_ than to the _disk_ drives. Data that _has_ not been accessed recently may _be_ removed from the cache to make room for new data. Often _such_ cache accesses _are_ transparent to the host system requesting the data. Data _may_ be stored in _a_ _cache_ _in_ order to increase efficiency. However, there can be a _cost_ associated with performing cache _management_ operations, such as _storing_ and retrieving data from the cache, in particular if the cache is locked for exclusive access in a particular implementation. One technique for implementing _a_ cache _is_ to store the data in blocks and _link_ each of the _blocks_ together in _a_ _doubly_ linked ring _list_ referred to herein as _a_ replacement queue. _Each_ block of the replacement _queue_ represents a block of _data_ from _a_ logical disk _unit._ _The_ blocks or _slots_ are placed in the doubly _linked_ ring _list_ in the order in which they are retrieved from _the_ disk. A pointer may point to the block that was most recently added to the _list._ Thus, when a new block _is_ to be added to _the_ cache within the replacement queue, the structure of the replacement queue, in combination with the head pointer, may be used to _determine_ the _oldest_ block in _the_ replacement queue that _is_ to be removed to make room for the new block. An implementation of the replacement queue may _use_ both _a_ _“head”_ pointer and a “tail” pointer identifying, respectively, the beginning and _end_ _of_ _the_ _replacement_ queue. The “tail” may determine the oldest block or _slot_ in the replacement queue. Two such pointers may _be_ _used_ _in_ an replacement queue arrangement as it _may_ be desirable in accordance with cache management schemes in _which_ some data may remain permanently in the cache and _the_ “oldest” and “newest” _data_ may not be _adjacent_ to one another. _Cache_ management _techniques_ are described, for _example,_ in issued U.S. _Pat._ _No._ 5,381,539, _Jan._ _10,_ 1995, _entitled_ “System and Method for Dynamically Controlling _Cache_ Management”, Yanai et al., assigned to _EMC_ _Corporation_ of _Hopkinton,_ _Mass.,_ _which_ is herein incorporated by reference, in which _a_ data _storage_ _system_ has a cache controlled by parameters including: (a) a minimum _number_ _of_ data storage elements which must be retrieved and stored in cache _memory_ and used by _the_ system before the cache management system recognizes a sequential data _access_ in progress; (b) _the_ maximum number of tracks or data records which the cache management _system_ is to prefetch ahead; and (c) the _maximum_ number of sequential _data_ elements to be stored in cache before the memory containing the previously _used_ tracks or data _records_ _are_ reused or _recycled_ and _new_ _data_ written to these locations. The cache memory is in a least-recently used circular configuration _in_ which the cache management system overwrites or _recycles_ the _oldest_ or least _recently_ used memory location. The cache _manager_ provides monitoring and dynamic adjustment of the foregoing parameters. Described in issued U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,432, Jan. 7, 1997, _entitled_ “Cache _Management_ _System_ Using Time Stamping for Replacement Queue”, _Vishlitzky_ et al., which is _herein_ incorporated by reference, is a system _that_ includes a cache directory listing data elements _in_ a cache _memory_ and a cache manager memory including a replacement queue and _data_ structures. A _cache_ manager determines _which_ data _element_ should be removed _or_ replaced in the _cache_ memory based on the elapsed time _the_ _data_ _element_ has been _in_ the memory. If the _elapsed_ time _is_ less than a predetermined threshold, the data element will be maintained in the same _location_ in the _replacement_ queue saving a _number_ of cache management operations. _The_ _predetermined_ threshold is established as the _average_ fall through _time_ (FTT) of prior data elements in the memory. A _modified_ least-recently-used replacement procedure uses time _stamps_ indicating _real_ _or_ relative time when a _non-write-pending_ _data_ _element_ was _promoted_ to the tail of the replacement queue, _the_ most-recently used position. _Also_ disclosed is another embodiment in which the number of _times_ the data element is accessed while _in_ the memory is compared to _a_ fixed number. If the data element has been accessed more than the fixed number, _it_ _is_ placed _at_ the tail of _the_ replacement queue ensuring _a_ longer period for the data _element_ _in_ the memory. Described in _U.S._ Pat. No. 5,206,939, Apr. 27, 1993, entitled “System and Method for _Disk_ _Mapping_ and Retrieval”, _Yanai_ et al, which _is_ herein _incorporated_ by reference, is a _device-by-device_ _cache_ _index/directory_ used in disk mapping _and_ data retrieval. _An_ embodiment using _the_ foregoing queue may have a _drawback_ in that _an_ exclusive access policy _may_ _be_ enforced using an _“expensive”_ _locking_ mechanism in connection with the queue as a _shared_ resource such that only one process may access and manipulate the queue at _a_ time. _Additionally,_ _in_ _connection_ with performing _queue_ management operations, for example, such as _adding_ elements, the complexity of the _queue_ structure may _make_ it difficult to allow more than one process to _manipulate_ _to_ the data structure at any time. One way _to_ enforce this one-at-a-time _access_ is _to_ _use_ _a_ locking technique that allows a process _exclusive_ access to the _queue._ _However,_ when multiple processors may need to use the cache, _then_ _the_ exclusive _access_ policy may become a bottleneck. An embodiment having _a_ complex _cache_ _management_ scheme may also have increased traffic within a system. Accordingly, the number _of_ times that a _cache_ lock operation is performed _may_ also increase. Thus, _it_ may be desirous and advantageous to have a cache management _scheme_ _which_ is efficient and flexible minimizing _the_ _costs_ associated with accessing a cache.
|
The present invention is directed to a carton tester and in particular to a centrifugal carton tester for testing carrier style paperboard cartons of the type used in the beverage industry.
Beverages such as soft drinks and beer are typically sold in bottles or cans which are packaged in carriers in lots of six, eight or twelve bottles or cans to a carrier. The collective weight of these bottles or cans in a carrier when combined with adverse conditions such as a wetting of the carrier and/or rough handling of the carrier can result in a failure of the carrier. Failure of a carrier in the handle region can result in the dropping of the entire carrier. Failure of other portions of a carrier can result in the release of one or more bottles or cans from the carrier. Accordingly, it is important to test such carriers to determine their failure points under various adverse conditions and to make sure the carriers are manufactured to certain standards.
The centrifugal force tester of the present invention has been developed to measure the force required to produce failure in a package designed to hold and support a relatively heavy product. It is primarily designed to test the carriers commonly used in the soft drink and beer beverage markets to carry multiple units of bottled or canned beverages.
It is contemplated that the centrifugal force carton tester can be used (1) to establish minimum standards for cartons (2) to monitor carton quality at the point of manufacture; and (3) to evaluate performance levels of cartons exposed to adverse environmental conditions such as refrigeration in storage or exposure to rain on open delivery trucks.
The weight of a package is that force exerted by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. Obviously for any package to be usable it must be able to support (or hold) a force equal to its own weight. In addition it must be able to withstand additional forces created during normal handling or abuse.
An example of an additional force is the force developed due to the angular acceleration of the package when a person walks and carries a carton with the normal swinging of the arms. The total maximum force so generated is limited to about twice the package weight.
Another force is the force generated when a package is taken from a height and lowered to a carrying position. The force on the carton at the end of this action again exceeds the package weight. This force is more difficult to predict but it is estimated to be up to two to three times the package weight.
The weight of a package is the force created by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. Mathematically, weight can be expressed by the following equation: EQU W=mg
where,
W=weight of package PA1 m=mass of carton and its contents PA1 g=acceleration of gravity=32 ft/sec.sup.2 PA1 F=force PA1 m=mass PA1 a=acceleration PA1 F.sub.f =Force to Failure PA1 m=mass of carton PA1 a.sub.f =angular acceleration at failure EQU a.sub.f =V.sup.2 /r (II) PA1 v=peripheral velocity of the carton at failure PA1 r=radius from the axis of rotation to the bottom of the carton, and, PA1 V=(RPS).multidot.C PA1 RPS=Revolutions per Second at time of failure PA1 C=Circumference along the outside perimeter of the carton
This weight equation is a specific application of the general equation for force from physics: EQU F=ma
where,
In designing the tester of the present invention, it was decided to use the force created by angular acceleration when an object is rotated in a circular motion tethered to the axis of rotation. A force gauge is inserted in the tether between the axis of rotation and the carton being tested. The rate of rotation is increased with time causing a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until the carton fails. The failure force of the carton can be read directly from the force gauge or calculated indirectly from the angular acceleration, the radius of the tether from the axis to the bottom of the test carton, and the velocity of rotation at the time of failure. Therefore, at the time of failure: EQU F.sub.f =m.multidot.a.sub.f (I)
where
where,
where,
For practical purposes the preferred method is the use of a force gauge which can be read and recorded directly after the test is completed.
|
the present invention is applied to a carton tester and in particular to a centrifugal carton tester for testing carrier style paperboard cartons of the type used in the beverage industry. beverages such as soft drinks and beer are typically tested in bottles or cans which are packaged in carriers over lots of six, eight or twelve bottles or cans to a carrier. the collective weight of these bottles or cans in a carrier when combined with adverse conditions such as a wetting of the carrier and / or rough handling of the carrier can result in a failure of the carrier. failure of a carrier in the handle region can result in the dropping of the entire carrier. failure of other portions of a carrier can result in the release of one or no bottles or cans from the carrier. accordingly, it is important to test such carriers to determine their failure points under various adverse conditions and to make sure the carriers are manufactured to certain objectives. the centrifugal force tester of the present invention has been developed to measure the force required to produce failure in a package designed to hold nor support a relatively heavy product. it is primarily designed to test the carriers commonly used in the soft drink and beer beverage markets to carry multiple units of bottled or canned beverages. it is contemplated that the centrifugal force carton tester can be used ( 1 ) to establish minimum standards for cartons ( 2 ) to monitor carton quality at the point of manufacture ; and ( 3 ) to evaluate performance levels of cartons exposed to adverse environmental conditions such as refrigeration in storage or exposure to rain on open delivery trucks. the weight of a package is that force exerted by gravity on the mass of the carrier and its contents. obviously for any package to be usable it must be able to support ( or hold ) a force equal to its own weight. in addition it should be able to withstand additional forces created during normal handling or abuse. an example of an additional force is the force developed due to the angular acceleration of the package when a person walks and carries a carton with the normal swinging of the arms. the total maximum force so generated is limited to about twice the package weight. another force is the force generated when a package is taken from a height and lowered to a carrying position. gravity force on the carton at the end of this action again exceeds the package weight. this force is more difficult to predict but it are estimated to be up to two to three times the package weight. the weight of a package is the force created by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. mathematically, weight can be expressed by the following equation : equ w = mg where, w = weight of package pa1 m = mass of carton and its contents pa1 g = acceleration of gravity = 32 ft / sec. sup. 2 pa1 f = force pa1 m = mass pa1 a = acceleration pa1 f. sub. f = force to failure pa1 m = mass of carton pa1 a. sub. f = angular acceleration at failure equ a. sub. f = v. sup. 2 / r ( ii ) pa1 v = peripheral velocity of the carton at failure pa1 r = radius from the axis of rotation to the bottom of the carton, and, pa1 v = ( rps ). multidot. c pa1 rps = revolutions per second at time of failure pa1 c = circumference along the outside perimeter of the carton this weight equation is a specific application of the general equation for force from physics : equ f = ma where, in designing the tester of the present invention, it was decided to use the force created by angular acceleration when an object is rotated in a circular motion tethered to the axis of rotation. a force gauge is inserted in the tether between the axis of rotation and the carton being tested. the rate of rotation is increased with time causing a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until the carton fails. the failure force of the carton can be read directly from the force gauge or calculated indirectly from the angular acceleration, the radius of the tether from the axis to the bottom of the test carton, and the velocity of rotation at the time of failure. therefore, at the time of failure : equ f. sub. f = m. multidot. a. sub. f ( i ) where where, where, for practical purposes the preferred method is the use of a force gauge which can be read and recorded directly after the test is completed.
|
The present invention is directed to a cart9g tester and in particular to a centrifugal carton tester for testing carrier style paperboard cartons of the type used in the beverage industry. Beverages such as soft drinks and beer are typically sold in bottles or cans which are packaged in carriers in lots of six, eight or twelve bottles or cans to a carrier. The collective weight of these bottles or cans in a carrier when comNiner with adverse conditions such as a wetting of the carrier and / or rough handling of the carrier can result in a failure of the carrier. Failure of a carrier in the handle region can result in the dropping of the entire carrier. Failure of other portions of a carrier can result in the release of one or more bottles or cans from the carrier. Accordingly, it is important to test such carriers to determine rhwir failure points under various adverse conditions and to make sure the carriers are manufactured to certain standards. The centrifugal force tester of the present invention has been developed to measure the force required to produce failure in a package designed to hold and support a relatively heavy product. It is primarily designed to test the carriers commonly used in the soft drink and beer beverage markets to carry multiple units of bottled or canned beverages. It is contemplated that the centrifugal force carton tester can be used (1) to establish minimum standards for cartons (2) to monitor carton quality at the point of manufacture; and (3) to evaluate performance levels of cartons exposed to adverse environmental conditions such as refrigeration in storage or exposure to rain on open delivery trucks. The weight of a package is that force exerted by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. Obviously for any package to be usable it must be able to support (or hold) a force equal to its own weight. In addition it must be able to withstand additional forces created during normal handling or abuse. An example of an additional force is the force developed due to the ahBular acceleration of the packQgD when a person walks and carries a carton with the normal swinging of the arms. The t*tao maximum force so generated is limited to XNout twice the package weight. Another force is the force generated when a package is taken from a height and lowered to a carrying position. The force on the carton at the end of this action again exceeds the package weight. This force is more difficult to predict but it is estimated to be up to two to three timdC the package weight. The weight of a package is the force created by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. Mathematically, weight can be expressed by the following equation: EQU W = mg where, W = weight of package PA1 m = mass of carton and its cKnhents PA1 g = acceleration of gravity = 32 ft / sec. sup. 2 PA1 F = force PA1 m = mass PA1 a = acceleration PA1 F. sub. f = Force to Failure PA1 m = mass of carton PA1 a. sub. f = angular acceleration at failure EQU a. sub. f = V. sup. 2 / r (II) PA1 v = peripheral velocity of the carton at failure PA1 r = radius from the axis of rotation to the bottom of the carton, and, PA1 V = (RPS ). multidot. C PA1 RPS = Revolutions per Second at time of failure PA1 C = Circumference along the outside perimeter of the carton This weight equation is a specific application of the general equation for force from physics: EQU F = ma where, In designing the tester of the present invention, it was decided to use the force created by angular acceleration when an object is rotated in a circular motion tethered to the axis of rotation. A force gauge is inserted in the tether between the axis of rotation and the carton being tested. The rate of rotation is increased with time causing a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until the carton fails. The failure force of the carton can be read directly from the force gauge or calculated indirectly from the angular acceleration, the radius of the tether from the axis to the bkftom of the test carton, and the velocity of rotation at the time of failure. Therefore, at the time of failure: EQU F. sub. f = m. multidot. a. sub. f (I) where where, where, For practical purposes the preferred method is the use of a force gauge which can be read and recorded directly after the test is completed.
|
The present invention is directed to a carton tester and in particular to centrifugal carton tester for testing carrier paperboard of the type used in the beverage industry. Beverages such as soft drinks and beer are typically in bottles or which are in carriers in lots of six, or twelve bottles or cans to a carrier. The collective weight of these bottles or cans in a carrier when combined with conditions as a wetting of the carrier and/or rough handling of carrier can result in failure the carrier. Failure of a carrier in the handle can in the dropping of the entire carrier. Failure of other of a carrier can result in the release of one more bottles or cans from the carrier. it is important to test such carriers to determine their failure points under various adverse conditions and to make sure the carriers are certain standards. The centrifugal force tester of the present invention has been developed measure the force required to produce failure in a package designed to hold and support a relatively heavy product. is primarily designed to test the carriers commonly used the soft drink and beer beverage markets to carry multiple units of or canned beverages. It is contemplated the centrifugal force carton tester can used to establish minimum standards cartons (2) to carton quality the point manufacture; and (3) to evaluate performance levels cartons exposed to adverse conditions such as refrigeration in storage or exposure to rain on open delivery The weight of a package that force exerted by gravity the mass of the and contents. Obviously any package to be it must be to support (or hold) a force equal to its own weight. In addition it must be able to withstand additional forces created during normal handling or abuse. An example of an additional force is the force developed due the angular acceleration of the package when a walks and carries a carton with the normal swinging of the arms. The total maximum force so generated is limited to about twice the weight. Another force is force when a package is taken from a and lowered to a carrying position. The force on the carton at the end of this action again the package weight. This force more difficult to predict but it is estimated to be up to two to three times the package weight. The weight of a package is the force created by gravity on the mass of the carton and its contents. Mathematically, weight can be expressed by the following equation: EQU W=mg where, W=weight of package PA1 m=mass of carton and its contents g=acceleration of gravity=32 PA1 F=force PA1 m=mass PA1 a=acceleration F.sub.f =Force to Failure PA1 m=mass of carton PA1 a.sub.f =angular acceleration at EQU a.sub.f =V.sup.2 (II) PA1 v=peripheral velocity of the carton failure PA1 r=radius from the axis of rotation to the bottom of the carton, and, PA1 V=(RPS).multidot.C PA1 RPS=Revolutions per Second at time of failure PA1 C=Circumference along the outside of carton This equation is a specific application of the general equation for from physics: EQU F=ma where, In designing the tester of the present invention, it was decided to use the force created by angular acceleration when object is rotated in a circular motion tethered to the axis of rotation. A gauge is inserted in the tether between the axis of and the carton being The rate of rotation increased with a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until the fails. The failure force of the carton can read directly from the force gauge or calculated indirectly from the angular acceleration, the radius of the tether from the axis to the bottom of the test carton, the of rotation at the time of failure. Therefore, at the time of failure: EQU F.sub.f =m.multidot.a.sub.f (I) where where, where, For practical purposes the preferred is the use of a force gauge which can be and recorded directly after is completed.
|
ThE pResENT iNventION IS dIRecTED to a CArTOn TESteR ANd In paRtIculAr To a cENTrIFuGAL CARTon tester for TESTing cARrIER StYle PApeRboARD CarToNS oF tHE tYpE UsED in ThE BEVErAge InDuSTRY.
BeveRageS SUch As SoFT drInks ANd BEer aRE TYPICaLly SolD In boTtLes OR caNs WhIcH Are PacKAGED In cARRIeRS in lots of Six, eIGht or twELvE bOttlES Or CAnS To a carrieR. THE cOLLECtIVe WEiGHT OF tHese BOtTLEs OR cANS In a CarriEr whEn cOMbiNED wiTh aDVersE COnDiTIONs SuCh As a weTTiNG Of THE CaRRiER aND/Or rough HaNDLInG oF tHE CArrIer Can rEsUlt iN A FAIluRE of the caRrIeR. faILuRe of a cARRier IN thE hanDLE REGiOn CAN REsulT iN THe DRopping Of The EntIRe CArrIeR. FAILuRe OF OtHer pORtIonS OF A cARRIER Can ResuLT IN tHe ReLeaSe OF ONe or mORe BOttLes Or CANs frOm THe CarRIEr. aCCorDiNgLy, It Is iMPorTANt tO tESt sUch cARRIErS TO DETerminE theIR FaiLURe POinTs UNDEr vaRioUS aDVERSe CoNDitiONs AnD to MakE suRe ThE cArRIeRs are mANuFAcTUreD To ceRtain StaNdardS.
THE ceNtRiFuGal FoRcE testeR Of tHE PresEnt inveNTiON hAS BeEn developEd tO meAsUrE ThE foRcE ReqUirEd to prODuCE faIlUrE IN a PaCkaGe DESIgnED to HoLD aND SUpport a rELAtivelY HeaVY pRodUCT. It Is PRiMArIlY deSiGned TO test THE CArriERS COmMOnLy uSed iN The soft dRINK aND bEEr BEVeRAGE MaRkeTs tO cArRy multiplE UniTS oF botTLed OR cANnED BeVerAgeS.
it is cONteMplaTED That the CENtRIFuGaL foRCE cArTOn TestER caN be usED (1) tO eSTablISh minimum stAnDarDS FOr cartoNS (2) to mOniTOR CArtOn qUALIty at THE POint OF maNUFActUrE; AnD (3) TO evalUate PERFORMANCE levELs OF caRToNs EXpOSED To AdVerSe eNViroNMENtAL coNdItIonS SucH AS REfrigeRAtiON IN StOragE OR ExPOsuRE To RaiN on oPen DELIverY tRuckS.
the wEIGHt of a pACKaGE is tHAt FORcE ExErTED BY gRavIty oN The mASs oF THE carTON AnD ITs CoNtenTs. obviouSly for anY packAgE TO bE uSaBle It mUST Be abLE to SUppoRt (oR hOld) a FORCE eQual To ITs OwN WeIgHT. IN ADdiTIoN it MUsT BE aBle TO wiThSTand ADditIOnAL fOrceS cReatEd DUrING normAL hAnDLiNg OR Abuse.
AN ExAmPLE OF An AdditIonaL fORCE is the foRce dEveLOPEd DUE TO The angULAr ACcElEraTioN OF ThE pacKaGe when A pERsON waLKS AND CArriEs A carTon WIth The NOrMaL SWiNGing Of ThE ARms. the tOtAL maXIMUM foRCE SO GeNeRAtEd Is lIMITED To aBOut tWICe tHe paCkAge wEIGHt.
anoThER forCE IS The FORce GENErAtED WHen a PACKAGE IS TAkEN fROM a heigHT AnD LoWErEd TO A cARrYinG POSItIOn. thE forcE ON ThE carTON at The end OF This aCtIoN AGaIn EXcEeDS tHe packAgE wEIGHt. THIs FOrcE Is more DIFFicULT tO PreDICT BUt it iS ESTIMaTEd to BE uP To TwO TO ThrEe timeS tHe PACKAge weiGht.
ThE WeigHt OF a PAcKAGe Is THE fORce cREatED bY grAVitY On THe MASs OF the CArton AND its cOnTENts. mathematICALLy, weIght can bE expRESsED by THe folLOWinG eQUAtION: EQU W=mG
whERe,
W=wEIghT of packAge pa1 m=MaSs of CaRToN aNd Its cOnTeNts pA1 g=aCCeLeratION Of GrAVIty=32 fT/seC.SuP.2 Pa1 F=FoRCE pa1 m=mASS Pa1 A=aCcelERAtioN PA1 f.suB.f =foRCE to fAILure Pa1 m=mASS Of CARtoN Pa1 a.sub.f =anGUlaR aCcelERaTIon at failUre EQu A.suB.F =v.SUp.2 /r (iI) pA1 v=PerIphEral vElOCiTy oF thE CArTOn aT FaiLUre Pa1 r=RADiuS fRom tHE axiS oF ROTATIoN TO tHE BottoM oF The cArTON, anD, Pa1 V=(rpS).MULTIDoT.C pa1 rPs=reVOluTiONS peR seCond AT tiME Of FaiLURE pa1 C=cIrCumfERenCe AlonG ThE ouTSiDe PEriMetER oF thE caRtOn
thiS WEIGhT eqUAtiON IS A SPEcifiC ApPlicatIOn Of tHe gENEraL eQuATiON fOR foRcE fRoM PhySICs: EQu F=MA
whERE,
In desiGNiNG ThE teSter OF thE PRESent iNveNTIoN, iT WAs DecIDeD TO Use THe ForCE CreATEd by anGULar AccelerAtiOn wHen AN oBjecT Is ROtAteD iN A CIRCulaR moTION tetheRed tO the AxiS OF rOtATIOn. A fOrCE gaUge is InseRTed IN The TeTher betwEEn thE aXiS Of rOTaTIoN anD The CaRtON Being TESTed. tHE rATE oF rOtAtioN IS InCrEASED WiTh tIme cAusING a CONTINuiNg INCReASE in THe AnGuLAR ACCeLerATION UnTIl tHe caRTON FAILS. tHe FailuRE FOrce OF The cArTON caN Be REAd DIreCTlY fRoM ThE fOrce GauGe OR CALcULATeD InDIReCTLY frOm The aNGuLar aCCelerAtion, THE radius oF THe TeTHeR fROm tHE AxiS to thE BoTtoM of The tesT CARToN, ANd ThE velOcITy of rOTATiON at THE timE OF FAILUrE. tHeREfOre, At tHe TiMe OF failUrE: eQu f.sUB.f =m.mulTiDoT.a.SuB.F (I)
whEre
WHERE,
WHeRe,
For PRActIcAL PUrpoSES THE PRefErrED mEthoD IS THe Use Of A FORCe Gauge WhICH Can bE reAd aNd RecoRDED DIReCTlY aFter The TEST Is COMPleTeD.
|
Thepresent invention is directed to acartontester and in particular to a centrifugal carton tester for testing carrier style paperboard cartons of the type used in thebeverage industry. Beverages such as soft drinks and beer are typically sold in bottles orcanswhich are packaged in carriers in lots of six, eight or twelve bottles or cans to a carrier. The collective weight of thesebottles or cans in a carrier when combined withadverse conditionssuch asawetting of the carrier and/or rough handling of thecarrier canresult in afailure of the carrier. Failure of a carrier in the handleregion can result in the dropping of the entirecarrier. Failure of other portions of a carriercan result in the release of one or more bottles or cans from the carrier. Accordingly,it is important to test such carriers to determine their failure points undervarious adverse conditions andto make sure the carriers are manufactured tocertain standards. The centrifugal force testerof the presentinvention has beendeveloped to measure the force required to produce failure ina packagedesigned to hold and support a relatively heavy product. It is primarily designed to test the carriers commonlyused in the soft drink and beerbeverage markets to carrymultiple units of bottled or canned beverages. It is contemplated that the centrifugalforce carton testercan beused (1) to establishminimum standards forcartons (2) to monitor carton qualityat the point of manufacture; and(3) toevaluate performance levels of cartons exposedto adverseenvironmental conditions such as refrigeration instorageorexposure to rain on open delivery trucks. The weight of a package is thatforce exerted by gravity on the mass of the carton and itscontents. Obviously for anypackage to be usable it must be able to support (or hold)a force equal to its own weight. In addition it mustbe able to withstand additional forces created during normal handling or abuse. An example of an additionalforce isthe forcedeveloped due to theangular acceleration of thepackage when a personwalks and carries a carton with the normal swinging of the arms. The total maximum force so generated is limitedto about twice the package weight. Anotherforce is the force generatedwhen a package is taken fromaheight and lowered to a carrying position.The forceon the carton at the end of this actionagain exceeds the package weight. This forceis more difficultto predict but it is estimated to be up to two to three times the package weight. The weight ofa package is theforcecreated by gravity on the mass ofthe carton and its contents. Mathematically,weight can be expressed by the following equation: EQU W=mg where, W=weight of package PA1 m=mass of carton and its contents PA1g=acceleration of gravity=32 ft/sec.sup.2 PA1 F=forcePA1 m=mass PA1 a=acceleration PA1 F.sub.f =Force to FailurePA1 m=mass of carton PA1 a.sub.f =angular acceleration atfailure EQU a.sub.f =V.sup.2 /r (II) PA1v=peripheral velocity of the carton at failure PA1 r=radius from theaxis of rotation to the bottomof the carton,and, PA1 V=(RPS).multidot.CPA1 RPS=Revolutions per Second at time of failure PA1 C=Circumferencealong the outsideperimeter of the carton This weight equation isa specificapplication of the general equation for force from physics:EQU F=ma where, In designing thetester of the present invention, it was decided touse the force created by angular acceleration when an object is rotated in a circular motion tethered to the axis of rotation. A forcegauge is inserted in the tether betweenthe axis of rotation and the carton being tested. The rate ofrotation isincreased with time causing a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until the carton fails. The failure force of the carton can be read directly fromthe force gauge or calculated indirectly from theangular acceleration, the radius of the tether fromthe axis to the bottom of the test carton,andthe velocity of rotation at the time offailure. Therefore, at the time of failure: EQUF.sub.f =m.multidot.a.sub.f(I) where where, where, For practical purposes the preferred method is the use of aforce gauge which can be read and recorded directly after thetest is completed.
|
The _present_ invention is directed _to_ a carton tester and in particular to _a_ centrifugal carton tester _for_ _testing_ carrier style _paperboard_ cartons of the type used in the beverage industry. Beverages such _as_ soft drinks and beer are typically _sold_ in bottles _or_ _cans_ which are packaged in carriers _in_ _lots_ _of_ six, eight or _twelve_ _bottles_ _or_ cans to a carrier. The collective _weight_ of these _bottles_ or _cans_ in a carrier when combined with adverse conditions such as a wetting of the carrier and/or rough handling _of_ the carrier can result in a failure of _the_ carrier. _Failure_ of a carrier _in_ the _handle_ region can result in the dropping of the entire carrier. Failure of _other_ portions of a carrier can result in the release _of_ one or more bottles or cans from the carrier. Accordingly, it _is_ important to test such _carriers_ to determine their failure _points_ under various adverse conditions and to make sure _the_ carriers are manufactured to certain standards. The _centrifugal_ _force_ tester _of_ the present invention has been developed _to_ measure the force required to produce failure in a package designed to hold _and_ support _a_ _relatively_ heavy product. It is primarily designed to test the _carriers_ commonly _used_ in the _soft_ drink and beer beverage _markets_ to _carry_ _multiple_ _units_ of bottled or canned beverages. It is contemplated that the centrifugal force carton tester _can_ be used _(1)_ to establish _minimum_ standards for cartons (2) to monitor carton _quality_ at the point of _manufacture;_ and (3) to evaluate _performance_ levels of cartons exposed _to_ _adverse_ environmental conditions such as _refrigeration_ _in_ storage or _exposure_ to _rain_ on open delivery trucks. The weight of a package is that force _exerted_ by _gravity_ on the mass of the carton and its contents. Obviously for _any_ package to be _usable_ it must _be_ able to support (or _hold)_ a force equal to its own _weight._ In addition it must be able to withstand additional _forces_ created during _normal_ handling or _abuse._ _An_ _example_ of an additional force is the force _developed_ _due_ to the angular acceleration of the package when a person walks and carries a carton _with_ _the_ normal swinging of the arms. The total maximum force so _generated_ is limited to about _twice_ the package weight. Another _force_ is _the_ force generated when a package is taken from a height and lowered to a _carrying_ position. The force on the carton at the _end_ of this action again exceeds the package _weight._ This force is more difficult to predict but it is _estimated_ to be up to two to three times the package weight. The weight of a package is the force created by gravity on the mass of _the_ _carton_ and its _contents._ Mathematically, weight can _be_ expressed by _the_ following _equation:_ EQU W=mg where, W=weight of package PA1 m=mass _of_ carton and its contents PA1 g=acceleration of _gravity=32_ ft/sec.sup.2 PA1 F=force PA1 m=mass PA1 a=acceleration PA1 F.sub.f _=Force_ _to_ Failure PA1 m=mass of _carton_ PA1 _a.sub.f_ =angular acceleration at failure EQU a.sub.f =V.sup.2 /r _(II)_ PA1 v=peripheral velocity of the _carton_ at failure _PA1_ r=radius from the _axis_ of rotation _to_ the bottom of the carton, _and,_ PA1 V=(RPS).multidot.C PA1 RPS=Revolutions per Second at time of _failure_ PA1 C=Circumference along the _outside_ perimeter of the carton This weight equation is a specific application _of_ the general equation for _force_ from physics: EQU F=ma where, In designing the tester _of_ the present invention, it was decided to use the _force_ created by angular acceleration _when_ _an_ object _is_ rotated in a circular _motion_ tethered to the axis of rotation. A _force_ gauge _is_ inserted in the tether _between_ the axis of _rotation_ and the carton being tested. _The_ rate of rotation is increased with time causing a continuing increase in the angular acceleration until _the_ carton _fails._ The _failure_ force of the carton can _be_ read _directly_ from the _force_ gauge _or_ calculated indirectly _from_ _the_ angular acceleration, the radius of the tether from the axis to the bottom of the test _carton,_ and the velocity of rotation at the _time_ of _failure._ Therefore, at the time of failure: EQU F.sub.f =m.multidot.a.sub.f (I) where where, where, For practical _purposes_ the preferred method _is_ the use of a force gauge which _can_ be _read_ _and_ recorded directly after the test is completed.
|
(a) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a channel state feedback method by quantizing time domain channel coefficients.
(b) Description of the Related Art
In a multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system, communication between a plurality of terminals and base stations is simultaneously performed at the same time and same frequency through a spatially identified signal. In this instance, a terminal must not be interfered with by a signal transmitted to another user during communication through a single receiving antenna. For this, a base station performs an appropriate beamforming process based on channel information with the terminal.
In detail, one part of information to be known by the base station in the multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system is channel information with the terminal to be simultaneously communicated by the base station. In the frequency division duplex (FDD) system, the terminal measures channel information between the base station and the terminal and transmits a measured channel coefficient (a channel value) to the base station so that the base station knows the channel information.
Considering the existing multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system, the terminal transmits a quantized direction of a channel vector for the base station and the terminal and a corresponding signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) value to the base station. Here, the channel vector indicates a channel state between the base station and the terminal. The channel state is expressed as a channel vector assuming that the base station has a plurality of transmitting antennas and the terminal has a single receiving antenna.
The base station selects a plurality of appropriate terminals from among many terminals in consideration of the channel state, and transmits data to the selected terminals. In this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are selected is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directions of the channel vectors of the selected terminals and having a great SNR.
The orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system is widely used for transmitting signals in the current communication system. However, the above-noted scheme is difficult to apply to the OFDM system because it is proposed for a single-carrier system.
This is because channel state transmission in the frequency domain from the terminal to the base station is not performed by all subcarriers, but several subcarriers are sampled by considering the limited feedback resource and the channel state is then transmitted on the sampled subcarrier in the OFDM system. The base station uses the channel state on the sampled subcarrier, and performs an interpolation process for checking state information of the subcarrier receiving no channel state value to know the channel state on the subcarrier.
However, the above-noted existing method transmits not the channel vector but the quantized value of the channel vector direction to the base station. Therefore, it is difficult to know directions of other subcarriers by using the quantized direction of the channel vector on a specific sampled subcarrier.
The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the invention and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
|
( a ) field of the invention the present invention relates to a channel state feedback method by quantizing time domain channel coefficients. ( b ) description of the related art in a multiple - user multiple - antenna communication system, communication between a plurality of terminals and base stations is simultaneously conducted at the same time and same frequency by a spatially identified signal. in this instance, a terminal must not be interfered with by a signal transmitted to another user during communication through a single receiving antenna. for this, a base station performs an appropriate beamforming process based on channel information with the terminal. in detail, one part of information to be known by the base station in the multiple - user multiple - antenna communication system is channel information with the terminal to be simultaneously communicated by the base station. in the frequency division duplex ( fdd ) system, the terminal measures packet information between the base station and the terminal and transmits a measured channel coefficient ( a channel value ) to the base station so that the receiver station knows the channel information. considering the existing multiple - user multiple - antenna communication system, the terminal transmits a quantized direction of a channel vector for the base station and the terminal and a corresponding signal - to - noise ratio ( snr ) value to the base station. here, the channel vector indicates a channel state between the base station and the terminal. the channel state is expressed as a channel basis assuming that the base station has a plurality of transmission antennas and the terminal has a single receiving antenna. the base station selects a plurality of appropriate terminals from among many terminals in consideration of the channel state, and transmits data to the selected terminals. in this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are selected is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directions of the channel distribution of the selected terminals and having a great snr. the orthogonal frequency division multiplexing ( ofdm ) system are widely used for transmitting signals in the current communication system. however, the above - noted scheme is difficult to apply to the ofdm system because it is proposed for a single - carrier system. this is because channel state transmission in the frequency domain from the terminal and the base station is not performed by all subcarriers, but several subcarriers are evaluated by considering the limited feedback resource and the channel state is then transmitted on the sampled subcarrier in the ofdm system. the base station uses the channel state on the sampled subcarrier, and performs an inter ##polation process for checking state information of the subcarrier receiving no channel state value to know the channel state on the subcarrier. however, the above - noted existing method transmits not the channel vector but the quantized value of the channel vector direction to the base station. therefore, it is difficult to know directions of other subcarriers by using the quantized direction of the channel vector on a specific sampled subcarrier. the above information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the invention and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
|
( a) Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a channel state feedback method by quantizing time domain channel coefficients. (b) Description of the Related Art In a multiple - user multiple - antenna communication DJstem, communication between a plurality of terminals and base stations is simultaneously performed at the same time and same frequency through a spatially identified signal. In this instance, a terminal must not be interfered with by a signal transmitted to another user during communication through a single receiving antenna. For this, a base station performs an appropriate beamforming process based on channel information with the terminal. In detail, one part of information to be known by the HaEe station in the multiple - user multiple - antenna communication system is channel informa6ioH with the terminal to be simultaneously communicated by the base station. In the frequency division duplex (FDD) system, the terminal measures channel information between the base station and the terminal and transmits a measured channel coefficient (a channel value) to the base station so that the base sta67on knows the channel information. Considering the existing multiple - user multiple - antenna communication system, the terminal transmits a quantized direction of a channel vector for the base station and the terminal and a corresponding s9gnzl - to - noise ratio (SNR) value to the base sGahion. Here, the channel vector indicates a channel state between the bQWe station and the terminal. The channel state is expressed as a channel vector assuming that the base station has a plurality of transmitting antennas and the terminal has a single receiving antenna. The base station selects a plurality of appropriate terminals from among many terminals in consideration of the channel state, and transmits data to the selected terminals. In this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are selected is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directions of the channel vectors of the selected terminals and having a great SNR. The orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system is widely used for transmitting signals in the current communication system. However, the above - noted scheme is difficult to apply to the OFDM system because it is proposed for a single - carrier system. This is because channel state transmission in the frequency domain from the terminal to the base station is not performed by all subcarriers, but several subcarriers are sampled by considering the limited feedback resource and the channel state is then transmitted on the sampled subcarrier in the OFDM system. The base stZFion uses the channel stxye on the sampled subcarrier, and performs an interpolation process for checking state information of the subcarrier receiving no channel state value to know the channel state on the subcarrier. However, the above - noted existing method transmits not the channel vector but the quantized value of the channel vector direction to the base station. Therefore, it is difficult to know directions of other subcarriers by using the quantized direction of the channel vector on a specific sampled subcarrier. The above information disclosed in this Background section is Kn;y for enhancement of understanding of the background of the invention and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
|
(a) Field of the Invention The present relates to a channel state feedback method by quantizing time domain channel coefficients. (b) Description the Art In a multiple-user multiple-antenna system, communication between a of terminals and base stations is simultaneously performed at same time and same frequency through a spatially identified signal. In this instance, a terminal must not be interfered by transmitted to another user during communication through a single receiving antenna. For this, base station performs an appropriate beamforming process based on channel information with the terminal. In detail, one part of information to be known by the base station in the multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system is channel information with the terminal to be communicated by the base station. In the frequency duplex (FDD) system, the terminal measures information the base station the terminal and transmits a channel coefficient channel value) to base station so that the base station knows the channel information. Considering the existing multiple-user multiple-antenna communication terminal transmits a quantized of a channel vector the base station and the terminal and a corresponding signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) value to base Here, the vector indicates a channel between the base station and the terminal. The channel state is expressed as a channel vector that the base station has a plurality of transmitting antennas and the terminal has a single base station selects a plurality of appropriate terminals among many terminals in consideration of the channel state, and transmits data the selected terminals. In this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directions of the channel vectors of the selected terminals and having a great SNR. The orthogonal frequency division (OFDM) system is widely used for transmitting signals in the current communication system. However, the above-noted is difficult to apply to the OFDM because it is for a single-carrier system. This is because channel state transmission in the frequency domain from the terminal to the base station is not performed by all subcarriers, but several are sampled by considering the limited feedback resource and the channel state is then transmitted on the subcarrier in the OFDM system. uses the channel state on the sampled subcarrier, and performs an interpolation process for checking state information of the subcarrier receiving no channel state value to know the channel state on subcarrier. However, the above-noted existing method transmits the vector but the quantized value of the vector direction to the base station. Therefore, it is difficult to know directions of other subcarriers by using quantized direction of the vector on a specific sampled subcarrier. The above information disclosed in this Background section only enhancement of of the background of the invention and therefore it may that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.
|
(a) FiElD of THE InvEntion
The present InVENtION RELatES to A CHanNEL sTaTe fEEdBAck MEthOD By quAntIZinG TiMe DOmaiN CHaNnel cOefFiCientS.
(b) desCRiPtIoN of THE rElateD ARt
IN a MULtIPLE-useR muLtipLe-AntEnnA cOMMUNICatION SySTeM, COmMunicAtion BEtWEEN A plUrAlIty Of tErmiNALS ANd bASe stAtIOnS Is siMulTANeoUSlY PERformeD aT The sAme tIME ANd SAme FrequEncY thRoUGh A sPATIAlly IdENtIfIED sIGNaL. in ThiS INstanCe, A TeRMInal mUST Not be inTERfeRed WiTH by A SIgnal TRaNsmITteD TO ANotHEr usER dURINg cOmmunIcatioN thRougH A singlE REcEIVING AnteNNa. fOR thIs, a BASE sTATion pErfORms AN apPrOpRiATe BeaMFoRmiNg PRocESs baSeD on chAnnEL INFOrmaTiOn WITH tHE TerMiNAl.
iN DETAIl, One paRT of inFormaTIoN To bE kNOwn BY thE BaSe sTAtIon IN THe mUlTIPlE-UseR MultipLe-aNtenNA commUniCaTioN sYsTeM is chANNeL InfORmatION WitH thE tERMInal TO BE siMuLTanEOUslY CoMmUNiCatEd bY THE baSe staTIon. IN thE FreQUENCy DivIsIoN DUpLeX (fdD) sYStEM, thE TERMINal mEAsuRes CHANNeL INfoRmaTiON betwEen The Base STaTION ANd tHE tErMInal ANd TraNsmITs a MeAsuRed cHAnnEL CoEFFiCIeNt (a CHAnnEL ValuE) To THe BASE stATIoN So tHaT the BAse staTioN kNoWs tHE channEl InFOrMAtIOn.
CoNsIDeRING tHE ExisTINg MuLtiplE-useR mULtiPLE-anteNNa COmmuNICatIon sysTem, tHe termiNAL TransmITS a QUAntiZeD dIRECtioN Of A CHANnEl VEcToR for THe baSe STATIoN AnD tHe TerMInaL aNd a cORrespONdInG SiGnal-tO-NOiSE RATIO (SNR) VaLuE to ThE BaSe sTaTiON. hEre, tHE ChaNNel VEcTOR inDicATes a CHannel sTaTE BeTWeen thE BAse STAtIOn ANd THe TermINal. ThE ChAnneL stATe is EXprEsseD as a chaNNeL vECtOr asSuMIng THAt tHE baSE statIon haS A PlUrAlItY of tRaNsMITTing AnTEnnaS aNd tHE tERMinAL HAS a SINGLe RECeIViNg aNtenna.
tHe bASe statioN SeLEcTs a plUralITY Of ApPRopRIAte tErminaLs fROm AmONG MAny termInALS In COnsideRatIon of The chANNel sTATE, And tRANSmiTS dAta to the sELeCTED termInalS. IN thIS INstANCe, wHaT iS to be CoNsIdEREd wHeN ThE TerMinaLs ArE sELecTed IS sELEcTIoN oF tHE tErminaLs hAviNG LeSS INterFeRENCE bEtween THe qUaNTIzED DIReCtioNS oF ThE cHAnNEL vectors OF thE SeLECTEd tErMinALs AnD hAvINg A gREAT SnR.
THE oRthoGoNal freqUeNcy dIVISIon MUltiPLEXiNg (OFdM) SystEM is wIdeLY UsEd FOR TransmITtINg sigNALS in thE CUrrENt CommUNIcaTIOn syStEM. howEVer, ThE AbOVE-NOTed scheME Is DIFfIcUlT to AppLY tO THE OfDm SySTem bEcauSE iT is PRoPOsEd FOr a SiNgLe-CarRIER system.
tHis iS BEcauSe cHAnNEl STatE traNSmiSsIoN IN THE FRequEnCY dOMAIN FroM tHE TErMINAL to THe base statiON iS NOt PerfoRMED By All subcArrIErs, BUT SEvEraL sUbcARRIErS aRe saMpLeD BY coNSIDEriNg ThE limITEd Feedback rEsoURce AND ThE CHAnneL STatE IS theN TranSMIttEd on The saMPLEd SubCArRiER in THe OFDM syStEM. the BAsE StatIon UsEs ThE cHaNnEL sTAte on the sAMpLEd sUBcARrIEr, AnD PERFOrMs An INTErPoLatioN ProCEss fOr ChecKInG stATe infoRmAtioN Of ThE sUbcArRieR RecEIVINg No ChANneL sTATe vALue tO KNOW thE CHAnNel sTaTE on thE SUBcArRieR.
HoWevER, thE AboVe-noTed eXiSTInG meThOd trAnsMiTS NOT thE channeL vecTOr BuT ThE quantizEd vAlUe OF ThE CHAnNEL Vector DIreCtIon to the base STAtiOn. tHEREFORe, It Is DifficuLt To kNOW dIrECTioNS of oThEr SuBcArriErs By usINg tHe QuANTized DIREctIoN OF The ChanNel veCTOr On A SPECIfIc SAmplED SubCaRRIer.
ThE aBOVe InFOrMaTion dIScLOsEd in tHIs BaCKGROUnd seCTION iS onLY foR enhANcEmenT oF undERstAnding of THE BACKgRound oF thE iNVENtiOn ANd TheREFoRE it mAy CoNtaIN iNfoRMation ThaT DoES NOT FORm THe PrIoR ArT thAT is aLreADY knOwN IN thIs coUNtRy To a pERSON OF OrdINaRy skiLl in The aRt.
|
(a) Fieldof theInvention Thepresentinvention relates to achannel state feedback method by quantizing time domain channelcoefficients. (b)Description of the Related Art Ina multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system, communication between a plurality of terminalsand base stationsis simultaneouslyperformed at the same time and same frequency through a spatially identified signal. In thisinstance, a terminal must not be interfered with by a signal transmitted to another userduring communication through a single receiving antenna. For this, a base station performs an appropriate beamforming process based onchannel information with the terminal. In detail, one part of information to be known by the base station in the multiple-usermultiple-antenna communication system is channel informationwith the terminal tobe simultaneously communicated by the base station.In thefrequency division duplex (FDD) system,the terminal measures channelinformation between thebase station and the terminal and transmits ameasuredchannel coefficient (a channel value) to the base station so thatthe base station knows the channel information. Considering the existing multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system, the terminaltransmits a quantizeddirection of a channel vectorfor thebase station and the terminaland a corresponding signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) value to the basestation. Here,the channel vector indicates a channel state betweenthe basestationand the terminal. Thechannel state is expressed as a channel vector assuming that the base station has a plurality of transmitting antennas and the terminal has a single receiving antenna. The base station selects aplurality of appropriate terminals from among many terminals in consideration of the channel state, and transmits data to the selected terminals. In this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are selected is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directionsof the channel vectors of the selectedterminalsand having a great SNR. Theorthogonal frequencydivision multiplexing (OFDM) system is widely used for transmitting signals in the current communication system. However, theabove-noted scheme is difficultto apply to the OFDM system because it is proposed for asingle-carrier system. This is because channel statetransmission in the frequency domain from the terminal to the basestationis not performed by all subcarriers, but several subcarriersare sampled by considering the limited feedbackresource and the channel state is thentransmitted on the sampled subcarrier in theOFDM system. The base station uses the channel state on the sampledsubcarrier, and performs an interpolation process for checking stateinformation of the subcarrierreceivingno channel state value to know the channel state on the subcarrier. However, theabove-noted existingmethod transmits not the channel vector but the quantized value of thechannelvectordirection to the base station. Therefore, it is difficult to know directions of other subcarriers by using the quantized direction of the channel vector ona specific sampled subcarrier. The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancementofunderstanding of the background of the invention andtherefore it may contain information that does notform theprior art that isalready known in this country toa person of ordinary skillin the art.
|
(a) Field _of_ the Invention The present invention relates _to_ a channel state feedback method by _quantizing_ time domain _channel_ coefficients. (b) _Description_ of the Related Art In _a_ multiple-user multiple-antenna communication _system,_ communication between a plurality of terminals and base _stations_ _is_ simultaneously _performed_ at the same time and _same_ frequency through a spatially identified signal. In this _instance,_ _a_ terminal _must_ not be interfered with _by_ a signal _transmitted_ to another user during communication through a single receiving antenna. For this, a base station performs an appropriate _beamforming_ process based on channel information with _the_ _terminal._ In detail, one part of information to _be_ known _by_ the base station in the multiple-user multiple-antenna communication system is channel _information_ with the terminal to be _simultaneously_ communicated by the _base_ station. In the frequency division duplex (FDD) system, the terminal measures channel information between the base station and the _terminal_ _and_ transmits a measured _channel_ coefficient (a channel value) to the base station _so_ that the base station _knows_ _the_ channel information. Considering the existing multiple-user multiple-antenna communication _system,_ the terminal transmits a quantized _direction_ _of_ a channel vector for the _base_ station _and_ _the_ terminal and a corresponding signal-to-noise _ratio_ (SNR) value to _the_ base station. Here, the _channel_ vector _indicates_ a _channel_ state _between_ the base station _and_ the terminal. _The_ _channel_ state is expressed _as_ a channel _vector_ assuming _that_ the _base_ station has _a_ _plurality_ of transmitting antennas and the terminal has _a_ single _receiving_ antenna. _The_ base _station_ _selects_ a plurality _of_ appropriate _terminals_ from among many terminals in consideration of the _channel_ _state,_ and transmits data _to_ the selected terminals. _In_ this instance, what is to be considered when the terminals are _selected_ is selection of the terminals having less interference between the quantized directions of _the_ channel vectors of _the_ selected terminals and _having_ a _great_ SNR. The orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system is widely used for _transmitting_ signals in the _current_ communication system. However, the above-noted scheme _is_ difficult to apply _to_ the OFDM system _because_ _it_ _is_ proposed for a single-carrier system. This is because _channel_ state transmission in the _frequency_ _domain_ _from_ _the_ terminal to the _base_ station is not _performed_ by all subcarriers, but _several_ subcarriers are sampled by considering the limited feedback resource and _the_ channel state is _then_ transmitted on the sampled subcarrier in the OFDM system. The base station uses the _channel_ _state_ on the sampled subcarrier, and performs an interpolation process _for_ checking state information of _the_ _subcarrier_ receiving no channel _state_ value _to_ know the channel state on the subcarrier. However, the above-noted existing method transmits not the channel _vector_ but _the_ quantized value of the _channel_ vector _direction_ to the base station. Therefore, it is _difficult_ to _know_ directions of other subcarriers _by_ using the _quantized_ direction of the channel vector on _a_ specific sampled subcarrier. The _above_ information disclosed in this _Background_ section is only for enhancement of _understanding_ _of_ the background _of_ the invention _and_ therefore it _may_ contain information that does not _form_ the prior _art_ that _is_ already _known_ in _this_ country to a _person_ of _ordinary_ skill in the _art._
|
The use of halogen lamps in light fixtures provides many advantages over the use of flourescent and incandescent lamps. Halogen light sources provide, among other benefits, pure white light, instant start-up with no flickering, and are operational at any temperature including sub freezing temperatures.
However, halogen light fixtures typically employ one or more lamps having a wattage that is often 100 watts or greater. This use of high wattage lamps increases the heat generated in and around the fixture. Thus, there is a need for light fixtures that allow and provide for the efficient dissipation of the heat generated by the lamp or lamps contained therein. Not only will the dissipation of heat prevent the fixture itself from becoming dangerously hot, it also assists in protecting the fixture's internal components from heat damage as well.
In addition, because of the high temperatures created by a halogen lamp, the possibility exists that objects located near the lamp may unintentionally combust. Consequently, there is a need for a fixture design that prevents objects or structures such as walls and the like from coming into close contact with the light generated by the fixture in order to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion.
|
the use of halogen lamps in light fixtures provides many advantages over the use of flourescent and incandescent lamps. halogen light sources provide, among other instruments, inexpensive white light, instant start - up with no flickering, and are operational at any temperature including sub freezing temperatures. however, halogen light fixtures typically employ one or more lamps having a wattage that is often 100 watts or greater. this use of high wattage lamps increases reactive heat generated in and around the fixture. thus, there is a need for light fixtures that allow and provide for the efficient dissipation of the heat generated by the lamp or lamps contained therein. these only will increased dissipation of heat prevent the fixture itself from becoming dangerously hot, it also assists in protecting the fixture ' s internal components in heat damage as well. in addition, because of the high temperatures created by a halogen lamp, the possibility exists that objects located near the lamp may unintentionally combust. consequently, there is a need against light fixture shielding that prevents objects or structures such as walls and the like from coming into close contact with the light drawn by the fixture in order to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion.
|
The use of halogen lamps in light fixtures orovidWs <Wny advantages over the use of floureZDent and incandescent lamps. Halogen light sources provide, among other benefits, pure white light, instant start - up with no flickering, and are operational at any temperature including sub Breexing temperatures. However, halogen light fixtures typically employ one or more lamps having a wattage hGat is often 100 watts or greater. TyiA use of high wattage lamps increases the heat generated in and around the fixture. Thus, there is a need for light fixtures that allow and provide for the efficient dissipation of the heat generated by the lamp or lamps contained therein. Not only will the dissipation of heat prevent the fixture itself from becoming dangerously hot, it also assists in protecting the fixture ' s internal components from n2at damage as well. In addition, because of the high temperatures created by a halogen lamp, the possibility exists that ibj#cts located near the lamp may unintentionally combust. Consequently, there is a need for a fixture design that prevRGts objects or structures such as walls and the lios from coming into close contact with the light generated by the fixture in order to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion.
|
The use of lamps in light fixtures provides many advantages over the use of flourescent and incandescent lamps. light sources provide, among other benefits, pure white light, start-up with no flickering, and are operational at any temperature including temperatures. However, halogen light fixtures typically employ one or more lamps having a wattage that is 100 watts or greater. This use of high wattage lamps increases the heat generated in and the fixture. Thus, there is a need for fixtures allow and provide the efficient dissipation of the heat generated by the lamp or lamps contained therein. Not only will the of heat prevent the fixture itself from dangerously hot, it also assists in protecting the fixture's internal components from heat damage as well. addition, because of the high temperatures created by a lamp, possibility exists that objects located near the lamp may unintentionally combust. Consequently, there is a need for a fixture design that prevents structures such as and the from coming into close contact with the light generated by the fixture order to reduce the risk of inadvertent combustion.
|
The use OF HAlogEN lAmPS iN LIghT fiXtUrES prOVIDES maNy adVAntAGes oVeR the use of FLouReScENt and incaNdEScenT lAmPs. HaLoGEN LIGHt SOUrCes ProVIde, Among otHEr BeNEFits, PuRe whItE lIGhT, inStANt sTaRt-uP wITh No flICKErInG, AND are opErATIonAL at any TeMPeRATUrE IncluDIng SuB fREEzinG tEMpERAtUres.
however, haLOGEn LiGHT fIxTURES TyPIcAllY EMPlOY ONe Or mORE LamPS HaViNg a WatTaGE THAT is OftEN 100 WAtTS or GrEateR. ThIs usE OF hiGH watTagE LAMPs iNCReASES THe HEat geNerateD iN anD ArOuNd THe FIXTURe. tHUS, tHErE iS a nEEd FoR ligHT FiXtUrEs ThAt ALLOw And pROVIDe FoR THe EFficIENt DiSsiPATiON Of The HeaT GEnERAtEd bY the laMp OR laMps CoNtainED THereIN. nOt oNLy WILL tHe dissipATioN oF heaT prEvENt THe FIXture itSeLf fROm BecOmING dANGEroUSlY Hot, iT ALsO AssistS In PrOTEctIng thE FIXTURe'S inTerNAL CoMpoNeNTS FrOM HeAT DAMaGE aS weLL.
IN AddITiOn, bEcauSe of tHE HiGH TeMPeratuReS CreaTeD by A HALOGEn Lamp, THe possIBILiTY exisTS THAT OBJectS loCatEd nEAr the LAMP mAY UnintEntioNAllY coMbusT. coNSEQUentLY, ThErE Is A NeeD FOr A FIxTure desIgN thaT pREVEnTs oBJecTs oR StRuCtUReS sucH as waLls AnD THE LIkE FRoM COmiNg iNTO ClOSE coNTacT wiTh ThE LigHt GenEraTeD BY tHE fIXtURE in OrDer To rEDuCE The rISK Of iNADveRtENt coMbuSTION.
|
The use of halogen lamps in light fixtures provides many advantages over the use of flourescent and incandescentlamps. Halogen light sources provide, among other benefits, pure white light, instant start-up with noflickering, and are operational at any temperature including sub freezing temperatures. However,halogen light fixtures typically employ one or more lamps havinga wattage that is often 100 watts or greater.This use of high wattage lampsincreases the heatgenerated in and around the fixture.Thus,there is a need for light fixtures that allowand provide for the efficient dissipation of the heat generated bythe lamp or lamps contained therein. Not only will the dissipation of heat prevent thefixture itself from becoming dangerously hot, italso assists in protectingthe fixture'sinternal components from heat damage as well. In addition, becauseof the high temperatures created by a halogen lamp, the possibility exists that objects located near thelamp may unintentionally combust. Consequently,there isa needfor a fixture design that prevents objects or structures such aswalls and the like from coming into close contact with the light generated by the fixture in order toreduce the risk of inadvertent combustion.
|
The use of halogen lamps _in_ light fixtures _provides_ many advantages over the use of flourescent and incandescent lamps. Halogen light sources _provide,_ among other benefits, pure white light, instant start-up with no flickering, and _are_ operational at _any_ temperature including sub _freezing_ temperatures. However, _halogen_ light fixtures _typically_ employ _one_ or more lamps having a wattage that is often 100 watts or greater. This use of high wattage lamps increases the heat generated in _and_ around the fixture. _Thus,_ there is a need _for_ light fixtures that allow and _provide_ for the _efficient_ dissipation of the heat generated _by_ _the_ lamp or lamps contained therein. _Not_ only will the dissipation _of_ heat prevent the fixture itself from becoming dangerously hot, it also assists _in_ protecting _the_ _fixture's_ _internal_ _components_ from heat damage as well. In addition, because of the high temperatures created by a halogen _lamp,_ _the_ possibility exists that objects located near the _lamp_ _may_ unintentionally combust. Consequently, _there_ is a need for a _fixture_ design that prevents objects _or_ _structures_ such as walls and the like from coming into _close_ _contact_ _with_ the light generated by the fixture in order _to_ reduce the risk _of_ inadvertent combustion.
|
The present invention relates to real-time navigation and more specifically to utilizing non-GPS information to update navigation information in real-time.
Navigation devices exist today that utilize GPS information to track the location of the navigation device and thus the device's user. Existing navigation devices typically store a cartographic map of data indicative of a roadway network for a geographic area and offer various applications and features to support the user's navigation through the geographic area. One exemplary application is to provide the user with audio instructions to direct the user between source and destination locations within the roadway network. Various routing parameters exist upon which the route through the roadway network may be based, such as time, distance and the like.
However, the data stored in the navigation device that is indicative of the roadway network is static in that the data is representative of the status of the roadway network only as of the last time that the navigation device was uploaded with a new cartographic map of the roadway network. The cartographic map reflects limited non-periodic or non-reoccurring information regarding the status of the roadway network. For example, while the cartographic map may store data identifying road segments that typically exhibit slow travel times (e.g. due to numerous traffic lights, rough road conditions and the like), the data is unable to identify for non-reoccurring, one time events that impact travel over the roadway network. Examples of non-reoccurring events are traffic accidents, icy road conditions, flooded roads, construction, weather conditions, temporary traffic back-ups and the like.
Heretofore, travelers generally obtained information regarding these non-reoccurring events through the automobile's FM/AM radio that played various types of content, such as entertainment-related content, traffic-related content and the like. To obtain travel-related content, drivers tuned to a weather channel or traffic channel to hear local travel conditions.
No system exists that is able to utilize real-time travel-related content to update navigation information and provide updated navigation information to the user.
A need remains for improved navigation devices, modular electronic devices and methods for use thereof that are better suited to inform users of real-time travel-related conditions and to utilize such real-time travel-related conditions to update navigation information.
|
the present invention relates to real - time usage and more specifically to utilizing non - gps information to update navigation information in real - time. various devices exist today that utilize gps information to track the location of the navigation device and thus the device ' s user. existing navigation devices typically store a cartographic map of data indicative of a roadway network for a geographic area and offer various applications and features to support the user ' s navigation through the geographic area. one exemplary application is to provide the user with audio instructions to direct the user between source and destination locations within the roadway network. various routing parameters exist upon which the route through the roadway network may be based, such as time, distance and the like. however, the data stored in any navigation device that is indicative of the roadway network is static in that the data is representative of the topology of the vehicle network only as of the last time that the navigation device was uploaded with a new cartographic map of the roadway network. the cartographic map reflects other non - periodic or non - reoccurring information regarding the status of the roadway network. for example, while the cartographic map may store data identifying road activities may typically exhibit slow travel times ( e. g. due to numerous traffic lights, rough road conditions and the like ), the data is unable to identify for non - reoccurring, one time events that impact travel over the roadway network. examples of non - reoccurring events are traffic accidents, icy road conditions, flooded roads, construction, weather conditions, temporary traffic back - ups and the like. heretofore, travelers generally obtained information regarding these non - reoccurring events through the automobile ' s fm / am radio that played various types of content, such as entertainment - related content, traffic - related content and the like. to obtain travel - related content, drivers tuned to a weather channel or traffic channel to indicate local travel conditions. no system exists that is able to utilize real - time travel - related content to update navigation information and provide updated navigation information to the user. a need remains for improved navigation devices, current electronic devices and methods for use thereof that are better suited to inform users of real - time travel - related conditions and to utilize such real - time travel - related conditions to update navigation information.
|
The present invention relates to real - time navigation and more specifically to utilizing non - GPS information to update navigation information in real - time. GaviNation devices exist today that 7tiliXe GPS information to track the location of the navigation device and thus the device ' s user. Existing navigation devices typically store a cartographic map of data indicative of a roadway network for a geographic area and offer various applications and features to support the user ' s navigation through the geographic area. One exemplary application is to provide the user with audio instructions to direct the user between source and destination locations within the roadway network. Various routing parameters exist upon which the ro&tw through the roadway network may be based, such as time, distance and the like. However, the data stored in the navigation device that is indicative of the roadway network is static in that the data is representative of the status of the roadway network only as of the last time that the navigation device was uploaded with a new cartographic map of the roadway network. The cartographic map reflects limited non - periodic or non - reoccurring information regarding the status of the roadway network. For example, while the csrtohraphic map may store data identifying road segments tgzt typically exhibit slow ^$avel times (e. g. due to numerous traffic lights, rough road conditions and the like ), the data is unable to identify for non - reoccurring, one time events that impact travel over the roadway network. Examples of non - reoccurring events are traffic accidents, icy road coJdiHions, floId2d roads, construction, weaGhe3 conditions, temporary traffic back - ups and the like. Heretofore, travelers generally obtained information regarding these non - reoccurring events through the automobile ' s FM / AM radio that played various types of content, such as entertainment - related content, traffic - related content and the like. To obtain travel - related content, drivers tuned to a weather channel or traffic channel to hear local travel conditions. No system exists that is aVl3 to utilize real - time travel - related content to update navigation information and provide updated navigation information to the user. A need remains for improved navigation devices, modular electronic devices and methods for use thereof that are better suited to inform users of real - time travel - related conditions and to utilize such real - time travel - related conditions to update navigation information.
|
The present invention relates real-time navigation and more specifically to non-GPS information to update navigation information in real-time. Navigation devices exist today that GPS information to track the location of the navigation device and thus the device's user. Existing navigation devices typically a cartographic map of data indicative of a roadway network a geographic area and offer various applications and features to support the navigation through the geographic area. One exemplary application is to provide the user with audio instructions to direct the user between and destination roadway network. Various routing parameters exist upon which the route through the roadway network may be such as time, and the like. However, the data stored in the navigation device that is indicative of the roadway network is static in that the data representative of the status roadway network only as the last that the navigation device was uploaded with new cartographic map the roadway network. The cartographic map reflects limited non-periodic or non-reoccurring information regarding the status of the network. For example, while the cartographic map may store data road that typically exhibit travel times (e.g. due numerous traffic lights, rough road conditions and the like), the data unable identify for non-reoccurring, one time events that impact travel over the roadway Examples of non-reoccurring events are traffic accidents, icy road flooded roads, construction, weather temporary traffic back-ups and the like. Heretofore, travelers generally obtained information regarding these non-reoccurring events through automobile's FM/AM radio that played various types of content, such as entertainment-related content, traffic-related content and the like. To obtain travel-related content, drivers tuned to a weather channel or traffic to hear local travel conditions. No system exists that is able to utilize real-time travel-related content to update navigation information and provide information to the user. need remains for improved navigation devices, electronic devices and methods for use thereof that are better suited to inform users of real-time travel-related conditions and to utilize such real-time travel-related conditions update navigation information.
|
thE PReSeNT iNVEntion rELaTeS tO reaL-TImE NavigATioN and More SPECifiCalLY TO uTILizing NON-GpS InfoRmAtIoN TO uPdaTE nAvigATION INfORmaTiON in rEal-tiMe.
nAViGATiON DEVICEs EXISt toDaY that UtiLiZe GPs inForMatiOn to TRaCk ThE loCatiON OF tHE NAVIgAtIoN dEViCe AND tHUs The DEvICE's User. exIsTing nAvigAtIoN DeViCes TYpIcALly STOre A carTogrAPhiC MAp of DAtA iNDIcaTive oF a roAdWay netwOrk fOr a geOGrapHiC AreA AnD OFFER VaRious ApplICaTIONS And fEATures to SUpPort tHE uSEr's NAVIGAtiON throUGH THe geOgRAPHIc arEa. oNe eXemplARy ApplIcATIoN iS TO Provide thE uSEr witH AUDio iNsTruCTiOnS TO direct the USer beTWEEn sOURCe AND dESTiNatioN LOcATIOnS wiTHin THe ROadWAy NeTWork. vARious routIng PARAMETeRS eXiST uPON WhIch THE roUTe tHRouGh tHE roaDWay NEtwoRK MAy Be BASeD, suCh AS time, DisTAncE ANd thE LIke.
HoWever, THE DATA stoREd In THE nAvIGaTIOn DEvicE thaT iS INdicATIVe of The RoaDwaY NETWORk IS statiC In THat THE DaTA iS REprEsENtatIVE oF tHe status OF ThE rOadWay NeTWORk OnLY As oF THE LaSt TiME thaT ThE navigaTIoN dEvice was UpLOAdEd WitH A NEw CArtoGRapHIc maP oF The ROadWay NeTworK. tHe cARtograpHic mAp ReflECts LIMITEd Non-PerIODic oR noN-REoCcURrINg InFORMaTIon RegArDInG tHE stATus OF thE ROADwaY neTWoRk. foR eXaMpLE, wHilE thE CARTogRaPhIC MAP mAY sTore Data iDENTIfyINg RoAd SEGMeNTs thaT typIcaLLy exHIbIT SLOw TrAvel TiMeS (E.G. dUE tO nUMERoUS traffiC LIgHts, rOUGh RoAD COndiTioNs ANd ThE LIKe), THE DatA iS UNABLe To IDeNtifY fOr nOn-rEocCUrRInG, oNe TimE eVeNTs THat imPacT TrAvEL oveR THe ROAdWay neTwoRK. EXAMPlEs of nOn-rEoCcuRRInG EVents are TRaFFIc AccIDeNTS, Icy roAd CONDItIONs, fLOoDed RoaDs, ConSTRUCTIOn, weATHEr conditIoNs, TEmpORary traffIc bAcK-UPs AND The liKE.
hereTofore, TRaVeLErS geNERaLly obTaiNeD inForMATIon reGaRdInG tHesE Non-REOccuRRING EvEnts thRouGh THe AUtomobilE's Fm/am RAdIo thAt PlaYEd VaRIOuS TYPES Of ContEnt, suCh as EntErtaiNmENt-RelAted cOnteNT, trAFFIc-Related CoNTenT aND ThE like. TO obTAIN TrAVel-rELATEd cOntENt, DRIVerS Tuned to A weaTHeR CHANnel OR tRaffIc CHanNeL To HEar LocaL TRAveL conDiTIoNs.
no sySTeM eXIstS That iS abLe tO UTiLizE REal-TiME TravEL-RElaTeD cONteNT TO uPdaTe nAVIGATioN inFoRMaTIon AND PRovidE UPdAteD nAviGAtION iNfoRMAtIon TO ThE UsER.
a Need RemaiNs fOr ImPRovED nAViGAtion DEviceS, mODUlaR eLEctroniC DeVICEs AnD METhODS fOr uSE TheReOf that ARE betTER SuitED to InfOrm UserS Of rEAL-tiMe traVEl-reLated COndItiONs AnD to utiLizE suCH rEal-tiMe travEL-RelATed condItionS TO upDate nAVIgaTion InFOrMAtIOn.
|
The present invention relates to real-timenavigation and more specifically to utilizing non-GPSinformation to update navigation information inreal-time. Navigation devices exist today that utilize GPSinformationto track the location ofthe navigation device and thus the device's user. Existing navigation devices typically store acartographic mapof data indicative of a roadway network for a geographic areaand offer various applications and features to support the user's navigation throughthe geographic area. One exemplary application isto provide the user with audio instructions to direct the user between source and destinationlocationswithin the roadway network.Variousrouting parameters exist upon whichthe route through the roadway network may bebased, suchas time, distance and thelike. However, the data stored in thenavigation device thatis indicative ofthe roadway network is staticin that the data is representative of the status ofthe roadway network only as of the last time that the navigationdevice wasuploaded witha new cartographic map of the roadway network. The cartographic map reflectslimited non-periodic or non-reoccurring information regarding thestatus of the roadway network. For example, while the cartographic map may store data identifying road segments that typically exhibit slow travel times (e.g. dueto numerous traffic lights, roughroad conditionsandthe like), the data is unable to identifyfor non-reoccurring, onetime events that impact travel over the roadway network. Examples ofnon-reoccurring events are traffic accidents,icy road conditions, flooded roads, construction,weather conditions, temporary traffic back-ups and the like. Heretofore, travelers generally obtainedinformation regarding these non-reoccurring events through the automobile's FM/AM radiothatplayed various types of content, such as entertainment-related content, traffic-related content and the like. To obtain travel-related content, drivers tuned to a weather channel or traffic channel to hear local travel conditions. No systemexists that isableto utilizereal-time travel-related content toupdate navigation information and provide updated navigation information to the user.A need remains for improved navigationdevices, modular electronicdevices and methods for use thereof that are better suitedto inform users of real-time travel-relatedconditions and to utilizesuch real-time travel-related conditions to update navigation information.
|
The present invention relates to real-time _navigation_ and more specifically to utilizing non-GPS information to update navigation information in real-time. Navigation devices exist today that utilize GPS _information_ _to_ track the _location_ of _the_ navigation device _and_ thus the device's user. Existing navigation devices typically _store_ _a_ cartographic map of _data_ _indicative_ _of_ a roadway network _for_ a geographic area and offer various applications and _features_ to _support_ the user's navigation through the _geographic_ area. One exemplary _application_ is to provide the user _with_ audio _instructions_ to direct _the_ user between source and destination locations within the roadway _network._ Various routing parameters _exist_ upon which the _route_ through the roadway network _may_ be based, such as _time,_ distance _and_ the like. However, _the_ _data_ _stored_ in the navigation device that is indicative of the roadway network is static _in_ that the data is _representative_ of the _status_ of the roadway network only as of the last time _that_ the navigation device _was_ uploaded with a new cartographic map of the roadway _network._ The _cartographic_ map _reflects_ _limited_ non-periodic or non-reoccurring information regarding the status of the roadway network. For example, _while_ the cartographic map may _store_ data identifying road segments that _typically_ exhibit slow travel times (e.g. due to _numerous_ _traffic_ lights, rough road _conditions_ and the like), the data is unable to identify _for_ non-reoccurring, one time _events_ that impact travel over the roadway _network._ Examples of non-reoccurring _events_ are _traffic_ accidents, icy road conditions, flooded roads, _construction,_ weather conditions, temporary traffic _back-ups_ and the like. Heretofore, travelers generally obtained _information_ regarding these _non-reoccurring_ events through the automobile's FM/AM _radio_ that played various types of content, such as entertainment-related content, traffic-related content _and_ the like. To obtain _travel-related_ content, drivers tuned to _a_ weather channel or traffic _channel_ to hear local travel _conditions._ No system exists that is able to _utilize_ real-time _travel-related_ content to update navigation information and provide updated navigation information to the user. A need remains for improved navigation devices, modular electronic devices and methods for use _thereof_ that are better _suited_ to _inform_ users of real-time travel-related conditions and to utilize such real-time _travel-related_ conditions to update navigation _information._
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to a monitor, and more particularly, to a monitor improved in tilting structure of the monitor against a base member, and improved in combining structure of the base member and an inclined plane.
2. Description of the Related Art
As shown in FIG. 1, a conventional monitor includes a base member 201 laid on a horizontal plane, a monitor main body 202 to display a picture thereon, and a link member 210 to link the base member 201 with the main body 202.
A lower part of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the base member 201 by a pair of fixing brackets 204 and 206, and an upper part of the link member 210 is fixed with the main body 202.
Thus, along a direction of an arrow “A” in FIG. 1, the link member 210 is vertically rotated against the base member 201, but the main body 202 cannot be tilted against the link member 210. Therefore, with the conventional monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main body 202 as necessary.
Contrary to the monitor shown in FIG. 1, it is possible that the upper part of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the main body 202, and the lower part of the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. Accordingly, the angle of the main body 202 is more efficiently adjusted.
As computer systems rapidly spread, demand of various monitor capabilities are also being rapidly increased. In relation to the increased demand of the monitor, there has been provided an arm stand to support the monitor, which is manufactured separately from the monitor and combined to the monitor, to thereby meet a user's preference. A combining structure of the monitor and the arm stand has been regulated by VESA (VIDEO ELECTRONIC STANDARD ASSOCIATION).
However, in the conventional monitor, because the base member 210 must be laid on the horizontal plane, it is impossible to install the monitor onto an inclined plane such as a wall, the arm stand, etc. Because the main body 202 is not folded to the base member 201, the monitor is packed in a state as shown in FIG. 1, or in a state that the link member 210 is folded to the base member, which is not shown. Thus, a packing volume of the monitor cannot be decreased, thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. Furthermore, if regulations regarding the angle adjustment of the main body 202 are different in various nations, it is difficult to adaptively meet regulation requirements for the angle adjustment.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates in general to a monitor, and more particularly, to a monitor improved in tilting structure of the monitor against a base member, and improved in combining structure of the base member and an inclined plane. 2. description of the related art as shown in fig. 1, a conventional monitor includes a base member 201 laid on its horizontal plane, a monitor main body 202 to display a picture thereon, and a link member 212 to link the base member 201 with the main body 202. a lower part of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the base member 201 by a pair of fixing brackets 204 and 206, and an upper part of the link member 210 is fixed with the main body 202. thus, along a length of an arrow “ a ” in fig. 1, the link member 210 is vertically rotated against the base members 201, but the main body 202 cannot be tilted against the link member 210. therefore, with the conventional monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main body 202 as necessary. contrary of the monitor shown in fig. 1, it is possible that the upper part of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the main body 202, and the lower part of the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. accordingly, the angle of the main hall 202 is more efficiently adjusted. as computer systems rapidly spread, demand of various monitor capabilities are also being rapidly increased. in relation to the increased demand of the monitor, there has been provided an arm stand to support whichever monitor, which is manufactured separately from the monitor and combined to the monitor, to thereby meet a user ' s preference. a combining structure of the monitor and the arm stand has been regulated by vesa ( video electronic standard association ). however, for the conventional monitor, because the base member 210 must be laid on the horizontal plane, it is impossible to install the monitor onto an inclined plane such as a wall, the elevator stand, 210. because the main body 202 is not folded to the base member 201, the monitor is packed in a state as shown in fig. 1, or in a state that the link member 210 is folded to the base member, which is not shown. thus, a packing volume of the monitor cannot be decreased, thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. furthermore, if regulations regarding the angle adjustment of the main body 202 are different in various nations, it is difficult to adaptively meet regulation requirements for the angle adjustment.
|
1. Field of the Invention The lresen6 invention relates in general to a monitor, and more particularly, to a monitor improved in tilting structure of the monitor against a base member, and improved in combining structure of the base member and an inclined plane. 2. Description of the Related Art As shown in FIG. 1, a conventional monitor iGcludec a base member 201 laid on a horizontal plane, a monitor main body 202 to display a picture thereon, and a link hsmber 210 to link the base member 201 with the main body 202. A lower part of the link memvsr 210 is rotatably combined to the base member 201 by a pair of fixing brackets 204 and 206, and an upper part of the link member 210 is fixed with the main body 202. Thus, along a direction of an arrow “ A ” in FIG. 1, the link member 210 is vertically rotated against the base member 201, but the main body 202 cannot be ti,twd against the link member 210. Therefore, with the conventional monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main body 202 as necessary. Contrary to the monitor shown in FIG. 1, it is possible that the upper part of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the main body 202, and the lower part of the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. Accordingly, the angle of the main body 202 is more efficiently adjusted. As computer systems rapidly spread, demand of various monitor capabilities are also being rapidly iMcreaseC. In relation to the increased demand of the monitor, there has been provided an arm stand to support the monutoD, which is manufactured separately from the miniFor and combined to the monitor, to thereby meet a user ' s preference. A combining structure of the monitor and the arm stand has been regulated by VESA (VIDEO ELECTRONIC STANDARD ASSOCIATION ). However, in the convehtiona> monitor, because the base member 210 must be laid on the horizontal plane, it is impossible to install the monitor onto an inclined plane such as a wall, the arm stand, etc. Because the main body 202 is not folded to the base member 201, the monitor is packed in a state as shown in FIG. 1, or in a xtWte that the link member 210 is folded to the base member, which is not shown. Thus, a packing volume of the monitor cannot be decreased, thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. Furthermore, if regulations regarding the angle adjustment of the main body 202 are different in various nations, it is difficult to adaptively meet regulation requirements for the angle adjustment.
|
1. Field of the Invention The invention relates in general to a monitor, and more particularly, to a monitor improved in tilting structure of the monitor against a base member, and in combining structure of the base and an plane. 2. Description of the Related Art As in FIG. 1, a conventional monitor includes a base member 201 laid on a horizontal a monitor main body 202 to display a picture thereon, a link member 210 to link the member with the main body 202. A of the link member 210 is rotatably combined to the base member 201 by a of fixing brackets 204 and 206, and an upper part of the link member 210 is fixed with the main body 202. Thus, along a direction of an arrow “A” in FIG. 1, the link member 210 is vertically rotated against the base member but the main 202 cannot be tilted against the link member 210. Therefore, with the monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main 202 as necessary. Contrary to the monitor shown in FIG. 1, it is that the upper part of the link member 210 is combined to the main body the lower part of the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. Accordingly, the angle of the main 202 is more efficiently computer rapidly spread, demand of various monitor capabilities are also being rapidly increased. In relation the increased demand of the monitor, there has been provided an stand to support the monitor, which is manufactured separately from the monitor and to the monitor, to thereby meet a user's preference. A combining structure of the monitor the arm stand has been regulated VESA (VIDEO ELECTRONIC STANDARD ASSOCIATION). in the conventional monitor, the base 210 must be laid on the plane, it is impossible to install the monitor onto an inclined plane such as a wall, the arm stand, etc. Because main body 202 is not folded to member 201, the monitor is packed in a state as shown in FIG. 1, or in a state that the link member 210 is to the member, which is not shown. Thus, a packing volume of the monitor cannot decreased, thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. Furthermore, if regulations regarding the angle adjustment of the body 202 are different in various nations, difficult adaptively regulation requirements for the angle adjustment.
|
1. fiEld OF tHe InvEnTIOn
thE PRESEnT inveNtIon ReLAtes in gEnEraL TO A MOnItoR, ANd MoRE ParticULarLY, TO a moNitoR ImpRoved iN TILTinG STrUCtuRE of thE mOniTOR aGAiNSt a Base mEMBEr, aNd Improved in COMbininG StrUcture of THe basE mEmbER ANd AN IncLIned PlaNE.
2. dEscriPtIon Of the ReLaTed arT
as ShOwn iN fIG. 1, A coNVENtionAL MonItor IncLUdeS a BASe meMBER 201 lAID ON A hOrIzoNtal pLaNe, A MoniTOR MaiN body 202 To DisplaY a picTuRE tHeReon, and A linK MeMbER 210 To LINk the BAse MEmber 201 WiTH tHe mAin BODy 202.
a LoWer PArt of ThE liNK mEmber 210 IS rOTATaBLy COMbined TO THE bASe meMbER 201 BY a Pair OF fIXinG bRAckeTS 204 aND 206, ANd An UPper ParT oF The LInk MeMber 210 Is fIxeD WItH tHE MaIn BOdY 202.
THuS, ALonG a DirECtion Of An ARrOW “a” in FIG. 1, thE linK membEr 210 iS VErtICalLY RoTatED aGaInst thE base MembEr 201, bUT THE MaIN BODY 202 CAnnoT be tiLtEd AgAINST the lINK MembER 210. THeRefore, WITH tHe CoNVeNTIONaL monItOR, it is InconvENient TO AdJUsT An anGLE OF tHe MaIN body 202 AS NECEssaRy.
CONTrARY tO THe MoNITor SHOwN IN fIg. 1, IT Is pOSsiBLe THat tHE Upper pArt OF The lINK mEMbeR 210 Is ROTAtABLY COMBineD To ThE mAIN BODY 202, And THe LoWeR PART Of thE LInk meMbeR 210 iS fixed WITh tHE Base memBeR 201. acCorDinglY, thE ANGlE oF ThE maIN BODY 202 iS MoRe EFficIENtLY ADjusted.
As coMputeR SYsTeMS rapidly spREaD, demaNd OF VaRiOUs MoNIToR caPaBIliTIES ArE alSo bEING rapiDlY IncreasEd. IN reLAtiON To THE iNcReased DemanD oF The MonitOR, THERe haS beEN PRovIdEd An arm StaND to suPPoRt The monITOR, whiCh iS MAnuFAcTuRed sEparatelY fROM The mOnItOR And COmbINED to The mONiTor, To TheREby MEET a UsER'S PREfeReNCe. a COmbinINg sTRUcturE of THe mOniToR And the ARm StaND hAs bEeN REGuLatEd bY VeSA (vIDeo EleCtRoNic stAndaRD assOciATIon).
HOWEVer, iN the ConvENtIonAl MONItoR, BECausE thE bASe meMber 210 mUsT Be LAID on the hORIZontaL pLaNe, IT iS iMpoSsiBLE tO insTall THE mONiTor Onto an InclinED PLaNE suCh As A wall, the ARM StAnD, Etc. becAuSe THe mAIN boDY 202 Is NoT fOlDeD tO The baSE MemBEr 201, THE MONitoR iS PAcKED In A StAtE as SHoWN In fIg. 1, Or iN a State thAT thE link MEMbeR 210 IS fOlDED to ThE BASe mEMber, whiCh Is nOT shOWn. thus, a PaCkinG voLuME oF thE MoNiTor caNnoT bE decrEaSEd, therebY IncrEASIng CostS tO keep aND CarRY THE moniToR. fURThErmOrE, If REgULATions RegARdINg the ANGle adjuSTMeNT Of THe MAin BodY 202 are diFfErENt iN vArIOUS nAtIONS, iT IS DiFFICulT To aDaPTiveLy MeET REgULatION reQuIrEmentS FoR The ANglE aDJusTMENT.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates in general to amonitor, and more particularly,toa monitor improved in tilting structure of the monitor against a base member, and improvedin combining structure of the base member and aninclinedplane. 2. Description of the Related Art As shown in FIG. 1, a conventional monitor includes a base member 201 laid on a horizontal plane, a monitor mainbody 202 to display a picture thereon,and a link member 210 to link the base member 201 with the main body 202.A lower part ofthe link member 210is rotatably combined to the base member 201 by apairof fixing brackets 204 and 206, and an upper part of the link member 210 is fixedwith the mainbody 202. Thus, along a direction of an arrow “A” in FIG. 1, the linkmember 210 is vertically rotatedagainst the basemember 201, but the main body 202 cannot be tilted against thelink member 210. Therefore,withthe conventional monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main body 202 as necessary. Contrary to the monitorshown in FIG. 1, it is possible that the upper part of the linkmember 210 is rotatably combined to the main body 202, and thelower part of the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. Accordingly, the angle of the main body 202 is more efficiently adjusted. As computer systems rapidlyspread, demand of various monitor capabilities are also being rapidly increased. In relation to the increased demand of the monitor, there has been provided an arm stand to support the monitor, which ismanufactured separately from the monitor and combined to the monitor, to thereby meetauser's preference. A combining structure of themonitor and the arm stand has been regulated by VESA (VIDEO ELECTRONIC STANDARD ASSOCIATION). However, intheconventional monitor, because the base member210 must be laid on the horizontal plane, it is impossibleto install the monitor onto an inclined plane suchas a wall, the arm stand, etc. Because the mainbody 202 is not folded tothe base member 201, the monitor is packed in a state as shown in FIG. 1, or in a state thatthe link member210 is folded to the basemember, which is not shown.Thus, a packing volume of themonitor cannot be decreased,thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. Furthermore, if regulations regarding the angle adjustmentof the main body202 are different in various nations, it isdifficult to adaptively meet regulation requirementsforthe angle adjustment.
|
1. Field of the _Invention_ _The_ present _invention_ relates in _general_ to a monitor, _and_ more particularly, to _a_ monitor improved _in_ tilting structure _of_ _the_ monitor against a base member, and improved _in_ combining structure of the base member and an _inclined_ plane. 2. _Description_ of the Related Art As shown _in_ FIG. 1, a conventional monitor includes _a_ base member _201_ _laid_ on a horizontal plane, _a_ monitor main body 202 to display a picture thereon, and _a_ link member 210 _to_ link the base member 201 with the main body 202. A _lower_ part _of_ the _link_ member _210_ is _rotatably_ combined to the base member _201_ by a pair _of_ fixing brackets 204 _and_ _206,_ _and_ an _upper_ part of the link _member_ 210 is fixed with the main body 202. _Thus,_ along a direction _of_ an arrow “A” in FIG. 1, _the_ _link_ member 210 _is_ vertically rotated against _the_ base member 201, but the main body _202_ cannot be _tilted_ against the _link_ member 210. Therefore, with the conventional monitor, it is inconvenient to adjust an angle of the main body 202 as _necessary._ _Contrary_ to the monitor shown in FIG. 1, it is possible _that_ the upper part of the link _member_ 210 is _rotatably_ combined to the main _body_ 202, and _the_ lower part _of_ the link member 210 is fixed with the base member 201. Accordingly, the angle of the main body 202 is _more_ _efficiently_ adjusted. As computer _systems_ rapidly spread, demand of _various_ monitor capabilities are also being rapidly increased. In relation to _the_ increased demand _of_ the monitor, there has been provided an arm _stand_ to support the monitor, which _is_ manufactured separately from the monitor and combined to the _monitor,_ to thereby meet _a_ user's preference. A combining _structure_ _of_ the _monitor_ and the arm stand has been regulated by VESA (VIDEO _ELECTRONIC_ STANDARD ASSOCIATION). _However,_ in the conventional monitor, because the base _member_ 210 must be laid on the horizontal plane, it is impossible to install the monitor onto an inclined plane such as a _wall,_ the arm stand, etc. Because _the_ main body 202 is not folded _to_ the _base_ member 201, the monitor is packed in _a_ state _as_ shown _in_ FIG. _1,_ or in a state that the link _member_ 210 is _folded_ to the base member, which _is_ not shown. Thus, a packing volume _of_ the monitor cannot be decreased, thereby increasing costs to keep and carry the monitor. _Furthermore,_ if regulations regarding the angle _adjustment_ of the main body 202 are _different_ _in_ various nations, _it_ is _difficult_ _to_ _adaptively_ meet regulation requirements _for_ the _angle_ _adjustment._
|
Many organizations wish to gain better control over their print environment because printing is a significant source of expenses, and one that is often difficult to manage. These costs come from a variety of printing practices, including the use of inkjets (which are relatively cheap to buy, but relatively expensive to run), inappropriate use of color (e.g., for draft documents, emails, personal files, etc.), and inappropriate use of devices (e.g., large runs sent to small workgroup printers rather than high volume reprographics centers).
A number of products in the market allow organizations to track the type of printing that occurs (such as Lexmark Markvision™, HP WebJetAdmin, Xerox® CenterWare™ Web and Pharos Blueprint®). Using this information, organizations can begin to phase out devices with a poor fit with respect to system usage requirements. However, changing user behavior is difficult when users are able to directly access printers on the network. Some existing approaches (e.g., Pharos® Uniprint®, EnvisionWare® LP:TOne, Equitrac® XYZ) can prevent users from accessing printers directly, and instead force them to print via these products' print servers—enabling the system administrator to set appropriate print policies.
All of these products have a potential disadvantage, namely that they require changes to the organization print environment, such as through installing components on the workstation, changing the print destination, installing software on the print server, and/or changing the print server queue configuration. Such products may also require the customer to make changes to the printer itself to remove the capability of users to print directly thereto.
|
many organizations wish users gain better control over their print environment because printing presents a high source costs expenses, and one that is often difficult to manage. these costs come from a variety of printing practices, including the use via inkjets ( which are relatively cheap to buy, but relatively expensive to run ), inappropriate use of color ( e. g., for draft documents, emails, personal files, etc. ), and inappropriate use of devices ( e. g., large runs sent to small workgroup printers rather than high volume reprographics centers ). a number of products in the market allow organizations to track the type of printing whether occurs ( such as lexmark markvision™, hp webjetadmin, xerox® centerware™ web and pharos blueprint® ). using this information, organizations can begin to phase out devices with a poor fit with respect to system usage requirements. however, changing user behavior is difficult when users are able to directly access printers on the network. some existing approaches ( e. g., pharos® uniprint®, envisionware® lp : tone, equitrac® xyz ) can prevent users from accessing printers directly, and instead force them to print upon these products ' paper servers — enabling the system administrator to set appropriate print policies. all of these products have a potential disadvantage, namely that they require changes to the organization print environment, such as through installing components on the workstation, changing the print destination, installing software on the print server, and / or changing the print server printer configuration. such products may also require the customer to make changes to the printer hardware to remove the capability of users to print directly thereto.
|
Many organizations wish to gain better control over their print environment because printing is a significant source of expenses, and one that is often difficult to manqgw. These costs come fTIm a variety of printing practices, including the use of inkjets (which are relatively cheap to buy, but relatively expensive to run ), inappropriate use of color (e. g. , for draft documents, emails, personal files, etc. ), and inappropriate use of devices (e. g. , large runs sent to small workgroup printers rWtjer than high volume reprographics centers ). A number of products in the market allow organizations to track the type of printing that occurs (such as Lexmark Markvision ™, HP WebJetAdmin, Xerox ® CenterWare ™ Web and Pharos Blueprint ® ). Using this information, organizations can begin to phase out devices with a poor fit with respect to system usage requirements. However, changing user behaGiLr is dirficu>t when users are able to directly access printers on the network. Some existing approaches (e. g. , Pharos ® Uniprint ®, EnvisionWare ® LP: TOne, Equitrac ® XYZ) can prevent users Rro< accessing printers directly, and instead force them to print via these products ' print servers — enabling the system administrator to set appropriate print policies. All of these peoductq have a potential disadvantage, namely that th$h require changes to the organization print environment, s*Xh as through installing components on the workstation, changing the print destination, installing software on the print server, and / or changing the print server queue configuration. Such products may also require the customer to make changes to the printer itself to remove the capability of users to print directly FhSreto.
|
Many organizations wish to gain better control over their print environment printing is a significant source of expenses, and that often difficult to manage. costs come from a variety of printing practices, including the use of inkjets (which are relatively cheap to buy, but relatively expensive to run), inappropriate use of color (e.g., for draft emails, personal files, etc.), and inappropriate use of devices (e.g., large runs sent to small workgroup printers rather than high volume reprographics centers). A number of products in the market allow organizations the of printing that occurs (such as Lexmark Markvision™, HP WebJetAdmin, Xerox® CenterWare™ Web and Pharos Blueprint®). Using this information, organizations begin to out devices with a poor fit with system usage requirements. However, changing user behavior difficult when users are able to directly access printers network. Some approaches (e.g., Pharos® Uniprint®, EnvisionWare® LP:TOne, Equitrac® XYZ) can prevent users from printers directly, and force them to print these products' print servers—enabling the system administrator to set appropriate print policies. All of these have a potential disadvantage, namely that require changes to the organization print environment, such as through installing components on the workstation, changing the print installing on the print server, and/or changing the print server configuration. Such products may also require the customer to make changes to the printer itself to remove the capability of users to directly thereto.
|
mAny oRGAnIzaTIONS WISh To GAIn BETtER coNtrOl over theIR PRINt ENVironmEnT BEcAUSe pRInTInG iS A siGNIfICant SoUrCe oF eXPenSeS, and OnE tHat iS ofTen DiffIcULt tO MANAge. THEsE coSTs coME frOm A VaRiEtY of PRInTINg PracTIces, iNclUDIng THe usE Of inKjEtS (wHICh are RelATIvelY Cheap To buY, BUt rELaTIvELY EXPeNSIVE To rUN), iNAPpRoPRiatE use of cOlor (E.G., fOr Draft DoCUMEntS, EMaiLs, persoNAl fILeS, eTc.), anD iNaPPRoPRIate UsE OF DevICes (e.G., lArgE rUns sENt tO Small WORKgrOUP PRInterS rATHER thAN high VOLuMe ReProgrApHiCs CENTeRS).
A NUMBeR oF ProDUcTS In tHE mArKeT AlLOW oRganizATIONS tO tRAcK ThE type oF pRINTiNG THat occurS (sUCH As leXMarK MArkviSIon™, hp WeBjetadmin, XeROx® cEnterWare™ wEb anD PHaRoS BLUeprint®). UsING thiS InFoRMATIOn, OrGANiZATiOns Can bEgin to PHase oUT DEVIceS witH a POoR FiT witH ReSpEct to SYstEM USAGe REQuIreMeNTS. HOWeveR, chAnGInG uSER BEhavIOr is DifFicULt WhEN usERs ARe abLE to diREctLY AcCeSS pRINtERS oN THe netwORk. SomE ExISTIng ApProacHEs (e.G., PharoS® UnIPrINT®, envisIOnWArE® lP:toNe, equITRAc® xyz) CaN PREveNT USerS frOm ACCeSsInG PrinteRs dIReCtlY, ANd INstEaD foRCe tHem to prINt VIa theSe prODuCTS' prInT sErvErS—EnABLing the sySTem aDmiNiStraTOr tO SET appROPriatE pRINt pOlicIes.
aLL of tHEse pROduCTS hAVE a POTentIAl disadvanTAGe, naMeLy tHAT thEY reQUiRe chAngeS To thE OrganIZATiON PrInT enViRonMENT, SUcH AS THRoUGh insTaLLiNg coMpONEnTS oN tHe wORkStAtION, chaNgINg ThE pRinT dESTINaTioN, INStallIng sOfTWarE oN thE PRINT SerVEr, ANd/or CHanGinG tHE PriNT sERVer QUEUe COnfiguraTiOn. sUch PRoductS MAy ALso ReQuire the CUstomer To MAke ChaNGeS to the PRiNtEr itseLF tO reMove tHe capaBILiTy of UsErs to prInt DIRECTlY tHeReto.
|
Many organizations wishto gain better control over their print environment because printing is a significantsource of expenses, and onethatis often difficult to manage. These costs come from a variety of printing practices, includingthe use of inkjets (which are relatively cheaptobuy,butrelatively expensive to run),inappropriate use of color (e.g., for draft documents, emails, personalfiles, etc.), and inappropriate use of devices (e.g., large runs sent to small workgroup printers rather thanhigh volume reprographics centers). A number of products in the market allow organizations to track the type of printing that occurs(such as Lexmark Markvision™, HP WebJetAdmin, Xerox® CenterWare™ Web andPharos Blueprint®). Using this information, organizationscan begin to phase out devices with a poor fit with respect to system usage requirements. However, changing user behavior isdifficult whenusers areable to directly access printers on the network. Some existing approaches (e.g.,Pharos® Uniprint®, EnvisionWare® LP:TOne, Equitrac® XYZ) can prevent usersfrom accessingprinters directly, and instead force them to print via these products' printservers—enabling the system administrator to set appropriate print policies. All of these products have a potential disadvantage, namelythatthey require changes tothe organization print environment,such as through installing components on the workstation, changingthe print destination, installing software onthe print server, and/or changing theprint server queue configuration.Such products may also require the customer to make changes to the printer itself toremovethe capability of users toprint directly thereto.
|
Many _organizations_ _wish_ to gain better control over their print environment because printing _is_ _a_ significant source of expenses, _and_ one that is often difficult _to_ manage. These _costs_ come from a _variety_ of printing practices, including _the_ use of inkjets (which are _relatively_ cheap _to_ buy, but relatively expensive _to_ run), _inappropriate_ _use_ of color (e.g., for draft documents, emails, personal files, etc.), and inappropriate use of devices (e.g., large _runs_ _sent_ to small workgroup printers _rather_ than high volume reprographics centers). A number of products in the market allow organizations _to_ _track_ the type of printing that occurs (such _as_ Lexmark Markvision™, HP _WebJetAdmin,_ Xerox® _CenterWare™_ Web and Pharos _Blueprint®)._ _Using_ this information, _organizations_ can begin to phase _out_ devices with a poor fit with respect _to_ system _usage_ requirements. _However,_ changing user behavior is difficult when users _are_ _able_ to directly access printers on _the_ _network._ Some existing approaches (e.g., Pharos® Uniprint®, EnvisionWare® LP:TOne, Equitrac® XYZ) can _prevent_ users from accessing printers directly, and instead _force_ _them_ _to_ print via these products' print servers—enabling _the_ system administrator to set _appropriate_ _print_ policies. All of these _products_ have a potential disadvantage, namely that they require changes to _the_ organization print environment, such as through installing components on the workstation, changing the _print_ destination, installing software on the print server, and/or changing the print _server_ _queue_ configuration. Such products _may_ also require the customer to make changes to the printer itself to remove the capability of users to _print_ directly thereto.
|
The present invention is in the pharmaceutical area, and in particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing 5'-diphosphohexose and 5'-diphosphohexosamine derivatives of nucleosides.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ("AIDS") was recognized as early as 1979. The number of cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has increased dramatically each year since then, and in 1982 the CDC declared AIDS a new epidemic. Infection with the AIDS virus is highly variable. Initially, the virus replicates abundantly, with virus present in the central nervous system and the cells of the immune system. This is frequently accompanied by fevers, rashes, flulike symptoms and neurological complaints. These symptoms generally disappear within a few weeks, as the amount of virus in the circulation drops. However, virus is still present in the immune cells, the cells of the nervous system, cells of the intestine and bone marrow cells. The victim typically dies two to ten years after the initial asymptomatic period, following a protracted and painful illness.
Human immunodeficiency virus, a retrovirus, is the etiological agent of AIDS, as well as of a variety of related disorders, such as AIDS Related Complex (ARC). HIV infection begins when a virion or virus-infected cell binds to susceptible cells and fuses with them, injecting the core protein and viral RNA into the cell. The RNA is transcribed to viral DNA. The double stranded DNA migrates to the nucleus and is integrated into the cell's DNA. The viral DNA can remain dormant for an indefinite period of time, or the genes can replicate and be translated into viral proteins. The viral proteins are assembled into new virions that bud from the cell, spreading the disease.
HIV preferentially infects the T4 lymphocytes, immune cells important in helping to suppress infection by other agents, thereby impairing proper functioning of the immune system. As a result of impaired immunity caused by the destruction of helper T-cells by the HIV, the host becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, various types of cancer such as Kaposi's sarcoma, and other disorders associated with reduced functioning of the immune system.
A variety of approaches have been developed to treat AIDS infections, including inhibiting the binding of the virus to host cells with dextran sulfate or soluble CD4 (a glycoprotein found on the surface of cells of the immune system which the HIV binds to when infecting the cells), administration of anti-idiotypic antibodies (an antibody to the antibody against CD4), blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as phosphorothioate, and inhibition of protein glycosylation by compounds such as 2-deoxy-D-glucose. However, these approaches are still in early experimental phases, and have not been approved for clinical treatment.
AIDS and ARC chemotherapy have been recently reviewed by Schinazi, Strategies and Targets for Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Therapy, "Aids in Children, Adolescents, and Heterosexual Adults: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Prevention," Elsvier, N.Y. 1988); E. D. Clercq, J. Med. Chem. 29, 1561-1569 (1986); H. Mitsuya, S. Broder, Nature 325, 773-778 (1987); and R. Yarchoan, et al., "AIDS Therapies" The Science of AIDS Scientific American (W. H. Freeman and Co. N.Y. 1989).
A number of nucleosides have been found to have anti-HIV activity, including 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT), 2',3'-dideoxycytidine (DDC), 2',3'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA), 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddU), 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dieoxycytidine, 3'-deoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, 3'-azido-5-ethyl-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddEU), 3'-azido-5-methyl-2',3'-dideoxycytidine (AzddMeC), 9-(2,3-Dideoxy-2-halo-.beta.-D-arabinofuranosyl)-N.sup.6 -methyladenine (2'-halo-D.sub.2 MeA), and N.sup.6 -methyl-D-glycero-2',3'-dideoxyfuranosyladenosine (D.sub.2 MeA). The present application is a continuation-in-part of applications directed to AzddU.
It is generally accepted that the active form of nucleosides such as AZT, AzddU, AzddMeC, D.sub.2 MeA, and DDC is the triphosphorylated derivative. Triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides appear to inhibit the replication of HIV by limiting the production of viral DNA by at least two mechanisms: competitive inhibition of reverse transcriptase and chain termination of viral DNA due to the missing 3'-hydroxyl group.
The therapeutic effectiveness of all of the known active nucleosides depends on how easily the nucleoside can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation by cellular enzymes. The efficiency of this process varies considerably among nucleosides, and can severely limit the usefulness of the compounds. For example, nucleoside triphosphates without modification, are not useful clinically, since they cannot pass through the cell membrane, even though the triphosphate may have greater antiviral activity.
Nucleosides are also converted by intracellular enzymes into less active metabolites. If the conversion rate to less active compounds is faster than the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the nucleoside is diminished. For example, it is known that DDA in the triphosphate form is a potent HIV inhibitor in vitro, but in vivo the enzyme adenosine deaminase rapidly converts DDA to the less active DDI (2',3'-dideoxyinosine) before DDA can be phosphorylated. DDI-5'-monophosphate must then be converted to DDA-5'-monophosphate by cellular enzymes to restore the activity of the compound.
The therapeutic effectiveness of a drug is the determining factor in the dosage required for therapy. Nucleosides that pass through the cell membrane with difficulty or which are metabolized into less active or inactive forms in the cell must be administered in higher dosages. Unfortunately, most nucleosides are toxic to healthy uninfected cells at high dosage levels.
AZT has been studied extensively in humans for treatment of HIV infections. However, bone marrow toxicity and other side effects limit its long term usefulness. For example, Richman, et al., have shown that because of AZT-associated hematological abnormalities, twenty-one percent of patients undergoing AZT therapy required multiple blood transfusions during the six month treatment period. Bone marrow depression may be due to the accumulation of phosphorylated AZT within cells, which may result in a substantial depression of thymidine 5'-triphosphate pools. Another drawback of AZT is its short half life in humans (about 1.1 hour) and its elimination in urine as 3'-azido-3'-deoxy-5'-glucuronylthymidine, a metabolite with no substantial antiviral activity.
Many nucleoside derivatives have been developed that have anticancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activity. Effective therapy with these nucleosides, as with the anti-HIV nucleosides, is significantly affected by the ability of the nucleoside to pass through the cell membrane and diffuse to the active site before the compound is converted to an inactive form or eliminated.
Nucleoside diphosphate sugars are used in vivo for the synthesis of oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, and components of bacterial cell membranes. Certain nucleoside derivatives have been found to block the glycosylation of proteins. However, most, if not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show little selectivity and have low activity against viral infections.
Camarasa, et al., J. Med. Chem., 28, 40 (1985) reported that uridine 5'-diphosphate glucose analogues, 5'-O-[[[[(2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzyl- and 2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzoyl-.alpha.-D-glucopyranosyl)oxyl]carbonyl]ami no]sulfonyl]-2',3'-isopropylideneuridine (P-536), a UDP-glucose analog, and the corresponding deisopropylidenated derivatives, show in vitro antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1. Alarcon, et al., in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 1257, (1988) reported that P-536 has broad antiviral activity, including activity against adenovirus type 5, vaccinia virus, and poliovirus type 1. The compound was demonstrated to inhibit protein glycosylation if added at a time when late viral proteins were being synthesized, and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids and phosphorylation of nucleosides. Alcina, et al., Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 1412 (1988), later demonstrated that the same compound has activity against the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi.
In light of the state of the art, it is clear that there is a strong need for biologically active nucleoside derivatives that can pass through a cell membrane and reach the active site prior to conversion to inactive metabolites or elimination.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that have enhanced antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal or anticancer activity.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that can easily pass through a cell membrane in the proper chemical form to perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form.
It
|
the present invention is in the pharmaceutical area, and in particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing 5 ' - diphosphohexose and 12 ' - diphosphohexosamine derivatives of nucleosides. acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ( " aids " ) was recognized as early as 1979. the number of cases reported to the centers for disease control ( cdc ) has increased dramatically each year since then, and in 1982 the cdc declared aids a new epidemic. infection with the aids virus is highly variable. initially, the virus replicates abundantly, with virus present in the peripheral nervous system and the cells of the immune system. this is frequently accompanied by fevers, rashes, flulike symptoms and neurological complaints. these symptoms normally disappear within a few weeks, as the amount of virus in the circulation drops. however, virus is still present in the immune cells, the cells of the nervous system, cells of the intestine and bone marrow cells. the victim typically dies two to ten years after the initial asymptomatic period, following a protracted and painful illness. human immunodeficiency virus, a pathogen, is the etiological agent of aids, as well many of a variety of related disorders, such as aids related complex ( arc ). hiv infection begins when a virion or virus - infected bacteria binds to susceptible cells and fuses with them, injecting the core protein and viral rna into the cell. the rna is transcribed to viral dna. the double stranded dna migrates to the nucleus and is integrated into the cell ' s dna. the viral dna can remain dormant for an indefinite period of time, or the genes can replicate and be translated into viral proteins. the viral proteins becomes transformed into new virions that bud from the cell, spreading the disease. hiv preferentially infects the t4 lymphocytes, immune cells important in helping to suppress infection by other agents, thereby impairing proper functioning of the immune system. as a result of impaired immunity caused by the destruction of helper t - cells by the bacteria, the host becomes susceptible upon opportunistic infections, various types of cancer such as kaposi ' s sarcoma, and other disorders associated with reduced functioning of the immune system. a variety of approaches have been developed to treat aids infections, including inhibiting the binding of the virus to host cells with dextran sulfate or soluble cd4 ( a glyco ##protein found on the surface of cells of the immune system which the hiv binds to when infecting the cells ), administration of anti - idiotypic antibodies ( an antibody to the antibody against cd4 ), blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as phosphorothioate, and inhibition of protein glycosylation by compounds such as 2 - deoxy - d - glucose. however, these approaches are still in early experimental phases, and have not been approved for clinical treatment. aids and arc chemotherapy have been recently reviewed by schinazi, strategies and targets for anti - human immunodeficiency virus type 1 therapy, " aids in children, adolescents, and heterosexual adults : an interdisciplinary approach to prevention, " elsvier, n. y. 1988 ) ; e. d. clercq, j. med. chem. 29, 1561 - 1569 ( 1986 ) ; h. mitsuya, s. broder, nature 325, 773 - 778 ( 1987 ) ; and r. yarchoan, et al., " aids therapies " the science of aids scientific american ( w. h. freeman and co. n. y. 1989 ). a number of nucleosides have been found to have anti - hiv activity, including 3 ' - azido - 3 ' - deoxythymidine ( azt ), 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxycytidine ( ddc ), 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyadenosine ( dda ), 3 ' - azido - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyuridine ( azddu ), 2 ', 3 ' - didehydro - 2 ', 3 ' - dieoxycytidine, 3 ' - deoxy - 2 ', 3 ' - didehydrothymidine, 3 ' - azido - 5 - ethyl - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyuridine ( azddeu ), 3 ' - azido - 5 - methyl - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxycytidine ( azddmec ), 9 - ( 2, 3 - dideoxy - 2 - halo -. beta. - d - arabinofuranosyl ) - n. sup. 6 - methyladenine ( 2 ' - halo - d. sub. 2 mea ), and n. sup. 6 - methyl - d - glycero - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyfuranosyladenosine ( d. sub. 2 mea ). the present application is a continuation - in - part of applications directed to azddu. it is generally accepted that the active form of nucleosides such as azt, azddu, azddmec, d. sub. 2 mea, and ddc is the triphosphorylated derivative. triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides appear to inhibit the replication of hiv by limiting the production of viral dna by at least two mechanisms : competitive inhibition of reverse transcriptase and chain termination of viral dna due to the missing 3 ' - hydroxyl group. the therapeutic effectiveness of all of the known active nucleosides depends on how easily the nucleoside can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation by cellular enzymes. the efficiency of this process varies considerably among nucleosides, and can severely limit the usefulness of the compounds. for example, nucleoside triphosphates without modification, are not useful clinically, since they cannot pass through the cell membrane, even though the triphosphate may have greater antiviral activity. nucleosides are also converted by intracellular enzymes into less active metabolites. if the conversion rate to less active compounds is faster than the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the nucleoside is diminished. for example, it is known that dda in the triphosphate form is a potent hiv inhibitor in vitro, but in vivo the enzyme adenosine deaminase rapidly converts dda to the less active ddi ( 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyinosine ) before dda can be phosphorylated. ddi - 5 ' - monophosphate must then be converted to dda - 5 ' - monophosphate by cellular enzymes to restore the activity of the compound. the therapeutic effectiveness of a drug is the determining factor in the dosage required for therapy. nucleosides that pass through the cell membrane with difficulty or which are metabolized into less active or inactive forms in the cell must be administered in higher dosages. unfortunately, most nucleosides are toxic to healthy uninfected cells at high dosage levels. azt has been studied extensively in humans for treatment of hiv infections. however, bone marrow toxicity and other side effects limit its long term usefulness. for example, richman, et al., have shown that because of azt - associated hematological abnormalities, twenty - one percent of patients undergoing azt therapy required multiple blood transfusions during the six month treatment period. bone marrow depression may be due to the accumulation of phosphorylated azt within cells, which may result in a substantial depression of thymidine 5 ' - triphosphate pools. another drawback of azt is its short half life in humans ( about 1. 1 hour ) and its elimination in urine as 3 ' - azido - 3 ' - deoxy - 5 ' - glucuronylthymidine, a metabolite with no substantial antiviral activity. many nucleoside derivatives have been developed that have anticancer, anti - bacterial, and anti - fungal activity. effective therapy with these nucleosides, as with the anti - hiv nucleosides, is significantly affected by the ability of the nucleoside to pass through the cell membrane and diffuse to the active site before the compound is converted to an inactive form or eliminated. nucleoside diphosphate sugars are used in vivo for the synthesis of oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, and components of bacterial cell membranes. certain nucleoside derivatives have been found to block the glycosylation of proteins. however, most, if not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show little selectivity and have low activity against viral infections. camarasa, et al., j. med. chem., 28, 40 ( 1985 ) reported that uridine 5 ' - diphosphate glucose analogues, 5 ' - o - [ [ [ [ ( 2 ", 3 ", 4 ", 6 " - tetra - o - benzyl - and 2 ", 3 ", 4 ", 6 " - tetra - o - benzoyl -. alpha. - d - glucopyranosyl ) oxyl ] carbonyl ] ami no ] sulfonyl ] - 2 ', 3 ' - isopropylideneuridine ( p - 536 ), a udp - glucose analog, and the corresponding deisopropylidenated derivatives, show in vitro antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1. alarcon, et al., in antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy 1257, ( 1988 ) reported that p - 536 has broad antiviral activity, including activity against adenovirus type 5, vaccinia virus, and poliovirus type 1. the compound was demonstrated to inhibit protein glycosylation if added at a time when late viral proteins were being synthesized, and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids and phosphorylation of nucleosides. alcina, et al., antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy, 1412 ( 1988 ), later demonstrated that the same compound has activity against the flagellated protozoan trypanosoma cruzi. in light of the state of the art, it is clear that there is a strong need for biologically active nucleoside derivatives that can pass through a cell membrane and reach the active site prior to conversion to inactive metabolites or elimination. it is therefore an object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that have enhanced antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal or anticancer activity. it is a further object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that can easily pass through a cell membrane in the proper chemical form to perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form. it
|
The present invention is in the pharmaceutical area, and in particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing 5 ' - diphosphohexose and 5 ' - diphosphohexosamine derivatives of nucleosides. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (" AIDS ") was recognized as early as 1979. The number of cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has increased dramatically each year since then, and in 1982 the CDC declared AIDS a new epidemic. Infection with the AIDS virus is highly variable. Initially, the virus replicates abundantly, with virus present in the central nervous system and the cells of the immune system. This is frequently accompanied by fevers, rashes, flulike symptoms and neurological complaints. These symptoms generally disappear within a few weeks, as the amount of virus in the circulation drops. However, virus is still present in the immune cells, the cells of the nervous system, cells of the intestine and bone marrow cells. The victim typically dies two to ten years after the initial asymptomatic period, following a protracted and painful illness. Human immunodeficiency virus, a retrovirus, is the etiological agent of AIDS, as well as of a variety of related disorders, such as AIDS Related Complex (ARC ). HIV infection begins when a virion or virus - infected cell binds to susceptible cells and fuses with them, injecting the core protein and viral RNA into the cell. The RNA is transcribed to viral DNA. The double stranded DNA migrates to the nucleus and is integrated into the cell ' s DNA. The viral DNA can remain dormant for an indefinite period of time, or the genes can replicate and be translated into viral proteins. The viral proteins are assembled into new virions that bud from the cell, spreading the disease. HIV preferrnhially infects the T4 lymphocytes, immune cells important in helping to suppress infection by other agents, thereby impairing proper functioning of the immune system. As a result of impaired immunity caused by the destruction of helper T - cells by the HIV, the host becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, various types of cancer such as Kaposi ' s sarcoma, and other disorders associated with reduced functioning of the immune system. A variety of approaches have been developed to treat AIDS infections, including inhibiting the binding of the virus to host cells with dextran sulfate or soluble CD4 (a glycoprotein found on the surface of cells of the immune system which the HIV binds to when infecting the cells ), administration of anti - idiotypic antibodies (an antibody to the antibody against CD4 ), blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as phosphorothioate, and inhibition of protein glycosylation by compounds such as 2 - deoxy - D - glucose. However, these approaches are still in early experimental phases, and have not been approved for clinical treatment. AIDS and ARC chemotherapy have been recently reviewed by Schinazi, Strategies and Targets for Anti - Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Therapy, " Aids in Children, Adolescents, and Heterosexual Adults: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Prevention, " Elsvier, N. Y. 1988 ); E. D. Clercq, J. Med. Chem. 29, 1561 - 1569 (1986 ); H. Mitsuya, S. Broder, Nature 325, 773 - 778 (1987 ); and R. Yarchoan, et al. , " AIDS Therapies " The Science of AIDS Scientific American (W. H. Freeman and Co. N. Y. 1989 ). A number of nucleosides have been found to have anti - HIV activity, including 3 ' - azido - 3 ' - deoxythymidine (AZT ), 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxycytidine (DDC ), 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyadenosine (DDA ), 3 ' - azido - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyuridine (AzddU ), 2 ', 3 ' - didehydro - 2 ', 3 ' - dieoxycytidine, 3 ' - deoxy - 2 ', 3 ' - didehydrothymidine, 3 ' - azido - 5 - ethyl - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyuridine (AzddEU ), 3 ' - azido - 5 - methyl - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxycytidine (AzddMeC ), 9 - (2, 3 - Dideoxy - 2 - halo -. beta. - D - arabinofuranosyl) - N. sup. 6 - methyladenine (2 ' - halo - D. sub. 2 MeA ), and N. sup. 6 - methyl - D - glycero - 2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyfuranosyladenosine (D. sub. 2 MeA ). The present application is a continuation - in - (Wrt of applications directed to AzddU. It is generally accepted that the active form of nucleosides such as AZT, AzddU, AzddMeC, D. sub. 2 MeA, and DDC is the triphosphorylated derivative. Triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides appear to inhibit the replication of HIV by limiting the production of viral DNA by at least two mechanisms: competitive inhibition of reverse transcriptase and chain termination of viral DNA due to the missing 3 ' - hydroxyl group. The therapeutic effectiveness of all of the known active nucleosides depends on how easily the nucleoside can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation by cellular enzymes. The efficiency of this process varies considerably among nucleosides, and can severely limit the usefulness of the compounds. For example, nucleoside triphosphates without modification, are not useful clinically, since they cannot pass through the cell membrane, even though the triphosphate may have greater antiviral activity. Nucleosides are also converted by intracellular enzymes into less active metabolites. If the conversion rate to less active compounds is faster than the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the nucleoside is diminished. For example, it is known that DDA in the triphosphate form is a potent HIV inhibitor in Bigro, but in vivo the enzyme adenosine deaminase rapidly converts DDA to the less active DDI (2 ', 3 ' - dideoxyinosine) before DDA can be phosphorylated. DDI - 5 ' - monophosphate must then be converted to DDA - 5 ' - monophosphate by cellular enzymes to restore the activity of the compound. The therapeutic effectiveness of a drug is the determining factor in the dosage required for therapy. Nucleosides that pass through the cell membrane with difficulty or which are metabolized into less active or inactive forms in the cell must be administered in higher dosages. Unfortunately, most nucleosides are toxic to healthy uninfected cells at high dlsWge levels. AZT has been studied extensively in humans for treatment of HIV infections. However, bone marrow toxicity and other side effects limit its long term usefulness. For example, Richman, et al. , have shown that because of AZT - associated hematological abnormalities, twenty - one percent of patients undergoing AZT therapy required multiple blood transfusions during the six month treatment period. Bone marrow depression may be due to the accumulation of phosphorylated AZT within cells, which may result in a substantial depression of thymidine 5 ' - triphosphate pools. Another drawback of AZT is its short half life in humans (about 1. 1 hour) and its elimination in urine as 3 ' - azido - 3 ' - deoxy - 5 ' - glucuronylthymidine, a metabolite with no substantial antiviral activity. Many nucleoside derivatives have been developed that have anticancer, anti - bacterial, and anti - fungal activity. Effective therapy with these nucleosides, as with the anti - HIV nucleosides, is significantly affected by the ability of the nucleoside to pass through the cell membrane and diffuse to the active site before the coHp(und is converted to an inaXrive form or eliminated. Nucleoside diphosphate sugars are uDec in vivo for the synthesis of oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, and components of bacterial cell membranes. Certain nucleoside derivatives have been found to block the glycosylation of proteins. However, most, if not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show little selectivity and have low activity against viral infections. Camarasa, et al. , J. Med. Chem. , 28, 40 (1985) reported that uridine 5 ' - diphosphate glucose analogues, 5 ' - O - [[ [[ (2 ", 3 ", 4 ", 6 " - tetra - O - benzyl - and 2 ", 3 ", 4 ", 6 " - tetra - O - benzoyl -. alpha. - D - glucopyranosyl) oxyl] carbonyl] ami no] sulfonyl] - 2 ', 3 ' - isopropylideneuridine (P - 536 ), a UDP - glucose analog, and the corresponding deisopropylidenated derivatives, show in vitro antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1. Alarcon, et al. , in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 1257, (1988) reported that P - 536 has broad antiviral activity, inclkdiMg activity against adenovirus type 5, vaccinia virus, and poliovirus type 1. The compound was demonstrated to inhibit protein glycosylation if added at a time when late viral p3oteiMs were being synthesized, and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids and phosphorylation of nucleosides. Alcina, et al. , Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 1412 (1988 ), later demonstrated that the same compound has activity against the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. In light of the state of the art, it is clear that there is a strong need for biologically active nucleoside derivatives that can pass through a cell membrane and reach the active site prior to conversion to inactive metabolites or elLminatjon. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that have enhanced antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal or anticancer activity. It is a further object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that can easily pass through a cell membrane in the proper chemical form to perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form. It
|
The present invention is in the pharmaceutical area, and particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions 5'-diphosphohexose and 5'-diphosphohexosamine derivatives of nucleosides. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ("AIDS") was recognized as early 1979. The number of cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has increased dramatically year since then, and in 1982 the CDC declared a new epidemic. Infection with the AIDS virus is highly variable. Initially, virus replicates abundantly, with virus present in the central nervous system and the of the immune system. This is frequently accompanied by fevers, rashes, flulike symptoms and neurological complaints. These generally within a few weeks, as the amount of virus in the circulation drops. However, virus is still present the immune cells, the cells of the nervous cells of the intestine and bone marrow cells. The victim dies two to years after the asymptomatic period, following a protracted and painful Human immunodeficiency a is the etiological agent of AIDS, as well as of a variety related disorders, such as AIDS Related Complex (ARC). HIV infection begins when a virion or virus-infected binds to susceptible cells and fuses with them, injecting the core protein and viral RNA into the cell. The RNA is transcribed to viral DNA. The double stranded migrates the nucleus and is integrated into the cell's DNA. The viral DNA can remain dormant for an indefinite period of time, or the genes can and be translated into proteins. The viral proteins are assembled into new virions that bud from spreading the disease. HIV preferentially infects the T4 lymphocytes, immune cells important in helping to suppress infection by other agents, impairing proper the immune system. As a result of impaired immunity caused by the destruction of helper T-cells by the the becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, various types of cancer such as Kaposi's sarcoma, and other disorders associated with reduced functioning of the system. A variety of approaches have been developed to treat AIDS infections, including binding of the virus to host cells with dextran sulfate soluble (a glycoprotein found on the surface of of system which HIV binds infecting the administration anti-idiotypic antibodies (an antibody to the antibody against CD4), blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as and inhibition protein glycosylation by compounds such 2-deoxy-D-glucose. However, these approaches still in early experimental phases, have not been for clinical treatment. AIDS and ARC chemotherapy have been recently reviewed by Schinazi, and Targets for Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Therapy, "Aids in Adolescents, and Heterosexual Adults: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Prevention," Elsvier, N.Y. 1988); E. D. Clercq, J. Med. Chem. 29, 1561-1569 (1986); H. Mitsuya, S. Broder, Nature 773-778 and R. Yarchoan, et al., "AIDS Therapies" The Science of AIDS American (W. H. Freeman and Co. N.Y. 1989). A number of nucleosides have been found to have anti-HIV activity, including 2',3'-dideoxycytidine (DDC), 2',3'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA), 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddU), 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dieoxycytidine, 3'-deoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, (AzddEU), 3'-azido-5-methyl-2',3'-dideoxycytidine (AzddMeC), 9-(2,3-Dideoxy-2-halo-.beta.-D-arabinofuranosyl)-N.sup.6 -methyladenine MeA), and N.sup.6 -methyl-D-glycero-2',3'-dideoxyfuranosyladenosine (D.sub.2 MeA). The present application is a continuation-in-part of directed to AzddU. It is the active form of nucleosides such as AZT, AzddU, AzddMeC, D.sub.2 MeA, and is the triphosphorylated derivative. Triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides to inhibit the replication of HIV by limiting the production of viral DNA by at least mechanisms: competitive inhibition of reverse transcriptase and chain termination of viral DNA due to the missing 3'-hydroxyl group. The therapeutic effectiveness of all of the known active nucleosides depends on how easily the nucleoside can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation by cellular The of this process varies considerably among nucleosides, and can severely limit the usefulness of the compounds. For example, nucleoside without modification, are not useful clinically, since they cannot pass the cell membrane, even though triphosphate may have greater antiviral activity. Nucleosides are also converted by intracellular enzymes into less active metabolites. If the conversion rate to less active compounds faster than the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the nucleoside is diminished. For example, it is known DDA in the triphosphate form is a potent HIV inhibitor in but in vivo the enzyme adenosine deaminase rapidly converts DDA to less active DDI (2',3'-dideoxyinosine) before DDA can be phosphorylated. DDI-5'-monophosphate must then be to DDA-5'-monophosphate by cellular enzymes to restore the activity of the compound. The therapeutic effectiveness of a drug is determining factor in the dosage required for therapy. Nucleosides that pass the cell membrane or which metabolized into less active or inactive forms in the cell must be in higher dosages. Unfortunately, most are toxic to healthy uninfected cells at high dosage levels. AZT been studied extensively in humans for of HIV infections. However, bone marrow toxicity and other side limit its long term usefulness. For Richman, al., have shown that because of AZT-associated hematological abnormalities, twenty-one of patients undergoing AZT therapy required multiple blood transfusions during the six month treatment period. Bone depression may be due to accumulation of phosphorylated AZT within cells, may result in a substantial depression of thymidine 5'-triphosphate pools. Another drawback of AZT is its short half life in humans (about 1.1 hour) and its elimination in urine as 3'-azido-3'-deoxy-5'-glucuronylthymidine, metabolite with no substantial antiviral activity. nucleoside derivatives have been developed that have anticancer, and anti-fungal activity. Effective therapy these nucleosides, as with the anti-HIV nucleosides, is significantly by the ability of the nucleoside to pass through cell membrane and diffuse to the active site before the compound is converted to an inactive form or eliminated. Nucleoside diphosphate sugars are in vivo for the synthesis of oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, and components of bacterial membranes. Certain nucleoside have been block the glycosylation of proteins. However, most, not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show little selectivity and have low activity against viral infections. Camarasa, et Chem., 28, 40 (1985) reported that uridine 5'-diphosphate glucose analogues, 5'-O-[[[[(2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzyl- and 2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzoyl-.alpha.-D-glucopyranosyl)oxyl]carbonyl]ami (P-536), a UDP-glucose analog, and the deisopropylidenated derivatives, show in vitro antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1. Alarcon, et al., in Antimicrobial Agents and 1257, (1988) reported that P-536 has broad antiviral activity, including activity against adenovirus type virus, and poliovirus type 1. The was demonstrated to inhibit protein if added at a time when late viral were being synthesized, and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids and phosphorylation nucleosides. Alcina, et al., Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 1412 (1988), later that the same compound has activity against the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. In light of the state of the art, it is clear that there is a strong need for active nucleoside derivatives that can pass through a cell membrane reach the active site prior to to inactive or elimination. It is therefore an of the present invention provide nucleoside derivatives that have enhanced antibacterial, antifungal or is a further object of the present invention to provide derivatives that can easily pass through a cell membrane in the proper chemical form to perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form. It
|
tHe PRESent invEnTIoN Is in the PhArMAcEuTical ArEa, AnD in PartICuLAr RelATeS to phArmACEuTIcAL cOmpOSITioNS containInG 5'-dIpHoSphOhExOsE ANd 5'-diPHOsPHOhExosaminE dERIVatIvES Of nucLEosIDEs.
acQUIReD ImmuNodEfIciENcY sYNdrOME ("aIDS") wAS RECOGnIZEd AS eaRLy aS 1979. ThE NUmBEr OF cASes REPorTEd To thE Centers FOr DISEASe CONtRoL (cdc) HAS incREAseD dRAMAtIcaLlY each yEar SINcE THEN, aND iN 1982 tHE CdC dEclaRed aiDS A New EPIDEmIC. InfectIon WiTH THE AIDS vIrus Is hIghly VAriaBlE. InITiALlY, the viRuS RePLiCAtES ABUNDANTLY, WIth viRUs PReSenT iN ThE cENtrAl neRvoUS SYSTem And tHE cElLs Of thE immUNE SySTEM. THiS iS FreQuEntlY aCcOMPANiEd By FEVERs, RaShES, FluLikE SyMPtOmS AnD NeUrOLOGIcAL COMPLaiNtS. thEse SYMpToMS GENeRALLY DISApPeAr WithIN A fEw WEeKs, As ThE AmoUNT Of virUs in thE CIrcULatioN dROps. hoWEVEr, viRuS IS stilL PreSenT IN the IMmunE CELLS, THe CelLS Of tHe neRVoUs syStEM, CelLS Of THe IntEsTiNe ANd bONe marrOw cellS. THE vIcTIm TyPicalLY DIeS tWo tO TeN yeArS afteR THe iniTIAl AsyMPtoMatic peRiOD, FoLloWING A pROTRActEd and paInFul iLlness.
HuMaN iMMUNoDEFicIENcy VIRuS, A rETrOvirUs, is tHE ETiolOgIcal AGeNt oF AIDS, AS WEll aS OF A vArieTY Of RelaTed DIsoRDeRS, suCH as Aids rElAtED COmpleX (ARc). HIV Infection BeGins whEn a VIrIOn oR VIrUs-INfECTEd ceLl binds To SuSCeptibLE CeLLS aNd fuSES WITh ThEM, INjecTInG thE CorE pROTeIn aND VirAL rNa INTO The CElL. THE rNa Is TrANscrIBED tO viRaL dNa. tHe DOublE stRANdEd DNa miGratES to ThE nuClEus and IS iNTegRateD iNTO The ceLl's DNa. tHE VIRal DNA CAn REMaiN DORmANt FOR AN iNdefINITE PERIOd Of tIME, OR The gEneS CaN replICATe ANd be tRANslATeD iNTo VirAl PROteInS. tHE vIral proteiNs aRe assEMBLED iNTO new viRioNs that BUD from The cELl, spreAding the DiSeAsE.
HIv prEFErentiAllY infEcTS ThE t4 LyMpHOcyTEs, immunE celLS ImpOrTAnt in hElping tO sUPPREsS InFECtioN BY OTHEr aGenTs, THereby ImpaiRinG PrOPER FunCtioNINg oF THe IMmuNe sYSteM. as A ResULT oF impAirED immUNiTY CAuSeD bY THe deStRuctION OF HELPeR T-cElLs BY the hIv, The Host bECoMES suScEptiblE To oPporTUnISTIC INfECtiONs, vARIous tYPeS Of CANcER suCH As kaPosi'S SaRCoMa, ANd OTheR dISorders aSsOcIaTEd WITH reDUcEd FUnCTIoNing Of THE immuNE SYsTem.
a vaRIety OF APpROaCHES Have bEen DevElopED TO treAt AiDs InFecTiOnS, INCluDINg iNHIbiting The biNdiNG oF the virUs To HosT CElLs WiTH DexTraN SuLfaTE Or sOlUBlE Cd4 (a glYCOPRoTeIn FOunD on tHE SURFace of CElls OF thE ImMunE SYSTEm wHIch tHe HIV biNdS tO wHEn INFectiNg ThE cellS), AdMINIstrATion OF ANtI-IDiotYpiC anTIBODieS (aN AntIbOdy TO ThE aNtIbODy AGAINsT cD4), blOCkAge oF viRaL PrOTEiN syntHeSIs by comPouNDs suCh As pHosPhORoThioaTE, anD InHiBiTION oF proTEIn GlYcOsylAtIon By CoMPouNDS suCh aS 2-DeOxy-D-GluCosE. hOWEvER, these APPROACHES Are sTill in eARLy expeRiMentaL PHAsEs, AND HavE nOT BeEn APpROvED For cLInIcAl TREATMEnt.
aids aND aRC chEMoThErApy HaVe bEen ReCENTLy reVIeWeD By ScHINazi, sTrAteGiEs anD tArGEtS fOR antI-hUMan imMunoDEfIciENCY ViruS TyPe 1 THeRApy, "AIDS iN CHildReN, adOlEsCENTs, And HETeRoSEXUAl aDuLTS: an INtErDisCIpLINary APprOACH To prEvEntIoN," eLSVier, N.Y. 1988); e. d. CLErcq, J. med. cheM. 29, 1561-1569 (1986); H. MItsuYa, s. BRodeR, naTurE 325, 773-778 (1987); and r. yaRchOan, et Al., "aIDS TherapIEs" The sCIenCE of AIDs sCIEnTiFiC American (W. h. freeman ANd co. N.Y. 1989).
A numBER oF nuCleOsidES HAVE BEeN fOund To hAve AnTi-HIV ACTIviTY, iNcLuDInG 3'-Azido-3'-DeOxYtHymIDINe (aZT), 2',3'-dIdEoXYcyTIDInE (ddc), 2',3'-DidEOxYADenOsIne (ddA), 3'-AzIDo-2',3'-DideoXYUrIdINE (aZddu), 2',3'-DIdeHydrO-2',3'-DIeOXYcYtIdINe, 3'-DeoXy-2',3'-DIdehYdRoThYmIdinE, 3'-aZido-5-EthYL-2',3'-DiDeOXyurIdiNE (aZDDEU), 3'-azidO-5-methYL-2',3'-dideOxYcYTiDine (AZDdMEC), 9-(2,3-diDeoxY-2-HaLo-.betA.-d-araBinOFURANosyl)-N.sUp.6 -MeThylAdeNINE (2'-halo-D.SUB.2 mea), ANd N.sUp.6 -MEtHyL-D-glYCERO-2',3'-DIDEoxYFUranoSYlADENOsine (d.Sub.2 MEa). tHe preSENT aPPlICatioN is A coNTiNUaTIon-IN-pART OF aPpLicatIoNS DirECted To azDDu.
iT iS gEnERALlY accePteD ThAT The aCtIVe FORm Of nUClEoSidEs SucH as AzT, aZdDU, AzDdMEc, D.SUB.2 Mea, and dDC IS ThE tRIphoSPHoRYlATeD dERivatIvE. TriPHOsphoRylated DEOxYNuCleoSidES AppeaR tO inhIbit the repLIcaTION Of hIV BY liMITInG thE prOdUCTiOn of viRaL dna bY At lEAsT two mECHANISmS: CoMPeTITive inHibItIon oF reVerse trANsCrIPTAsE and chAIN TeRmINATioN OF viRAl dna dUE To THe mIsSiNg 3'-HydrOxyl GRoUp.
thE tHeRapeuTic EFFECTIVeNeSS oF ALL Of tHE KnoWN actIve NUCleOsidES DePEnDs On How eASiLY THe nUclEOsiDE CAn eNtEr CEllS AND uNDerGo pHOsphOryLaTiOn by CElLULAR enzYMes. The EffIcIENcy of tHIs pROcESs VARIES CoNSIdErabLY AMoNG NuclEOsIDES, anD CAn sEveReLY lImiT The UsEfuLneSS oF the cOMPouNds. FoR ExAmPlE, nUcLEOSiDe TrIPhospHAtes WiThOUt mOdiFicAtion, arE NOt uSeFUL CLiNIcAlLY, SinCe thEY CanNot pAsS tHROuGh tHe CELL MeMBraNE, eveN THOUgH the trIphosPHAtE maY hAVE GreAteR AntivIRAl ActIviTY.
NuClEosIdeS ARE ALSO convERTEd By inTRAcElLulAr eNzymeS iNTO LeSs ACTIve mEtAbOLItes. IF ThE conVeRSIon ratE to LeSS ACtIVE cOMpOuNds Is faSTer thAN THE rAtE OF triPHosphoRYLatION oF thE NUcLEosiDe, tHE PHarmaCEUTIcal effeCtIVEneSs Of ThE NUcLeOSide is diMiNiSHEd. fOR eXample, IT is KNoWN ThAt DDA In tHe TriPHOsphATe fORm iS a PotenT hiV inHIbITOr In VITRo, bUT in VIVo thE EnzyMe adEnoSINe deAmInaSE RApIDLy cOnVerTs dda To the leSs ACtiVe DDi (2',3'-DideOxyiNOsine) bEFORe DdA caN be PHosPHoRyLaTeD. dDi-5'-monOpHOSphATE MUSt tHEn BE cOnveRTEd tO dDA-5'-mONoPhOsphATE By cELlULar ENZyMES TO reSTORE the actIvIty oF The cOmPoUnd.
tHe tHeRAPeUTic eFFectivENess of a DrUg iS The DeTERmInIng faCtOr in the dOSage rEquirEd FOr TheRaPy. NuClEoSides tHAT pASs THRough THe cELl mEMBrAnE WiTh difFIculty OR wHIcH ARE MEtaboLizED InTO lesS aCtIVe OR iNACTIve ForMs iN ThE CELl mUST be aDMinisTEREd in HiGHER DOSAGeS. UNFOrtunATELY, mOsT NuclEosideS arE ToXIC To heALTHy uNinFECted cELLS aT High DOSaGe leVElS.
AzT hAs BEEn StuDieD EXTeNsiVely iN HUMans FOR TReaTMeNT OF hiv InFECtioNs. hoWeVeR, bONE mArRoW ToxICIty and OTher siDE efFECts lImit ITS LoNg TeRm uSEfuLNeSs. fOr ExAmplE, RiCHmAn, ET al., HaVe SHOwN ThAt because OF AzT-asSoCIaTed HematolOGIcaL ABNORMalITies, TWenty-one PErCeNt OF paTIEnTs UNdeRGOING azT THERapY REquiRed mUlTiple bLoOd TRanSFusIOnS DuriNG THe sIx monTh TREaTMeNT PerIoD. bOne MArRoW dePresSION MAy bE DUE To thE aCCUMuLATIon of PHoSPHOrYlatED azt WIThiN cElLS, wHICh mAY reSULt in A SubstaNtiaL DepresSIon of THYMidiNe 5'-TriPHOsPhate POols. aNothEr dRAWBaCk oF azt IS Its shORt HAlf lIFE IN hUMans (aboUt 1.1 hOUR) And its eLimiNatIOn iN UrIne AS 3'-aZIDO-3'-dEoxY-5'-gLucuRoNyLtHyMidiNE, A MetABOlITe WitH NO sUbstANtiAl ANtIviral acTivITY.
MAny NUcLEoSIDe dERivATivES haVE bEeN DEVeLOped ThaT haVE aNTIcAnCer, ANTI-baCTERIAL, aND anTi-FUNGAl acTivItY. efFecTiVe TheRaPy witH theSe nUcLeosIDeS, aS wIth The ANTi-HIV nuCleosIdeS, iS SiGNIFiCANTLY AffectEd by tHe aBilIty oF tHE NUCleOSIDE To paSS tHrougH tHe cELl meMBrAne and dIFfUsE to thE activE SitE BefOre tHE COmPoUnD IS COnvERted tO an inACTivE fORm OR ElIMiNATEd.
NUCLeosiDe dIphoSPHATe sugArS Are UseD IN ViVO for ThE SyNTHESiS oF OlIGoSACchARideS, polYSACchaRiDEs, gLYcoLiPIDs, GlYCoPrOTEIns, and cOMpOnENTs of BacTErIAL celL MEMBRaneS. CeRtAiN NUcLeOsiDe dERiVativeS HAvE BEen FOUnd tO bLOcK tHE GLYCOSyLatIoN OF pROtEINS. HoWEVeR, MOST, if NOT aLL, kNOWN nUCleOsiDE glycOsYLatiON InhibItoRS show LITTle SEleCtIviTy ANd HavE LoW acTiVITy aGAINsT VIRal inFEctIoNS.
CamARaSa, ET Al., j. meD. CHEm., 28, 40 (1985) rEPOrtED tHat uRidiNe 5'-dIPhoSpHAtE GLucOsE anaLoGUes, 5'-O-[[[[(2",3",4",6"-TETra-O-BEnZyl- AnD 2",3",4",6"-TEtRa-O-bEnzoyl-.ALPHA.-d-gLucOpyRANosyL)oXYl]cArboNYl]amI NO]sUlFOnyl]-2',3'-ISOPRopYLidENeURiDinE (P-536), A uDP-gluCOSE AnalOG, and tHe cOrrESpOnDING DEISOPROPylIDenATeD derIVaTIvES, ShOW IN ViTro antivIRaL ACTIViTY AgaINst HErPEs sIMPlex VIRuS tYpe 1. ALARCoN, ET aL., In anTImicRObiaL agENts AND cheMoTheraPY 1257, (1988) REpOrTEd that P-536 HAs broad aNTIviRAL actIvITy, INcludiNg AcTIViTY AGAInST ADENOVirUs TyPe 5, VAcCiniA viRUS, and PoLiOViRUS TypE 1. the compOUND WaS demONsTrated to iNHIBIt pRoteIn GlycosylATIOn If adDed aT A tIme wHeN LATe viRAl PRotEinS were bEinG sYntHesized, aNd tO InhIBIT THE syNThEsis OF nUCLeIC ACIds anD PhOsPHOrYlAtIon Of NucleOsiDes. AlcINA, ET AL., AntIMICRobiaL AgENTs aNd CHEmOtheRApy, 1412 (1988), LATer DeMonstRATED THat The SAME CoMPoUNd haS ActIvitY againSt tHe FLAGElLatEd pRotOZOan TrYpAnOSomA CRuzi.
In LiGhT Of The stATE OF THE ARt, It is CLear tHAT thERE iS A StroNG neEd FoR bioLogIcaLLY ActIVe nUCLEOSide dErIVAtIveS THAT cAN Pass tHRough A cElL meMBrane aNd ReaCh THe ACtiVE sItE PRiOR To ConvErsiOn TO InaCtIve mETaBOLItEs Or ELImINatioN.
IT Is THeREfORE AN ObjECT OF thE pREseNT iNVenTIoN tO proVide nUCLEoSIdE DERIvATiveS THAT HaVe enHANced ANTIViRAl, aNtIbACteriaL, anTiFuNgaL Or aNtiCANCer ACTIVitY.
IT Is A fURTher obJect of tHE PreSEnt iNVenTion TO prOViDe nUcLeoSide DErIVaTivEs thaT CAN eaSiLy PasS thROuGh A CeLL MEmbrANe in The proPeR cheMical FORm to PERfORm A DeSiREd bIOloGIcAL fuNction, OR A chEmIcAl FORm.
It
|
The present invention is in the pharmaceutical area, and in particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing 5'-diphosphohexoseand 5'-diphosphohexosamine derivatives of nucleosides. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome("AIDS")was recognizedas early as 1979. The number of cases reported to the Centersfor Disease Control (CDC)has increased dramaticallyeach year since then, and in 1982the CDC declared AIDS a new epidemic. Infection withthe AIDSvirus ishighly variable. Initially,the virusreplicates abundantly,with virus present in the central nervoussystemand thecells oftheimmune system.This is frequently accompanied by fevers, rashes, flulikesymptoms and neurological complaints. These symptoms generally disappear within a few weeks, asthe amount of virus inthe circulation drops. However, virus is still present in the immune cells, the cellsof thenervous system, cellsof the intestine and bone marrow cells. The victim typically dies two toten years after the initial asymptomatic period, following a protracted and painful illness. Human immunodeficiency virus, aretrovirus, is the etiologicalagent of AIDS, as well as ofa variety of relateddisorders, such asAIDSRelated Complex (ARC). HIV infection begins when a virion or virus-infected cell binds to susceptible cells and fuses withthem,injecting the core protein and viral RNA into the cell.The RNA is transcribed to viral DNA. The double stranded DNAmigrates to the nucleus and is integrated into thecell's DNA. The viral DNA can remain dormant for an indefinite period of time, or the genes can replicate andbe translated intoviral proteins. Theviralproteinsare assembled into new virions that bud from the cell, spreadingthe disease. HIV preferentially infects the T4 lymphocytes, immune cells important in helping to suppress infection by other agents, thereby impairing proper functioning of the immunesystem. Asa result ofimpaired immunity caused by the destruction of helper T-cells by the HIV, the host becomes susceptible to opportunisticinfections, varioustypes of cancer such as Kaposi'ssarcoma, andother disorders associatedwith reduced functioning of the immune system. A variety of approaches have been developedto treat AIDS infections, including inhibiting the binding ofthe virus to hostcells with dextran sulfate or soluble CD4 (aglycoprotein found on the surface of cells of the immunesystem which the HIV binds to when infecting the cells), administration ofanti-idiotypic antibodies (an antibody tothe antibody againstCD4),blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as phosphorothioate, and inhibition of proteinglycosylation by compounds such as 2-deoxy-D-glucose. However, these approaches arestill inearly experimental phases, and have not been approved for clinicaltreatment. AIDS and ARC chemotherapy have been recently reviewed by Schinazi, Strategies and Targets for Anti-Human Immunodeficiency VirusType 1 Therapy,"Aids in Children, Adolescents, and Heterosexual Adults: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Prevention," Elsvier, N.Y.1988); E. D. Clercq, J. Med. Chem. 29, 1561-1569 (1986); H.Mitsuya, S.Broder, Nature325, 773-778 (1987); and R.Yarchoan, et al., "AIDS Therapies" The Science of AIDS Scientific American(W. H. Freeman and Co.N.Y.1989).A number ofnucleosides have been found to have anti-HIV activity, including 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT), 2',3'-dideoxycytidine (DDC),2',3'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA), 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxyuridine(AzddU), 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dieoxycytidine, 3'-deoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, 3'-azido-5-ethyl-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddEU), 3'-azido-5-methyl-2',3'-dideoxycytidine (AzddMeC),9-(2,3-Dideoxy-2-halo-.beta.-D-arabinofuranosyl)-N.sup.6 -methyladenine (2'-halo-D.sub.2 MeA), and N.sup.6-methyl-D-glycero-2',3'-dideoxyfuranosyladenosine (D.sub.2 MeA). The present application is a continuation-in-part of applications directed to AzddU. It is generally acceptedthat the active form of nucleosides such as AZT,AzddU, AzddMeC, D.sub.2 MeA, and DDC is the triphosphorylated derivative. Triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides appearto inhibitthe replication of HIVby limiting the productionofviral DNA by at leasttwo mechanisms: competitive inhibition of reversetranscriptase and chain termination of viral DNA due to the missing 3'-hydroxyl group. The therapeuticeffectiveness of all of the known active nucleosides depends on howeasily the nucleoside can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation by cellular enzymes. The efficiencyof this processvaries considerably amongnucleosides, andcanseverely limit the usefulness of the compounds. For example, nucleoside triphosphateswithout modification,are not useful clinically, since they cannotpass through the cell membrane, even though the triphosphate may have greater antiviral activity. Nucleosides are also converted byintracellular enzymes intoless active metabolites. If the conversion rate to less active compounds is fasterthan the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the nucleoside is diminished. For example, it is known that DDA in thetriphosphate form is a potentHIV inhibitor in vitro,but invivothe enzyme adenosine deaminaserapidly converts DDA to the less active DDI (2',3'-dideoxyinosine) before DDA can be phosphorylated. DDI-5'-monophosphate must thenbe converted to DDA-5'-monophosphate by cellular enzymesto restoretheactivity of thecompound. The therapeutic effectiveness of a drug is the determining factor in the dosage required for therapy.Nucleosides that pass through thecell membrane with difficulty or which are metabolized into lessactive or inactive forms in the cell must be administeredinhigher dosages. Unfortunately,most nucleosides are toxic to healthy uninfected cells at high dosage levels. AZT has been studied extensively in humans for treatmentof HIV infections. However, bone marrow toxicity and other side effects limit its longterm usefulness. For example, Richman, et al., have shown that because of AZT-associated hematological abnormalities, twenty-one percent of patientsundergoing AZT therapy required multiple blood transfusions during the six month treatment period. Bone marrowdepressionmay be due to the accumulation of phosphorylated AZT within cells, which may result in a substantial depression of thymidine 5'-triphosphate pools. Another drawback of AZT isitsshort half life in humans (about 1.1 hour) and its elimination in urine as 3'-azido-3'-deoxy-5'-glucuronylthymidine, ametabolite with no substantialantiviral activity. Many nucleoside derivatives have been developed that have anticancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activity. Effective therapy with these nucleosides, as with the anti-HIV nucleosides, is significantly affectedbythe ability of the nucleoside to pass through the cellmembrane and diffuse tothe active site before the compoundis converted to an inactive form oreliminated. Nucleoside diphosphate sugars are used in vivo for thesynthesis of oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, and components of bacterial cell membranes.Certain nucleoside derivativeshave been found to block the glycosylationof proteins. However, most, if not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show little selectivity and havelow activity against viral infections. Camarasa, et al., J. Med. Chem., 28, 40(1985) reported that uridine 5'-diphosphate glucose analogues, 5'-O-[[[[(2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzyl- and 2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzoyl-.alpha.-D-glucopyranosyl)oxyl]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]-2',3'-isopropylideneuridine (P-536), aUDP-glucose analog, and the corresponding deisopropylidenated derivatives, show invitro antiviral activityagainst herpes simplex virus type 1. Alarcon, etal.,in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 1257, (1988) reported thatP-536 has broad antiviral activity, including activity against adenovirus type 5, vaccinia virus, and poliovirus type 1. Thecompoundwas demonstrated to inhibit protein glycosylation if added at a time when late viral proteinswerebeing synthesized,and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acidsand phosphorylation of nucleosides. Alcina,et al.,Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 1412 (1988),laterdemonstrated that the same compound has activity against the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi.Inlight of the stateof the art,it is clear that there is astrong need forbiologically active nucleoside derivatives that canpass throughacell membrane and reach theactive site prior to conversion to inactive metabolites or elimination. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide nucleosidederivatives that have enhanced antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal or anticancer activity. It is a furtherobject of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that can easily pass through a cell membrane in the proper chemical form to perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form. It
|
The present _invention_ is _in_ the pharmaceutical area, _and_ in particular relates to pharmaceutical compositions _containing_ _5'-diphosphohexose_ and 5'-diphosphohexosamine _derivatives_ of nucleosides. _Acquired_ immunodeficiency _syndrome_ ("AIDS") was recognized as early _as_ 1979. The _number_ of cases reported to the _Centers_ for Disease Control _(CDC)_ has increased dramatically each _year_ since then, _and_ in 1982 the _CDC_ declared AIDS a new epidemic. _Infection_ with the AIDS virus _is_ highly variable. _Initially,_ the virus replicates abundantly, with virus present in the _central_ nervous system and the cells of the _immune_ system. _This_ is _frequently_ accompanied by fevers, rashes, _flulike_ _symptoms_ _and_ neurological complaints. These symptoms _generally_ disappear within a few _weeks,_ as the amount of virus _in_ the circulation _drops._ _However,_ virus is _still_ present in the immune cells, the _cells_ of the nervous system, _cells_ of the _intestine_ and bone marrow cells. The victim typically dies two to _ten_ years after the initial asymptomatic period, following _a_ _protracted_ and painful illness. Human immunodeficiency virus, a retrovirus, is the etiological agent of AIDS, _as_ well as of a _variety_ of _related_ disorders, such as AIDS Related Complex (ARC). HIV infection begins _when_ a virion or virus-infected cell binds to susceptible cells and fuses with them, injecting the core protein and viral RNA into the _cell._ The _RNA_ is transcribed to viral DNA. The double stranded _DNA_ _migrates_ to the nucleus _and_ is integrated into the cell's DNA. The viral _DNA_ _can_ remain dormant for _an_ indefinite period of time, or _the_ genes can replicate and _be_ translated into viral proteins. The viral proteins _are_ assembled into new virions that bud from _the_ _cell,_ spreading the _disease._ HIV preferentially _infects_ _the_ T4 lymphocytes, immune _cells_ important in helping to suppress _infection_ by other agents, thereby impairing proper functioning of the immune system. As _a_ result of impaired immunity caused _by_ the destruction of helper _T-cells_ by the HIV, the host becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, _various_ _types_ of _cancer_ such as Kaposi's _sarcoma,_ and other disorders _associated_ _with_ reduced _functioning_ of the _immune_ system. _A_ variety of approaches have been developed to _treat_ _AIDS_ infections, including inhibiting the binding of _the_ _virus_ _to_ host cells with dextran sulfate _or_ soluble CD4 _(a_ _glycoprotein_ found on the surface _of_ _cells_ of the immune system which the _HIV_ binds to when _infecting_ the cells), administration of anti-idiotypic antibodies (an antibody _to_ the antibody against CD4), blockage of viral protein synthesis by compounds such as _phosphorothioate,_ _and_ inhibition of _protein_ _glycosylation_ by compounds such as 2-deoxy-D-glucose. _However,_ these approaches are still in early experimental phases, and have not been approved for clinical treatment. AIDS _and_ ARC chemotherapy have _been_ recently reviewed by Schinazi, Strategies and Targets for Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Therapy, "Aids in Children, Adolescents, and Heterosexual Adults: An Interdisciplinary Approach _to_ _Prevention,"_ Elsvier, N.Y. 1988); E. D. _Clercq,_ J. Med. _Chem._ 29, 1561-1569 (1986); _H._ Mitsuya, S. Broder, Nature 325, 773-778 (1987); and R. Yarchoan, et al., _"AIDS_ _Therapies"_ The _Science_ of AIDS Scientific American (W. H. Freeman and Co. N.Y. _1989)._ A number of nucleosides have been found to _have_ _anti-HIV_ activity, including 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT), 2',3'-dideoxycytidine (DDC), 2',3'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA), 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddU), 2',3'-didehydro-2',3'-dieoxycytidine, 3'-deoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, 3'-azido-5-ethyl-2',3'-dideoxyuridine (AzddEU), 3'-azido-5-methyl-2',3'-dideoxycytidine (AzddMeC), 9-(2,3-Dideoxy-2-halo-.beta.-D-arabinofuranosyl)-N.sup.6 -methyladenine (2'-halo-D.sub.2 MeA), and _N.sup.6_ -methyl-D-glycero-2',3'-dideoxyfuranosyladenosine _(D.sub.2_ MeA). _The_ present _application_ is a continuation-in-part of applications directed to AzddU. It is generally accepted that the active _form_ of _nucleosides_ such as AZT, AzddU, AzddMeC, D.sub.2 MeA, and DDC is the _triphosphorylated_ derivative. Triphosphorylated deoxynucleosides appear _to_ inhibit the _replication_ of HIV by limiting the production of viral DNA by at least _two_ mechanisms: competitive _inhibition_ of reverse _transcriptase_ and chain termination of viral DNA _due_ to the _missing_ 3'-hydroxyl _group._ The therapeutic effectiveness _of_ all of the known active nucleosides depends on how _easily_ the _nucleoside_ can enter cells and undergo phosphorylation _by_ cellular enzymes. _The_ efficiency of this process varies considerably _among_ nucleosides, and can severely limit the usefulness of the compounds. For example, _nucleoside_ triphosphates without modification, are not useful _clinically,_ since they cannot _pass_ through the cell _membrane,_ even though _the_ _triphosphate_ may _have_ greater antiviral activity. _Nucleosides_ are also converted by intracellular _enzymes_ into less _active_ _metabolites._ If the conversion rate to _less_ active _compounds_ _is_ faster than the rate of triphosphorylation of the nucleoside, the pharmaceutical _effectiveness_ of the nucleoside is diminished. _For_ example, it is known that DDA _in_ the triphosphate form is a _potent_ HIV _inhibitor_ _in_ vitro, _but_ in vivo the enzyme adenosine deaminase rapidly _converts_ _DDA_ to the _less_ _active_ DDI (2',3'-dideoxyinosine) before DDA can _be_ phosphorylated. DDI-5'-monophosphate must then be converted to _DDA-5'-monophosphate_ _by_ cellular enzymes to _restore_ the activity of the _compound._ The _therapeutic_ effectiveness of a drug is _the_ determining factor in _the_ dosage required for therapy. Nucleosides _that_ pass through _the_ _cell_ membrane with difficulty _or_ which _are_ metabolized into less active or _inactive_ forms in the cell must be administered in _higher_ dosages. Unfortunately, _most_ nucleosides are toxic to _healthy_ uninfected cells at _high_ dosage _levels._ AZT has been studied extensively in humans for treatment _of_ HIV _infections._ However, bone _marrow_ toxicity and other side effects limit its long term usefulness. For _example,_ Richman, et al., _have_ shown that because of AZT-associated hematological abnormalities, twenty-one percent of patients _undergoing_ AZT therapy _required_ multiple _blood_ _transfusions_ during _the_ six month treatment period. Bone marrow depression may be _due_ to the accumulation of phosphorylated AZT _within_ cells, which may result _in_ _a_ substantial depression of thymidine 5'-triphosphate _pools._ Another drawback of AZT is its short half life in humans (about 1.1 hour) and _its_ elimination in urine as _3'-azido-3'-deoxy-5'-glucuronylthymidine,_ a _metabolite_ _with_ _no_ substantial antiviral activity. Many nucleoside derivatives _have_ been developed that have anticancer, _anti-bacterial,_ _and_ anti-fungal activity. Effective therapy with these nucleosides, as with the anti-HIV nucleosides, is significantly affected by _the_ ability of the nucleoside to _pass_ through the cell membrane _and_ diffuse to the active site _before_ the compound is converted to an _inactive_ form _or_ _eliminated._ Nucleoside diphosphate _sugars_ are used in vivo for the synthesis of _oligosaccharides,_ polysaccharides, glycolipids, glycoproteins, _and_ components _of_ bacterial cell membranes. Certain nucleoside derivatives have been _found_ _to_ block the glycosylation of proteins. However, _most,_ if not all, known nucleoside glycosylation inhibitors show _little_ selectivity and have low activity against viral infections. Camarasa, _et_ al., J. Med. Chem., 28, 40 _(1985)_ _reported_ _that_ uridine 5'-diphosphate glucose _analogues,_ 5'-O-[[[[(2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzyl- and _2",3",4",6"-tetra-O-benzoyl-.alpha.-D-glucopyranosyl)oxyl]carbonyl]ami_ no]sulfonyl]-2',3'-isopropylideneuridine (P-536), a UDP-glucose analog, and the corresponding deisopropylidenated derivatives, show in vitro antiviral activity against _herpes_ simplex virus type 1. Alarcon, _et_ al., _in_ Antimicrobial Agents _and_ Chemotherapy 1257, (1988) reported that _P-536_ _has_ _broad_ antiviral activity, _including_ _activity_ _against_ adenovirus type 5, vaccinia virus, and _poliovirus_ _type_ 1. The compound was demonstrated to _inhibit_ protein _glycosylation_ if added at a _time_ when late viral proteins were being synthesized, and to inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids and _phosphorylation_ _of_ nucleosides. Alcina, et _al.,_ Antimicrobial Agents _and_ Chemotherapy, 1412 (1988), later _demonstrated_ that the same compound _has_ activity against the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. In light of the state _of_ the _art,_ it is clear that there is a strong need _for_ biologically _active_ nucleoside derivatives that can _pass_ through a cell _membrane_ _and_ reach _the_ active site prior to conversion to inactive metabolites _or_ elimination. It is _therefore_ _an_ object of the present invention to provide nucleoside derivatives that have _enhanced_ _antiviral,_ antibacterial, antifungal or anticancer activity. It is a further object _of_ the _present_ invention _to_ provide _nucleoside_ _derivatives_ _that_ can _easily_ pass _through_ a cell membrane in the _proper_ chemical form _to_ perform a desired biological function, or a chemical form. It
|
1. Technical Field
This invention relates to the field of data transmission, and in particular to systems and methods for reliably determining the voltage level of data signals transmitted at high speeds.
2. Background Art
Computers and other data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. In order to avoid bottlenecks, data must be provided to these devices at high speeds and without distortion. However, as transmission frequencies exceed 150 MHz, it becomes more difficult to ensure that transmitted data signals have sufficient time to settle before they are sampled and the next data transition begins. This problem is compounded by the need to operate computers at lower system voltages, to limit the power dissipated by high frequency processors.
High frequency operation of buses, which transfer data signals to different parts of the computer system, poses especially difficult problems. At frequencies of 100 MHz or more, bus traces behave like transmission lines. In particular, the inductive and capacitive properties of bus traces distort data signals, increasing the time it takes for signal voltages to settle sufficiently to be sampled reliably.
For example, at high frequencies, the capacitance of bus traces requires signal transitions to be driven with higher currents, and for 32-bit and wider buses, the number of signal transitions being driven results in substantial current pulses on the supply voltage lines. These current pulses couple with the inductance of the bus traces to generate voltage glitches. In addition, impedance mismatches between the bus and the circuits driving the data signal creates reflections on the bus. Data signals are distorted by reflected signals generated by voltage glitches and signal voltages. One result of these distortions is that a data signal in a given clock cycle may appear to be in either a high or low voltage state, depending on when in the clock cycle it is sampled by a receiver.
Conventional strategies for handling high speed data signals employ circuitry to guarantee a window of relatively clean signal transitions, and a single reference voltage is selected within this voltage window. There are a number of drawbacks to this approach. Noise is generated differently for high-going and low-going transitions, and the resulting asymmetry in the signal distortion must be accounted for by the circuitry. In addition, the circuitry used to provide a clean voltage window becomes more complex and less effective as signal frequencies increase.
|
1. technical field this invention relates to the field of data transmission, and in particular to systems and methods for reliably determining the voltage level of data transmission transmitted at high speeds. 2. background art equipment and other data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. in order to avoid bottlenecks, data must be provided to these devices for high speeds and without distortion. however, as transmission frequencies exceed 150 mhz, it becomes more difficult to ensure that transmitted data signals have sufficient time to settle before they are sampled and the next data transition begins. this problem is compounded by the need to operate computers at lower system voltages, to limit the signals dissipated by high frequency processors. high frequency operation of buses, which transfer data signals to different parts of the computer system, poses especially difficult problems. at frequencies of 100 mhz or more, bus traces behave like transmission lines. in particular, the inductive and capacitive properties of bus traces distort data signals, increasing the time it takes for signal voltages to settle sufficiently to be sampled reliably. for example, at lower frequencies, the capacitance among bus traces requires signal transitions to be driven with higher currents, and for 32 - bit and wider buses, the number of signal transitions being driven results in substantial current pulses on the supply voltage lines. these current pulses couple with the inductance of the bus traces to generate voltage glitches. in addition, impedance mismatches between the bus and the circuits driving the relay signal creates reflections on the bus. data signals are distorted by reflected signals generated by voltage glitches and signal voltages. one result of these distortions is that a data signal in a given clock cycle may appear to be in either a high or low voltage state, depending on when in the clock cycle it is sampled by a receiver. conventional strategies for handling high speed data signals employ circuitry to guarantee a window of relatively clean signal transitions, and a single reference voltage is selected within this voltage window. there are a number of flaws to this approach. noise is generated differently for high - going and low - energy transitions, while the resulting asymmetry in the signal distortion must be accounted for by the circuitry. in addition, the circuitry used to provide a clean voltage window becomes more complex and less effective as signal frequencies increase.
|
1. Technical Field This invention relates to the field of data transmission, and in particular to systems and methods for reliably determining the voltage level of data signals transmitted at high speeds. 2. Background Art Computers and other data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. In order to avoid bottlenecks, data must be provided to these devices at high speeds and without distortion. However, as transmission frequencies exceed 150 MHz, it becomes more difficult to ensure that transmitted data signals have sufficient time to settle before they are sampled and the n2x5 data transition begins. This problem is compounded by the need to operate computers at lower system voltages, to limit the power dissipated by high frequency processors. High frequency operation of buses, which transfer data signals to different parts of the computer sysHe<, poses especially difficult problems. At frequencies of 100 MHz or more, bus traces behave like transmission lines. In particular, the inductive and capacitive properties of bus traces distort data signals, increasing the time it takes for signal Golhages to s$Ytle sufficiently to be sampled reliably. For example, at hogN frequencies, the capacitance of bus traces requires signal transitions to be driven with higher currents, and for 32 - bit and wider buses, the number of signal transitions being driven results in substantial current pulses on the supply voPtagr /iBes. These current pulses couple with the inductance of the bus traces to generate voltage glitches. In addition, impedance mismatches between the bus and the circuits driving the data signal creates reflections on the bus. Data signals are distorted by reflected signals generated by voPtare glitches and signal voltages. One result of these distortions is that a data signal in a given clock cycle may appear to be in either a high or low voltage state, deLeBding on when in the clock cycle it is sampled by a receiver. Conventional strategies for JanFling high speed data signals employ circuitry to guarantee a window of relatively clean signal transitions, and a single reference voltage is selected within this voltage window. There are a number of drawbacks to this approach. Noise is generated differently for high - going and low - going transitions, and the resulting asymmetry in the signal distortion must be accounted for by the circuitry. In addition, the circuitry used to provide a clean voltage window becomes more complex and less effective as signal frequencies increase.
|
1. Technical Field This relates the field of data transmission, and in particular to systems and methods for reliably determining the voltage level of data signals transmitted at high speeds. Background Art and data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. In order to avoid bottlenecks, data must be provided to devices at speeds and without distortion. However, as transmission frequencies exceed 150 MHz, it becomes more difficult to ensure that transmitted data signals have sufficient to settle before they are sampled and next data transition begins. This problem is compounded by the to operate computers at system voltages, to limit the power dissipated by frequency processors. High frequency operation of buses, which transfer signals to different parts of the system, poses especially difficult problems. At frequencies of 100 MHz or more, bus traces behave like transmission In particular, the inductive and capacitive properties of bus traces distort data signals, increasing the time it for signal voltages to settle sufficiently to be sampled For example, at high frequencies, the capacitance of bus traces requires to be driven with currents, and for and wider buses, the number of signal transitions being driven results in substantial current pulses on the supply voltage lines. These current pulses couple with the inductance of the bus traces to generate voltage In addition, mismatches the bus and the circuits the data signal creates reflections on the bus. Data signals are distorted by signals generated by voltage glitches and signal One result of these distortions is that a data signal in a given clock cycle may appear to in either a high or low state, depending on when in the clock cycle it is sampled a receiver. Conventional strategies for handling high speed data signals employ circuitry to a window of relatively transitions, and a single reference voltage is selected within this voltage window. There a number of drawbacks to this approach. is generated differently for high-going and transitions, and the resulting asymmetry the signal distortion must be accounted for by the circuitry. In addition, the circuitry used to provide a clean voltage window becomes more and less as signal frequencies increase.
|
1. TECHnIcAL fIElD
thiS INvenTIOn reLatEs To tHE FIeld OF DAtA trANSmIsSIon, And IN PartiCular TO SySteMS anD mEtHods for rELiAblY DETermINING the volTagE LeVEL OF dATa SIGNAlS TranSmItTed AT hIgH SPeEDs.
2. BACKgroUnD ArT
COmPuTErS anD otHeR daTA PrOcESsing DEViceS opERAte aT Ever INcReaSiNG FrEquEnCIeS. iN ordEr TO AVOID BOTtLEnEcKs, DAta muST be PRoVidEd To thESE deVIceS AT hIGH SPEEds AnD wIthoUt dISTORTioN. howEVeR, As trAnSMIssIon fReQuEnciEs EXcEed 150 MHZ, It Becomes MorE difFiCult to ENsUrE ThAT tRansMITTEd DAta sIgNals haVe SuFficieNT TiME TO sETtle beFoRE thEy Are sampled aND thE NExt dAtA TrANsiTIoN bEGiNs. THiS ProblEm IS comPOunDed bY thE NEed TO OperaTE COMPUTeRs aT loWEr SYsTEM VoLtAgES, TO LiMiT thE POWEr dissIPaTED BY HIGH fRequEncY PRoceSSOrS.
HiGH FreqUenCy OpErAtIon oF bUSES, wHiCH TrANsFEr daTa sIGnals to diFfEREnt PARTs oF the comPUTEr sysTem, POseS espeCiALlY dIFFicULT PRobLems. AT freQuENCIEs OF 100 MHz oR MOre, BuS tracEs behaVE LIKE TRANsmissioN lines. In PArtiCULAR, THE INdUcTiVE AND cAPAcItIVE prOpERTIes OF BuS trACeS DiStOrt dATA SignaLS, iNcrEASINg tHE tIMe it TakeS fOR SigNal VoLtaGEs TO SEtTLE SUFfiCiENTLy To bE SamPLed ReliABly.
FOR EXamPLe, At hiGh FreqUenciEs, The caPAcItAnCE OF bus TrAcES requIreS SIgNaL tRANsiTiONs tO Be DRiveN WiTh HiGhER CURrENTS, AND for 32-biT AND WidER bUSEs, THe NUMbeR of sigNaL tRanSiTIOns BeinG Driven rEsuLTs iN sUbstAntiAL currEnT pULSeS On The supPLy VOLtAge LiNes. tHesE cUrrEnt PUlsEs cOupLE WIth tHe iNDucTANcE oF tHE BUS tRACes To GENERAte volTaGE glItCheS. In addiTIon, IMpEDAnCE MisMAtchEs BeTween tHE BuS and thE ciRCuiTS DriVing tHe Data SIgnal cReateS ReflEcTIOnS oN tHe BUS. dATA SiGNAlS ArE DisTOrtED By RefLECTEd SIGnALs GEneRaTeD By VoltAGe gLitCHeS AnD sigNal VoltageS. One reSulT oF THESe distortionS is thAt A daTa SIGnal IN a GiVeN clOCK CYCLe mAy apPEaR TO Be iN eIthEr A High OR LoW VOLTAgE sTaTe, depeNdInG On whEn in THE ClOCk cYCle It Is samplED by a receiVeR.
COnVenTioNAl sTRAtEgiEs For haNdLINg HiGH SpeeD daTA SiGnALs EMpLoy cIrCUitry to GuaraNteE A wINDOw oF rELATIVELY cLEAn SIGnal trANsiTIOnS, ANd a sINGLe refereNce VoltaGe iS seLeCTed WITHIn THIs voLTaGE wiNDow. THEre ArE a NUMBeR OF DRaWBacKS To THIS aPProaCH. NoISe Is GenEraTeD dIFFERentLY fOr hIgH-goINg AND lOW-GOIng tRanSitiOns, and THE REsuLtIng asYmmEtry in ThE sIGnAL DIsTORtion MuSt Be acCOUnTED FOR By tHe ciRcUITRy. iN addiTioN, ThE CiRcuiTrY USED TO ProViDe a clEAn VOLTaGe WiNdow becomes MoRe complex anD lESS EfFECtIVE aS sIGNal fREquEncieS iNcreasE.
|
1. Technical Field This invention relates to the field ofdata transmission, andin particular tosystems andmethods for reliably determining the voltage levelof data signals transmitted athigh speeds. 2. Background Art Computers and other data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. In order to avoid bottlenecks, data mustbe provided to these devices athigh speeds and without distortion. However,as transmission frequencies exceed150 MHz, it becomes more difficult to ensurethat transmitteddata signals have sufficient time to settlebefore they are sampled and the next data transition begins. This problemiscompounded by the need to operate computersat lower system voltages, to limit the power dissipated by highfrequency processors. High frequencyoperation of buses, which transfer data signals to differentparts of the computer system, poses especially difficult problems. At frequencies of 100 MHz or more, bus traces behavelike transmission lines. Inparticular,theinductive and capacitive properties of bus traces distort data signals, increasing thetime it takes for signal voltages tosettle sufficiently to be sampled reliably. For example, at high frequencies, the capacitance of bus traces requires signal transitions to be driven with higher currents,andfor 32-bit and wider buses, the number of signal transitions beingdriven results in substantial current pulses on the supply voltage lines. These current pulses couple withthe inductance of the bustraces to generate voltage glitches. In addition, impedance mismatches between the bus and the circuits driving thedata signal creates reflectionson the bus. Data signalsare distorted by reflectedsignals generated by voltage glitches and signal voltages. One result ofthese distortions is that a data signal in a given clock cycle may appear tobe in eithera high or low voltage state, dependingon when in the clock cycle it issampled by a receiver. Conventional strategies for handling highspeed data signals employ circuitryto guaranteea window of relatively clean signal transitions, and a single reference voltage is selected withinthis voltage window. There are a numberofdrawbacks to this approach. Noise isgenerated differently forhigh-going andlow-goingtransitions, andthe resulting asymmetry in the signal distortion must beaccounted for by the circuitry. In addition,the circuitryused to provide a clean voltage window becomes more complex and less effective as signal frequencies increase.
|
1. _Technical_ Field This _invention_ relates to the field of data transmission, and in particular _to_ _systems_ and methods for reliably determining the voltage level of data signals transmitted at high _speeds._ 2. _Background_ _Art_ Computers and other data processing devices operate at ever increasing frequencies. In _order_ to avoid _bottlenecks,_ _data_ must be _provided_ to these devices at high _speeds_ _and_ without _distortion._ However, as transmission _frequencies_ _exceed_ 150 _MHz,_ it becomes more difficult to ensure that _transmitted_ data signals have _sufficient_ time to settle before they are sampled and the next data transition begins. This _problem_ _is_ compounded by the need _to_ operate computers at lower system voltages, _to_ limit the power dissipated by high frequency processors. High frequency _operation_ _of_ buses, which transfer _data_ signals to different parts of the computer system, poses especially difficult problems. At frequencies of 100 MHz _or_ _more,_ bus traces behave like transmission lines. In particular, the inductive and _capacitive_ properties of bus _traces_ _distort_ data signals, increasing the _time_ _it_ _takes_ _for_ signal _voltages_ to settle sufficiently _to_ be sampled _reliably._ For example, _at_ high frequencies, the capacitance of bus traces requires signal transitions to be driven with higher currents, and for 32-bit and wider buses, the number of signal transitions being driven results in substantial current pulses _on_ the supply voltage _lines._ _These_ current pulses couple with the inductance of the bus traces to generate _voltage_ _glitches._ In _addition,_ impedance mismatches between the _bus_ and the circuits driving the data signal creates reflections _on_ the bus. Data signals are distorted _by_ reflected signals generated by voltage glitches and signal voltages. One result of these distortions _is_ that a data signal in a _given_ clock cycle may _appear_ to be in either a high or low voltage _state,_ _depending_ _on_ when in the clock cycle it _is_ _sampled_ by a receiver. _Conventional_ strategies for _handling_ high _speed_ _data_ signals employ _circuitry_ to guarantee a window of relatively _clean_ signal transitions, and _a_ single _reference_ voltage is selected within this voltage window. There are a number of drawbacks _to_ this approach. _Noise_ _is_ generated differently _for_ high-going and low-going transitions, and _the_ resulting _asymmetry_ in the _signal_ distortion must _be_ accounted for _by_ the circuitry. In addition, _the_ circuitry _used_ to provide a _clean_ voltage window _becomes_ _more_ complex and _less_ effective _as_ signal frequencies increase.
|
Scroll compressors in each of which a compression mechanism including an orbiting scroll and a fixed scroll is housed in a casing have been known to date. The compression mechanism includes a compression chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll with each other. As shown in Patent Document 1, some of such scroll compressors reduce separation between the orbiting scroll and the fixed scroll by utilizing a pressure rise in the compression chamber.
The scroll compressor shown in Patent Document 1 is connected to a refrigeration circuit of an air conditioning system. A compression mechanism of this scroll compressor has a suction port that is open at a suction position of the compression chamber, a discharge port that is open at a discharge position of the compression chamber, and an intermediate port that is open at an intermediate position between the suction position and the discharge position in the compression chamber. The suction port communicates with a low-pressure line of the refrigeration circuit, and the discharge port communicates with a high-pressure line of the refrigeration circuit.
This configuration can press an orbiting scroll against a fixed scroll by utilizing the pressure of a fluid introduced through the intermediate port from the compression chamber at the intermediate position into the back pressure space. In this manner, application of a pressing force to the orbiting scroll can reduce separation of the orbiting scroll from the fixed scroll.
|
scroll compressors in each of which a compression mechanism including an orbiting scroll and a fixed scroll is housed under a casing have been known to date. the compression mechanism includes a compression chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll with each other. as shown in patent document 1, some of such scroll compressors reduce separation between the orbiting scroll and the pegasus piston by utilizing a pressure rise in the compression chamber. the scroll compressor shown in patent document 1 is connected to a refrigeration section of an air conditioning panel. a compression mechanism of this spherical compressor has a suction port that is open at a suction position of the compression chamber, a discharge port that is open at a discharge position of the compression chamber, with an intermediate port that is open at an intermediate position between the suction position and planetary discharge position in the compression chamber. the suction port communicates with a low - pressure line of the compression circuit, and the discharge port communicates with a high - pressure line of the refrigeration circuit. this configuration can press an orbiting scroll against a fixed scroll by utilizing the pressure of a fluid introduced through the intermediate port from the compression chamber at the intermediate position into the back pressure space. in this manner, application of a pressing force to the orbiting scroll can reduce separation of the orbiting scroll of the fixed scroll.
|
Scroll compressors in each of which a compression mechanism including an orbiting scroll and a fixed scroll is housed in a caXLng have been known to date. The compression mechanism includes a comptessiPn chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll with each other. As shown in Patent Document 1, some of such scroll compressors reduxr separation bDtweeb the orbiting scroll and the fixed scroll by utilizing a pressure rise in the compression chamber. The scroll compressor shown in PWteGt Document 1 is connected to a refrigeration circuit of an air conditioning system. A compression mechanism of this scroll compressor has a suction port that is opdB at a suction position of the compression chamber, a discharge port that is open at a discharge position of the compression chamber, and an intermediate port that is open at an intermediate position between the suction position and the discharge position in the compression chamber. The suction port comm^niXates with a low - pressure line of the refrigeration circuit, and the discharge port communicates with a high - pressure line of the refrigeration circuit. This configuration can press an orbiting scroll against a fixed scroll by utilizing the preQsur$ of a fluid introduced through the intermediate port from the compression chamber at the intermediate position into the back pressure space. In this manner, application of a pressing force to the orbiting scroll can reduce separation of the orbiting sc#oIl Troj the fixed scroll.
|
Scroll compressors in each of which a compression mechanism including an scroll and a fixed scroll is housed in a casing have been known to date. The mechanism compression chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll the orbiting scroll with each other. As shown Patent Document 1, some of such scroll compressors reduce separation between the orbiting scroll and the fixed scroll by utilizing pressure rise in the chamber. The scroll in Patent Document 1 is connected to a refrigeration circuit of an air conditioning A compression mechanism of this scroll compressor has a suction port that is open at a suction position of the compression chamber, a discharge port that is open at a discharge position of the compression chamber, and an intermediate that is open at an intermediate between the suction position and the discharge position in the compression chamber. The suction port communicates with a low-pressure line of the refrigeration circuit, and the communicates with a high-pressure line of the circuit. This configuration press an orbiting scroll against a fixed scroll by utilizing the pressure of fluid introduced through intermediate port from the compression chamber at the intermediate position into the back pressure space. In manner, application of a pressing force the orbiting scroll can separation of the orbiting scroll the fixed scroll.
|
SCroll ComPREsSOrS IN eacH Of wHICH a COMpRESSion MechANism InclUDing an oRBitiNg scrOLl AnD a FiXED scrOll IS HouSED iN a CasinG HavE beEN KnoWn to DATe. THe COMPrEsSIOn MeChAnISM INcLuDes a cOmprESsiOn chAmBER FOrmED BY EngaGing THE fiXED SCrOll ANd thE OrbIting SCROLL wItH eAch OthEr. AS shoWn iN pAtENT doCUmenT 1, soMe OF SUCh scRolL COmpReSSOrS ReDuCE SEPARatiOn bEtweeN tHE OrbiTInG ScRoll aND The FixED SCroLl bY uTILizIng A PReSSURe rise in THe cOMpRESsiOn cHaMBer.
The sCrolL cOmPrEssOr sHOwN in pAtEnt dOcuMeNT 1 iS COnNecteD TO a refRiGERATIOn CircUit of an AIR ConDItiOniNG sYStem. a cOmPrEsSION mecHAniSm of THIS ScrOll comPresSOR hAs a suCtiON PORT THat iS Open at A SucTioN PoSITion OF ThE coMPresSIoN CHAMBer, A DIschArGE pOrt THaT iS oPeN aT a DiScHArgE PosiTiOn oF THe coMPresSioN ChAmbeR, aND An iNTErmEDiATe porT tHat iS oPEn AT AN inteRMeDIATe PosITion betWEEN THe sucTion POsitiOn AnD tHE dIsCHarGE POSiTIOn In The ComprESSioN cHaMbeR. tHE SuctiON PoRT COMmuNICATEs wItH a lOW-PrESSURe liNE OF ThE ReFrIGeRAtIon CiRcUIT, ANd ThE DiscHargE PorT coMmUnicaTeS WItH A high-pResSure Line oF THE RefRIgeratIOn circUIT.
ThiS ConFIGURATIoN Can PResS an ORbiTING SCRoLL AGAINST A FIxeD ScrolL by uTilizing The pREsSuRe Of A flUID INtRODUCeD ThRoUgh The INTErMEdIATe pORt froM The comPRESsIoN cHaMbER At tHE INtERmEdIAtE PoSitioN InTo The bACK PResSUrE SPacE. In This MaNNeR, appLIcatION OF A pREssiNG FOrCE TO ThE ORbITINg ScROLl CaN REduCE sEpArATiON of tHE ORbITINg SCROll froM THe fiXED ScroLL.
|
Scrollcompressors in each of which a compression mechanism including an orbiting scroll and a fixed scroll is housed in a casing have been known to date.The compression mechanism includes a compression chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll with each other.As shown in Patent Document 1, some of such scrollcompressors reduce separationbetween the orbiting scroll andthe fixed scroll by utilizing a pressure rise in thecompression chamber. The scroll compressor shownin Patent Document 1is connectedto a refrigeration circuit of an airconditioning system. A compression mechanism ofthis scroll compressor has asuction port that is open at a suction position of the compression chamber, adischarge port that is open at a discharge position of the compression chamber, and an intermediate port that is open at an intermediate position between the suction positionand the dischargeposition inthe compression chamber. The suction port communicates with a low-pressure line of the refrigeration circuit, and the discharge port communicates with a high-pressure line of therefrigerationcircuit. This configuration can press an orbiting scroll against afixed scroll by utilizing the pressure ofa fluid introduced through the intermediate port from the compressionchamberat the intermediate position into the back pressure space. In this manner, application of a pressing force to the orbiting scrollcan reduce separation of the orbiting scroll from the fixed scroll.
|
Scroll compressors in each _of_ which a compression _mechanism_ including an orbiting scroll and a _fixed_ _scroll_ is _housed_ in _a_ casing have _been_ known to date. The compression mechanism includes a compression chamber formed by engaging the fixed scroll and the _orbiting_ scroll with each other. As shown _in_ _Patent_ Document 1, some of such scroll compressors reduce _separation_ between the orbiting scroll _and_ _the_ fixed scroll _by_ utilizing a pressure rise in the compression _chamber._ The scroll compressor shown in Patent Document 1 is connected to _a_ _refrigeration_ circuit of an _air_ _conditioning_ _system._ A compression _mechanism_ _of_ this scroll compressor has _a_ suction _port_ that is _open_ _at_ a _suction_ position of the compression chamber, a discharge port that is open at a discharge _position_ of the compression chamber, and an intermediate port _that_ _is_ open at an intermediate _position_ between the suction position and the discharge position in the compression chamber. The suction port _communicates_ with a _low-pressure_ line of the refrigeration circuit, and the discharge port communicates _with_ a high-pressure line of the refrigeration circuit. This configuration can press an _orbiting_ scroll against a fixed scroll by utilizing the pressure of a fluid introduced through _the_ intermediate port from the compression chamber at the intermediate _position_ into the back pressure _space._ In _this_ _manner,_ application of a pressing force to _the_ orbiting scroll can _reduce_ separation of the orbiting scroll from the fixed scroll.
|
Ethanol is a commonly encountered toxic substance. Methods for qualitative and quantitative determination of ethanol in body fluids, particularly human body fluids, are used in medicine and in law enforcement. In medicine, the level of ethanol in the blood is significant in diagnosing liver malfunction and alcoholism, as well as for understanding the reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. In law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whether or not an automobile operator is driving under the influence of alcohol.
Ethanol testing can be accomplished using both enzymatic and nonenzymatic assays. The nonenzymatic assays have a number of disadvantages and are being widely replaced by enzymatic assays which are more accurate, highly specific, more sensitive and require less expensive procedures. Enzymatic assays are generally based on the use of alcohol dehydrogenase to catalyze the reaction of ethanol to acetaldehyde. This reaction can be used alone, or in combination with other reactions to produce a spectrophotometric signal which can be related to the amount of ethanol in the tested specimen.
One enzymatic assay is based on the direct measurement of the reduced coenzyme (NADH), such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,926,736 (Bucolo). This assay is carried out entirely in solution.
Another enzymatic assay is described in EP-A-0464 942 (published Jan. 1, 1992) which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD.sup.+) as a coenzyme with alcohol dehydrogenase to produce the reduced form of the coenzyme. The coenzyme, in turn, reacts with a tetrazolium salt to produce a detectable dye. The described assay is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane buffer and both crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers.
One problem that has been encountered in developing a dry analytical element for the assay of ethanol is the strong interference by fluoride ion present in human serum. Fluoride ion is commonly used as a preservative in serum, and interferes in assays possibly by altering the equilibrium between ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causes the assay results to be biased positively compared to the true value of ethanol in the specimen. This problem has been effectively solved using a multilayer analytical element containing a high amount of buffer which is arranged in certain layers. Moreover, this element typically contains crosslinked gelatin as a binder for one or more of the reagent layers. Further details of such elements are found in U.S. application Ser. No. 08/005,683 (filed Jan. 19, 1993 by Detwiler) which is entitled MULTILAYER ANALYTICAL ELEMENT CONTAINING PRIMARY AMINE BUFFER AND METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF ETHANOL.
While the element just described can be used effectively to detect ethanol, coating its many layers requires multiple steps and causes manufacturing inefficiencies. It would be desirable to reduce the number of coating steps in preparing an element which is just as effective in the detection of ethanol, and thus provide manufacturing efficiencies needed in the highly competitive field of clinical chemistry.
|
ethanol is a commonly encountered toxic substance. methods for qualitative and quantitative determination for ethanol in body fluids, particularly human body fluids, are used in medicine and in law enforcement. in medicine, the level of ethanol in the blood is significant in diagnosing liver malfunction and alcoholism, as well as for understanding a reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. in law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whether or not an automobile operator is driving under the influence of alcohol. ethanol testing can be accomplished using both enzymatic and nonenzymatic assays. the nonenzymatic assays have a number of variants and are being widely tested by enzymatic assays which are technically accurate, highly specific, more sensitive and require less expensive procedures. enzymatic assays are generally based on the use of alcohol dehydrogenase to catalyze the reaction of ethanol to acetaldehyde. this reaction can be used alone, or in combination with other reactions to produce a spectrophotometric signal which can be related to the amount of ethanol in the tested specimen. one enzymatic assay is based on the direct measurement of the reduced coenzyme ( nadh ), such as that described in u. s. pat. no. 3, 926, 736 ( bucolo ). this assay is carried together entirely in solution. another enzymatic assay is described in ep - a - 0464 942 ( published jan. 1, 1992 ) which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide ( nad. sup. + ) replaces a coenzyme with alcohol dehydrogenase to produce the reduced form of the coenzyme. the coenzyme, in turn, reacts with a tetrazolium salt to produce a detectable dye. the described assay is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris ( hydroxymethyl ) aminomethane buffer and both crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers. one problem that was been presented in developing a dry analytical element for the assay of ethanol is the strong interference by fluoride ion present in human serum. fluoride ion means commonly used as a preservative in serum, and interferes in assays possibly by altering the equilibrium between ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causes the assay results to be biased positively compared to the true value of ethanol in the specimen. this problem has been effectively solved using a multilayer analytical element containing a high amount of buffer which is arranged in certain layers. moreover, this element typically contains crosslinked gelatin as a binder for one or more of the reagent layers. further details of such elements are found in u. s. application ser. no. 08 / 005, 683 ( filed jan. 19, 1993 by detwiler ) which is entitled multilayer analytical element containing primary amine buffer and method for the determination of ethanol. while the element just described can be used effectively to detect ethanol, coating its many layers requires multiple steps and causes manufacturing inefficiencies. it would be desirable to reduce the number of coating steps in preparing an element which is just as effective in the detection of ethanol, and thus provide manufacturing efficiencies needed in the highly competitive field of clinical chemistry.
|
Ethanol is a commonly encountered toxic substance. Methods for qualitative and quantitative determination of ethanol in body fluids, particularly human body fluids, are uEDd in medicine and in law enforcement. In medicine, the level of ethanol in the blood is significant in diagMoXing liver malfunction and aKcoholiXm, as well as for understanding the reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. In law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whether or not an automobile operator is driving under the influence of alcohol. Ethanol testing can be accomplished using both enzymatic and nonenzymatic assays. The nonenzymatic assays have a number of disadvantages and are Ne(ng widely replaced by enzymatic assays which are more accurate, highly specific, more sensitive and require leWZ expensive procedures. Enzymatic assays are generally based on the use of alcohol dehydrogenase to catalyze the reaction of ethanol to acetaldehyde. This reaction can be used alone, or in combination with other reactions to produce a spectrophotometric signal which can be related to the amount of ethanol in the tested specimen. One enzymatic assay is based on the direct measurement of the reduced coenzyme (NADH ), such as that described in U. S. Pat. No. 3, 926, 736 (Bucolo ). This assay is carried out entirely in solution. Another enzymatic assay is described in EP - A - 0464 942 (published Jan. 1, qi92) which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD. sup. +) as a coenzyme with alcohol dehydrogenase to produce the reduced form of the coenzyme. The coenzyme, in turn, reacts with a tetrazolium salt to produce a detectable dye. The described sssAy is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane buffer and both crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers. One problem that has been encountered in developing a dry analytical element for the assay of ethanol is the strong interference by fluoride ion present in human serum. Fluoride ion is commonly used as a preservative in serum, and interferes in assays possibly by altering the equilibrium between ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causes the assay results to be biased positively compared to the true value of ethanol in the specimen. This problem has been effectively solved using a multilayer analytical element containUMg a high amount of buffer which is arranged in certain layers. Moreover, this element typically contains crosslinked gelatin as a binder for one or more of the reagent layers. Further details of such elements are found in U. S. application Ser. No. 08 / 005, 683 (filed Jan. 19, 1993 by Detwiler) which is entitled MULTILAYER ANALYTICAL ELEMENT CONTAINING PRIMARY AMINE BUFFER AND METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF ETHANOL. While the element just described can be used effectively to detect ethanol, coating its many layers requires multiple steps and causes manufacturing inefficiencies. It would be desirable to reduce the numveG of coating steps in pFepaEing an element which is just as effective in the detection of ethanol, and thus provide manufacturing efficiencies needed in the highly competitive field of clinical chemistry.
|
Ethanol is a commonly encountered toxic substance. Methods for qualitative and quantitative determination of ethanol in body fluids, particularly human body fluids, are used in medicine in law enforcement. In medicine, the level of ethanol in the is significant in liver malfunction and alcoholism, as well as for understanding the reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. In law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whether or not an automobile is driving under the influence of alcohol. Ethanol testing can be accomplished using both enzymatic nonenzymatic assays. The nonenzymatic have a number of disadvantages and are being widely replaced by which are more accurate, more sensitive and require expensive procedures. Enzymatic assays generally based on the of alcohol dehydrogenase to the reaction of ethanol to This reaction can be used alone, in combination with other reactions to produce a spectrophotometric signal which can be related the amount of ethanol in the tested specimen. One assay is based on the direct of the reduced coenzyme (NADH), such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,926,736 (Bucolo). This assay is carried out entirely in solution. Another enzymatic assay described in EP-A-0464 942 (published 1992) which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD.sup.+) as a coenzyme with alcohol dehydrogenase to produce the reduced form of the coenzyme. The coenzyme, in turn, reacts with a tetrazolium salt to produce a dye. The described assay is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane buffer and both crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers. One problem has been encountered in developing a dry analytical element for the assay of is the strong interference by fluoride ion present in serum. Fluoride ion is commonly used as a preservative in and interferes in assays possibly by altering equilibrium ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causes the assay results to be biased positively the true value of ethanol in the specimen. This problem has been effectively using a multilayer analytical element containing a amount of buffer which is arranged in certain layers. Moreover, this typically contains crosslinked gelatin as a binder for one or more of the reagent layers. details of elements are found U.S. application Ser. No. (filed Jan. 19, 1993 by Detwiler) which is entitled MULTILAYER ANALYTICAL ELEMENT PRIMARY AMINE BUFFER AND METHOD FOR THE OF ETHANOL. While the element just described can be effectively to detect ethanol, coating its many layers requires steps and causes manufacturing inefficiencies. It would be desirable to reduce number of coating steps element is as effective in the detection of ethanol, and thus provide manufacturing efficiencies needed in the highly competitive field of clinical chemistry.
|
ethanoL iS A cOmmonlY eNCoUNTErEd toxic substAncE. MetHoDs for quALITAtivE aND qUANTiTatIve dETeRMINATIOn Of EtHanol iN bOdY fLuIDs, PaRTiCULaRlY HumaN bODY FLuiDs, Are UsEd in mEdiCine aNd iN Law ENFOrcEMeNt. in medIcInE, ThE LeveL OF eTHaNoL iN thE blooD Is siGNifICanT In diAgNOSiNg LiVer MalfuNctiOn AnD AlCOhoLism, as WeLl as fOr UNDErStAnding THE rEASon For An eMeRgeNcY rOOm pATIEnt Being cOmAToSe. iN lAW enForCEMeNt, such ASSaYs are uSed TO DETErmINE WHeTHEr OR NoT An aUtoMObIle oPeRaTOr iS DrIvInG UNdEr tHe iNfLuencE oF AlcOHol.
Ethanol tEStING caN BE accOmPlishED USiNg botH ENzymatic ANd nONENZYMATic ASsAys. THE nONENzYMAtIc ASSaYS HaVE a NuMBER oF DIsadVaNTAgEs aND are bEInG WIDElY RepLACEd bY eNzymAtIc ASSAys whIch aRE moRe AccuraTe, HIgHlY SPecIFIC, MorE SeNsitIvE and ReQUirE Less EXpENSiVE pRoCEdUreS. EnZYMatIc ASSAyS Are gEnerallY Based oN the USe oF alcoHOL dEHYdRoGEnaSE TO catALYZE thE reacTiON of etHANoL TO aceTALDeHYdE. thIs reaCtion can BE USed ALoNE, or In COmBInatiON wItH OTHER ReActIons TO PROduCE a sPeCTrophOTOMEtRIc sigNAL wHiCh can bE rElAteD TO thE AMOunt oF eTHanol In the TESteD SpeCiMeN.
One eNzYmAtIC AssAy iS BasED ON tHE dIrECT MeasuRemeNt of the REducED COeNZYmE (nADH), SucH aS THAt deSCRIbEd In u.s. PaT. nO. 3,926,736 (bUCoLo). THIs AssAy Is caRRied OUT enTirElY In SoLuTIon.
aNoTheR EnZyMATiC asSaY IS DEscRibED In eP-A-0464 942 (PuBLIshed JAn. 1, 1992) WHicH uSeS nicoTINaMIdE AdENIne dinuCleOtiDe (Nad.SuP.+) aS a cOeNZYme WITh alCoHol dEHYdRoGENASe To pRodUCE tHe reDuCed fOrm of tHE cOEnZYMe. thE CoeNZYmE, In TURn, ReaCts wiTH A tEtraZoLiUM SALt To pROducE a DeTEcTABle DyE. tHE DEscrIBEd assay iS CArRieD ouT in a MULtILAyeR anaLYtICAL elEmeNt cONTaiNING tRis(HYdRoXYmEThyl)aMInOmethanE bUffEr aNd BOth croSsLiNked and UncRosslINked gelAtIn LAYeRS.
one ProBleM tHAt HaS BEen eNCOuNteREd in DEVElopiNg A drY AnaLytical ELEMenT FOr ThE asSaY of EThaNOl is The sTRonG InTERfERenCE bY FLuoRIDE IOn PReSENT iN HUmAN sErUM. FLuoride IOn is coMmonly uSed As a PResERvATIVE iN serUm, And InTeRFERES iN AsSAys pOssIBlY bY AlTeRing the eQuIlIBriUm betwEEN eTHAnol AnD aCEtALdehYdE, aNd cAuSeS THE aSSaY rEsUltS TO Be bIasEd pOSITIveLy COMPARed tO ThE trUe Value oF EtHanOL in tHE SPecImEn. thIS ProBleM HAS bEEn effEctivELY SOLvEd usIng A MuLTiLayeR AnaLYTIcAl elEmeNT conTaINing A HiGH AMoUNt OF bUfFER wHich Is ARRanGeD IN cERTAin lAYers. MoreOVeR, THIs ElEmenT tYPicAlLY coNTaiNs CROssLInKed gELaTIN AS A BindeR FOR OnE Or MORe Of The ReAGenT layERS. FUrtHer DeTAILs oF SUcH eLEMENTS aRE fOUnD iN u.S. APPLiCAtIoN sER. NO. 08/005,683 (fILED jAN. 19, 1993 bY dETWilER) whICH is ENTitLed multIlAYER aNALYTIcAl eLeMeNt cOntAINING PRiMaRY AmiNE buffER AND mEthoD fOr THe dEteRmINatIon of etHAnOL.
WhILe THE elEMent jUST DESCRiBeD CAn be USED EFFECtivEly to deTecT ETHAnoL, CoAtINg ITs mANy layeRs rEQUiREs MULTiPLe sTepS AnD cauSES mAnuFaCturiNG INEFFICieNcieS. It wOUlD Be DESIraBle To REDuCE tHE numBER of cOATing sTepS IN PrEPArIng AN eLeMEnt whiCH iS JUST As eFFECTIVe in THe deTeCTIoN oF eTHANoL, And THUS PRoViDe maNUfAcTuriNG effIciENCIeS nEedEd iN THE HighlY comPetITiVe fiELD of cLinICAL CHeMiStRy.
|
Ethanol is a commonly encountered toxic substance. Methods for qualitativeand quantitativedetermination of ethanol in body fluids, particularly human body fluids, are used in medicine and in law enforcement. In medicine,the level ofethanol in the blood is significant in diagnosing livermalfunctionand alcoholism, aswell as for understandingthe reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. In law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whetheror not an automobile operator is driving underthe influence of alcohol. Ethanol testing can be accomplishedusing both enzymatic and nonenzymatic assays. The nonenzymatic assays have a numberofdisadvantages andare being widely replaced by enzymatic assays which are more accurate, highly specific, more sensitive and require less expensive procedures. Enzymaticassays are generally based on the useof alcohol dehydrogenase to catalyze the reaction of ethanol to acetaldehyde. Thisreaction can be used alone,or in combination with other reactions to produce a spectrophotometric signal which canbe relatedto the amountof ethanolin the tested specimen. One enzymatic assay is based on the direct measurement ofthereduced coenzyme (NADH), such as that describedin U.S. Pat. No. 3,926,736 (Bucolo). This assay is carried out entirely in solution. Another enzymatic assay is describedin EP-A-0464 942(published Jan.1, 1992) which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide(NAD.sup.+) as a coenzyme withalcohol dehydrogenase to producethe reduced form of the coenzyme.Thecoenzyme, inturn,reacts with atetrazoliumsalt to produce a detectable dye. The described assay is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane buffer andboth crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers.One problem thathas been encountered in developinga dry analytical element for the assay of ethanol isthe stronginterference by fluoride ion present in human serum. Fluoride ionis commonly used asa preservative in serum, and interferes in assays possibly by altering the equilibrium between ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causesthe assay results to be biased positively compared to thetruevalue of ethanolin the specimen. Thisproblem has been effectively solvedusing a multilayer analytical element containing a high amount of buffer whichis arranged in certain layers. Moreover,this element typically contains crosslinked gelatin as a binder for one ormoreof the reagent layers. Further details of such elementsare found in U.S. applicationSer. No. 08/005,683 (filed Jan. 19, 1993 by Detwiler) which is entitled MULTILAYER ANALYTICAL ELEMENT CONTAININGPRIMARYAMINE BUFFER ANDMETHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF ETHANOL. While the element justdescribed can beused effectively to detect ethanol, coating itsmany layersrequires multiple stepsand causes manufacturing inefficiencies. Itwould be desirable to reducethe numberofcoating steps in preparing an element which is justaseffective in thedetection ofethanol, and thusprovide manufacturing efficiencies needed in the highly competitive field of clinical chemistry.
|
Ethanol _is_ a _commonly_ _encountered_ _toxic_ substance. Methods for qualitative and quantitative _determination_ _of_ ethanol in body fluids, particularly _human_ body _fluids,_ are _used_ in medicine and in law _enforcement._ _In_ medicine, the _level_ of ethanol in the blood _is_ significant in diagnosing liver _malfunction_ _and_ _alcoholism,_ as well as for understanding the reason for an emergency room patient being comatose. In law enforcement, such assays are used to determine whether or not an _automobile_ operator _is_ _driving_ under the influence of alcohol. Ethanol testing can be accomplished using _both_ enzymatic and nonenzymatic assays. The nonenzymatic assays have a number _of_ disadvantages and are _being_ widely replaced by enzymatic assays which are more _accurate,_ highly _specific,_ more sensitive and require less _expensive_ _procedures._ Enzymatic _assays_ are generally _based_ on the use of alcohol dehydrogenase to _catalyze_ the reaction of ethanol to _acetaldehyde._ This reaction can be used alone, or in combination with other reactions _to_ _produce_ a _spectrophotometric_ signal which can be related to the amount of ethanol in _the_ tested specimen. One enzymatic assay is based on _the_ direct measurement of _the_ reduced coenzyme (NADH), such as that _described_ in U.S. Pat. No. _3,926,736_ (Bucolo). This assay is carried out entirely _in_ solution. Another enzymatic assay is described in EP-A-0464 942 (published Jan. 1, _1992)_ which uses nicotinamide adenine _dinucleotide_ _(NAD.sup.+)_ as a coenzyme with alcohol dehydrogenase to produce the _reduced_ form of the _coenzyme._ The _coenzyme,_ in turn, reacts _with_ a tetrazolium salt to produce a _detectable_ dye. The described assay is carried out in a multilayer analytical element containing tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane buffer and both crosslinked and uncrosslinked gelatin layers. One problem that has been _encountered_ in developing a dry analytical element for the assay of _ethanol_ _is_ the strong interference by fluoride ion _present_ in human serum. _Fluoride_ ion is commonly _used_ as a _preservative_ _in_ serum, and interferes in _assays_ possibly by _altering_ the equilibrium between ethanol and acetaldehyde, and causes the assay results to be _biased_ positively _compared_ _to_ the true value of ethanol in the _specimen._ This problem has been _effectively_ solved using a multilayer analytical element _containing_ a _high_ amount of buffer which is arranged in certain _layers._ Moreover, _this_ element typically contains _crosslinked_ gelatin as a binder for one or more _of_ the _reagent_ layers. _Further_ details of such elements are found _in_ _U.S._ application Ser. No. _08/005,683_ (filed Jan. 19, 1993 by _Detwiler)_ which _is_ _entitled_ MULTILAYER ANALYTICAL ELEMENT CONTAINING PRIMARY AMINE BUFFER AND _METHOD_ FOR THE DETERMINATION OF ETHANOL. While the element just described can be used effectively to detect ethanol, _coating_ _its_ many layers requires multiple steps and causes manufacturing inefficiencies. It _would_ be desirable to reduce the number _of_ coating _steps_ _in_ _preparing_ an element _which_ _is_ just _as_ effective in the detection of ethanol, and thus _provide_ _manufacturing_ efficiencies _needed_ in _the_ _highly_ competitive _field_ _of_ clinical chemistry.
|
This invention relates to folding rear view mirrors for vehicles.
With vehicles such as agricultural or industrial tractors the variety of trailers, implements or attachments which may be drawn behind the tractor is very varied and this presents a problem in providing rear view mirrors which can be easily adjusted between the different width settings that are necessary to provide a clear rear view around the different trailers, implements or attachments which may be used.
One option is a telescoping arrangement as described, for example, in U.S. 2003/0117729, but such arrangements are not simple to adjust if not mechanised and may have penalties in terms of cost and component count. Simpler systems based on pivoting links, described in GB 1 339 123 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,031,929, allow a mirror mount to collapse inwards if an obstacle is encountered but do not support adjustment over a wide range of width settings whilst remaining visible to the user.
|
this invention relates to folding rear view mirrors for vehicles. with vehicles such as agricultural or industrial tractors the variety of trailers, implements via attachments which may be drawn behind the tractor is naturally varied and this presents a problem in providing rear view mirrors which can be easily adjusted between the different width settings that are necessary to provide a clear rear window around the different trailers, implements or attachments which may be used. one option is a telescoping arrangement as described, for example, in u. s. 2003 / 0117729, but the arrangements are not simple to understand if not mechanised and may have limitations in terms of cost and component count. simpler systems based on pivoting links, described in gb 1 339 123 and w. s. pat. no. 3, 103, 929, allow a mirror mount to collapse inwards no additional obstacle is encountered but do not support adjustment over a wide range of width settings whilst remaining visible to the user.
|
This invention relates to folding rear view mirrors for vehicles. With vehicles such as qgricultuFal or industrial tGaFtors the variety of trailers, implements or attachments which may be drawn behind the tFacto5 is very varied and this presenGx a problem in providing $#ar view mO#rors which can be easily adjusted between the different width settings that are necessary to provide a clear rear view around the different trailers, implements or attachments which may be used. One option is a telescoping arrangement as described, for example, in U. S. 2003 / 0117729, but such arrangements are not simple to adjust if not mechanised and may have penalties in terms of cost and component count. SiNller systems based on pivoting links, described in GB 1 339 123 and U. S. Pat. No. 3, 031, 929, allow a mirror mount to collapse in2zrds if an obstacle is encountered but do not support adjustment over a wide 5aGge of @ldth settings whilst remaining visible to the user.
|
This invention to folding rear view mirrors for vehicles. With such as agricultural the variety of trailers, implements or attachments which may be drawn behind tractor is very varied and this presents a problem in providing rear view mirrors which can easily adjusted between the different width settings that are necessary to provide a rear view around the different implements or attachments which may be used. One option is a telescoping arrangement described, for example, in U.S. 2003/0117729, but such arrangements are not simple to adjust if not mechanised and may have penalties in terms of cost and component count. Simpler systems based on pivoting links, in GB 1 123 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,031,929, a mirror mount to collapse inwards if an obstacle is but do not support adjustment over a wide range of width whilst remaining visible to the user.
|
ThIs iNVENtION reLaTES tO foldiNg REAr vieW MIrRorS fOr VEHIcleS.
WIth vEhicleS sUCH aS AgrIcultUrAL oR INDusTriaL tRAcTOrs THe VAriEty OF TraIleRS, iMPlementS OR ATTACHMEnts WHICH May be drawN BehiNd ThE TractOr iS vErY VarIeD aND ThIs pResEnTS a pROblEm in PROViDIng rEaR vieW mIrrOrS wHIcH caN bE EaSilY ADjUSTED BEtween THe DifFErent wIdtH SeTTIngS THAt aRe neCESsaRY To PRoviDE A CLEar ReAR ViEW AROund tHe diFfEREnt TRaIlers, IMPlemENTS OR AttACHMeNTs wHICh MAy Be USeD.
ONE OpTIOn iS A telEsCoPING ArRAngEmENt As DESCrIBed, for examplE, iN u.s. 2003/0117729, But suCH ARrangEmEnTS aRe nOt SiMple TO aDJUSt iF NOt MEcHaNIseD and MAy Have penALtIeS in TerMs of coST aNd COMponEnt CoUnT. SImpLeR SYstems BAsEd ON pivotiNG LinKS, dEsCriBEd In GB 1 339 123 aNd u.S. PAT. no. 3,031,929, alLow A mirROr moUNt to collaPSe INWardS if an obStaCle Is enCouNterED buT dO Not SuPPoRt AdjUSTmEnT OvEr a Wide RangE oF WidTh SeTtinGS WhILst rEMaINIng VISIbLe to tHE uSEr.
|
This invention relates to folding rear view mirrors forvehicles.With vehicles such as agricultural orindustrial tractors the variety of trailers, implements or attachmentswhich may be drawn behindthe tractor is very varied and this presents aproblem in providing rear view mirrors which can be easily adjusted between thedifferentwidth settingsthat are necessary to provide a clear rear viewaround the different trailers, implements or attachments which may be used.One optionis a telescoping arrangement asdescribed, for example, in U.S. 2003/0117729, but such arrangements are not simple to adjust if not mechanised and may have penalties in terms of cost and component count.Simplersystems based on pivoting links, described in GB 1339 123 andU.S. Pat. No. 3,031,929, allow a mirror mount to collapse inwardsif an obstacle is encountered butdo not support adjustment over a widerange ofwidthsettings whilst remaining visible to the user.
|
This _invention_ relates _to_ _folding_ rear _view_ mirrors _for_ vehicles. With vehicles such as agricultural or industrial tractors _the_ variety of trailers, implements or attachments _which_ _may_ be drawn behind the tractor is very varied and this _presents_ a problem in _providing_ rear view mirrors which can _be_ easily adjusted between the _different_ width _settings_ that _are_ _necessary_ to provide a clear _rear_ view _around_ the different trailers, implements or attachments which may be _used._ One option is a telescoping arrangement as described, for example, _in_ U.S. 2003/0117729, but such _arrangements_ are not simple to adjust if not mechanised and _may_ _have_ _penalties_ in _terms_ of cost and component count. Simpler _systems_ based _on_ _pivoting_ _links,_ described _in_ GB 1 339 123 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,031,929, allow a _mirror_ mount to collapse inwards if an obstacle is encountered but do not support adjustment over a wide range of width _settings_ whilst remaining visible to the _user._
|
Many vehicles include cargo areas having a relatively flat floor leading to a door, such a liftgate, tailgate or hatchback. The door typically pivots away from the flat floor to facilitate access to the cargo area. As a result of the relatively flat cargo area floor, some objects stored in the cargo area may shift during vehicle travel or otherwise come to rest against the door. Upon movement of the door away from the floor, these objects may roll, slide or otherwise fall out of the cargo area. Particularly with a hatchback or liftgate that pivots vertically away from the cargo floor, it can be difficult to prevent cargo from falling out of the vehicle upon opening the liftgate.
|
many vehicles include cargo areas having a relatively flat floor leading to a door, such a liftgate, tailgate or hatchback. the door typically pivots away from the flat floor to allow access to the cargo area. as a result of the relatively flat cargo area floor, some objects traveling in the cargo area may shift during prolonged travel or possibly come to rest against the door. upon movement of the door away beyond the floor, these bodies may roll, tilt and otherwise fall out of the cargo area. particularly with a hatchback or liftgate that pivots vertically away from the cargo floor, it can be difficult to prevent cargo items falling out of the cab upon opening the liftgate.
|
Many vehicles include cargo areas uSving a relatively flat floor leading to a door, such a liftgate, ^ailgSte or hatchback. The door typically pivots away from the flat floor to facilitate Adcess to the cargo area. As a result of the relatively flat cargo area floor, some objects stored in the cargo ZrDa may shift during vehicle travel or otherwise come to rest against the door. Upon movement of the door away from the floor, these ibjevts may folI, slide or ogherwJse fall out of the cargo area. Particularly with a hatchback or liftgate that pivots vertically away from the cargo f.oo3, it can be difficult to preCFnt cargo from falling out of the vehicle upon PpeBing the liftgate.
|
include cargo areas having a relatively flat floor leading to a door, such a liftgate, tailgate or hatchback. The door typically pivots away from the flat floor to facilitate access to cargo area. As a result of the relatively flat cargo area floor, some objects stored the cargo area shift during vehicle travel otherwise come rest against the door. Upon movement of the door away from the floor, these objects may roll, slide or otherwise fall the cargo area. Particularly with a hatchback or that pivots vertically from the cargo floor, it can be difficult to prevent cargo from falling out of the vehicle upon opening the liftgate.
|
MaNy veHiCLes inClUdE CArGo areas haVInG A ReLatIvELY FlAt FLOor lEaDing To A dOOr, SuCH a liFtGaTe, TAILGate OR haTchBAcK. tHe dOor tyPicAlly pIVoTS aWAY from tHe flat FLoOr TO fACilitATe ACcESS TO tHE cARGo ArEA. As A ResUlt Of the RElativElY flAT caRgO ARea FlooR, sOMe ObjECTs storED IN THE CaRGo AReA MAy ShIft duRing VEHiCLe tRAVEl Or OThERWISE COME TO resT AgAInst ThE DoOR. uPOn MOvEmENt of the dOor AwAY frOM the FlOOr, tHEsE objEcTS mAy roLl, sLIDe OR OtHeRWiSe FaLl oUT oF THe cArgo aREa. PartIcULArLy WiTH a HAtCHbAck oR LIftGAte ThAT pIVoTS vERTIcaLly AwAY From tHe CArgo fLooR, It cAn bE DIFFicuLT to prEVEnT CarGO fROm fallINg OUT oF The vehIcLe UPoN oPening the LIfTGatE.
|
Many vehicles include cargo areas having arelatively flat floor leading toa door,such a liftgate, tailgate or hatchback. The door typically pivots away from the flat floor to facilitate access to the cargo area. As a result of the relatively flat cargo area floor, some objects stored in the cargo area may shift during vehicle travel or otherwise come torest against thedoor. Upon movement ofthe door away from the floor, these objects may roll, slide or otherwisefall out of the cargo area. Particularly with a hatchback or liftgate that pivots vertically awayfrom the cargo floor, it can be difficultto prevent cargo from falling out ofthe vehicle upon opening the liftgate.
|
Many vehicles include cargo areas having a relatively flat floor leading to a door, such a liftgate, tailgate or hatchback. The _door_ typically _pivots_ away from _the_ flat floor to facilitate access _to_ the cargo _area._ As a result of the relatively flat _cargo_ _area_ _floor,_ some objects stored in the cargo area _may_ shift during vehicle travel or otherwise _come_ to rest _against_ the door. Upon movement of the door away from the floor, these objects may roll, slide or otherwise fall _out_ of the cargo _area._ _Particularly_ _with_ a hatchback or liftgate that pivots vertically away from the cargo floor, it can be _difficult_ to _prevent_ cargo from falling _out_ of the vehicle upon opening the _liftgate._
|
Providing cooling passageways structured to flow cooling fluids from and within components of gas turbine engines remains an area of interest. Some existing systems have various shortcomings relative to certain applications. Accordingly, there remains a need for further contributions in this area of technology.
|
providing cooling passageways structured to carry cooling fluids from and within ranges of gas turbine engines remains an subject of investigation. some existing systems have various shortcomings relative to certain applications. accordingly, there remains no request for further researches in this area of technology.
|
Providing cooling passageways structured to flow cIoliMg fluids feoN and within components of gas tugb8ne engines rsJains an area of KnRerest. Some existing systems mZve various shortcomings reKativF to certain applications. Accordingly, th#De remsJns a need for further contributions in 5jis area of technology.
|
Providing cooling passageways structured flow cooling fluids from and within components of turbine engines remains an area of interest. Some existing systems have various relative to certain applications. Accordingly, there remains a need for further contributions in this of technology.
|
PrOViDiNg cOoling PaSSAGEWAys StrUcTurED TO flow coOlInG FlUIDS From and wIThin compOneNTS Of gaS tURbInE ENginEs ReMainS An AreA Of iNTEResT. some exisTIng sYsTEms HaVE Various sHORTcOMINGS rElATiVe to cERTaiN appliCatIons. AcCOrdiNGly, theRe reMAinS a neED FoR furTHeR ConTriBUTIonS iN THiS arEA OF teChNOLOgy.
|
Providing cooling passageways structured to flow cooling fluids from and within components of gas turbine engines remains an area of interest. Some existing systems have various shortcomings relative tocertain applications. Accordingly,there remains a need for further contributions in this area of technology.
|
Providing _cooling_ _passageways_ _structured_ to flow cooling fluids from and _within_ components of gas turbine engines remains an area of interest. _Some_ existing _systems_ _have_ _various_ shortcomings relative _to_ certain applications. Accordingly, there remains a need for further contributions in _this_ _area_ of technology.
|
The present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasoline engines, and more particular to a unit injector for such engines.
A typical gasoline injector for an automotive engine is connected to a fuel rail which is pressurized to a relatively low pressure. Such pressure is typically in the vicinity of 268 kilo-pascals or 39 PSI. It has proved exceedingly difficult to generate a Properly atomized fuel spray pattern at the injector metering orifice due to this low pressure fuel. Further, since known fuel injectors are often attached directly to the engine, the heat of the engine will cause air bubbles to form within various fuel chambers of the fuel injector. Such air bubbles will cause a cycle to cycle variation in the performance of the fuel injector. The formation of these air bubbles is enhanced by this low pressure. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gasoline fuel injector which is communicated to a relatively low source of pressurized fuel and which includes means for increasing such fuel pressure to at least approximately 6895 KPA. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a fuel injector characterized by a finely atomized fuel spray. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel injector in which the rate of formation of air bubbles is significantly reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, the present invention comprises:
A unit injector adapted to receive fuel from a relatively low pressure source, comprising:
a housing, armature means responsive to an electromagnetic force for opening and closing a metering orifice to control the ejection of fuel therefrom and various fuel receiving chambers disposed about the armature means and upstream of the metering orifice.
The injector further includes a check valve disposed upstream of the fuel receiving chambers, responsive to a pressure differential thereacros to control the flow of fuel to such chambers and first accumulator means disposed in first of the fuel receiving chambers, compressable in response to the Pressure of the fuel therein for pressurizing the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which fuel is ejected.
An outer bellows, received about a portion of the housing, fluidly sealed at one end, and adapted to expand and contract as fuel is received and purged therefrom, including a flexible, springlike wall effective to restore the outer bellows to its non-expanded size.
The injector further includes means defining a pressure chamber, means for communicating fuel to and from the bellows to the pressure chamber, means movable with the outer bellows to pressurize the fuel in the pressure chamber and for urging same across the check valve, to pressurize the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers, compressing the first accumulator means (180), and means for generating the electromagnetic force to move the armature means away from the metering orifice.
In one embodiment of the invention the moveable means includes a cylindrical shaped piston while in another embodiment of the invention such means includes a cup-shaped piston having an insulative liner.
Many other objects and purposes of the invention will be clear from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
the present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasoline engines, and more particular to a unit injector driving such engines. a typical gasoline injector for an automotive engine is connected onto a fuel rail which is pressurized to a relatively low pressure. such pressure is typically within the vicinity of 268 kilo - pascals or 39 psi. it has proved exceedingly difficult to generate a properly atomized fuel inlet pattern at the injector metering orifice due to this low pressure fuel. further, since known fuel injectors are often attached directly to the engine, the heat of the engine will cause air bubbles to form within various fuel chambers of the fuel injector. such air bubbles will cause a cycle to cycle variation in the performance of the fuel injector. the formation of these air bubbles is enhanced by this low pressure. it is an object of the present invention to provide a gasoline fuel injector which is communicated to a relatively low source of pressurized fuel – thereby includes means for increasing such fuel pressure to at least approximately 6895 kpa. it is a further object of the present invention to provide a fuel injector characterized by a finely atomized gasoline spray. another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel injector in which their rate of formation of air bubbles is significantly reduced or eliminated. accordingly, a present invention comprises : a unit injector adapted to receive fuel from a relatively low pressure source, comprising : a housing, armature means responsive to an electromagnetic force for opening and closing a metering orifice to control the ejection of fuel therefrom and various fuel receiving chambers disposed about the armature means and upstream of the metering orifice. the injector further includes a check valve disposed upstream of the fuel receiving chambers, responsive to a pressure differential thereacros to control the flow of fuel to such chambers and first accumulator means disposed in first of the fuel receiving arms, compressable in response to the pressure of the fuel therein for pressurizing the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which fuel is ejected. an outer bellows, received about a portion of the housing, fluidly sealed at one end, and adapted to expand and contract as fuel is received and purged therefrom, including a flexible, springlike wall effective to restore the outer bellows to its non - expanded size. the injector further includes means defining a pressure chamber, means for communicating fuel to and from the bellows to the pressure chamber, means movable with the outer bellows to pressurize the fuel in the pressure chamber and for urging same across the check valve, to pressurize the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers, compressing the first accumulator means ( 180 ), and means for generating the electromagnetic force to move the armature means away from the metering orifice. in one embodiment of the invention the moveable means includes a cylindrical shaped piston while in another embodiment of the invention such means includes a cup - shaped piston having an insulative liner. many other objects and purposes of the invention will be clear from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
The present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasoline engines, and more particular to a unit injector for such engines. A typical gasoline injector for an automotive engine is connected to a fuel rail which is pressurized to a $elAtively low pressure. Such pressure is typically in the vicinity of 268 kilo - pascals or 39 PSI. It has proved exceedingly difficult to generate a Properly atomized fuel spray pattern at the injector metering orifice due to this low pressure fuel. Further, since known fuel injectors are often attached directly to the engine, the heat of the engine @Oll cause air bubbles to form within various fuel chambers of the fuel injector. Such air bubbles wiP> cause a cycle to cycle variation in the performance of the fuel injector. The formation of these air bubbles is enhanced by this low pressure. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gasoline fuel injector which is communicated to a relatively low source of pressurized fuel and which includes means for increasing such fuel pressure to at least approximately 6895 KPA. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a fuel injector characterized by a finely atomized fuel spray. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel injector in which the rate of formation of air bubbles is significantly reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, the present invention comprises: A unit injector adapted to receive fuel from a relatively low pressure source, comprising: a housing, armature means responsive to an electromagnetic force for opening and closing a metering orifice to control the ejection of fuel therefrom and vaGio&s fuel receiving chambers disposed about the armature means and upstream of the metering orifice. The injector further includes a check valve disposed upstream of the fuel receiving chambers, responsive to a pressure differential thereacros to control the flow of fuel to such chambers and first accumulator means disposed in first of the fuel receiving chambers, compressable in response to the Pressure of the fuwp therein for pressurizing the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which fuel is ejected. An outer bellows, received about a portion of the housing, fluidly sealed at one end, and adapted to expand and contract as fuel is received and purged therefrom, including a flezibl2, springlike wall effective to restore the outer bellows to its non - expanded size. The injector further includes means defining a pressure chamber, means for communicating fuel to and from the bellows to the pressure chamber, mesnE movable with the outer bellows to pressurize the fuel in the pressure chamber and for urging same across the check valve, to pressurize the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers, compressing the first accumulator means (180 ), and means for generating the electromagnetic force to move the armature means away from the metering orifice. In one embodiment of the invention the moveable means includes a cylindrical shaped piston while in another embodiment of the invention such jeane includes a cup - eha)ed pis5)n having an insulative liner. Many other objects and purposes of the invention will be clear from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
The present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasoline engines, and particular to a unit injector such engines. A typical gasoline injector for an automotive engine is connected to a fuel rail which is pressurized to a relatively low pressure. Such pressure is the vicinity of 268 kilo-pascals or 39 PSI. It has proved exceedingly difficult to generate a Properly atomized fuel spray pattern the injector orifice due to this low pressure fuel. Further, since known fuel injectors are often attached directly to the engine, the of the engine will air bubbles to form within various fuel chambers of the fuel injector. Such air will cause a cycle to variation in the performance of the fuel injector. The formation of these bubbles enhanced by this low pressure. is an object the present invention to a gasoline fuel injector which is to a relatively low source of pressurized fuel and which includes for increasing such fuel pressure to at least approximately 6895 KPA. is a further object of the present invention to provide a fuel injector characterized by a finely atomized fuel spray. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel injector in which the formation of air is significantly reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, the present comprises: A unit injector adapted to receive fuel from a relatively low pressure source, a housing, armature means responsive to an electromagnetic force for opening and closing a metering orifice to control the ejection therefrom and various fuel receiving disposed about the means and upstream of the metering orifice. The injector further includes a check disposed of the fuel receiving chambers, responsive to a pressure differential thereacros to control the flow of fuel to such chambers and first accumulator means disposed in first of the fuel receiving chambers, compressable in response the Pressure the therein for pressurizing the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which fuel is ejected. An outer bellows, received about portion of the housing, fluidly sealed at one end, and adapted to expand and as is received therefrom, including a springlike effective to the outer bellows to its size. The further includes means defining a pressure chamber, means for communicating fuel to and from the bellows to the pressure chamber, means movable with the bellows to pressurize the fuel in the pressure chamber and for urging same across the check valve, to the fuel in various fuel chambers, compressing the first accumulator means (180), and means generating the electromagnetic force to move the armature means the metering orifice. In one embodiment of the invention the moveable means includes a cylindrical shaped piston while another embodiment of the invention such means includes a piston having an insulative liner. Many other objects and purposes the invention will be clear from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
The present invENtiOn ReLates gEneRAlly TO FUeL inJECtORs FOR gasoLinE EnGINEs, And MORE pARTICULar to a uNiT iNJEctor for SuCH EnGiNEs.
A typicaL gAsoline INjEctoR fOR aN AuTOMoTiVe ENGINe is cONnecTED TO A fuEl RAIL wHIch iS PrEsSuRIzeD tO a RelAtiVEly lOW PReSSUre. SuCh PresSuRe is TyPICaLLy In The ViCiniTY oF 268 KIlo-PAsCalS oR 39 PsI. IT Has PrOVeD excEediNgLY diFficUlT To gENERate A PROPErly AtoMized fuel Spray PatterN AT THE INJeCTOr metERiNG oRiFIcE DUe to thIs LOw PresSURE fUEl. FurtHEr, SInCe KNOWN fuel iNjEctoRs are OFtEN AtTAcHED dIrECtlY to ThE eNGINE, tHE hEAT oF tHe EnGine WILL caUSE aIr bUbBLES TO FORM WIthin varIOUS fuEl ChaMBers of ThE FUeL INjEctOR. sUCH aiR bUBbLeS wiLl cAuSe a CycLe to CYcLE VariaTION iN thE peRFOrmaNce Of thE fuel InjECtOR. tHE foRmATIOn OF THese AiR bUBBLES is ENHANCeD By ThIs lOW PrEsSUre. iT iS an oBjeCT OF thE PREsEnt InveNtion to PROvidE a gAsOLiNE FUel iNjecToR WhICh Is coMMuNICaTed tO a relaTIveLY lOW SOURcE Of preSSUrizEd fueL AND WHicH INCLUDes MEAns FoR iNCREAsiNg such FuEL PReSsUre to at leAsT aPProXIMateLy 6895 KPa. IT Is a fURther obJEct Of THe presenT iNVeNtIoN TO PRoVIDe A FueL InjEctOR CHARacTErIZed by A fiNeLY atOmIzED fUEl SPrAy. AnOTheR OBjEct of thE PResEnt InVentIOn IS To ProViDE a fuEL InJeCTOR In WHICH THE RATE of fORMAtION OF AiR BubBles is signIFIcantLy rEdUCed oR eLIminatEd. AccorDinGlY, THe PRESENt iNvEnTiON CoMPrIses:
a uNIT iNJeCTOr adAPtED to rECeIVe fuEl FrOm a RelatIveLy loW PrESsurE sOUrCe, COmpRIsINg:
a HOusiNg, ARMATurE MEaNs RESPOnSIve To An ELECTroMAgneTIc fORCe for Opening And cLOsIng a mETeRIng oRIficE to cOntROl tHe EJection Of fueL THereFROM anD VaRious FUEL rEceIVinG CHaMBErS DISposEd ABOUt The aRmatuRE MEANs ANd UPStREam oF ThE mEtErINg oRiFicE.
The InjecTor fURtHER INCLUDES a CheCk valVE diSpOSED uPstREaM oF tHE fUel ReCEivInG ChaMbERS, rESponsIVE To A PressuRE DifferENtial tHErEacros To cOntrol ThE flOw OF fUeL TO SuCH cHambErs AnD FIRSt ACCUmulAToR MEANS DiSPoseD in FIrSt oF The fueL REcEivInG cHamBeRs, COmpressAbLe iN reSpONsE TO thE prESSUre of THe fuEl THErein foR PreSSuRIZING ThE FuEl In The vARIous fUEl reCeIViNG CHAMBerS and for coNtROlLIng The rAte AT WhiCH Fuel iS EjECTed.
aN oUTEr BEllOwS, RECEivEd AbOuT a pOrtIOn of tHe HousiNg, FLUidly SEAleD aT oNE EnD, aND adaPted to EXpAnD AND ContrACT as FuEL Is reCEIveD AND purGed THErefrOM, inCluDInG a FlExiBle, SPRiNGlIkE Wall eFFectIVe to restore tHe OuTEr bELlOWS TO its NOn-eXpaNdeD siZe.
THE injectOR FurtHeR iNcluDes MeAnS DeFINiNG A PresSuRE CHambEr, mEAns FOr cOmMuNicATiNG fuEL To aNd from thE BELlOwS TO thE PrEssURe ChambeR, mEANS MovABLe witH THe Outer belLoWS to pREssurize tHe FUEL iN ThE PRESsURe chAMbeR and fOr urGiNG Same ACrOSS thE check vaLvE, tO PReSSURIze tHe FUeL iN the vaRiOuS FUEl receIvING ChAMbers, comPRESsING ThE fIrSt ACcUMULatoR MeAns (180), AnD meANs For GENeRATING ThE ELectrOMagnetIC FORce To mOve tHE ArMatURE MeANS aWAy frOm tHE MEtEring oRIfice.
iN onE EMboDiMenT OF tHe InvenTIon tHE moVeAbLE meANS inclUdES a CylINDrical SHApeD pIStOn WhIle in another EMBOdiMENt OF the iNveNtIOn SucH MEANs iNCLuDes a Cup-ShaPEd PiSToN HAvIng An INsUlATIVe liNEr.
maNy other OBjectS aNd PurpOSES OF THe INVEntiOn wILL bE cLEAr frOm THE FollowiNg detAIleD DEsCriPtIoN oF thE DraWingS.
|
The present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasolineengines, and more particular to a unit injector for such engines. A typical gasoline injector foran automotive engine is connected to a fuel rail which is pressurizedto a relatively low pressure. Such pressure is typically in the vicinityof 268 kilo-pascalsor 39PSI. It has proved exceedingly difficult to generate a Properly atomized fuel spray patternat the injector metering orifice dueto this low pressurefuel. Further, since known fuel injectorsare often attached directly tothe engine, the heatof the engine will cause air bubbles to form within various fuel chambers of the fuel injector. Such air bubbles will cause a cycle to cycle variation in theperformanceof the fuel injector. Theformation of these air bubblesis enhanced by this low pressure. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gasoline fuel injector which is communicatedto arelatively low source of pressurized fuel and which includes meansfor increasing such fuel pressureto atleast approximately 6895 KPA. It is a furtherobject ofthe present invention to provide a fuel injector characterized by a finely atomized fuel spray.Another object of thepresent invention is to provide a fuel injector in which the rate of formation of airbubbles is significantly reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, thepresent invention comprises:A unit injector adapted toreceive fuel froma relatively low pressure source, comprising: a housing, armaturemeansresponsive to an electromagnetic force for opening and closinga metering orifice to control the ejection of fueltherefrom and various fuel receiving chambers disposed about the armature means and upstream of the metering orifice.The injector further includes a check valve disposed upstream of the fuel receiving chambers, responsive to a pressure differential thereacros to control the flow offuel to suchchambers and first accumulator means disposed in first ofthe fuel receivingchambers, compressable in response to the Pressure of the fuel therein for pressurizingthe fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which fuel is ejected. An outer bellows, received about a portion of the housing, fluidly sealedat one end, andadapted to expand and contract as fuel is received and purgedtherefrom, including a flexible,springlike wall effective to restore the outer bellows to its non-expanded size.The injector further includes means defining a pressure chamber, meansfor communicating fuel to and fromthe bellows to the pressure chamber, means movable with the outer bellows to pressurize the fuel in the pressure chamber and for urging same across the check valve, to pressurize the fuel in the variousfuel receiving chambers, compressing the first accumulator means(180), and means for generating the electromagnetic force to move the armature means away fromthe metering orifice. In one embodiment of the invention the moveable means includes a cylindrical shaped piston while in another embodiment of the invention such means includesa cup-shaped piston having an insulative liner.Many other objects and purposes of the inventionwill be clear from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
_The_ present invention relates generally to fuel injectors for gasoline engines, and more particular to a unit injector for such engines. A typical gasoline injector for an automotive engine is connected _to_ a fuel rail which _is_ pressurized to a relatively low pressure. Such pressure is typically in the vicinity of _268_ kilo-pascals or 39 PSI. It has proved _exceedingly_ difficult to generate a Properly atomized _fuel_ _spray_ pattern at the injector _metering_ orifice due to this low pressure fuel. Further, _since_ known _fuel_ injectors are often attached _directly_ _to_ the engine, the heat _of_ the _engine_ will _cause_ air bubbles _to_ form within various fuel chambers _of_ the _fuel_ injector. Such air _bubbles_ will cause a cycle to cycle variation _in_ _the_ performance of _the_ _fuel_ injector. _The_ formation _of_ these air bubbles is enhanced _by_ _this_ low pressure. It _is_ _an_ object _of_ the present invention to provide a gasoline fuel _injector_ which is communicated to a relatively low _source_ of pressurized fuel and which _includes_ means for increasing such fuel _pressure_ to at least _approximately_ _6895_ _KPA._ It is a further object _of_ the present invention to provide a fuel injector _characterized_ _by_ a _finely_ atomized fuel spray. Another object _of_ the present invention is to _provide_ a fuel injector in which _the_ rate of formation _of_ air bubbles _is_ _significantly_ reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, _the_ present invention comprises: A unit injector _adapted_ to receive fuel _from_ a relatively low _pressure_ source, comprising: _a_ housing, armature _means_ responsive _to_ an electromagnetic force for opening and closing a metering _orifice_ to control the ejection of _fuel_ therefrom and _various_ _fuel_ receiving chambers _disposed_ about the armature means and upstream of the _metering_ orifice. The injector further includes a check _valve_ disposed upstream of the fuel receiving _chambers,_ responsive _to_ a pressure _differential_ thereacros _to_ control the flow of _fuel_ to such chambers and first _accumulator_ means disposed _in_ _first_ _of_ the fuel _receiving_ chambers, compressable in response to the Pressure of the _fuel_ therein _for_ pressurizing the fuel in the various fuel receiving chambers and for controlling the rate at which _fuel_ _is_ ejected. _An_ outer bellows, received _about_ a portion of the housing, fluidly _sealed_ at one end, and adapted to expand and _contract_ as fuel _is_ received and purged therefrom, including a _flexible,_ springlike wall effective to restore the _outer_ bellows to its non-expanded size. The injector further includes means defining _a_ pressure chamber, means for communicating fuel to _and_ from the bellows to _the_ pressure chamber, means movable with _the_ outer bellows to pressurize the _fuel_ in _the_ pressure chamber and _for_ urging same _across_ the _check_ valve, to pressurize _the_ fuel in _the_ various fuel _receiving_ chambers, _compressing_ the first accumulator means (180), and means for generating the electromagnetic _force_ to move _the_ armature _means_ _away_ from the metering orifice. In one embodiment of the _invention_ _the_ moveable means includes a _cylindrical_ shaped piston while in _another_ embodiment _of_ the _invention_ such means includes a _cup-shaped_ _piston_ having an insulative liner. Many other _objects_ and purposes of the invention will be _clear_ from the following detailed description of the drawings.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a pedal, and more particularly to a pedal for a bicycle.
2. Description of Related Art
When a bicycle rider is riding on a bicycle, he/or she has to alternatively and repeatedly tread on two pedals of the bicycle with his/or her legs so as to drive the bicycle to move forward. However, when the bicycle rider rides on an bumpy road or when the bottoms of the shoes of the bicycle rider is too slippery, the legs of the bicycle rider would unexpectedly depart from the pedals, and his feet would be hurt by the impact of the pedals. This is particularly a serious condition in a bicycle racing contest.
A conventional bicycle pedal set comprises two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. The two pedal bodies are respectively pivoted on two cranks of a bicycle. Each pedal body comprises a controlling member and an engaging member. The controlling member drives the engaging member so that the engaging member is selectively positioned in one of an engaging state and a releasing state. The driving assembly drives the two controlling members of the two pedal bodies. The braking system connects the driving assembly, a front wheel brake lever of the bicycle, a rear wheel brake lever of the bicycle, and two brakes of the bicycle. Under this arrangement, when the rear wheel brake lever is not pressed, the engaging members are positioned in the engaging state; in contrast, when the rear wheel brake lever is pressed, the braking system drives the driving assembly so as to drive the controlling members of the pedal bodies; as a result, the engaging members are positioned in the releasing state by the controlling members.
However, the conventional bicycle pedal set has a disadvantage as following.
The conventional bicycle pedal set is heavier than another bicycle pedal set without the engaging member. Actually, weight reduction is recently an important topic for improving the performance of the bicycle.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the disadvantages of the conventional.
|
1. field of the imagination the present invention relates to a pedal, and more particularly to a pedal for a bicycle. 2. description of related art when a bicycle rider is riding on a bicycle, he / or she has to alternatively and constantly pound on two pedals of the bicycle with his / or her legs so as to drive the rider might move forward. however, when the bicycle rider rides on an bumpy road or when the bottoms of the shoes of the bicycle rider is too slippery, the legs of the bicycle rider would unexpectedly depart from the pedals, and his feet would be hurt by the impact of the pedals. this is particularly a serious condition in a bicycle racing contest. a conventional bicycle pedal set comprises two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. the two pedal bodies are respectively pivoted on two cranks of a bicycle. each pedal body comprises a controlling member and an engaging member. the controlling member drives the engaging member so that the engaging member is selectively positioned in one of an engaging state and a responsive state. the driving assembly drives the two controlling members of the two pedal systems. the braking system connects the driving assembly, a front wheel brake lever of the bicycle, a rear wheel brake lever of the bicycle, and two brakes of the bicycle. under this arrangement, when the rear wheel brake lever is not pressed, the engaging members are positioned in the engaging state ; in contrast, when the rear wheel brake lever is pressed, the pedal system drives the driving assembly so as to drive the controlling members of the pedal bodies ; as a result, the engaging members are positioned in the releasing state by the controlling members. however, the conventional bicycle pedal set has their disadvantage as following. neither conventional bicycle pedal set is heavier than another bicycle pedal set without the engaging member. actually, weight reduction is recently an important topic for improving the performance of the bicycle. the present invention has arisen to mitigate and / or obviate the disadvantages of the conventional.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pedal, and more particularly to a pedal for a bicycle. 2. Description of Related Art When a bicycle rider is riding on a bicycle, he / or she has to alternatively and repeatedly tread on two pedals of the bicycle with his / or her legs so as to drive the bicycle to move forward. However, when the bicycle rider rides on an bumpy road or when the bottoms of the shoes of the bicycle rider is too slippery, the legs of the bicycle rider @)uld unexpectedly depart from the pedals, and his feet would be hurt by the impact of the pedals. This is particularly a serious condition in a bicycle racing contest. A conventional bicycle pedal set comprises two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. The two pedal bodies are respectively pivoted on two cranks of a bicycle. Each pedal body comprises a controlling member and an engaging me<Ner. The controlling member drives the engaging member so that the engaging member is selectively positioned in one of an engaging state and a releasing state. The driving assembly driG2s the two controlling membs4s of the two pedal bodies. The braking system connects the driving assembly, a frojH wheel brake lever of the bicycle, a rear wheel brake lever of the bicycle, and two brakes of the bicycle. Under this arrangement, when the rear wheel graue lever is not pressed, the engaging members are positioned in the engaging state; in contrast, when the rear wheel brake lever is pressed, the braking system drives the driving assembly so as to drive the controlling members of the pedal bodies; as a result, the engaging members are positioned in the releasing state by the contTollJng members. However, the conventional bicycle pedal set has a disadvantage as following. The conventional bicycle pedal set is heavier than another bicycle pedal set without the engaging member. Aftual.y, weight reduction is recently an important to9uc for improving the performance of the bicycle. The present invention has aTis@n to mitigate and / or obviate the disadvantages of the conventional.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pedal, and more particularly to pedal for a 2. Description Related Art When a rider riding on a bicycle, he/or she has alternatively and repeatedly tread on two pedals of the bicycle his/or her legs so as to drive the bicycle to move forward. However, when the bicycle rider rides on an or when the bottoms of the shoes the bicycle rider is too slippery, the legs of the bicycle rider would unexpectedly depart from the pedals, and his feet would be hurt by the impact pedals. This is particularly a serious condition in a bicycle contest. A conventional pedal set two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. The two pedal are respectively pivoted on two of a bicycle. Each pedal body a controlling member and an engaging member. The member drives the engaging member so that the engaging member is selectively positioned in one of an state and a state. The assembly drives the controlling members of the pedal bodies. The braking system connects the driving assembly, a wheel brake lever of the bicycle, a rear wheel brake lever of the bicycle, and two brakes of bicycle. Under this arrangement, when the rear wheel brake lever is not pressed, the engaging members are positioned in engaging state; in contrast, the rear wheel brake lever is pressed, the braking system drives the driving assembly so as to drive controlling members of the bodies; as a result, the engaging members are positioned in the releasing state by the controlling members. However, the conventional bicycle pedal set has a disadvantage as following. The conventional bicycle pedal set is heavier than another bicycle pedal set without the engaging member. Actually, weight reduction is recently important topic for improving the performance of bicycle. The present invention has arisen mitigate and/or obviate the of the conventional.
|
1. fiElD oF ThE InvENtIOn
the PreSENT INVentIon rELAtES To A PedAl, And More paRtiCULArly To A PEdAl For A bicycle.
2. desCRipTIon OF relaTeD arT
wheN A bIcYClE rider is RIdinG on a Bicycle, HE/Or sHe HAS To AlteRnATIvely AND repeatEDLy tREAD oN TwO pEdAlS Of THE bICYcle WITh HIS/oR hEr lEgs SO aS TO dRIVE tHE bICYCle TO mOVe FoRwaRD. HOWEVer, whEN tHE BIcycle RIdeR RIdES oN An BUMpy RoaD or whEN The BottOMS Of tHe ShoES of THE BIcyCLE RiDEr Is Too sLIPPery, thE LEGs of The BIcYCLe RidEr woULD uNeXpEctEdlY dEpARt frOM tHe pEdals, anD HIS FEET Would Be hUrt BY the ImPacT oF tHE pEDAlS. this iS paRtIcuLarLY a SEriOus coNDITiOn iN A BicyclE rACIng CONtesT.
A ConVENtIoNAl BICyCLE peDAL Set comPRiSes twO pedal bOdieS, a DRIVInG AsSeMbLy anD a bRAKING SySTEm. The tWo PEdAl BOdIeS are REsPEcTIvelY PivOTEd on TWO CrANKs OF a BiCyclE. EacH PEDal bodY cOMPRiSes A controLlING MEmber AnD AN eNgaGIng mEMBEr. THe controLlING meMbeR DrIVes tHe EngAgINg MEmBer So tHaT The enGaGiNg mEMBER is seLeCTIvEly pOSiTIoNED In oNE OF AN eNgAGinG sTATE And a ReLeasING STaTE. THE dRiviNG assEMbLY dRIVEs tHe TwO CONtRollING membERS oF tHE TWO pEDAl BoDIES. The braKiNg sYsTEM cONNECTS thE driVing AsSembly, a fROnt WHeEl bRaKe LEVER Of ThE biCyclE, a reaR WHEEl BRake levEr Of tHe BicYCLE, AnD tWO BrakES OF tHE BICyclE. Under ThIS ArRAnGEmeNT, WhEn THE rEAr whEeL brakE LEVER is NoT pRessED, The eNGaGing MeMbeRs arE PositioNED in THe ENgAgiNg sTATe; in ConTrASt, When the ReaR wheel bRAKe lEveR iS presSEd, THe bRakinG sysTem DRiveS the dRIvINg aSSEMblY SO as to dRiVE The COntRoLlINg MEMbERS OF THE PedAl BOdieS; as a rEsuLT, ThE eNGaGing MEmbErs aRE pOsiTIoNeD IN the rElEasiNg stAtE By thE conTroLLiNG MembeRs.
HoWEveR, THe cONvENtIonal BicyCle peDaL SeT hAS A disadVanTaGe As FoLloWIng.
THE ConveNTiONal bICyclE PEdaL Set is heaviEr than aNotHER BiCyCLe pEdal set WitHoUt ThE EnGAGing mEmbEr. ActUaLLY, WeiGHt rEducTioN iS RecENtly aN imPortAnt tOPic FOr improVInG THe PERFOrmAnCe oF the Bicycle.
the PresENt invenTIon HaS ARISEN tO MItiGate and/oR OBVIAte the DIsadVantAges Of the ConvEnTionAl.
|
1. Field ofthe Invention The present invention relates to a pedal, and more particularly to apedal for abicycle. 2. Description of RelatedArt When a bicycle rider is riding on a bicycle,he/or she has to alternatively and repeatedly tread on two pedalsof the bicycle with his/or her legsso as to drive the bicycle to move forward. However, when the bicycleriderrides on an bumpy road orwhen the bottoms of the shoesof the bicycle rider is too slippery,the legs of the bicycle rider would unexpectedly depart from the pedals, andhis feet wouldbe hurt by the impact ofthe pedals. This is particularly a serious condition in a bicycle racing contest. A conventional bicycle pedal set comprises two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. The twopedal bodies are respectively pivoted on two cranks of a bicycle. Each pedalbodycomprises a controlling member and an engaging member. The controlling member drives the engaging member so that the engaging member is selectivelypositioned in one of anengaging state and a releasing state. The driving assembly drives the two controlling members of the two pedal bodies. The braking system connects the driving assembly, a front wheel brake leverofthe bicycle, a rear wheelbrake lever of the bicycle, and twobrakes of the bicycle. Under this arrangement, whenthe rear wheel brake lever is not pressed, the engaging members arepositioned in the engaging state; in contrast, when the rear wheel brake leveris pressed, the braking system drives the driving assembly soas to drive the controlling members of the pedal bodies; as a result, the engaging members arepositioned in the releasingstate by the controlling members. However,theconventional bicycle pedal sethas a disadvantage as following. The conventional bicycle pedal set is heavier than another bicycle pedal set withoutthe engaging member.Actually, weight reduction is recentlyan important topic forimproving the performance of the bicycle. The present invention has arisen tomitigate and/orobviate the disadvantages of the conventional.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates _to_ a pedal, and more particularly to a pedal for a bicycle. 2. Description _of_ Related Art When a bicycle rider is riding on a bicycle, he/or she has to alternatively and _repeatedly_ tread on _two_ pedals of _the_ bicycle _with_ his/or _her_ legs so as _to_ drive the bicycle _to_ move forward. However, _when_ the bicycle rider rides on an bumpy road or when the bottoms of the shoes of the bicycle rider is _too_ slippery, the legs _of_ the bicycle rider would unexpectedly _depart_ from the pedals, and his feet would _be_ hurt by the impact of the pedals. This is particularly _a_ serious condition in a bicycle _racing_ _contest._ A conventional bicycle pedal set _comprises_ two pedal bodies, a driving assembly and a braking system. The two _pedal_ bodies are respectively pivoted _on_ two _cranks_ of a _bicycle._ _Each_ pedal body comprises a controlling member and an engaging member. The _controlling_ member drives the _engaging_ member so that _the_ engaging member is _selectively_ _positioned_ in one of _an_ engaging state _and_ _a_ releasing state. The driving assembly _drives_ the two controlling members _of_ the two _pedal_ bodies. _The_ braking system connects _the_ driving assembly, a front wheel brake lever of the bicycle, a rear wheel brake lever of the bicycle, _and_ two brakes _of_ the bicycle. Under _this_ arrangement, when the rear _wheel_ brake lever is not _pressed,_ the engaging members are positioned in the engaging state; _in_ contrast, when the rear wheel brake lever is pressed, the braking system drives the driving assembly so as to drive the controlling members of _the_ pedal _bodies;_ as a result, the engaging members are positioned in _the_ releasing _state_ _by_ the controlling members. However, the conventional bicycle pedal set has a disadvantage as _following._ The conventional bicycle pedal set is _heavier_ than another bicycle pedal _set_ without the engaging _member._ _Actually,_ weight _reduction_ is recently an important _topic_ for _improving_ the performance of the bicycle. The present invention _has_ arisen to mitigate and/or _obviate_ the disadvantages of the conventional.
|
The present invention relates to a new and distinct cultivar of Crapemyrtle plant, botanically known as Lagerstroemia indica and hereinafter referred to by the name ‘G2X133143’.
The new Crapemyrtle plant is a product of a planned breeding program conducted by the Inventor in Bellefonte, Pa. The objective of the breeding program was to develop new compact, mounding and freely-branching Crapemyrtle plants with large inflorescences, high temperature tolerance, winter hardiness and resistance to Powdery Mildew.
The new Crapemyrtle plant originated from a cross-pollination conducted by the Inventor in August, 2010 of a proprietary selection of Lagerstroemia indica identified as code number 8170-2, not patented, as the female, or seed, parent with Lagerstroemia indica ‘Coral Filli’, disclosed in U.S. Plant Pat. No. 14,317, as the male, or pollen, parent. The new Crapemyrtle plant was discovered and selected by the Inventor on Jan. 9, 2011 as a single flowering plant from within the progeny of the stated cross-pollination in a controlled nursery environment in Bellefonte, Pa.
Asexual reproduction of the new Crapemyrtle plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlled greenhouse environment in Bellefonte, Pa. since Feb. 2, 2011 has shown that the unique features of the new Crapemyrtle plant are stable and reproduced true to type in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
|
the present invention relates to a new and distinct species of crapemyrtle plant, botanically known as lagerstroemia indica and hereinafter referred to by the name ‘ g2x133143 ’. the new crapemyrtle plant is a product of a planned breeding program conceived by the inventor in bellefonte, pa. the objective of its breeding program was to develop new compact, mounding and freely - branching crapemyrtle plants with large inflorescences, high temperature tolerance, drought hardiness and resistance to root mildew. the new sterile plant originated from a cross - pollination provided by the inventor in august, 2010 of a proprietary selection of lagerstroemia indica identified as code number 8170 - 2, not patented, as the female, or seed, parent with lagerstroemia indica ‘ coral filli ’, disclosed in u. s. plant pat. no. 14, 317, as the male, or pollen, parent. the new crapemyrtle plant was discovered and selected by the inventor on jan. 9, 2011 as a single flowering plant grown within the progeny of the stated cross - pollination in a controlled nursery environment in bellefonte, pa. asexual reproduction of the new crapemyrtle plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlled natural environment in bellefonte, pa. since feb. 2, 2011 has shown exactly the unique features of the new crapemyrtle plant are stable and reproduced true to type in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
|
The present invention relates to a new and distinct cultivar of Crapemyrtle plant, botanically known as Lagerstroemia indica and hereinafter referred to by the name ‘ G2X133143 ’. The new Crapemyrtle p>Ant is a product of a planned breeding program SInducted by the Inventor in Bellefonte, Pa. The objective of the breeding protraN was to develop new compact, mounding and freely - branching Crapemyrtle plants with large inflorescences, high temperature tolerance, winter hardiness and resistance to Powdery Mildew. The new Crapemyrtle plant originated from a cross - pollination conducted by the Inventor in August, 2010 of a proprietary selection of Lagerstroemia indica identified as code number 8170 - 2, not )atentDd, as the female, or seed, parent with Lagerstroemia indica ‘ Coral Filli ’, disclosed in U. S. Plant Pat. No. 14, 317, as the male, or pollen, parent. The new Crapemyrtle plant was discovered and selected by the Inventor on Jan. 9, 2011 as a single flowering plant from within the progeny of the stated cross - pollination in a controlled hurse5y environment in Bellefonte, Pa. Asexual reofoduction of the new Crapemyrtle plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlled greenhouse environment in Bellefonte, Pa. since Feb. 2, 2011 has shown that the 7niquD features of the new Crapfhyrtle plant are stable and reproduced t5Ie to type in successive generations of asexual tSproduction.
|
The present relates a new and distinct cultivar of Crapemyrtle plant, botanically as Lagerstroemia indica and hereinafter referred to by name ‘G2X133143’. The new Crapemyrtle plant a product of planned breeding program conducted by the Inventor in Bellefonte, The objective of the breeding program was to new compact, mounding freely-branching Crapemyrtle plants with large inflorescences, high temperature tolerance, winter hardiness and resistance to Powdery Mildew. The Crapemyrtle plant originated from cross-pollination conducted by the Inventor in August, 2010 of a proprietary selection of Lagerstroemia indica identified 8170-2, not patented, as the female, or seed, parent with Lagerstroemia indica ‘Coral Filli’, disclosed in U.S. Plant Pat. No. 14,317, the male, or pollen, parent. The new Crapemyrtle plant was discovered and selected by the Inventor on Jan. 9, 2011 as a flowering from within the progeny of the stated cross-pollination in a controlled nursery in Bellefonte, Pa. Asexual reproduction of the new Crapemyrtle plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlled greenhouse environment in Bellefonte, Pa. since Feb. 2, 2011 has shown that the unique features of the new Crapemyrtle stable and reproduced true to in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
|
the PRESENt invEntiOn ReLAteS To a new And DiStIncT culTivar OF crapemyrtle plANt, BotanicALLy kNoWN AS LAGErsTroEmIA INDIcA aNd HErEInAFTEr refERRED To BY tHe Name ‘G2X133143’.
tHE nEw crapEmyrTlE PlAnT is a proDuCT OF a PLAnnED bReeDiNG progRAm CoNdUctED BY the iNVENTOr In BElLEFonTe, pA. the oBJECTiVE Of tHE BreEdInG ProGrAm was TO DeVELOP nEw COMpACt, MOuNDINg anD FreElY-BRANcHinG CRaPeMyrtle PlanTS WITH LArGE InfloreScEnCes, higH tEMPEratURe toLEraNCE, WINter HARdINESs aNd resisTAnCE TO poWDeRy MilDew.
The nEw CRapEmyrtLE PLaNT OrIGInAteD frOm A croSs-pollinAtion COnDuCTED by THe InVentor IN auGust, 2010 of a pROprIetary sELEctIon Of lAgErStroeMia iNDICA IDeNTiFiEd AS CODe nuMbER 8170-2, NOt PaTeNtEd, AS the FemAlE, OR sEEd, pArEnt WiTH LAgerStrOEMIa INDIcA ‘cOrAl fIlLI’, DIsclOseD iN u.s. planT pAT. no. 14,317, as The MALe, oR poLLEN, pAReNT. tHE new CRaPemyrtLe PLaNT waS DiScOVerED And sElECTED BY THE inVentoR oN jAn. 9, 2011 aS a sinGle FlOWeRiNG PLaNT FROm WithIN the prOGEnY OF the STaTEd crosS-POLLInATioN in A cONtROlled nuRSERY enviRoNmeNt iN bELLefONTe, Pa.
ASeXUAL ReProduCTion Of THe new CRapEMyRTle plANt BY vegeTaTIvE TIP cuTTings in a CONtRolleD gReENhouSe ENVIronMent iN bellEFOntE, pa. SInce FeB. 2, 2011 has sHoWn thAt tHe UNIQUe Features of tHE New CrapeMYrTLE PlaNT Are StAblE aND reproDUced TrUe to tYpE In sUcCESsIVE geNErAtions OF aSEXuAL reprOduCTiON.
|
The present invention relates to anew and distinct cultivar of Crapemyrtle plant, botanicallyknown as Lagerstroemia indica and hereinafter referred to bythe name‘G2X133143’. The new Crapemyrtle plant is a product of aplanned breedingprogram conducted by the Inventor in Bellefonte, Pa. The objective of thebreedingprogram was to develop new compact,mounding and freely-branching Crapemyrtle plants with large inflorescences, high temperature tolerance, winter hardiness andresistance to Powdery Mildew. The newCrapemyrtle plant originated from a cross-pollination conducted bythe Inventorin August, 2010 of aproprietary selection of Lagerstroemia indica identified as code number 8170-2, not patented, as the female, orseed, parent with Lagerstroemiaindica ‘Coral Filli’, disclosed inU.S. Plant Pat.No. 14,317, as the male, or pollen, parent. The new Crapemyrtle plantwasdiscovered and selected by the Inventor on Jan.9, 2011 as a single flowering plant from within the progeny of the stated cross-pollination ina controlled nurseryenvironment in Bellefonte,Pa. Asexual reproduction of thenew Crapemyrtle plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlledgreenhouseenvironment inBellefonte, Pa. since Feb. 2, 2011has shown that the unique features of the new Crapemyrtle plant are stable and reproduced true to type in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
|
The present invention relates to a new and distinct cultivar of Crapemyrtle plant, _botanically_ known as Lagerstroemia _indica_ and hereinafter referred _to_ _by_ the name ‘G2X133143’. The new Crapemyrtle plant is a product of a planned breeding program conducted by _the_ Inventor in Bellefonte, Pa. The _objective_ of the breeding program _was_ to develop new compact, mounding and freely-branching _Crapemyrtle_ plants with _large_ _inflorescences,_ _high_ temperature tolerance, winter hardiness and _resistance_ _to_ Powdery Mildew. The new Crapemyrtle _plant_ originated from a cross-pollination conducted _by_ the Inventor in August, 2010 of a _proprietary_ selection of Lagerstroemia indica identified _as_ code _number_ _8170-2,_ not _patented,_ _as_ the _female,_ or seed, _parent_ _with_ Lagerstroemia indica ‘Coral Filli’, disclosed in U.S. Plant Pat. No. 14,317, as the male, _or_ pollen, parent. The _new_ Crapemyrtle plant was discovered and selected by _the_ Inventor on Jan. _9,_ _2011_ as a single flowering plant from _within_ _the_ _progeny_ of the _stated_ cross-pollination _in_ a controlled _nursery_ environment in Bellefonte, Pa. Asexual reproduction of the new _Crapemyrtle_ plant by vegetative tip cuttings in a controlled greenhouse environment in Bellefonte, Pa. since Feb. 2, 2011 _has_ _shown_ that _the_ unique features of _the_ new Crapemyrtle _plant_ are _stable_ and reproduced true to type in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
|
The present invention relates to a fiber opening device in a spinning unit of an open-end spinning machine, and more particularly such a device having an opening roller rotatably mounted in a housing to which a sliver is fed by a drawing-in roller.
In open-end spinning, a sliver consisting of fibers that are generally parallel is combed to separate the fibers by an opening roller enclosed in a housing and the fibers are fed by air current in the housing to a fiber discharge opening in the housing from which they pass through a fiber guide tube to the spinning element, e.g. a spinning rotor.
As the fibers are of small size, even very small crevices between and within the components of the device, such as at edges and corners, can result in entrapment of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the even flow of fibers that may ultimately break loose and pass into the spinning rotor to create a faulty slub in the yarn.
Typical of the known fiber opening devices in open-end spinning machines is the device disclosed in German patent document DE-PS No. 19 14 115, in which a trash discharge opening for separating trash, such as hull particles, dirt, etc., is formed in the housing between the drawing-in roller and the fiber discharge opening to the guide tube. Such a trash discharge opening will allow undesirable clumps of fibers to be discharged and not pass through the guide tube to the rotor, but it does not prevent the formation of clumps, which can result in faulty yarn, e.g. thin areas, during the formation of a clump of fibers prior to being broken loose and discharged. In known fiber opening devices, there are several locations at which fibers can be caught and accumulate in crevices. Typical of these are the pivoted feed trough, the drawing-in trough and the corners between the housing sidewalls and circumferential wall.
|
the present invention relates to this fiber opening device in a spinning unit of an open - end spinning machine, and more particularly such a device having an opening roller rotatably mounted in a housing to which a sliver is fed by a drawing - in drive. in open - end spinning, a sliver consisting of fibers that are generally parallel is combed to separate the fibers by an opening roller enclosed in a housing and the fibers are fed by air current in the cavity to a fiber discharge opening in the housing from which they pass through a fiber guide tube to the spinning element, e. g. a spinning rotor. as the fibers are of small size, even very small crevices between and all the components of the device, such as at edges and corners, can result in entrapment of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the even flow of fibers that may ultimately break loose and pass into the spinning rotor to create a faulty slub in the yarn. typical of the known fiber opening devices in open - end spinning machines is the device disclosed in german patent document de - ps no. 19 14 115, in which a fluid discharge opening for separating trash, such as hull particles, dirt, etc., is formed in the housing between the drawing - in roller and the fiber discharge opening containing the guide tube. such a fiber discharge opening will allow undesirable clumps of fibers to be discharged and not pass through the guide tube to the rotor, but it does not prevent the formation of clumps, which can result in faulty yarn, e. g. hollow areas, during the formation of a clump of fibers prior to being broken loose and detached. in known fiber opening devices, there are several locations at which fibers can be caught and accumulate in crevices. typical of these are the pivoted feed bowl, the drawing - in trough and the corners between the housing sidewalls and circumferential wall.
|
The present invention relates to a fiber opening device in a spinning unit of an open - end spinning machine, and more particularly such a device having an opening roller rotatably mounted in a housing to whLvh a sliver is fed by a drawing - in roller. In open - end spinning, a sliver consisting of fibers tja% are generally 9a$allel is combed to separate the fibers by an opening roller enclosed in a housing and the fibers are fed by air current in the h(usibg to a fiber discharge opening in the housing from which they pass through a cibWr guide tube to the spinning element, e. g. a spinning rotor. As the fibers are of small size, even very small crevices between and within the components of the device, such as at edges and corners, can result in entrapment of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the ev3G flow of fibers that may ultimately break loose and pass imt) the spinning rotor to create a faulty slub in the yarn. Typical of the known fiber opening devices in 0Oen - end spinning machines is the device disclosed in German patent document DE - PS No. 19 14 115, in which a trash discharge opening for separating trash, such as hull particles, dirt, etc. , is formed in the housing between the drawing - in roller and the fiber discharge opening to the guide tube. Such a trash discharge opening will allow undesirable clumps of fibers to be discharged and not pass through the guide tube to the rotor, but it does not prevent the formation of clumps, which can result in faulty yarn, e. g. thin areas, during the forkatikn of a clump of fibers prior to being broken loose and discharged. In known fiber opening devices, there are srFeral locations at which fibers can be caught and accumulate in crevices. Typical of these are the pivoted feed trough, the drawing - in trough and the corners between the housing sidewalls and circumferential wall.
|
The present relates to a fiber opening device in a spinning unit of an open-end spinning machine, more such a device having an opening roller rotatably mounted in a housing to which a sliver is fed by a drawing-in roller. In open-end spinning, sliver consisting of fibers that are generally parallel is combed to separate the fibers an opening roller enclosed a housing and the are fed by air in to a fiber discharge opening in the housing from which they pass through a guide tube to spinning element, e.g. a spinning rotor. As the fibers are of small even very small crevices between and within the components the such as at and corners, can result in entrapment of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the flow of that may break loose and pass into the spinning rotor to create a faulty slub in the yarn. Typical of the known fiber opening in open-end machines is the device disclosed in German patent document DE-PS No. 19 14 115, in which a trash discharge opening for separating trash, such as hull particles, dirt, etc., is formed in the housing between the drawing-in roller and the fiber discharge opening to guide tube. Such a trash discharge opening will allow undesirable clumps of fibers to be discharged and not pass through guide tube to rotor, but it not prevent the formation of clumps, which result in faulty yarn, e.g. thin areas, during the formation a clump of fibers to being broken loose and discharged. In known fiber opening devices, there are several locations at which fibers can be caught and accumulate in crevices. Typical of these the feed trough, the drawing-in trough and the corners between housing sidewalls and wall.
|
thE PREsENT InVenTiON RelaTeS tO a fiBeR oPEninG devIce IN a spiNning uNIt oF An opEN-eND SpInniNg maChiNE, ANd MORE pArtiCUlaRLy such A DEvICE Having an openiNg ROller RoTAtably MOuNTed in a hOUsiNg to WhICH a sLiVeR IS Fed bY a DraWIng-IN ROlLer.
In oPeN-END sPinNiNG, A sLiveR cONSIstInG of fIbeRS tHaT ARe geNEralLy PAralLeL is COmBEd to SeParaTE ThE fIBeRs by An openiNG RoLLeR EnclOsEd iN a HoUsiNg ANd The FIBErs ArE FeD By AiR CUrrenT In the housInG TO a FIber diSChARge opEnING in tHe hOUSiNg frOM WHiCH THEy PaSs thROUgH A fibER GuIDe tuBE TO ThE SPINnIng ElEMEnt, E.G. A SpinNiNg rOTor.
aS The fiBErs arE oF sMaLl sIZE, eVEN VerY sMall CreVIcEs bEtWeen ANd WIthin The coMPoNEnts of THe devIcE, sUCh As aT eDGeS aND CORnErS, cAN ReSuLt iN ENtrapMENT OF InDIvIduAl fiBErS And thE accumUlAtiON Of A CLUmp of fIbeRs tHat diSRupTs THE Even FLoW OF FIBErs tHAT may ULtiMaTeLy bReaK LOoSe AnD PaSS InTO the SpInNinG RotOR TO cREATe a fAulTy SlUB iN thE Yarn.
TYPICaL Of the KnOwN Fiber openING DEVices IN oPeN-eND SpINninG mACHiNEs iS The dEvIcE DISclOseD IN geRMan PAtenT DocUmEnT dE-Ps no. 19 14 115, IN wHiCH A tRASh dischArgE OpEnINg fOr sEPARaTinG tRaSh, Such as hULL paRtICles, dIrT, Etc., iS FOrMEd iN The hOusInG BeTWEEN tHE dRawInG-iN RoLleR AnD THE FiBER DisCHargE opENIng TO tHE guidE tuBE. SUcH A tRAsh DIScHarge oPeNIng wILL ALlOw undEsiRabLE ClumpS oF fIbERs to be DIScHargeD aND NoT pAsS tHrouGh THe GuiDE tUbe tO tHe roTOr, bUT it dOES NOt PreVeNt tHE fOrMAtion oF cLUmps, whiCH cAn ReSULt In fAuLtY yArn, e.G. ThIn arEaS, duriNG THE FoRmatiOn Of A cLump Of fiberS prIoR To beIng bROKeN loOsE ANd DIscHaRGeD. In kNowN FibER OpenINg devIceS, THeRe ArE sEvEral LocATIoNs at whicH fIberS cAN bE cAuGHt AND aCcumulaTe in cReVicES. tYPIcAL of these ARe tHE pIvOTeD feeD TROugh, THe drAwiNg-In tRoUgh aND thE coRnErs BEtween thE HousInG sideWAlLs AnD CIrCUMfeReNTIAL WaLL.
|
The present invention relates to a fiber opening device in a spinning unit of an open-end spinningmachine, and more particularly such adevice having anopeningroller rotatably mounted ina housing to which a sliver is fed by a drawing-in roller. In open-end spinning, a sliver consisting of fibers thatare generally parallel is combed toseparate the fibers by an opening roller enclosed in ahousing and the fibers are fedby air current in thehousing to a fiber discharge opening in thehousing from whichthey pass through a fiber guide tube to the spinning element, e.g.aspinningrotor. As the fibers are of small size, even very small crevices between and within the components of the device, such asat edgesandcorners, can result inentrapment of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the even flowof fibers that mayultimately break loose and pass into the spinning rotor tocreate a faulty slub in the yarn. Typical of the known fiberopening devices in open-end spinning machines is thedevice disclosed in German patent document DE-PSNo. 19 14 115, inwhich a trash discharge opening for separating trash, such ashullparticles, dirt,etc., is formed in the housing between the drawing-inroller and the fiber discharge openingto the guidetube. Such a trash discharge opening willallow undesirableclumps of fibers to bedischarged and not pass through the guidetube totherotor, but it doesnot prevent the formation of clumps, which can result in faulty yarn, e.g. thin areas, during the formationof a clump of fibers prior to being brokenloose and discharged. Inknown fiber opening devices, thereare several locations at which fiberscan be caught andaccumulatein crevices. Typicalof these are thepivotedfeed trough, the drawing-in trough and the corners between the housing sidewalls and circumferential wall.
|
The present invention relates to a fiber opening device in _a_ _spinning_ _unit_ of an open-end spinning machine, and _more_ particularly such a device _having_ _an_ opening roller rotatably mounted _in_ a housing to which a sliver is _fed_ by a drawing-in _roller._ In _open-end_ _spinning,_ _a_ _sliver_ consisting of fibers that are _generally_ parallel is combed _to_ separate _the_ fibers _by_ an opening roller enclosed _in_ a housing and the fibers are fed by air current in the housing to _a_ fiber discharge opening in the housing from which _they_ pass through a fiber guide _tube_ _to_ the spinning element, e.g. a _spinning_ rotor. _As_ the fibers are _of_ small size, even very small crevices between and within the _components_ of the device, such as at _edges_ _and_ corners, can result in _entrapment_ of individual fibers and the accumulation of a clump of fibers that disrupts the even flow of fibers that may ultimately break loose and pass _into_ the spinning rotor to _create_ _a_ faulty slub in the yarn. _Typical_ _of_ the known fiber _opening_ devices _in_ open-end spinning machines _is_ the device _disclosed_ in _German_ patent document DE-PS No. _19_ 14 115, in which _a_ trash discharge opening _for_ _separating_ trash, _such_ as hull particles, dirt, etc., is formed in the housing between the drawing-in roller and _the_ fiber discharge opening to the _guide_ tube. Such a _trash_ _discharge_ opening will allow undesirable _clumps_ _of_ fibers to be _discharged_ and not pass through the _guide_ tube to the rotor, _but_ it does not prevent the formation of _clumps,_ which can result in faulty _yarn,_ e.g. _thin_ areas, during _the_ formation of a clump of fibers _prior_ to _being_ broken _loose_ and discharged. _In_ known fiber _opening_ devices, _there_ are several locations at which fibers _can_ be caught and accumulate in crevices. _Typical_ of these are _the_ pivoted _feed_ trough, _the_ _drawing-in_ trough and the corners between the housing _sidewalls_ and circumferential wall.
|
1. Technical Field
The present invention relates generally to reactors, and more particularly to fabricating substrates that may be used in reactors.
2. Description of Related Art
Many reactions involving fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, and the like) use reactors. Many reactions are temperature dependent, and so a reactor (or zone within a reactor) may be required to have certain chemical, mechanical, thermal, and other properties at a temperature of interest to the reaction. Some reactions are performed at high temperatures (e.g., above 100 C, above 400 C, above 800 C, above 1100 C, or even above 1500 C), and so may require reactors having appropriate properties at the temperature of interest. Some reactions entail a heterogeneous reaction (e.g., involving a fluid and a surface).
Abatement of exhaust streams (e.g., from engines, turbines, power plants, refineries, chemical reactions, solar panel manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like) may include heterogeneous reactions. In some cases, the period of time during which a fluid interacts with a surface may affect the efficacy of a reaction. Certain reactions may benefit from increased contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Certain reactions may benefit from reduced contact times between a fluid and a substrate.
Some reactions proceed at practical rates at high temperatures. In some cases, an exhaust stream may provide heat that may heat a reactor (e.g., as in a catalytic converter on an automobile). Controlling both contact time (e.g., between a fluid and a reactor) and a temperature at which the reaction occurs may be challenging with typical reactor designs, particularly when heat transfer and mass transfer are not independently controlled.
Effective reaction (e.g., mitigation of a pollutant) may require a reactor design that maintains a desired temperature or range of temperatures over a certain volume or region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the primary source of heat to the reactor may be the exhaust stream. Such requirements may be challenging, particularly when mass transfer and/or reaction kinetics are at odds with heat transfer kinetics (e.g., from an exhaust stream to a reactor, or from the reactor to the environment).
The use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperature may result in impaired performance under some conditions. For example, a catalytic converter may inefficiently decompose pollutants prior to having been heated to an appropriate temperature (e.g., when the vehicle is cold). A diesel particulate filter may require “regeneration” (e.g., the creation of a temperature and oxygen partial pressure sufficient to oxidized accumulated soot). Regeneration often requires heating the filtered soot to an oxidation temperature, which often relies on heat from the exhaust stream and/or heat from other sources. Regeneration may require electrical heating of a reactor. Some combinations of engines and duty cycles may result in contaminants (e.g., soot) reaching unacceptable levels before a mitigation system begins efficient operation (e.g., a soot filter may “fill up” before regeneration occurs.
Regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion heating beyond the motive heat associated with the working engine (e.g., direct injection of fuel into an exhaust stream). In some cases, the provision of regeneration heat (e.g., via electrical heating, post-injection, downstream injection, and the like) may decrease the overall efficiency of a system.
Some streams of fluids may be subject to a plurality of reactions and/or reactors. For example, a diesel exhaust mitigation system may include a diesel oxidation reactor (e.g., to oxidize CO and/or hydrocarbons), a particulate filter, and a reactor to remove NOx (oxides of Nitrogen). In some cases, these reactors are disposed in series, and so an exhaust system may include several components, each having an inlet and outlet, with the outlet of one component connected to the inlet of another component. Such systems may be complex and/or difficult to integrate.
In some cases, each component may require a separate mass and/or heat injection apparatus. For example, excess diesel fuel may be injected into an exhaust stream to create combustion at a diesel oxidation reactor in order to raise an inlet temperature of a particulate filter. A NOx reactor may require injection of a reductant, (e.g., urea, ammonia, Hydrogen, and/or other fuel) in order to facilitate a reaction at a certain temperature. A diesel particulate filter may benefit from NOx injection (e.g., to oxidize soot).
In some cases, latent heat and/or chemical species exiting a first reactor may not be efficiently utilized in a second “downstream” reactor, notwithstanding that the heat and/or species might be useful in the downstream reactor. In some cases, the heat and/or species exiting a first reactor must be controlled in such a way that performance of a downstream reactor is not inhibited. Improved reactor designs might provide for such control.
Many refractory substrates (e.g., catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, and the like) are fabricated using extrusion. Such substrates often have long channels, with the “long” direction of the channels associated with the extrusion direction. The long direction may also be aligned with the flow of fluid through the substrate. As a result, reaction kinetics, heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow properties, and the like may be constrained by the method of fabrication of the substrate (e.g., extrusion). For example, a certain minimum residence time (associated with a reaction) may require a substrate having a minimum length, which may dictate an extruded substrate whose length is impractical for a given application.
For a typical filter (e.g., a diesel particulate filter, or DPF), filtration may preferentially begin at regions having higher fluid flow rates. In some cases, the deposition of particles may preferentially occur at the downstream end of a filter substrate, and so a particulate filter may “fill up” from the downstream end toward the upstream end.
A DPF may be “regenerated” by oxidizing filtered particles (e.g., filtered soot). Often, the downstream end of a DPF substrate may be cooler than the upstream end, and so regeneration of soot may require that the coolest part of the substrate reach regeneration temperatures. In certain applications, it may be advantageous to provide for preferential soot filtration at portions of the substrate that heat up faster than other portions.
|
1. technical field the present invention relates generally to reactors, and more particularly to fabricating substrates that may be used in reactors. 2. description of related art many reactions involving fluids ( e. g., gases, liquids, and the like ) use reactors. many reactions are temperature dependent, and so a reactor ( or zone within a reactor ) may be required to have certain chemical, mechanical, thermal, and other properties at a temperature of interest surrounding the reaction. some reactions are performed at high temperatures ( e. g., above 100 b, above 400 c, above 800 c, above 900 c, or even above 1500 c ), and so may require reactors having appropriate properties at the temperature of interest. some reactions entail a heterogeneous reaction ( e. g., involving a fluid and a surface ). abatement of exhaust streams ( e. g., gasoline engines, turbines, power plants, refineries, chemical reactions, solar panel manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like ) may include heterogeneous reactions. in some cases, the period of time during whether a fluid interacts with a surface may affect the efficacy of a reaction. certain reactions may benefit from increased contact temperature between a fluid within a substrate. certain reactions may benefit from reduced contact times between a fluid and a substrate. some reactions proceed at practical rates at high temperatures. in some cases, an exhaust stream may provide heat that may heat a reactor ( e. g., as possibly a catalytic converter on an automobile ). controlling both contact time ( e. g., between a fluid and a reactor ) and a temperature at which the reaction occurs may be challenging with typical reactor designs, particularly when heat transfer and mass transfer are not independently controlled. effective reaction ( e. g., mitigation of a pollutant ) may require a reactor design that maintains a desired temperature or range of temperatures over a certain volume or region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the primary source delivering heat to the reactor may be the exhaust stream. such requirements may be challenging, particularly when mass transfer and / or reaction kinetics are at odds with heat transfer kinetics ( e. g., from an exhaust stream to a reactor, or from the reactor to the environment ). the use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperature may result in impaired performance under some conditions. for example, a catalytic converter may inefficiently remove pollutants prior to having been heated to an appropriate temperature ( e. g., when the vehicle is cold ). a diesel particulate filter may require “ regeneration ” ( e. g., the creation of a temperature and oxygen partial pressure sufficient to oxidized accumulated soot ). regeneration often requires heating the filtered soot to an oxidation temperature, which often relies on heat from the exhaust stream and / or heat from other sources. regeneration may require electrical heating of a reactor. some combinations of engines and duty cycles may result in contaminants ( e. g., soot ) reaching unacceptable levels before a mitigation system begins efficient operation ( e. g., a soot filter may “ fill up ” before regeneration occurs. regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion heating beyond the motive heat associated with the working engine ( e. g., direct injection of fuel into an exhaust stream ). in some cases, the provision of regeneration heat ( e. g., via electrical heating, post - injection, downstream injection, and the like ) may decrease the overall efficiency of a system. some streams of fluids may be subject to a plurality of reactions and / or reactors. for example, a diesel exhaust mitigation system may include a diesel oxidation reactor ( e. g., to oxidize co and / or hydrocarbons ), a particulate filter, and a reactor to remove nox ( oxides of nitrogen ). in some cases, these reactors are disposed in series, and so an exhaust system may include several components, each having an inlet and outlet, with the outlet of one component connected to the inlet of another component. such systems may be complex and / or difficult to integrate. in some cases, each component may require a separate mass and / or heat injection apparatus. for example, excess diesel fuel may be injected into an exhaust stream to create combustion at a diesel oxidation reactor in order to raise an inlet temperature of a particulate filter. a nox reactor may require injection of a reductant, ( e. g., urea, ammonia, hydrogen, and / or other fuel ) in order to facilitate a reaction at a certain temperature. a diesel particulate filter may benefit from nox injection ( e. g., to oxidize soot ). in some cases, latent heat and / or chemical species exiting a first reactor may not be efficiently utilized in a second “ downstream ” reactor, notwithstanding that the heat and / or species might be useful in the downstream reactor. in some cases, the heat and / or species exiting a first reactor must be controlled in such a way that performance of a downstream reactor is not inhibited. improved reactor designs might provide for such control. many refractory substrates ( e. g., catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, and the like ) are fabricated using extrusion. such substrates often have long channels, with the “ long ” direction of the channels associated with the extrusion direction. the long direction may also be aligned with the flow of fluid through the substrate. as a result, reaction kinetics, heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow properties, and the like may be constrained by the method of fabrication of the substrate ( e. g., extrusion ). for example, a certain minimum residence time ( associated with a reaction ) may require a substrate having a minimum length, which may dictate an extruded substrate whose length is impractical for a given application. for a typical filter ( e. g., a diesel particulate filter, or dpf ), filtration may preferentially begin at regions having higher fluid flow rates. in some cases, the deposition of particles may preferentially occur at the downstream end of a filter substrate, and so a particulate filter may “ fill up ” from the downstream end toward the upstream end. a dpf may be “ regenerated ” by oxidizing filtered particles ( e. g., filtered soot ). often, the downstream end of a dpf substrate may be cooler than the upstream end, and so regeneration of soot may require that the coolest part of the substrate reach regeneration temperatures. in certain applications, it may be advantageous to provide for preferential soot filtration at portions of the substrate that heat up faster than other portions.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates generally to reactors, and more particularly to fabricating substrates 6bat may be used in reactors. 2. Description of Related Art Many reactions involving fluids (e. g. , gases, liquids, and the like) use reactors. Many reactions are temperature dependent, and so a reactor (or zone within a reactor) may be required to have certain chemical, mechanical, thermal, and other properties at a temperature of interest to the reaction. Some reactions are performed at high temperatures (e. g. , above 100 C, above 400 C, above 800 C, above 1100 C, or even above 1500 C ), and so may require reactors having appropriate properties at the temperature of interest. Some reactions entail a heterogeneous reaction (e. g. , involving a fluid and a surface ). Abatement of exhaust streams (e. g. , from engines, turbines, power plants, refineries, chemical reactions, solar panel manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like) may include heterogeneous reactions. In some cases, the period of time during which a fluid interacts with a surface may affect the efficacy of a reaction. Certain reactions may benefit from increased contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Certain reactions may benefit from reduced contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Some reactions proceed at practical rates at high temperatures. In some cases, an exhaust stream may provide heat that may heat a reactor (e. g. , as in a catalytic converter on an automobile ). Controlling both contact time (e. g. , between a fluid and a reactor) and a temperature at which the reaction occurs may be challenging with typical reactor designs, particularly when heat transfer and mass transfer are not independently controlled. Effective reaction (e. g. , mitigation of a pollutant) may require a reactor design that maintains a desired temperature or range of temperatures over a certain volume or region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the primary source of heat to the reactor may be the exhaust stream. Such requirements may be challenging, particularly when mass transfer and / or reaction kinetics are at odds wuGh heat transfer kinetics (e. g. , from an exhaust stream to a reactor, or from the reactor to the environment ). The use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperatu3r may result in impaired performance under some conditions. For example, a catalytic converter may inefficiently decompose pollutants prior to having been heated to an appropriate temperature (e. g. , when the vehicle is cold ). A diesel particulate filter may require “ regeneration ” (e. g. , the creation of a temperature and oxygen partial pressure sufficient to oxidized accumulated soot ). Regeneration often resuirea heating the filtered soot to an oxidation temperature, which often relies on heat from the exhaust stream and / or heat from other sources. Regeneration may require electrical heating of a reactor. Some combinations of engines and duty cycles may result in contaminants (e. g. , soot) reaching unacceptable levels before a mitigation system begins efficient operation (e. g. , a soot filter may “ fill up ” before regeneration occurs. Regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion heating beyond the motive heat associated with the working engine (e. g. , direct injection of fuel into an exhaust stream ). In some cases, the provision of regeneration heat (e. g. , via electrical heating, post - injection, downstream injection, and the like) may decrease the overall efficiency of a system. Some streams of fluids may be subject to a plurality of reactions and / or reactors. For example, a diesel exhaust mitigation system may include a diesel oxidation reactor (e. g. , to oxidize CO and / or hydrocarbons ), a particulate filter, and a reactor to remove NOx (oxides of Nitrogen ). In WomF cases, these reactors are disposed in series, and so an exhaust system may include several components, each having an inlet and Put;et, with the outlet of one component connected to the inlet of another component. Such systems may be complex and / or difficult to integrate. In some cases, each component may require a separate mass and / or heat injection apparatus. For example, excess diesel fuel may be injected into an exhaust stream to create combustion at a diesel oxidation reactor in order to raise an inlet temperature of a particulate filter. A NOx reactor may require injection of a reductant, (e. g. , urea, ammonia, Hydrogen, and / or other fuel) in order to facilitate a reaction at a cWr5ain temperature. A diesel particulate filter may benefit from NOx injection (e. g. , to oxidize soot ). In some cases, latent heat and / or chemical species exiting a first reactor may not be efficiently utilized in a second “ downstream ” reactor, notwithstanding that the heat and / or species might be useful in the downstream reactor. In some cases, the heat and / or species exiting a first reactor must be controlled in such a way that performance of a downstream reactor is not inhibited. Improved reactor designs might provide for such control. Many refractory substrates (e. g. , catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, and the like) are fabrocateX using extrusion. Such substrates often have long channels, with the “ long ” direction of the channels associated with the extrusion direction. The long direction may XlWo be aligned with the flow of fluid through the substrate. As a result, reaction kinetics, heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow properties, and the like may be constrained by the method of fabrication of the substrate (e. g. , extrusion ). For example, a certain minimum residence time (associated with a reaction) may require a substrate having a minimum length, which may dictate an extruded substrate whose length is impractical for a given application. For a typical filter (e. g. , a diesel particulate filter, or DPF ), filtration may preferentially begin at regions having higher fluid flow rates. In some cases, the deposition of particles may preferentially occur at the downstream end of a filter substrate, and so a particulate filter may “ fill up ” from the downstream end toward the upstream end. A DPF may be “ regenerated ” by oxidizing filtered particles (e. g. , filtered soot ). Often, the downstream end of a DPF substrate may be coLleG than the upstream end, and so regeneration of soot may require that the coolest part of the substrate reach regeneration temperatures. In certain applications, it may be advantageous to provide for preferential soot filtration at portions of the substrate that heat up faster than other portions.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates generally to reactors, and more particularly to fabricating substrates may be used in reactors. 2. Description Related Many reactions involving fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, and the like) use reactors. Many reactions are temperature dependent, and so a reactor (or zone within a reactor) may be required to have certain chemical, mechanical, thermal, and other properties at a temperature interest to the are performed at high temperatures (e.g., above 100 C, above 400 C, above C, above 1100 C, or above C), and so may require reactors having appropriate properties at the temperature interest. Some reactions entail a heterogeneous reaction (e.g., involving a fluid and a surface). Abatement of exhaust (e.g., from engines, turbines, power plants, refineries, chemical solar panel manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like) may include heterogeneous reactions. In some cases, the period of during which a interacts with a surface may affect the efficacy a reaction. Certain reactions may from increased between a fluid and a substrate. Certain reactions may reduced contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Some reactions proceed at practical rates at high temperatures. In cases, an exhaust may heat that may heat a reactor (e.g., as in a catalytic converter on an automobile). Controlling both contact time (e.g., between a fluid and a reactor) and a temperature at the reaction occurs may be challenging with typical reactor designs, particularly when transfer mass are not independently controlled. Effective reaction (e.g., mitigation a pollutant) a reactor design that maintains a desired temperature or range temperatures over a certain volume or region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the source of heat to may the exhaust stream. Such requirements may be challenging, particularly when mass transfer and/or reaction kinetics are odds with heat kinetics (e.g., an exhaust stream to a reactor, or from the reactor to the environment). The use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperature may result in performance under some For example, a converter may inefficiently decompose pollutants prior to having been heated to an appropriate (e.g., when the vehicle is cold). A diesel particulate require “regeneration” (e.g., creation of a temperature and oxygen partial pressure sufficient to oxidized accumulated soot). often requires the filtered soot to an temperature, which often relies on heat from the exhaust stream and/or heat from other sources. Regeneration may require heating of a reactor. Some combinations of engines and cycles may result in contaminants (e.g., soot) reaching unacceptable levels before a mitigation system begins efficient operation (e.g., filter may “fill up” before regeneration occurs. Regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion heating beyond the motive heat associated with the working engine (e.g., direct injection of fuel into exhaust stream). In some cases, the provision of regeneration heat (e.g., via electrical heating, downstream and the like) may decrease the overall of a system. Some streams of fluids may be subject to a of and/or reactors. For example, diesel exhaust mitigation system include a diesel oxidation reactor (e.g., to CO and/or hydrocarbons), a particulate filter, and a remove NOx (oxides of Nitrogen). In some cases, these reactors are disposed series, and so an system may include several components, each having inlet and outlet, with the outlet of one component connected to the of another component. Such systems may be complex and/or difficult integrate. In some cases, each component may require a separate mass and/or heat injection apparatus. For example, excess diesel fuel may injected into an exhaust stream to create combustion at a diesel oxidation in to raise an temperature of a filter. A NOx reactor may require injection of a reductant, (e.g., urea, ammonia, Hydrogen, and/or other fuel) in order to facilitate a reaction at a certain temperature. diesel filter may benefit from NOx injection (e.g., oxidize soot). In some cases, latent and/or chemical species exiting a first reactor may not be utilized a second “downstream” reactor, notwithstanding that the heat and/or species be useful in reactor. In some cases, the heat and/or species exiting a first reactor must be controlled in such a way that performance of downstream reactor is not inhibited. Improved reactor designs might provide for such control. Many refractory substrates (e.g., catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, and the like) are fabricated using extrusion. Such often have long channels, with the “long” direction of the channels associated with the extrusion direction. The direction may also be with the flow of fluid through the substrate. As a result, reaction kinetics, heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow and the like may be constrained by the method of fabrication of the substrate (e.g., extrusion). For example, a certain minimum residence time (associated with a reaction) may require a substrate having minimum length, which may dictate an substrate whose length is impractical for a given application. a typical filter (e.g., a diesel particulate filter, or DPF), filtration may preferentially begin at regions having higher fluid flow rates. In some cases, the deposition of particles may preferentially occur at the downstream end of a filter substrate, and so a particulate filter may “fill up” from downstream end the upstream end. A DPF may be “regenerated” by oxidizing filtered particles (e.g., filtered Often, the downstream a DPF may be cooler than the upstream end, and so regeneration of soot may require that the coolest part of the substrate reach regeneration temperatures. certain applications, it may be advantageous to preferential soot filtration at portions of the substrate that heat up faster than portions.
|
1. tecHNicaL fieLd
thE preseNt inVENTIoN RElaTes GeNerallY to REacTorS, aND more pArtiCULArlY tO fABRicAtiNg suBsTRaTES tHAT May bE uSeD iN rEACtoRs.
2. dESCrIPtIon of relatED aRt
mAny rEActionS invOlVING FlUIDS (E.g., GASes, LIqUiDS, and tHe LiKE) USE ReaCtORs. manY rEaCTIONs ARE TeMperatURE dEPendEnt, aND So a ReActoR (oR ZoNE WITHIn A ReacTor) MAY bE REQuIrED To haVe cErTAiN cHEmicAL, mECHaniCaL, theRmAL, aNd OTheR pRoPerTiES at A tEMPeRATURe Of intEREst tO THE reACTiOn. sOME REactiONS aRE PeRfORmeD aT higH teMpERatUReS (e.G., ABOvE 100 c, aBOvE 400 C, ABOVE 800 c, aBovE 1100 C, or eVeN Above 1500 C), and sO maY rEQUiRE ReaCToRs HaVing aPproPriatE ProPeRTIES At ThE TemPeRATurE Of INTerESt. SomE ReACtIons EnTaiL a HETERoGENEous ReaCtiON (e.G., invOlving a FlUiD aND a surfACE).
AbaTemEnT of ExhAUst STREAmS (e.g., frOM EnGiNES, TUrbiNES, poWEr PlANtS, REfINERieS, cHeMIcAL rEACTIOnS, sOlAR panEL MANUfaCtURINg, ELEcTrONICs FABrIcATIon, and The LIkE) MAy iNcLUdE heTERoGENEoUs REaCtIoNs. In SOme CaSeS, THE perIoD Of TIme duRing whICH a fLUId intERAcTS witH A surfAcE May AffECT THe effICaCY OF a ReActIon. CerTain ReaCTIOnS MAy Benefit fROm iNCreasEd cOnTAct tImeS betweEN a fluId And A SuBSTrAte. ceRtaIN ReacTiONS MAy BeNefiT FROm Reduced conTAct TimeS BeTweeN a fLUID aND a SuBsTRATE.
sOme REacTioNS ProcEed AT pRaCtIcaL RaTEs At hiGH tEmPeraTurEs. In SoMe CasEs, aN eXhaUST stReAM mAY prOvIDe heAT That maY HeAT A rEACToR (e.G., as In a CatalYTIc cONvERtER ON an auTOMobIlE). cONtROLLinG bOTH CONtACT tIme (E.g., BetwEEN A fluID And a rEACtoR) and a TEmPEraTure aT whiCh ThE reactIOn ocCurS mAy bE cHalLenGINg With TyPICaL REactoR deSiGns, PARTIcULarLy whEn heAt tRaNsFer ANd MasS transFEr ArE NoT iNDEPENDEnTlY cOntrOLLED.
EFfEcTIVE REaCTION (E.G., MITIgAtIOn oF a PolLUTANt) maY requIRE a reaCTOr deSIGN thAt MAIntAinS A DEsIRED TEmPeRatuRe Or RANge of tEmpErATUrES oveR A CErTaIN volUMe oR rEgion hAVing a ceRtAIN SUrfACE arEa, NOtwITHstANdIng THat the pRIMARy SOURce Of heaT TO tHE reactoR MaY be ThE eXhaUsT strEAM. SuCH REqUiReMeNTS MAy bE CHALlEnGiNG, parTICUlArLY wHEN mAsS tRANsfeR aND/or REActiOn kiNEtIcS ArE at OdDS WITh heAT TRANsfeR kInETicS (E.G., fRoM an eXHauST StReAm tO A ReaCTOr, OR FROM ThE ReAcTOr TO tHE ENviroNMEnT).
thE uSE Of exhaUSt heAt TO MAInTaiN a rEaCTOr tEmpERATure mAY ResUlt IN iMPaired pERFORMANCE UNdER SoME condiTiOnS. FOR EXampLE, A CaTaLyTIC cOnVErtER mAY inEFfIcIeNTLY DEcoMPOSe polLutAnTS PrIor TO haVING BEEn heaTed tO aN APPRoPRIatE TEmpERATurE (e.g., wheN the veHiCLE IS coLd). A dIeSel PaRticuLAte fiLteR mAy rEQuire “rEgEneRaTion” (E.G., the crEATiON oF a TeMpeRATure and oxYgEN pARtIAl preSSURe SUFficIeNT tO oXIDiZEd AccUmuLated SOOT). rEgeneRaTion OFteN REQUiReS heatING The fiLTeREd SOot TO an oxidATiOn tEMPeRATure, wHicH OfTen RElIes on Heat fROm thE exHauST StReAm ANd/Or heaT froM OthEr SOURceS. RegENeRATION May reqUiRe elECTrICaL heatiNG Of A REacTor. SoME COMbinaTiOnS OF enGiNES AnD dutY cYcLes MAy REsUlT iN CoNTamINaNtS (E.g., sOOt) ReaChInG UnAccEPtable LEVeLs BefORE a mITIGaTion sYsTeM bEgins EfficienT OpEraTiOn (e.G., a Soot fILTer mAy “fIll UP” BEFOre regeneRAtioN ocCurs.
regeNEraTIOn MaY rEqUIre INjecTiOn OF a FUEl AND ASSoCIaTeD cOMBUsTIoN HEAtINg BEyonD the motiVe heAT ASsOCiATEd wITH tHe workInG ENgiNe (E.G., dirEct iNJECTIOn OF FueL iNtO AN eXhAust sTreAM). iN SOmE cAsEs, tHe ProviSIoN OF reGEnERAtIon HEat (E.g., VIa ELeCtricAL HeatINg, POSt-iNJEcTiON, DoWnsTREAM INjeCtIoN, and THE liKe) MAY decReASE The OveRAll EffiCiENCy OF a SYsTem.
some STReAMs of FlUiDS May BE SuBJect TO A pLurAliTY Of REAcTioNs aNd/oR ReactorS. FoR exaMPLE, A dieSel eXhAust mITigaTiON sYSTem may iNcluDe A dIeSEL OXIDatIon ReacToR (e.G., to OXIDiZe cO AND/or hYDRoCArBOnS), A ParTIcuLatE fIlter, AnD a ReACtOR to rEmOvE nox (oxIdeS Of nitROgEn). In SOMe CaSeS, THese reaCtoRs arE DIsPoSED In seRies, anD So an ExhAusT System mAy iNClUDe sEvEral COMpOneNtS, EaCh hAving aN inLEt And OUTlet, WITH tHE oUTleT of ONE cOmPONENt conNectEd tO ThE inlEt of aNotHER ComPoneNt. SUch SYsteMs MAY Be comPlEx and/Or diFfICuLT tO INTeGrAtE.
In SOME caSEs, EACh coMponeNt mAy require A SepArAtE mASS AND/or HEaT iNJEctiOn AppaRatUS. foR exAMPle, ExCeSs dieSel FUeL May Be InjecTED iNTO An exHaUST sTreaM TO CReAte cOMbusTiOn aT a DIeSEL oxIDATION reaCtoR IN ORder To RaisE AN inlet tEMPeRaTURe Of a PArTICULate FIltER. A NOx reactoR May ReQUirE iNjEcTion of a REDuCTAnt, (e.G., UREa, ammOnia, hYdROGen, anD/OR OTHer FUeL) in OrDEr To faCIlITAtE a ReACTion at a CeRTaIn TeMpERaturE. A DIEsel pARTiCuLATe FIlTer MAy beneFit from nOX InJECTion (E.g., to oxiDIze SooT).
IN soME caSeS, LaTent hEAt And/or CHeMIcal SpeCieS eXItIng A FIRst reAcTOR maY nOt BE EFFicIEnTlY UtIlIzEd in a secONd “dOwnSTREam” REaCtor, nOTwithstANDinG tHaT THE HeAt ANd/or SPeCIes MighT bE UsEful In thE dOwnstrEaM reActOr. iN sOMe CaSes, THE Heat anD/OR speCieS EXitiNG a FIRsT reACTor muSt be contrOlled In sUch a way THaT perFoRManCe of a DoWNstrEAM rEactoR is not INHibITED. impRoveD reACTOR desigNs MIGhT prOVide FoR SuCH cONTROL.
maNY rEFRActORy SUbsTRates (E.g., catalytIc ConvErtEr, diESel pArtIcuLATE FiLter, aND The LIke) Are FABRicAted USing eXTrusiOn. Such sUbStrAtEs OfTen HAve Long ChAnnelS, WIth the “loNg” DIREctIoN OF the chANNELS asSOCiateD WItH thE eXtRUsiON dIrECTIon. the LONg diRecTioN mAy aLso Be aLIGNed WIth THE fLOw OF FLUid thROugh tHe SUBSTraTE. aS A ResULt, rEActIOn kiNeTiCs, hEat TRAnsFER KInETicS, fLuid FlOW PropErTieS, AnD the liKE MaY BE coNstraiNeD by THe METHOd OF FaBRiCATioN Of thE SubstRAte (e.g., EXtrUsioN). fOR EXamPLe, A CeRtAIN minImum rEsIDENCe tIME (ASSOciated wITh A ReAcTIon) maY REquiRe a sUBstRAtE HaVInG a minimUm lENGTH, WhICh MAy DIcTatE An ExtruDED sUBsTRAtE WHoSe lENGtH is IMprACTIcaL FOR A GIVEn ApPlICATIOn.
for a TYpicAL FILTer (E.g., A diEseL paRticULaTe FiLTeR, oR dPF), filTrAtioN MAy PrEFEReNTIaLLY bEGIN aT ReGions HaViNg HIgheR FlUid flOw RAtES. IN sOMe caseS, The DEpOsItIOn OF paRTIclEs MAY pREfEreNTIALLY occUR AT THE DOWNSTREAM ENd of a FilTer suBSTrAtE, and so A pARTIcULATE fILter MAy “fiLL up” FrOM ThE DOWnstrEAM ENd TowARD The UpSTREAm END.
a dPF May Be “rEgenEraTEd” by OxidiZinG fILTeRed PaRtIClES (E.g., fIlTERED SOoT). OFteN, ThE downStReaM end OF a dpf suBSTRATe mAy be coOLeR thAN The upsTrEAm eNd, anD sO REGenEratIoN OF sOoT MAY rEQuire that the coOLesT pArt OF THE SUBSTRAte ReaCh regEnERatIoN TEMpeRATUres. iN CerTaIn APpliCatIONS, it may BE AdVANtAgEoUs TO ProVIdE For PreFerENTIaL sooT filtrATioN at portIoNs OF tHE suBStraTE ThaT heat UP faSteR tHAN oThEr pORtIons.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates generally to reactors, and more particularly tofabricating substrates that may be used in reactors. 2. Descriptionof Related Art Many reactions involving fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, and the like) use reactors. Many reactionsare temperature dependent, and so a reactor (or zone within a reactor) maybe required to have certain chemical, mechanical, thermal, and otherproperties at a temperature of interest to the reaction. Some reactions are performed at high temperatures (e.g., above 100 C, above 400 C, above800 C, above 1100 C, orevenabove1500 C), and somay require reactors having appropriate propertiesat the temperature of interest. Some reactions entail a heterogeneous reaction (e.g., involving a fluid and a surface). Abatement of exhaust streams(e.g., fromengines,turbines, power plants,refineries, chemicalreactions, solarpanel manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like) mayinclude heterogeneous reactions. In some cases, the period of time during which a fluid interacts witha surface may affect the efficacyof a reaction. Certain reactions may benefit from increased contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Certain reactions may benefit from reduced contacttimes between a fluid anda substrate. Some reactions proceed at practical rates at high temperatures. Insome cases, an exhaust stream mayprovide heat that may heat a reactor (e.g., as in a catalytic converter on an automobile).Controllingboth contact time(e.g., between a fluid anda reactor) and atemperature at which the reaction occurs may be challenging with typical reactor designs, particularly when heat transferandmass transfer are not independently controlled. Effective reaction (e.g., mitigation of a pollutant) may require a reactordesign that maintains a desired temperature or rangeof temperaturesover a certain volume or region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the primarysource of heat to thereactormay be the exhaust stream. Such requirements may be challenging, particularly when mass transferand/orreaction kineticsare atodds with heat transfer kinetics (e.g., from an exhaust stream to a reactor, orfrom the reactor to the environment).The use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperature may result in impaired performanceunder some conditions. For example,a catalytic converter may inefficiently decompose pollutants prior to having been heated toan appropriate temperature (e.g., when thevehicle iscold). Adieselparticulate filter may require “regeneration” (e.g., thecreation ofa temperature and oxygen partial pressure sufficient to oxidized accumulated soot). Regeneration often requires heating the filtered soot to an oxidationtemperature, which often relies on heat from the exhauststream and/or heat from other sources. Regeneration may require electrical heating of a reactor. Some combinations of engines and duty cyclesmayresult in contaminants (e.g., soot) reaching unacceptable levels before a mitigation system begins efficientoperation (e.g., asoot filter may“fill up” before regeneration occurs. Regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion heating beyond the motive heat associated with the working engine(e.g., direct injectionof fuel into an exhaust stream). In some cases, the provision of regeneration heat (e.g., via electrical heating, post-injection,downstream injection, and the like) may decrease the overall efficiency of a system. Some streamsof fluids may be subject to a plurality of reactions and/or reactors.For example, a diesel exhaust mitigation system may include a diesel oxidation reactor (e.g., to oxidize CO and/or hydrocarbons), a particulate filter, and a reactor to removeNOx (oxides of Nitrogen). In somecases, these reactors are disposed in series, and so an exhaust systemmay include several components, each havingan inlet and outlet, with the outlet of one component connected to the inlet of anothercomponent. Such systems may be complex and/or difficult to integrate. In some cases, each component may require a separate mass and/or heat injection apparatus. For example, excess diesel fuelmay be injected into an exhaust stream to create combustion atadiesel oxidation reactor in order to raisean inlettemperature of a particulatefilter. ANOx reactor may require injection of a reductant, (e.g., urea, ammonia,Hydrogen, and/or other fuel) in order tofacilitate a reaction at acertain temperature. A diesel particulate filtermay benefit from NOxinjection (e.g., to oxidize soot). In some cases, latent heat and/or chemicalspecies exiting a first reactor may notbe efficiently utilizedina second “downstream”reactor, notwithstandingthat the heat and/or species might be useful in the downstream reactor. In some cases, the heat and/or species exiting a first reactor must be controlled in such a way that performanceof a downstream reactor is not inhibited. Improvedreactor designsmight provide for such control. Manyrefractory substrates (e.g., catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, and the like)are fabricatedusing extrusion. Such substrates often have long channels,with the “long” direction of the channels associated withthe extrusion direction. The long direction mayalso be aligned with theflowof fluid through the substrate. Asa result, reaction kinetics,heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow properties, and the like may beconstrainedby the method of fabrication of the substrate (e.g., extrusion).For example, a certainminimum residence time (associated with a reaction) may require a substrate havinga minimum length, which may dictate an extrudedsubstrate whose length is impractical for a given application. For a typical filter (e.g., a diesel particulate filter,or DPF), filtration may preferentially begin at regions having higher fluidflow rates.In some cases, the deposition ofparticles may preferentially occuratthe downstream end ofafilter substrate, and so a particulate filter may “fill up” from the downstreamend toward theupstream end. ADPF may be “regenerated” by oxidizing filtered particles (e.g., filtered soot). Often, the downstream end of a DPF substrate may be coolerthan the upstream end, and soregeneration of sootmay require that the coolest part of thesubstrate reach regeneration temperatures. In certain applications, it may be advantageous to provide for preferential soot filtration at portions of thesubstrate that heatup faster than other portions.
|
1. Technical Field The present invention relates generally to _reactors,_ _and_ more _particularly_ to _fabricating_ substrates _that_ may be _used_ in reactors. 2. Description of Related _Art_ Many reactions involving fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, _and_ the like) _use_ reactors. Many reactions _are_ temperature dependent, _and_ so a _reactor_ (or zone within a reactor) may be required to _have_ certain chemical, _mechanical,_ thermal, and other properties at _a_ temperature of interest to the reaction. Some reactions are performed at high _temperatures_ (e.g., above _100_ C, _above_ 400 C, above 800 _C,_ above _1100_ C, _or_ even above 1500 C), and so may require _reactors_ having appropriate properties at _the_ temperature of _interest._ _Some_ reactions entail _a_ heterogeneous reaction _(e.g.,_ involving a fluid and a surface). Abatement of _exhaust_ streams _(e.g.,_ _from_ engines, turbines, power plants, refineries, chemical reactions, solar _panel_ manufacturing, electronics fabrication, and the like) _may_ include heterogeneous reactions. In some cases, the period of _time_ _during_ which a fluid _interacts_ with a surface _may_ affect the efficacy of a reaction. _Certain_ reactions may benefit from increased contact times between a fluid and a substrate. Certain reactions may benefit from reduced contact _times_ between a fluid and _a_ _substrate._ Some reactions proceed _at_ practical rates at _high_ temperatures. In some cases, an exhaust stream may provide _heat_ that may heat a _reactor_ (e.g., as in a catalytic converter on an _automobile)._ Controlling both contact time _(e.g.,_ between a fluid and _a_ reactor) and a _temperature_ at _which_ the reaction occurs may be _challenging_ with typical reactor _designs,_ particularly when heat transfer and _mass_ transfer are not independently controlled. Effective reaction (e.g., _mitigation_ of a pollutant) may require a reactor _design_ that maintains a desired temperature or range _of_ _temperatures_ over a certain volume _or_ region having a certain surface area, notwithstanding that the primary source of heat to the reactor may be _the_ exhaust stream. Such requirements may be challenging, _particularly_ _when_ mass transfer and/or reaction kinetics _are_ at odds with heat transfer kinetics _(e.g.,_ from an exhaust _stream_ _to_ a reactor, or from the reactor _to_ _the_ environment). The use of exhaust heat to maintain a reactor temperature may result in impaired performance under _some_ conditions. For example, a _catalytic_ converter may inefficiently decompose _pollutants_ _prior_ to having been heated to an appropriate temperature (e.g., when the _vehicle_ is _cold)._ A diesel particulate filter may _require_ “regeneration” (e.g., the _creation_ of a _temperature_ and _oxygen_ _partial_ pressure sufficient to oxidized _accumulated_ soot). Regeneration often requires heating the filtered soot to an oxidation _temperature,_ which often relies on heat from the exhaust stream and/or heat _from_ other sources. Regeneration may require electrical heating _of_ _a_ reactor. Some _combinations_ of engines and _duty_ cycles _may_ result in _contaminants_ (e.g., soot) reaching unacceptable _levels_ before a mitigation system begins efficient operation _(e.g.,_ a soot filter may _“fill_ _up”_ before regeneration occurs. Regeneration may require injection of a fuel and associated combustion _heating_ beyond the motive heat associated _with_ the working engine (e.g., direct injection of _fuel_ into an _exhaust_ _stream)._ In _some_ cases, the provision of regeneration heat _(e.g.,_ via _electrical_ _heating,_ _post-injection,_ _downstream_ injection, and the _like)_ may decrease the overall efficiency _of_ a _system._ Some streams of fluids may be _subject_ to a plurality of reactions and/or reactors. For _example,_ a diesel exhaust _mitigation_ system may include a diesel oxidation reactor (e.g., to oxidize _CO_ and/or hydrocarbons), a particulate filter, and _a_ reactor to remove NOx (oxides of Nitrogen). In some cases, these reactors are disposed _in_ series, and so an exhaust system may _include_ several components, each _having_ an inlet and outlet, with the outlet _of_ _one_ component connected to _the_ inlet of another _component._ Such systems may be complex and/or difficult to integrate. In some cases, each _component_ may require a separate _mass_ and/or _heat_ injection apparatus. For _example,_ excess diesel _fuel_ may be injected into an exhaust stream to _create_ combustion at a diesel oxidation reactor in order _to_ raise _an_ _inlet_ _temperature_ of a particulate filter. A NOx reactor may require _injection_ of a reductant, (e.g., urea, ammonia, _Hydrogen,_ and/or other fuel) in order _to_ facilitate a reaction _at_ a certain temperature. A diesel particulate filter may _benefit_ from _NOx_ injection (e.g., to oxidize soot). In some cases, latent heat _and/or_ _chemical_ species _exiting_ a _first_ reactor may _not_ _be_ efficiently utilized in a second _“downstream”_ _reactor,_ notwithstanding that the heat and/or species might be useful in the downstream reactor. In some _cases,_ the heat and/or species _exiting_ a _first_ _reactor_ _must_ be controlled in such a _way_ that performance of a downstream reactor is not inhibited. Improved reactor designs _might_ provide for _such_ control. _Many_ refractory substrates (e.g., _catalytic_ _converter,_ diesel particulate _filter,_ and the _like)_ are fabricated using extrusion. _Such_ substrates _often_ have long channels, with the _“long”_ direction of the channels associated with the extrusion _direction._ The _long_ direction may also _be_ aligned with _the_ flow of fluid through the substrate. As _a_ result, _reaction_ kinetics, heat transfer kinetics, fluid flow properties, and the like may _be_ constrained by the _method_ _of_ fabrication of the substrate (e.g., extrusion). For example, a certain minimum residence time (associated with a reaction) may require a substrate having a minimum length, which _may_ dictate _an_ extruded substrate _whose_ length is impractical for a given application. _For_ a typical filter (e.g., a _diesel_ particulate filter, or DPF), filtration may preferentially begin _at_ regions having higher _fluid_ flow rates. In some cases, the _deposition_ of particles may _preferentially_ occur at the downstream end of a filter _substrate,_ _and_ so a particulate _filter_ _may_ “fill up” from the downstream end toward the _upstream_ end. _A_ DPF _may_ be _“regenerated”_ by oxidizing filtered particles (e.g., filtered soot). Often, the _downstream_ end of a DPF substrate may be cooler than the _upstream_ end, and so regeneration of soot may require that the coolest part of the _substrate_ reach regeneration _temperatures._ In certain applications, it may be advantageous _to_ provide for preferential soot filtration _at_ portions _of_ _the_ substrate that heat up faster than _other_ portions.
|
In a shot ball game machine, such as a pachinko machine, predetermined game parts including a starting means, a pattern display means, and a big prize means are mounted in the game region of a game board. In playing a game, game balls are shot to the game region by shooting means. And, if a game ball is detected by the starting means, under the condition of this detection a plurality of patterns in the pattern display means are varied for a predetermined time, and whether a special game state is to be generated or not is decided on the basis of a random number obtained under the condition of this variation. If there is a decision to the effect that the special game state should be generated, a patterns after the variation is stopped in a particular manner, whereupon the special game state to open the opening/closing plate of the big prize means is generated. The big prize means closes the opening/closing plate when a predetermined time has passed since the opening or when a predetermined number of game balls win prizes during the opening. Further, under the condition that game balls pass through the particular region, the special game state, that is, the opening of the big prize means, is repeated predetermined times at a maximum.
Game moves taking place in the game board, including lottery or the like to decide whether or not such special game state is to be generated, are controlled by a main control circuit board stored in a main circuit board case on the back of the game machine main body. Therefore, if predetermined electronic parts including ROMs on the main control circuit board are dishonestly replaced by those which provide a higher probability of generation of the special game state or the like, the special game state can be easily generated.
Accordingly, the method heretofore employed is such that as the predetermined electronic parts including ROMs, those having intrinsic identification information, such as a serial number, applied thereto are used on the one hand and on the other hand after the main control circuit board having the predetermined electronic parts mounted thereon has been stored in the main circuit board case, the latter is sealed by a sealing means which, when opened, will leave a trace of opening. Thereby, if such sealing means are inspected in game parlors or the like, the presence or absence of a dishonest act can be decided, e.g., by the presence or absence of a trace of opening the sealing means, or by a difference in the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts.
In assembling a pachinko machine or the like provided with a circuit board case disposed on the back of the game machine main body and having such main control circuit board stored therein, it is necessary for game machine makers to confirm and record the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and to reliably seal the main circuit board case by the sealing means.
In the prior art, however, since the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing state of the sealing means are visually confirmed by the operator in the inspection step subsequent to the assembling of a pachinko machine, there is a danger of omission of inspection or the like to overlook the state of the sealing means despite the fact that the sealing means has not sealed.
Further, in the case of confirming the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts prior to sealing the main circuit board case and then sealing the main circuit board case by the sealing means, it cannot be absolutely denied that between the confirmation of the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing of the main circuit board case, there is a dishonest act, e.g., to open the main circuit board case to replace the main control circuit board by a new one and to let the latter read a dishonest intrinsic identification information.
With these prior art problems in mind, the invention has for its object the provision of a game machine circuit board case inspection method, and a game board or game machine inspection method, which are capable of reliably effecting the reading of intrinsic identification information applied to electronic parts on a control circuit board in a circuit board case and confirming the sealed state of a circuit board case and also capable of preventing a dishonest act, e.g., to replace electronic parts and let them read dishonest intrinsic identification information in an inspection step.
|
in a shot ball game machine, like as a pachinko machine, predetermined game parts including a starting means, a pattern display means, and a big prize means are mounted in the game region of a game board. in playing a game, game balls are shot to the game region by shooting means. and, if a game ball is detected by the starting means, under the condition of this detection a plurality of patterns in the pattern display means are varied beyond a predetermined time, and whether a special game state is to be generated or not is decided on the basis of a random number obtained under the condition of this variation. if there is a decision to the effect whereby the special game state should be generated, a patterns after the variation is stopped in a particular manner, whereupon the special game state to open the opening / closing plate of the big prize means is generated. the big prize means closes the opening / closing plate when a predetermined time has passed since the opening or when a specified number of game balls win prizes during the opening. further, under common law that game balls pass through the starting region, the special game time, that is, the opening of the big prize means, is repeated predetermined times at a maximum. game moves taking place in the game board, including lottery or the like to decide whether or not what special game state is to be generated, are controlled by a main control circuit board stored in a main circuit board case on the back of the game machine main body. therefore, if predetermined electronic parts including roms on the main control circuit board are dishonestly replaced by those which provide a higher probability of generation of the special game state or the like, the special game state can be easily generated. accordingly, the method heretofore employed is such that as the predetermined electronic parts including roms, those having intrinsic identification information, such as a serial number, applied thereto are used on the one hand and on the other hand after the main control circuit board having the predetermined electronic parts mounted thereon has been stored in the secondary circuit board case, the latter is sealed by a sealing means which, when opened, will leave a trace of opening. thereby, if such sealing means are inspected in game parlors or the like, the presence or absence of a dishonest act can be decided, e. g., by the presence or absence of a trace of opening the sealing means, or by a difference in the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts. in assembling a pachinko machine or the like provided with a circuit board case disposed on the back of the game machine main body and having such main control circuit board stored therein, it is necessary for game machine makers to confirm and record the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and to reliably seal the main circuit board case by the sealing means. in the prior art, however, since the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing state of the sealing means are visually confirmed by the operator in the inspection step subsequent to the assembling of a pachinko machine, there is a danger of omission of inspection or the like to overlook the state of the sealing means despite the fact that the sealing means has not sealed. further, in the case of confirming the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts prior to sealing the main circuit board case and then sealing the main circuit board case by the sealing means, it cannot be absolutely denied that between the confirmation of the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing of the main circuit board case, there is a dishonest act, e. g., to open the main circuit board case to replace the main control circuit board by a new one and to let the latter read a dishonest intrinsic identification information. with these prior art problems in mind, the invention has for its object the provision of a game machine circuit board case inspection method, and a game board or game machine inspection method, which are capable of reliably effecting the reading of intrinsic identification information applied to electronic parts on a control circuit board in a circuit board case and confirming the sealed state of a circuit board case and also capable of preventing a dishonest act, e. g., to replace electronic parts and let them read dishonest intrinsic identification information in an inspection step.
|
In a shot ball game machine, such as a pachinko machine, predetermined game parts including a starting means, a pattern display means, and a big prize means are mounted in the game region of a game board. In playing a game, game balls are shot to the game Degioh by shooting means. And, if a game ball is detected by the starting means, under the condition of this detection a plurality of patterns in the pattern display means are varied for a predetermined time, and whether a special game state is to be generated or not is decided on the basis of a random number obtained under the condition of this variation. If thrr$ is a decision to the effect that the special game state should be generated, a patterns after the variation is stopped in a particular manner, whereupon the special game state to open the opening / closing )<ate of the big prize means is gdjerated. The big prize means closes the opening / closing plate when a predetermined time has passed since the opening or when a predetermined number of game balls win prizes during the opening. Further, under the condition that game balls pass through the particular region, the special game state, that is, the opening of the big prize means, is repeated predetermined times at a maximum. Game moves taking place in the game board, including lottery or the like to decide whether or not such special game state is to be generated, are controlled by a main control circuit board stored in a main circuit board case on the back of the game machine main body. Therefore, if predetermined electronic parts including ROMs on the main control circuit board are dishonestly replaced by those which provide a h8ther probability of generation of the special game state or the like, the special game state can be easily generated. Accordingly, the method heretofore employed is such that as the predetermined electronic parts including ROMs, those having intrinsic identification information, such as a serial number, applied thereto are used on the one hand and on the other hand Svter the main control circuit board having the predetermined electronic parts mounted thereon has been stored in the main circuit board case, the latter is sealed by a sealing means which, when opened, will leave a trace of opening. Thereby, if such sealing means are inspected in game parlors or the like, the presence or absence of a dishonest act can be decided, e. g. , by the presence or absence of a trace of opening the sealing means, or by a difference in the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts. In assembling a pachinko machine or the like provided with a circuit board case disposed on the back of the game machine main body and having such main control circuit board stored therein, it is necessary for game machine makers to confirm and record the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and to reliably seal the main circuit board case by the sealing means. In the prior art, however, since the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing state of the sealing means are visually confirmed by the operS$or in the inspection step subsequent to the assembling of a pachinko machine, there is a danger of omission of inspection or the like to overlook the state of the sealing means despite the fact that the sealing means has not sealed. Further, in the case of confirming the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts prior to sealing the main circuit board case and then sealing the main circuit board case by the sealing means, it cannot be absolutely denied that between the confirmation of the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing of the main circuit board case, there is a dishonest act, e. g. , to open the main circuit board case to replace the main con%r*l circuit board by a new one and to let the latter read a dishonest intrinsic identification information. With these prior art problems in mijc, the invention has for its object the provision of a game machine circuit board Vsse inspection method, and a game board or game machine inspection method, which are capable of reliably effecting the reading of intrinsic identification information applied to electronic parts on a control circuit board in a circuit board case and confirming the sealed state of a circuit board case and also capable of preventing a dishonest act, e. g. , to replace electronic parts and let them read dishonest intrinsic identification information in an inspection step.
|
In a shot ball game machine, such as a pachinko machine, parts including a starting a pattern display means, and a big prize means are mounted in the region of a game board. In game, game balls shot to game region by means. And, if a game ball is detected by the starting means, under the condition of this detection a plurality of patterns in the pattern display means are varied for predetermined time, and whether a special game state is to be generated or not decided on the basis of a random number obtained under the condition of this variation. If there is a the effect that the special game state should be generated, a patterns after the variation is stopped in particular manner, whereupon special game state open the opening/closing plate the big prize means is generated. The big prize means closes the opening/closing when a predetermined time has since the opening or when predetermined number of game balls win prizes during the opening. Further, under the condition game pass the particular region, the special game state, that is, the of the means, is repeated predetermined at a maximum. Game moves taking place in the game board, including lottery or the like decide or not such special game state is to be generated, are controlled by a main control circuit board stored in a main circuit board case on the back of the game machine main body. Therefore, predetermined electronic parts including ROMs on main control circuit board are dishonestly replaced by those which provide a higher probability of generation of the special game state or the like, the special game state can be easily generated. Accordingly, heretofore employed is such that the predetermined including ROMs, those having intrinsic identification information, such as a serial number, applied thereto are used on one hand and on other hand after the main control circuit board having the predetermined electronic parts mounted thereon has been stored the main circuit board case, the latter is sealed by means which, when opened, will leave a trace of opening. Thereby, if such sealing means are inspected in game parlors like, the presence or absence of a dishonest act can be decided, e.g., by the or absence of a trace of opening the sealing means, or by a in the intrinsic identification information the electronic parts. In assembling a pachinko machine the like provided with a circuit board case disposed on the back of the game machine main body and such main control circuit board stored therein, it is necessary for game machine makers to confirm and record the intrinsic identification information on the electronic and to reliably seal the main circuit board case by the sealing means. In the prior art, however, since the identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing state of the sealing are confirmed by the operator in the inspection step subsequent to the assembling of pachinko machine, is a danger omission of inspection or the like to the state of the sealing means despite the fact that the sealing means has not sealed. Further, in the case of confirming the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts prior to sealing the main circuit board case then sealing the main board case the sealing means, it cannot be absolutely denied that the confirmation of the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing the main circuit case, there a dishonest act, e.g., to open main circuit board case to control circuit board a new one and to let the latter read a dishonest intrinsic identification information. With these prior art problems the invention has for its object the provision of a game machine circuit board case inspection method, and a game board or game machine inspection method, which are capable of effecting the reading of intrinsic identification information applied to electronic on a control circuit board in a circuit board case and confirming sealed state of circuit board case and also capable of preventing a act, e.g., to replace electronic parts and let them read intrinsic identification information in an inspection step.
|
In A shot baLl GaME mAChinE, Such aS a paChinko MaCHiNe, PrEdETErMINED GAmE parTS incLudING a StARTing MeaNs, a PAttERN DiSPlay mEanS, aNd A Big pRIZe meANs aRe mOUNted iN tHe GAMe RegiON Of a gAmE BoaRD. IN playIng A GAme, gAme BaLlS ArE SHOT To THE GAmE regIon BY SHooTINg MeANs. AnD, If a GaME ball iS DeTeCTED by tHE sTArTInG MEAnS, under THe conDitiOn OF THIS detEcTIon A PLURality oF PATteRNS IN THE patTErn dIsplAy meAns ARE vArIED fOR a PredETerMiNEd TIMe, aNd wHETHEr a sPEciAl gamE StAte Is TO be GeneRateD OR nOt Is DecIdeD oN thE BaSiS oF a RaNDOM NumbER oBTAiNeD uNDEr ThE coNditiON OF ThIs vaRiATIOn. IF thERe IS A deCiSIoN to THE EFFEct that tHE spEcIAl Game State shouLD bE geNERATeD, a pATtERNs AFTEr THE VaRIAtioN is stoppEd In a PARTiCUlAR MannER, wHerEuPOn thE sPeciaL GamE sTATe To oPEN the opeNIng/clOSing PlAte of tHe BiG Prize meANs is GEneRAtED. ThE BIG PrIZe MeANs CloSes THE opENiNg/ClOsinG PlaTE wHeN A PREDETeRmIned tIME HAs pASSEd SInce thE OpenInG or When a pReDETERMINed NUmber OF GaMe bALlS WIn PRizeS DurING the OPeNinG. fUrtHeR, UnDeR tHE COndItIon thaT game Balls pasS tHROUgh thE PArTiCUlAR reGiOn, The spECiAL gAMe sTAtE, tHAT Is, tHE oPeNING Of THe bIg prIZe meAns, Is rEpeatED pREdeTeRminEd TImes aT A MAximUM.
gAMe MOVes TakinG PLace IN tHE Game boaRD, InCLUdiNg loTtERY oR the lIke tO DEcidE wHetHer Or Not sUCh spECIaL GAmE STaTe IS TO be geNErateD, aRE coNtROLlED by A MaiN cOntRol CircuIT BOArd STored in A Main CIrcUIt Board caSE oN THe bAck of the GAMe macHIne MaiN BoDy. THErEfore, iF PredetERminED eLeCtrONic pArTs IncluDinG ROMS ON thE maiN cONTROl CiRcUit BoaRd aRE DisHOneSTLY REpLAcED by ThoSe WHiCh PRoVidE A HiGHer PRObAbilITy of GENERation OF tHE sPECIAL gAmE STatE or tHe LiKE, the SpeCIal GamE StaTe CAn be EASiLy gEnEraTEd.
aCcORDIngly, THE METhOD HEretOfoRE EMPLoyEd Is Such THaT as the PrEDeTErMInEd ElecTRONic PARtS INCLuDIng ROmS, thosE HaViNG iNtrInSiC IdEnTifiCatioN InfoRmaTion, SUch aS A sErIAl nUmbEr, apPlIED thERETo Are usED On the One hand aND ON The OthEr haND aFTer ThE MaIn coNtRoL CIrCUiT bOaRD hAVINg tHe PREDeteRMINeD ELECtroNIC PARTS MoUnTeD therEon HAS been stoRED in tHe Main CiRCUIt BoaRD CASe, tHe Latter is SEaLEd By A SeALIng MEAns whICh, wHeN oPENed, WILl LeaVE A tRACE OF opENINg. tHErEBY, If SucH SealInG Means ARe INSPECteD in gAME pARlOrs oR The lIKE, The presENCe Or AbSeNcE OF A DisHoNeSt ACT caN Be DecidED, E.G., By the PreSeNCe oR aBSENce Of a TrACE OF OPenInG tHe sealiNG MEANs, OR by a DifFErEnce IN THe iNtRINSic IdENTifiCaTioN inFORMaTIOn oN The eLeCtroNiC PArts.
in aSSEmBliNg A pacHinko mAChinE Or THe lIKE PRovIDEd WiTh A CircuIT BoaRD cAsE dIsPoSEd on the bACk of ThE gaMe macHine MaIN bOdy AnD hAVINg suCh mAin CONTROl ciRcuiT BoaRD stOred thERein, it IS neCeSsaRy foR gAmE MachINE makERS To confIrM aNd RecoRd tHE iNTRinsic iDenTIficaTioN iNFoRmatioN On ThE eLEcTRONiC pArts AND to RELIaBLy SEal thE mAiN CiRcuIt BOArd caSE BY tHE SEaling MEANS.
In ThE prioR aRT, HOweveR, since tHE iNtRINSiC IDenTIfICatioN inFoRmatIOn oN ThE ELeCtroNiC PaRtS AnD the SeaLINg staTE of tHE sEAliNg means ARE vISuALLy coNfiRMed bY The operaToR In THe iNSpeCtion sTeP sUbSeQueNt To tHE aSsEMBLing Of A PachinKo MAcHiNe, tHeRe Is A DAnGer oF OmISsIoN OF INSpEcTion OR thE LIKe TO oVErlOOK tHE sTaTE OF tHE sealIng meAns despItE The FACT THat THe sEAliNG mEANs haS not SEaleD.
FURtheR, in tHe caSE of confiRming tHe INtrinsiC idenTIficatioN iNfoRmatIon on tHe elECTroNIc PartS PRIor To SEALINg tHe main CIRcUIt bOaRD casE AND thEN sEALinG tHe main circUIt BoARD CaSE by tHe SEAliNG MEans, It caNNot be ABSOlutELy deniED ThaT BEtWeEn THe cONfIrMatIOn Of tHe inTriNsIc iDEntiFICATIOn iNFORmaTiON ON the eLEctrOniC partS aND The sEaLInG of THe maiN CirCuIT board case, theRe iS A dishonesT Act, E.g., To OpEN The MAIN cIrcUIt BOaRD CasE tO rePlACE tHe MAIn COnTrol cirCuit BoARD BY A nEW oNE aND tO LeT THE Latter rEad a DiSHoNEsT IntRInsIC IDeNTIFicaTIoN InformatioN.
WiTH ThesE PriOR Art probLEms In mInd, thE iNVeNTIOn HaS For ItS OBJEct The prOVIsIOn Of a gAmE MACHiNE cirCUiT BOARd CasE InSpecTIoN mEtHOd, and A GaMe BOarD Or Game MaCHinE InspeCtion metHOD, WHICH ARE CAPabLe of reLiaBly EffeCting THE rEadiNG Of iNTrINSiC IdeNtifICAtion InFOrmaTIoN APpLIED tO ELeCtrONIc paRTS oN A ContRol CIrCuit bOARD iN A CirCUIT BoARd cASE AND cOnFIRMIng thE seaLEd state Of a cIrCUIT BOArd cAse AnD alSO CaPAblE oF preveNtINg a dISHoNESt aCT, e.g., To rePLAcE ELECTRoNic ParTs aNd LET tHEM reAD diShOnest INTrInsIc IDeNtifICATIoN inFoRMAtIon iN an INsPECTIOn StEP.
|
In a shot ball game machine, such as apachinko machine,predetermined game parts includinga starting means,a pattern display means,and a big prizemeans are mounted in the game region of a game board. In playing a game, game balls are shot to the game region by shootingmeans. And, if a game ball is detectedby the starting means, under the condition ofthis detectiona plurality of patterns in the pattern display means are varied for a predetermined time,and whether a specialgame stateis tobe generatedornot is decided on the basisof a random number obtained under thecondition ofthis variation. Ifthere is a decision to theeffect that the special game state should be generated, a patterns after the variation is stopped ina particular manner, whereupon the special game state to open the opening/closing plate of the big prize means is generated.The big prize means closes the opening/closing plate when a predeterminedtime has passed since the openingor when a predetermined number of game balls winprizes during the opening.Further, underthecondition that game balls pass through the particular region, the special gamestate,that is, the opening of the big prize means, is repeatedpredetermined times at a maximum. Game movestaking place in the gameboard, including lottery or the like to decide whether ornot such special gamestate is to be generated, are controlled bya main control circuit board storedin a main circuit board case on the backof the game machine main body. Therefore, if predetermined electronic parts including ROMs on the maincontrol circuit board are dishonestly replaced by thosewhich provide a higher probability of generation of the special game state or the like, thespecial game statecan be easilygenerated. Accordingly, themethod heretoforeemployed is such that as the predeterminedelectronic parts including ROMs, those having intrinsic identification information, such as a serial number, appliedthereto are used on the one hand and on the other hand after the main control circuit board having the predetermined electronic parts mounted thereon has been storedin the main circuit board case, the latter is sealed by a sealing means which, when opened,will leave a trace ofopening. Thereby, if such sealing means are inspected in game parlorsor the like, the presence or absence of a dishonest act can be decided, e.g., by the presence orabsence of a trace of opening the sealing means, or by a difference in the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts. In assembling apachinko machineor the like provided with a circuit boardcase disposed on the back of the game machine main body and having such main control circuit board stored therein, it is necessary for game machine makers to confirm and record the intrinsic identification information on the electronicparts andto reliably seal the main circuit board case by the sealing means. In the prior art, however, since theintrinsic identification information on theelectronicparts and the sealing state of the sealing meansare visually confirmed by theoperator in the inspection step subsequent tothe assembling of a pachinko machine, there is a dangerof omission of inspection or the like tooverlookthe state of the sealing meansdespite the fact that the sealing means has not sealed.Further, in the case of confirming the intrinsic identificationinformation on the electronic parts prior to sealing the main circuit board case and then sealing the main circuit board case by the sealing means, it cannot beabsolutelydenied that betweenthe confirmation of the intrinsic identification information on the electronicparts and the sealing of themain circuit board case, there isa dishonest act, e.g.,to open themaincircuitboard case to replacethe main control circuitboardbya newone and to let the latterread a dishonestintrinsic identificationinformation. Withthese prior art problems in mind, the invention has for its objectthe provision of a game machine circuit board case inspection method, and a game board or game machine inspection method, which are capable of reliably effecting the reading of intrinsic identificationinformationapplied to electronic parts on a controlcircuit board in a circuit board case andconfirming the sealed state of a circuit board case and also capable of preventing a dishonestact, e.g., toreplace electronic parts and let them read dishonest intrinsic identification information in an inspection step.
|
In a shot _ball_ game _machine,_ such as a _pachinko_ machine, predetermined game parts including a starting means, a pattern display _means,_ and a _big_ prize means are mounted _in_ the _game_ _region_ of a game board. In playing a _game,_ game _balls_ are shot to the game region by shooting means. And, if _a_ game ball is _detected_ _by_ the starting means, under the condition of this detection a plurality _of_ patterns in the pattern display means are varied _for_ _a_ predetermined time, and whether a special game state is to be generated or _not_ is decided on _the_ basis of a _random_ number obtained _under_ _the_ condition _of_ this variation. If _there_ is a decision to the effect that _the_ special _game_ _state_ should be _generated,_ a patterns after the _variation_ is stopped _in_ a particular manner, whereupon the special _game_ state to open the opening/closing plate _of_ the _big_ prize means is generated. The big _prize_ means closes _the_ _opening/closing_ plate when a _predetermined_ time has passed since _the_ opening or when a predetermined number of game balls win _prizes_ during the _opening._ Further, under the condition that game balls pass through the particular region, the special game _state,_ that is, _the_ _opening_ _of_ the big prize means, is _repeated_ predetermined times at a maximum. Game moves taking place in the game _board,_ including lottery or the like to decide whether _or_ not _such_ special game state is to be generated, are controlled by a main control circuit board stored in a main circuit board case on the back of the _game_ _machine_ _main_ body. _Therefore,_ if predetermined electronic parts including ROMs on the main control circuit board are dishonestly _replaced_ by _those_ which provide a higher probability of generation of the special game state _or_ the like, the special game state can be easily generated. Accordingly, the method heretofore employed is such that as the predetermined electronic parts including _ROMs,_ those having intrinsic identification information, _such_ as _a_ serial number, applied thereto are _used_ on _the_ one _hand_ and on _the_ other hand _after_ the main _control_ circuit board having _the_ predetermined _electronic_ parts mounted thereon has been stored in the main circuit board _case,_ the latter is sealed by a sealing means which, when opened, _will_ _leave_ a _trace_ of opening. Thereby, _if_ such sealing means _are_ inspected in game parlors or the like, the presence or absence _of_ a dishonest act _can_ be decided, e.g., _by_ the presence or absence of a _trace_ of opening the sealing _means,_ or by a difference in the _intrinsic_ identification information on the electronic parts. In assembling a pachinko _machine_ or the like provided with a circuit board case disposed on _the_ back _of_ the game _machine_ _main_ body and having _such_ main control circuit _board_ _stored_ therein, it is necessary _for_ game _machine_ makers to confirm and record the _intrinsic_ identification information _on_ the _electronic_ parts and to reliably seal the main circuit board case by _the_ sealing means. In the prior art, however, since the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and the sealing state of _the_ sealing means are _visually_ confirmed by the operator in the inspection step _subsequent_ to the assembling of a pachinko _machine,_ there is a danger of omission of inspection or the _like_ to overlook the state _of_ the _sealing_ means despite the fact _that_ the sealing means has not sealed. Further, _in_ _the_ case _of_ _confirming_ the intrinsic _identification_ information on the electronic parts prior to _sealing_ the main circuit board case and then sealing the main circuit board case by the sealing means, it cannot _be_ absolutely denied that _between_ _the_ _confirmation_ of the intrinsic identification information on the electronic parts and _the_ _sealing_ _of_ _the_ main circuit board _case,_ _there_ is a _dishonest_ act, e.g., _to_ open the main circuit board case to replace the main control circuit board by a new one and to let the latter read a dishonest intrinsic identification information. With these prior art problems _in_ mind, the invention has for _its_ object the provision of a game machine circuit board case inspection method, and a game board or game machine _inspection_ method, which are capable of reliably effecting the reading of intrinsic identification _information_ applied to electronic parts on a control circuit board in a circuit board case and confirming the sealed state of a circuit board case _and_ _also_ capable of preventing a dishonest act, e.g., to replace electronic parts and let them read dishonest intrinsic identification information in an _inspection_ _step._
|
Photographic cameras have been in widespread use for quite some time. Basically, such a camera operates by exposing a portion of a light sensitive media, i.e. a frame of film, for a pre-defined period of time to scene illumination. The light is focused on the frame through a lens that has an aperture of a given, often variable, size. A shutter, situated behind the lens and in front of the film, opens for a selected period of time in order to permit the light to transit therethrough, illuminate and expose the film. As a result of being properly exposed and subsequently developed, the film undergoes a photochemical process, on a two-dimensional basis throughout the frame, that locally varies the optical transmissivity of each portion of the frame in proportion to the amount of illumination that reaches that portion of the frame from a corresponding portion of the scene, thereby producing, depending upon whether reversal or negative film is used, either a two-dimensional positive or negative optical image of the scene. As such, tonal variations that appeared in the scene are captured in the frame of the film. Photographic prints are often made from negatives, while
transparencies (commonly referred to as "slides") are made from positives.
Though this overall process, which relies on the use of silver halide as a photosensitive reagent in film, has basically remained unchanged over many years, this process is highly non-linear and subject to a great many variables which significantly complicate its use. In particular, exposure (E) is defined, under a standardized definition, as being a product of the illuminance (I) multiplied by the time (t) during which the film is exposed to this illumination. In this regard, see specifically ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard PH 3.49-1971 "American National Standard for General Purpose Photographic Exposure Meters" (re-affirmed in its entirety with no modifications in 1987 as ANSI standard PH 3.49-1987) [hereinafter referred to as ANSI standard 3.49-1987], and also ANSI standard PH 2.7-1986 "American National Standard for Photography--Photographic Exposure Guide" and specifically page 13 thereof. In a camera, the combination of two settings, namely lens aperture (size of the lens opening) and shutter speed (time during which the shutter remains open), primarily defines a particular exposure. Unfortunately, lens aperture and shutter speed define more than just an amount of exposure, these settings also dramatically affect picture (hereinafter including both prints and transparencies) quality and must be judiciously chosen in each photographic situation; otherwise, a picture (also referred to hereinafter as an image) having inferior quality will result.
To illustrate the variability among photographic parameters and the difficulties in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter speed settings, consider for the moment a particular scenario that often occurs and presents significant challenges to a photographer: photographing a scene in relatively low light conditions with sufficient depth-of-field to cover a desired subject. In dealing with a low light situation, a photographer, particularly an amateur, might, at first, open the lens aperture to its maximum value in order to pass as much light as possible therethrough to the film. A suitable shutter speed would then be chosen based on scene luminance, typically using an indication provided by an internal light meter located in the camera. Unfortunately, such an approach might fail. Specifically, while, the lens aperture size specifies the amount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so-called depth-of-field in the resulting photographed image, i.e. a range of minimum to maximum camera-to-subject distances in which objects located therein will be perceived in the image as being sharp and in-focus. As the aperture size of a given lens increases, i.e. the lens is opened and its so-called "f" number decreases, which ordinarily occurs in low light conditions, the depth-of-field produced by that lens correspondingly decreases. Accordingly, with certain subject thicknesses, the depth-of-field that results from a maximum lens aperture exposure may be too restricted to fully cover the entire subject. Thus, portions of the subject located at camera-to-subject distances that are outside the range specified by the depth-of-field for the given lens aperture, i.e. too close to or too far from the camera, will appear out-of-focus in the resulting photographed image. Therefore, in order to provide an appropriate depth-of-field to cover the entire subject, a smaller lens aperture than the maximum available size must be used along with a slower shutter speed to generate a sufficient exposure. Unfortunately, a photographer is often unable to steadily hold a hand-held camera for times typically in excess of, for example, 1/50th of a second for a 50 mm lens. Hence, as the shutter remains open for increasingly longer periods of time, the camera becomes increasingly sensitive to camera shake or subject motion which, when it occurs, blurs and ruins the entire picture. Therefore, to reduce the incidence of noticeable image blur, particularly resulting from camera shake, shutter speeds equal to or slower than of 1/50th second for use with a 50 mm lens should be avoided for use in a hand-held camera. Consequently, other techniques, such as mounting the camera on a tripod or using an auxiliary light source, e.g. a so-called flash unit, or higher speed film, i.e. a more sensitive film, are often required in order to provide acceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and shutter speeds in low light conditions. Unfortunately, a flash unit or a tripod may not be currently available. Also, films that are increasingly sensitive tend to produce pictures that exhibit increasing graininess, thereby adversely impacting the quality of the picture. With this scenario and in the absence of having a flash unit, a tripod or the ability to change film for use in photographing a particular low light scene, the photographer may not be able to select shutter speeds and lens aperture sizes that will produce a picture of optimum quality. Instead, the photographer is forced to accept compromise settings which will likely produce a picture of sub-optimum quality, such as being under-exposed, but, owing to the latitude in the performance of the film, will hopefully still exhibit sufficient quality to still be acceptable to a viewer. To a certain extent, the developing process can compensate (through so-called "forcing") for under-exposure conditions, though the ability to do so and still provide pictures of sufficient quality depends upon the subject matter in the scene and hence can be rather limited. In this regard, see D. M. Zwick, "The Technical Basis of Photographic Speed Determination or What is a Normal Exposure", SMPTE Journal, Vol. 88, No. 8, August 1979, pages 533-537 (hereinafter referred to as the L Zwick publication) and specifically pages 536-537 thereof.
In certain extreme situations with worsening exposure conditions than that illustratively described above, the lighting conditions may, for all practical purposes, totally frustrate the ability of even a skilled photographer to produce a picture of merely acceptable quality. In these situations, photography would be essentially impossible. For example, consider the same low-light scenario above but where the photographer desires to use a lens that has a relatively large focal length, e.g. a telephoto lens, to capture a scene. For a given film size, the depth-of-field varies in proportion to the square of the focal length of the lens and hence significantly decreases with increases in focal length. Therefore, the depth-of-field provided by such a lens, for certain lens apertures, may not meet the scene requirements. Large focal length lenses also tend to be bulky, massive and relatively heavy and thus, once mounted to a hand-held camera, are hard to hold steady for even moderate shutter speeds, such as 1/30 or 1/60th of a second. Accordingly, to avoid significant camera shake, the slowest shutter speed at which these lenses can be used, without a tripod, is often quite limited. Moreover, since physical limitations on lens size often prevent a large focal length lens from being constructed with large lens aperture sizes, this forces the use of increasingly long shutter speeds to achieve a proper exposure under low-light conditions and exacerbates the need to use other techniques, such as a tripod, auxiliary light source or a faster speed film, to provide usable lens aperture and shutter speed settings that will provide a proper exposure. In the absence of using a tripod or an auxiliary light source, which--owing to the amplitude fall-off as the inverse square of distance to the subject--becomes ineffective at large subject-to-camera distances, or the ability to change to and/or even the availability of sufficiently fast films that exhibit low graininess during the printing process, low-light photography with large focal length lenses is oftentimes practically impossible.
Therefore, as one can now appreciate, even a skilled photographer often experiences difficulties in choosing the proper photographic settings under certain lighting conditions, e.g. lens aperture and shutter settings, selection of lens focal length, use and amount of flash illumination. While certain lighting conditions are so extreme that they simply can not be handled by even a professional photographer, the vast majority of scene lighting conditions fortunately do not fall in this category. Nevertheless, some of these latter conditions often present sufficient difficulties to effectively frustrate the ability of an amateur photographer to take a picture of acceptable quality. In fact, for many inexperienced amateurs, choosing lens aperture size and shutter speed settings amounts to little more than mere guesswork, through which the probability is high that the amateur will select wrong settings and quickly become frustrated. Frustration, if it occurs sufficiently often, leads to dis-satisfaction, which in the context of an amateur photographer often means that that photographer will simply stop taking pictures and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more satisfying than photography. Since
|
photographic cameras have been in widespread use for quite some time. basically, such a camera operates by exposing a portion of a light sensitive media, i. e. a frame of film, for a pre - defined period of time to scene illumination. the light is focused on the frame through a lens that has an aperture of a given, often variable, size. a shutter, situated behind each lens and in front of the film, opens for a selected period of time in order to process visible light to transit therethrough, illuminate and expose the film. as a result of being properly exposed and subsequently developed, the film undergoes a photochemical process, on a two - dimensional basis throughout the frame, that locally varies the optical transmissivity of each portion of the frame in proportion to the amount of illumination that reaches that portion of the frame from a corresponding portion of the scene, thereby producing, depending upon whether reversal or negative film is used, either a two - dimensional positive or negative optical image of the scene. as such, tonal variations that appeared in the scene are captured in the frame of the film. photographic prints are often made from negatives, while transparencies ( commonly referred to as " slides " ) are made near positives. though this overall process, which relies on the use of silver halide as a photosensitive substrate in film, has basically remained unchanged over many years, this process is highly non - linear and poses to a great many variables which significantly complicate its use. in particular, exposure ( e ) is defined, despite a standardized definition, as being a product of the illuminance ( i ) multiplied by image time ( t ) during which the film is exposed to this illumination. in this regard, see specifically ansi ( american national standards institute ) standard ph 3. 49 - 1971 " american national standard for general purpose photographic exposure meters " ( re - affirmed in its entirety with no modifications in 1987 as ansi specific ph 3. 49 - 1987 ) [ hereinafter referred to as ansi standard 3. 49 - 1987 ], and also ansi standard ph 2. 7 - 1979 " american national standard for photography - - photographic exposure guide " and specifically page 13 thereof. in a camera, the combination of two settings, namely lens aperture ( size of the lens opening ) and shutter speed ( time during which the shutter remains open ), primarily defines a particular exposure. unfortunately, lens aperture and shutter speed define more than just an amount of exposure, these settings also dramatically affect picture ( hereinafter including both prints and transparencies ) quality and must be judiciously chosen in each photographic situation ; otherwise, a picture ( also referred to hereinafter as an image ) having inferior quality will result. to illustrate the variability among photographic parameters and the difficulties in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter speed settings, consider for the moment a particular scenario that often occurs and presents significant challenges to a photographer : photographing a scene in relatively low light conditions with sufficient depth - of - field to cover a desired subject. in dealing with a low light situation, a photographer, particularly an amateur, might, at first, open the lens aperture to its maximum value in order to pass as much light as possible therethrough to the film. a suitable shutter speed would then be chosen based on scene luminance, typically using an indication provided by an internal light meter located in the camera. unfortunately, such an approach might fail. specifically, while, the lens aperture size specifies the amount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so - called depth - of - field in the resulting photographed image, i. e. a range of minimum to maximum camera - to - subject distances in which objects located therein will be perceived in the image as being sharp and in - focus. as the aperture size of a given lens increases, i. e. the lens is opened and its so - called " f " number decreases, which ordinarily occurs in low light conditions, the depth - of - field produced by that lens correspondingly decreases. accordingly, with certain subject thicknesses, the depth - of - field that results from a maximum lens aperture exposure may be too restricted to fully cover the entire subject. thus, portions of the subject located at camera - to - subject distances that are outside the range specified by the depth - of - field for the given lens aperture, i. e. too close to or too far from the camera, will appear out - of - focus in the resulting photographed image. therefore, in order to provide an appropriate depth - of - field to cover the entire subject, a smaller lens aperture than the maximum available size must be used along with a slower shutter speed to generate a sufficient exposure. unfortunately, a photographer is often unable to steadily hold a hand - held camera for times typically in excess of, for example, 1 / 50th of a second for a 50 mm lens. hence, as the shutter remains open for increasingly longer periods of time, the camera becomes increasingly sensitive to camera shake or subject motion which, when it occurs, blurs and ruins the entire picture. therefore, to reduce the incidence of noticeable image blur, particularly resulting from camera shake, shutter speeds equal to or slower than of 1 / 50th second for use with a 50 mm lens should be avoided for use in a hand - held camera. consequently, other techniques, such as mounting the camera on a tripod or using an auxiliary light source, e. g. a so - called flash unit, or higher speed film, i. e. a more sensitive film, are often required in order to provide acceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and shutter speeds in low light conditions. unfortunately, a flash unit or a tripod may not be currently available. also, films that are increasingly sensitive tend to produce pictures that exhibit increasing graininess, thereby adversely impacting the quality of the picture. with this scenario and in the absence of having a flash unit, a tripod or the ability to change film for use in photographing a particular low light scene, the photographer may not be able to select shutter speeds and lens aperture sizes that will produce a picture of optimum quality. instead, the photographer is forced to accept compromise settings which will likely produce a picture of sub - optimum quality, such as being under - exposed, but, owing to the latitude in the performance of the film, will hopefully still exhibit sufficient quality to still be acceptable to a viewer. to a certain extent, the developing process can compensate ( through so - called " forcing " ) for under - exposure conditions, though the ability to do so and still provide pictures of sufficient quality depends upon the subject matter in the scene and hence can be rather limited. in this regard, see d. m. zwick, " the technical basis of photographic speed determination or what is a normal exposure ", smpte journal, vol. 88, no. 8, august 1979, pages 533 - 537 ( hereinafter referred to as the l zwick publication ) and specifically pages 536 - 537 thereof. in certain extreme situations with worsening exposure conditions than that illustratively described above, the lighting conditions may, for all practical purposes, totally frustrate the ability of even a skilled photographer to produce a picture of merely acceptable quality. in these situations, photography would be essentially impossible. for example, consider the same low - light scenario above but where the photographer desires to use a lens that has a relatively large focal length, e. g. a telephoto lens, to capture a scene. for a given film size, the depth - of - field varies in proportion to the square of the focal length of the lens and hence significantly decreases with increases in focal length. therefore, the depth - of - field provided by such a lens, for certain lens apertures, may not meet the scene requirements. large focal length lenses also tend to be bulky, massive and relatively heavy and thus, once mounted to a hand - held camera, are hard to hold steady for even moderate shutter speeds, such as 1 / 30 or 1 / 60th of a second. accordingly, to avoid significant camera shake, the slowest shutter speed at which these lenses can be used, without a tripod, is often quite limited. moreover, since physical limitations on lens size often prevent a large focal length lens from being constructed with large lens aperture sizes, this forces the use of increasingly long shutter speeds to achieve a proper exposure under low - light conditions and exacerbates the need to use other techniques, such as a tripod, auxiliary light source or a faster speed film, to provide usable lens aperture and shutter speed settings that will provide a proper exposure. in the absence of using a tripod or an auxiliary light source, which - - owing to the amplitude fall - off as the inverse square of distance to the subject - - becomes ineffective at large subject - to - camera distances, or the ability to change to and / or even the availability of sufficiently fast films that exhibit low graininess during the printing process, low - light photography with large focal length lenses is oftentimes practically impossible. therefore, as one can now appreciate, even a skilled photographer often experiences difficulties in choosing the proper photographic settings under certain lighting conditions, e. g. lens aperture and shutter settings, selection of lens focal length, use and amount of flash illumination. while certain lighting conditions are so extreme that they simply can not be handled by even a professional photographer, the vast majority of scene lighting conditions fortunately do not fall in this category. nevertheless, some of these latter conditions often present sufficient difficulties to effectively frustrate the ability of an amateur photographer to take a picture of acceptable quality. in fact, for many inexperienced amateurs, choosing lens aperture size and shutter speed settings amounts to little more than mere guesswork, through which the probability is high that the amateur will select wrong settings and quickly become frustrated. frustration, if it occurs sufficiently often, leads to dis - satisfaction, which in the context of an amateur photographer often means that that photographer will simply stop taking pictures and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more satisfying than photography. since
|
Photographic cameras have been in widespread use for quite some time. Basically, such a camera operates by exposing a portion of a light sensitive media, i. e. a frame of film, for a pre - defined period of time to scene illumination. The light is focused on the frame through a lens that has an aperture of a given, often variable, size. A shutter, situated behind the lens and in front of the film, opens for a selected period of time in order to permit the light to transit therethrough, illuminate and expose the film. As a result of being properly exposed and s tbse!uently developed, the film undergoes a photochemical process, on a two - dimensional basis throughout the frame, that locally varies the optical transmissivity of each portion of the frame in p4oportiob to the amount of illumination that reaches that portion of the frame from a corresponding portion of the scene, thereby producing, depending upon whether reversal or negative film is used, either a two - dimensional positive or negative optical image of the scene. As such, tonal variations that appeared in the scene are captured in the frame of the film. Photographic prints are often made from negatives, while transparencies (commonly referred to as " slides ") are made from positives. Though this overall process, which relies on the use of silver halide as a photosensitive reagent in film, has basically remained unchanged over many years, this process is highly non - linear and subject to a great many variables which significantly complicate its use. In particular, exposure (E) is defined, under a standardized definition, as being a product of the illuminance (I) multiplied by the time (t) during which the film is exposed to this illumination. In this regard, see specifically ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard PH 3. 49 - 1971 " American National Standard for General Purpose Photographic Exposure Meters " (re - affirmed in its entirety with no modifications in 1987 as ANSI standard PH 3. 49 - 1987) [hereinafter referred to as ANSI standard 3. 49 - 1987 ], and also ANSI standard PH 2. 7 - 1986 " American National Standard for Phot0grapTy - - Photographic Exposure Guide " and specifically page 13 thereof. In a camera, the combination of two settings, namely lens aperture (size of the lens opening) and shutter speed (time during which the shutter remains open ), primarily defines a particular exposure. Unfortunately, lens aperture and shutter speed define more than just an amount of exposure, these settings also dramatically affect picture (hereinafter including both prints and transparencies) quality and must be judiciously chosen in each photographic situation; otherwise, a picture (also referred to hereinafter as an image) having inferior quality will result. To illustrate the variability among photographic parameters and the difficulties in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter speed settings, consider for the moment a particular scena5i* that often occurs and presents significant challenges to a photographer: photographing a scene in relatively low light conditions with sufficient depth - of - field to cover a desired subject. In dealing with a low light situation, a photographer, particularly an amateur, might, at first, open the lens aperture to its maximum value in order to pass as much light as possible therethrough to the film. A suitable shutter speed would then be chosen based on scene luminance, typically using an indication provided by an internal light meter located in the camera. Unfortunately, such an approach might fail. Specifically, while, the lens aperture size specifies the amount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so - called depth - of - field in the resulting photographed image, i. e. a range of minimum to maximum camera - to - subject distances in 3hicB objects located therein will be perceived in the image as being sharp and in - focus. As the aperture size of a given lens increases, i. e. the lens is opened and its so - called " f " number decreases, which ordinarily occurs in low light conditions, the depth - of - field produced by that lens correspondingly decreases. Accordingly, with certain subject thicknesses, the depth - of - field that results from a maximum lens aperture exposure may be too restricted to fully cover the entire subject. Thus, portions of the subject located at camera - to - subject distances that are outside the range specified by the depth - of - field for the given lens aperture, i. e. too close to or too far from the camera, will appear out - of - focus in the resulting photographed image. Therefore, in order to provide an appropriate depth - of - field to cover the entire subject, a smaller lens aperture than the maximum available size must be used along with a slower shutter speed to generate a sufficient exposure. Unfortunately, a photographer is often unable to steadily hold a hand - held camera for times typically in excess of, for example, 1 / 50th of a second for a 50 mm lens. Hence, as the shutter remains open for increasingly longer periods of time, the camera becomes increasingly sensitive to camera shake or subject motion which, when it occurs, blurs and ruins the entire picture. Therefore, to reduce the incidence of noticeable image blur, particularly resulting from camera shake, shutter speeds equal to or slower than of 1 / 50th second for use with a 50 mm lens should be avoided for use in a hand - held camera. Consequently, other techniques, such as mounting the camera on a tripod or using an auxiliary light source, e. g. a so - called flash unit, or higher speed film, i. e. a more sensitive film, are often required in order to provide acceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and shutter speeds in low light conditions. Unfortunately, a flash unit or a tripod may not be currently available. Also, films that are increasingly sensitive tend to produce pictures that exhibit increasing graininess, thereby adversely impacting the quality of the picture. With this scenario and in the absence of having a flash unit, a tripod or the ability to change film for use in photographing a particular low light scene, the photographer may not be able to select shutter speeds and lens aperture sizes that will produce a picture of optimum quality. Instead, the photographer is forced to accept compromise settings which will likely produce a picture of sub - optimum quality, such as being under - exposed, but, owing to the latitude in the performance of the film, will hopefully still exhibit sufficient quality to still be acceptable to a viewer. To a certain extent, the devwlo(ing process can compensate (through so - called " forcing ") for under - exposure conditions, though the ability to do so and still provide pictures of sufficient quality depends upon the subject matter in the scene and hence can be rather limited. In this regard, see D. M. Zwick, " The Technical Basis of Photographic Speed Determination or What is a Normal Exposure ", SMPTE Journal, Vol. 88, No. 8, August 1979, pages 533 - 537 (hereinafter referred to as the L Zwick publication) and specifically pages 536 - 537 thereof. In certain extreme situations with worsening exposure conditions than that illustratively described above, the lighting conditions may, for all practical purposes, totally frustrate the ability of even a skilled photographer to produce a picture of merely acceptable quality. In these situations, photography w(^ld be essentially impossible. For example, consider the same low - light scenario above but where the photographer desires to use a lens that has a relatively large focal length, e. g. a telephoto lens, to capture a scene. For a given film size, the depth - of - ciFld varies in proportion to the square of the focal length of the lens and hence significantly decreases with increases in focal length. Therefore, the depth - of - field provided by such a lens, for certain lens apertures, may not meet the scene requirements. Large focal length lenses also tend to be bulky, massive and relatively heavy and thus, once mounted to a hand - held camera, are hard to hold steady for even moderate shutter speeds, such as 1 / 30 or 1 / 60th of a second. Accordingly, to avoid significant camera shake, the slowest shutter speed at which these lenses can be used, without a tripod, is often quite limited. Moreover, since physical limitations on lens size often prevent a large focal length lens from being constructed with large lens aperture sizes, this forces the use of increasingly long shutter speeds to achieve a proper exposure under low - light conditions and exacerbates the need to use other techniques, such as a tripod, auxiliary light source or a faster speed film, to provide usable lens aperture and shutter speed settings that will provide a proper exposure. In the absence of using a tripod or an auxiliary light source, which - - owing to the amplitude fall - off as the inverse square of distance to the subject - - becomes ineffective at large subject - to - camera distances, or the ability to change to and / or even the availability of sufficiently fast films that exhibit low graininess during the printing process, low - light photography with large focal length lenses is oftentimes practically impossible. Therefore, as one can now appreciate, FvDn a skilled phot9grZpher often experiences difficulties in choosing the proper photographic settings under certain lighting conditions, e. g. lens aperture and shutter settings, selection of lens focal length, use and amount of flash illumination. While certain lighting conditions are so extreme that they simply can not be handled by even a professional photographer, the vast majority of scene lighting conditions fortunately do not fall in this category. Nevertheless, some of these latter conditions often present sufficient difficulties to effectively frustrate the ability of an amateur photographer to take a picture of acceptable quality. In fact, for many inexperienced amateurs, choosing lens aperture size and shutter speed settings amounts to little more than mere guesswork, through which the probability is high that the amateur will select wrong settings and quickly become frustrated. Frustration, if it occurs sufficiently often, leads to dis - satisfaction, which in the context of an amateur photographer often means that that photographer will simply stop taking pictures and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more satisfying than photography. Since
|
Photographic cameras have been in widespread use for quite some time. Basically, such a camera operates by a portion of a light sensitive media, i.e. a frame of film, for a pre-defined period time to scene illumination. The is focused on the frame through a lens that has an aperture of a given, often variable, size. A shutter, situated behind the lens and in front of the film, opens for a selected period of time in order to permit the light to transit therethrough, illuminate and expose film. As a of being properly exposed and subsequently developed, the film undergoes a photochemical process, on a two-dimensional the frame, locally varies the optical transmissivity of each portion of the frame in proportion to the amount of illumination that reaches portion of frame from corresponding of the thereby depending upon whether reversal or film is used, either a two-dimensional positive or negative optical image of the scene. As such, tonal variations that appeared in the scene are captured in the frame of the film. Photographic prints are often made from negatives, while transparencies (commonly referred to as "slides") are made from Though this overall process, which relies on use of silver a reagent in film, has basically remained unchanged over many years, this process is highly non-linear and subject to a great many variables which significantly complicate its use. In exposure (E) is defined, under a standardized definition, as being a product of the illuminance (I) multiplied by the time (t) during which the film is exposed to this illumination. In this regard, see specifically ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard 3.49-1971 "American National Standard for General Purpose Exposure Meters" in its entirety with modifications in 1987 as ANSI standard PH 3.49-1987) [hereinafter referred to and also ANSI standard PH 2.7-1986 "American National Standard for Photography--Photographic Exposure Guide" and page 13 thereof. In a camera, the combination of two settings, namely lens aperture (size the lens opening) and shutter speed (time during which the shutter remains open), primarily defines a particular exposure. Unfortunately, lens aperture and shutter speed define than just an amount of exposure, these settings also dramatically affect picture (hereinafter including prints and transparencies) quality and be judiciously in each photographic situation; otherwise, picture (also referred to hereinafter as an image) inferior quality will result. To illustrate the variability among photographic parameters and the difficulties in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter speed settings, consider for the moment a particular scenario that often and presents significant challenges to a photographer: photographing in relatively low light with sufficient to cover desired subject. In dealing with low light a photographer, particularly an amateur, might, at first, open the lens aperture to its maximum value in to pass as much light as possible therethrough to the film. A suitable shutter speed would then be chosen scene luminance, typically using provided by an internal light meter located in the camera. Unfortunately, such approach might fail. Specifically, while, the lens aperture size the amount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so-called depth-of-field in the resulting i.e. a range of minimum to maximum camera-to-subject distances in objects located therein be in as being sharp and in-focus. As the aperture size of a given lens increases, the lens is opened and its so-called "f" number decreases, which ordinarily occurs in low light conditions, depth-of-field produced by that lens correspondingly decreases. Accordingly, with certain thicknesses, depth-of-field that results from maximum lens aperture exposure may be too restricted to fully the entire Thus, portions of the subject located at camera-to-subject distances that are outside the range specified by the for the given lens aperture, i.e. too close to or too far from the camera, will appear out-of-focus in the resulting photographed image. in order to provide an appropriate depth-of-field to entire subject, a smaller lens aperture than the maximum available size must be used along with a slower shutter to generate a sufficient exposure. Unfortunately, a photographer is often unable to steadily hold a hand-held camera for times typically in excess of, for example, 1/50th of a second for 50 mm lens. Hence, as the shutter remains open for longer periods of time, the becomes increasingly sensitive to camera shake or subject motion which, occurs, blurs and ruins the entire picture. Therefore, to reduce incidence of noticeable image blur, particularly resulting from camera shake, shutter speeds equal or slower than of 1/50th second for use with a 50 mm lens be avoided for use in a hand-held camera. Consequently, other techniques, as mounting the camera on a tripod or using an auxiliary light e.g. so-called flash or speed film, i.e. a more sensitive film, are required in order to provide acceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and speeds in low light conditions. Unfortunately, flash unit or tripod may not be currently available. Also, films that are increasingly sensitive tend to produce that exhibit increasing graininess, thereby adversely impacting quality of the picture. With scenario and in the absence of having a flash a tripod or ability to change film for use in photographing a low light scene, the photographer may not be able to select shutter speeds and lens aperture sizes that will produce a picture of optimum Instead, the is to accept compromise settings which will likely produce a picture of sub-optimum quality, such as being under-exposed, but, owing to the latitude in the performance of the film, will hopefully still exhibit sufficient quality still acceptable to a viewer. To a certain the developing process can compensate (through so-called for though the ability do so and still provide pictures sufficient quality depends upon the subject matter in the scene and hence be rather limited. In this regard, see D. M. Zwick, "The Technical Basis of Photographic Speed Determination or is a Normal Exposure", SMPTE Journal, Vol. 88, No. 8, pages 533-537 (hereinafter referred as the L Zwick publication) and specifically pages 536-537 In certain extreme situations with exposure conditions than that illustratively described above, the lighting conditions may, for all practical totally frustrate the ability even a skilled photographer to produce a picture merely acceptable quality. In these situations, photography would be essentially impossible. For example, consider the same low-light scenario above where the desires to use a lens that a relatively large focal length, e.g. a telephoto lens, capture a scene. a given film size, the varies in proportion to the square of the focal of the lens hence significantly decreases with increases in focal length. Therefore, the depth-of-field provided by such a lens, for certain lens apertures, may not meet the scene requirements. focal length lenses also tend to be bulky, massive and relatively thus, once mounted to a hand-held camera, are hard to hold steady for even moderate shutter speeds, such as 1/30 or 1/60th of a second. Accordingly, significant camera shake, shutter speed which these lenses can be used, without a tripod, is often quite limited. Moreover, since physical limitations on lens size often prevent a large focal length lens constructed with large lens aperture sizes, this forces the use of increasingly long shutter speeds to a proper exposure low-light conditions and exacerbates need to use other techniques, such as a tripod, auxiliary source a faster speed film, to provide usable lens and shutter speed settings that will provide a proper exposure. In the absence of using a tripod an auxiliary light source, which--owing to the fall-off as the inverse of distance to the subject--becomes ineffective at subject-to-camera distances, or ability to change to and/or the availability of sufficiently fast films that exhibit low graininess during the printing process, low-light photography with large lenses is oftentimes practically impossible. Therefore, as one can now appreciate, even a skilled photographer often experiences difficulties in choosing the proper photographic settings under certain lighting conditions, e.g. lens aperture and shutter settings, selection lens focal length, use and amount of flash illumination. While certain lighting conditions are so extreme that they simply be handled by even a professional photographer, the vast majority of scene lighting conditions fortunately do not fall in this Nevertheless, some of these conditions often present sufficient difficulties to effectively frustrate the ability of an amateur photographer to a picture of acceptable quality. In fact, for many inexperienced amateurs, choosing lens aperture and speed settings amounts to little more than mere guesswork, through the probability is that the amateur select wrong settings and quickly become frustrated. Frustration, if it occurs sufficiently often, to dis-satisfaction, which the context of an amateur photographer often means that that photographer will simply stop taking and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more satisfying than photography. Since
|
pHOtoGRaphiC CAMERaS HavE BeEN IN WIdeSPReAD use fOr QuitE SOmE TiME. BAsICAlly, SuCh A CAMera OperATEs BY exposinG A POrTIoN oF a lIgHT sENSItiVe mEdiA, I.E. A frAMe OF FilM, FOr A PRe-dEFiNed pERIOD Of tIme To scene iLlumiNAtion. tHE lIGht IS fOcuSed On tHe Frame THroUgh A LeNs tHat HaS an ApErTuRe of A gIven, OFtEN VaRiAbLE, SiZE. A sHUTteR, siTuATEd BEHind tHE LEns AND iN FroNt of THE fiLM, OpenS fOr a sElECTEd PerioD OF tIME iN oRder TO PERmIT thE LiGHT To trANSIT theREtHROUGh, IllUMInatE AND eXPosE ThE fILm. aS A ReSULT of BEiNG pROpERLY eXPOsEd ANd sUBSeQueNTLy dEvElOPeD, THE FiLM undeRgOES a PhoTOChEmIcAL PRocEss, on a two-DiMenSionAL BASis throUgHoUt the fraMe, tHaT LoCAlLy VarIEs The oPtiCaL TRAnsmisSIviTy Of eAch Portion of tHE FrAme in pRoPoRtiOn to The amoUNT oF illumInaTION THAt reaCHEs that poRtion oF thE frAMe fROM A CoRResPoNDiNg porTIOn of thE scENE, thEreBY prOdUCiNg, DePeNdINg UpoN WheThEr ReVErSAL OR NeGatiVe fiLM is uSed, EITHEr A Two-DIMensionAL positivE oR NEGaTivE opticAL iMaGe oF The sCeNE. aS SUCh, TonAL VAriaTiONS ThAt AppEarED IN tHe SCenE are cAptURed In tHE framE oF thE film. PHoTOGRApHIC prinTs ARe OFten Made frOm nEgatIvES, whILE
TranspAREncIES (cOMmONlY REFERrEd to As "SLIDes") aRE MaDE FROM pOSITIveS.
tHOUGh THIs OverALl PROcEss, whIch RelIEs ON tHE usE oF sILVer haLiDE As A PhOTOSEnSItIVe reagEnt iN FiLm, hAS basICaLLy remaINEd unchangEd OVER MAnY yeArs, This prOCESS IS HIGHLy NOn-lineaR And sUBjeCt tO a GreaT mAny vAriABles wHicH sIGNiFiCantly coMPlIcaTe iTs use. iN parTICular, ExposurE (e) iS DefiNeD, uNDEr A sTAnDaRdIZEd defiNitIOn, as beIng A PRodUCT oF ThE iLlUMinAnce (i) multiPlIED bY the TIme (t) duRiNG whICh tHe fILm IS ExPOSEd TO ThIS illuMINaTion. iN ThIS REgArD, sEE SPEcIFIcaLly AnSi (AmerICAN natIOnAL StAndArdS InStItutE) stANdaRD ph 3.49-1971 "amerICAn NationAL stANdARD fOR geneRAL pUrPOsE PHOToGrAPHIC ExpOSUrE METeRS" (Re-affiRmED in iTS EnTirety With nO moDIFICAtionS IN 1987 As AnsI StaNdArD pH 3.49-1987) [HeREInafteR REFErREd To aS anSi sTanDArD 3.49-1987], aND AlSo AnsI staNDard ph 2.7-1986 "AmERIcaN NATionaL StANDaRd fOr PhoTOGRaphY--PhOToGRAphIC ExpoSure gUide" anD SpEcIficallY PAgE 13 tHEReOF. In A cAMeRa, ThE CoMbInAtION Of two SettInGs, nAMEly lenS aPerture (SIZe Of thE LenS oPEning) And sHutTer SPEEd (timE durInG WhIch THe sHuttEr ReMaIns oPEn), pRiMArILY DEfInes A ParticulAR ExPOsurE. UnfORtUnately, LeNS APertURe anD shUTTer spEED dEFine MoRE ThaN jUST AN amouNt OF EXpOsurE, thESe SEttiNGS aLso DRaMatICalLy aFfect Picture (hEReInaftEr IncluDinG boTH pRInts and tRANSParENcIES) quAliTy aND mUSt BE JudIciously ChoseN in Each PhotOgraphIc sITUaTION; OtheRwISE, A pIcture (also rEfeRRED to hereINAFTeR as AN ImAGe) HAViNG iNfERiOR quALity WILL rEsuLT.
To ILLUStratE the vArIaBILIty AmONg pHOtOGrAphIc paraMeTerS AND the DiFFiculTIeS iN CHOOsInG apPrOprIaTE lenS ApErTUrE And ShUtter SPeED seTtInGs, cONSidEr FOR THe MomENT A PArTiCUlaR ScEnArIO thAT oFtEN OcCurS aND pReSenTS SIGNIFicant ChAllengeS To a PhOtOgRApHEr: phoToGRAphInG a sCene in rElatIvEly lOW LIghT CONDITIoNs wIth SuFFiciENT DepTh-of-fIELd tO COVeR a deSIReD suBJECt. In dEalIng With a lOw LiGhT SiTUaTIoN, A phoToGrAPHEr, pArTiCulaRlY An amaTeuR, mIght, At fiRst, oPEN tHe lEnS apeRTURE to itS maxiMUm VAlUE in ordeR to PAss AS MUCH LIgHT aS POssIblE ThereThrough To the FiLM. a suiTABLe shUtter SpeED woUlD THen Be CHOSeN BaSeD On sCeNE luminAnce, TypICaLLy UsIng an IndicatiOn PROvIdED bY an inTerNal LiGHt mEtEr lOcATeD in THE caMERA. uNFortunAtEly, SUCH an aPPROACh Might FAIL. SPeCiFIcaLly, wHILe, The lENs apERTuRE sIZe SpeCiFIEs thE AmOunt OF lighT THAt INsTANtAneously STRiKEs the fiLM, thIs SiZe AlSo DefInEs THE sO-calleD dEpTh-Of-FielD in THe resuLTING PHOtogrAPHEd ImAGe, I.e. a RaNGE oF mInimUM To MaxiMum CaMERA-TO-sUBJecT distANces in WHiCH obJECTs LoCATED THEREin WilL be pErCEivEd in THe image AS BeING SHaRP and iN-focUs. aS THe APeRTURE SIZe oF a GiveN LENS iNCReases, i.E. tHe Lens Is opEnED AnD ITs So-cAlLED "F" nUmBEr DecREASeS, wHiCh ordINariLY OccURs In LOW LIGHT CONdITIOnS, tHE dePtH-Of-fIEld PrODUced by ThAT LEns COrrESpoNDINgly dECREaSES. AccORdinGly, WItH CERtAIn SUbjeCt tHICkNesseS, tHe DEptH-oF-FiELD THAT reSULTS fROm a MAXimUM leNS aperTUrE ExPOSUrE maY BE tOO ResTRiCTED to fUllY COver ThE ENtire SubJecT. thuS, PORtions OF thE suBJeCT lOCATED AT CAmerA-To-SubjEcT disTaNcEs That aRE oUtSide the raNge sPeCiFIEd By the DEPTH-OF-fiElD FOR the givEN lenS apErTUre, i.e. TOo Close To OR Too far FroM tHE cAmERA, wilL AppEAr ouT-OF-FOCus iN the rEsUltING PHOTOgRapheD iMaGe. tHeRefOre, in oRder TO PROvidE An aPpRopriAtE DEPTh-oF-fiEld tO COVEr THe eNTirE suBJEct, a SMaLler LEns aPERtUrE THAN thE MAximUM AvAiLABle SiZE mUSt Be uSEd Along WITh A sLOWEr sHUTter sPeED TO gEneRATe a suFFicIENT ExpOsUre. UNFOrTuNAteLY, a PhotOGRaPher IS oftEn uNaBlE to sTeaDiLy hOlD a HAnD-heLD CAmeRA FOr TiMes TypICALlY iN exCESs Of, foR EXAmpLe, 1/50tH OF A sEcoND foR A 50 MM Lens. HenCe, As tHe SHUtteR reMAinS OPen FoR iNcrEasiNgLY LonGeR periODs oF TIME, ThE CAmeRA BEComES iNCREASInGLy SensITIve tO CaMeRa ShAKe or subJEct motIoN WHICH, WHEn IT ocCurS, BLURS anD rUiNS tHe EnTIRe pICTure. theReforE, TO REduCe the INciDence OF nOTiceAble imaGE BLuR, pARtICULarLy reSuLTiNG fROm CameRA ShAke, sHUTTer SPeedS eQuAL to oR SlOwER THAn Of 1/50tH seConD fOR Use WITh a 50 mm LenS sHoULD Be AvoIded FoR uSe IN A HAND-Held CAMERA. COnseQueNTLY, OTHER tecHNiQUeS, suCh AS moUnting The CAmeRA ON A tRiPoD or UsiNg AN AUXILiAry Light source, e.g. A So-CALleD FlASH UniT, oR HiGHeR speed FiLm, I.e. A moRe SENsitIVe FIlm, arE oFTEN requIreD iN OrDER tO ProViDe acCePTabLE ComBiNatiONs OF lEns apErtuRe OpENiNgs aNd ShuTter speEdS IN LoW lIGHt ConDitiOns. UNfoRTUNAtelY, a flaSh uNit oR a tRIPOD MAy nOT Be CURrENTly aVaIlAbLE. alSO, FIlMs THaT ARe iNCreasIngLy seNSItIvE tENd to ProdUCE PiCtUres That EXhIBit IncreasInG graiNiNess, tHereBy aDveRsEly IMPacTing tHe quALity Of thE PiCTURe. WITH thIS SCENArio aND in The AbSENcE oF hAVINg a FLASH UNit, A TRiPOD OR thE aBiLITy tO CHAnGE fILm fOr uSe in photOGRaphIng a paRtICULAr lOW LiGHT ScEnE, tHE PHoTOgrApHer mAy NOT Be able to SElECt SHuTTer speedS anD leNs apERtUre sizEs thAt wilL pROduCE a piCTURe OF OptIMum QUAliTy. INsTeaD, ThE PHoToGrApHEr iS fOrCed tO accePT comPrOMiSE SetTiNGS WHIch will lIkEly PRoducE A PIcTURe Of suB-OpTiMum qUaLIty, sUCH As being uNDEr-EXpOSed, but, oWIng to The LATItUDE In The performANcE oF ThE fILm, WIlL HopEFuLlY stiLl EXHIBiT sUfficiEnT QUALIty TO STilL bE AccEPtaBLE tO a VIEWEr. to A CErtaiN eXtENt, thE DEveloPIng pRoceSS cAn ComPeNsAtE (THroUgh So-calLED "foRciNg") For UNDeR-eXPoSuRE CoNditions, thOugH The abILItY TO DO So AND sTIlL ProViDe pictuREs OF suFFIcIent qUALiTy DEpENdS UpON THE SuBjECT mATTEr iN the scenE anD HenCE Can be raTher liMItED. iN THiS REgaRD, SEe D. m. ZWiCK, "tHE TEchNicaL BAsiS of PhoTogrApHIC SpeED deteRMINATIOn Or whAT Is A nOrmAL eXPOSURe", SmPTe JouRNaL, Vol. 88, No. 8, auGuST 1979, PagES 533-537 (hEReiNafteR rEfErREd TO aS THe L ZwIck PublIcatioN) AnD sPeCIfIcally PageS 536-537 ThErEof.
iN CeRTaIn exTREME sItUaTioNs WiTh WORSeNINg EXPOSURe CoNDITIOnS THAn tHAt ilLustRATiveLy dEScRibEd AbOVe, thE LiGhTiNg conditIons MaY, FOR AlL PrAcTICAl PurposEs, TOTally FRUStraTe ThE AbilITY Of EvEn a skiLLED PhOTOgraphEr TO pRoDUcE A pICtuRe Of merElY AcCePTAbLe qualITY. iN ThESE sItUatIonS, PHotogRAPHy WouLd be eSSenTiAlLy ImpOssibLE. For ExamPlE, coNSIdeR The SAme lOW-LIGHT scenAriO ABoVe But WhERE ThE PHotogRaPHeR DesiREs To use A lEns THAt HaS a reLatIVeLy Large FOCAl lenGth, e.g. A TELepHoTO lens, To captUrE a SCenE. for a giveN FILM siZE, the dePtH-Of-fIEld VarIes in prOpORTIOn to thE SQuare of the focaL leNGTh OF THe leNs ANd HENCE sIgNIFIcAnTLy dECrEasEs WiTh INcREASeS In foCAL leNGth. tHereFOre, tHe DEPTh-OF-fielD pROViDED By suCH a lenS, foR CeRTaiN lENS apeRTuRES, May NOT MEET the scEnE rEquIreMEnTS. larGe FOcAl LENgTh leNSes alSo tenD To bE BULkY, mASSIVE and rElATivelY HEAvY AnD THUs, onCe MoUnTed tO a hAnd-heLD cAmERA, aRe HARd TO HOLD StEadY For evEN MODerATe shuttEr spEeDS, SuCH as 1/30 or 1/60Th OF A SEcONd. ACCORDinGLY, to aVOID SIGnIfICAnt CAMErA SHakE, THe sLoweSt ShuTter sPEED at WhicH theSe LensEs Can BE uSED, WItHOUt A TRipOd, iS ofTen quIte LImITED. MoReoVEr, since PHYSicAL LImiTatioNS on LenS SizE Often PrevENt a Large FOcaL LeNGtH LenS frOm bEInG conStRUcTeD WITH LArGE LENS apErtuRE siZEs, tHis foRCeS THe USE oF InCREasingly lOng shuttEr spEeds to aChIEve A pROPeR eXpoSURe uNDER loW-ligHT COnDitioNs AND eXacerbaTEs tHE NEeD To usE oTHer TecHNIques, Such aS a TRiPOd, aUxILIARY LIgHT sOUrCE OR a faSTEr SpEeD fIlm, tO PRoVIde usaBlE LENS ApERTure aND ShuTteR spEED seTTings thaT WiLL pRoVIDE a proPEr expOSuRe. IN tHe aBseNcE OF usinG A tRIpoD Or aN aUXIlIARY lighT SoUrCe, whIcH--owinG to THe aMPlitUde fALL-oFF As tHe InvERSe SQUaRE of dIstAnce TO tHe SubjeCT--BeCoMes InEFfEctiVE AT laRge SUbJecT-tO-camErA DISTances, Or The Ability To chAnGE TO And/oR EveN THE avaILabIlITy of suFFicIEnTLY faST fIlMS THAT exHibIt LOw graINiNeSs DUrInG tHE PRiNtiNg PrOCEsS, low-LIgHT PHotoGRApHy WIth laRgE foCAl lEnGTh lensEs is ofteNtiMEs practICAlLy ImPOsSiBLE.
THERefOre, as oNE CAn noW aPprEciate, EvEn A SKiLlED PhoTOGRApHEr OFtEN expEriENces DiFFICuLtiEs iN chOoSInG ThE PRoPer pHotOGRaPHIc sEttINgS uNDER CErTAIN lIgHTinG cONdItioNs, E.G. lENS apErTUre anD SHUTter settiNGS, SelecTion OF LeNS foCAL LENgth, uSe ANd AmounT oF FlASh ILlUMINatiON. WHiLE CerTain lighTiNG ConDitIonS ARe sO eXtReMe tHaT tHEY SIMPlY CAN NOt be HanDleD by even A PrOfESsional PhotOGRaPhER, the VasT MAjoriTy Of ScENE lIgHTinG cONDiTionS ForTunAtEly DO noT fAll in THIs CaTegOrY. NEVErTheLEss, SoMe OF THese LATtEr coNDItIOns OFTEN pResEnt suFFicienT DIfficuLtiEs To efFeCtIVely fRuSTraTE The abIliTy oF An AMAteUr pHOTOGRapHeR TO take a PiCtUre of aCcePtABle QuALITY. iN fACt, fOR maNy iNeXPeRiEnCED AmAtEuRs, cHOoSING LeNS APErTuRE size anD shutTer Speed seTTINGs amOUnts To lITtLe MORE THaN Mere guEsswOrK, tHrOugH WhIch the pRoBAbilITy is higH ThAt tHE amAtEUR wIll SElect WrONG SETTiNgs AND quickly beCOmE fRusTraTEd. FrUsTrATION, iF it OCCurS sUffICiENTLY ofTeN, lEadS tO DIs-SATisFaCTIon, WhiCH IN the coNtEXT OF AN aMATeuR PhoToGRApheR ofTEn MeAnS That THat PHoTographEr wILl sIMPLY Stop TaKING picTuReS aND TuRN TO Other lEIsURe ACtIVitIes wHIcH He Or SHE BeLIEVEs to be LeSS tRYinG and MoRe sAtISFyiNg tHAn PHOTOGRaPHY. sInce
|
Photographic camerashave been in widespread use for quite some time. Basically, such a camera operates by exposing a portion of alight sensitive media, i.e. aframe of film,for a pre-definedperiod of time to scene illumination. The light is focused on the frame through a lens that has an aperture of a given, often variable, size. A shutter, situated behind the lens and in front of the film, opens foraselected period of time in order topermit the light to transit therethrough, illuminate and exposethe film. As a result of being properly exposed and subsequently developed, the film undergoes a photochemical process, on a two-dimensional basis throughout the frame, that locally variesthe optical transmissivity of each portion of the frame in proportionto theamount ofillumination that reaches that portion of the frame from a corresponding portion of the scene, thereby producing, depending uponwhether reversal or negative film isused, either a two-dimensional positive or negativeoptical image of the scene. As such, tonalvariations that appeared inthescene are captured in theframeof the film. Photographic prints are often madefrom negatives,whiletransparencies (commonly referredto as "slides") are made from positives. Though this overall process, which relies on the use of silver halideas a photosensitive reagent in film,has basically remained unchangedover many years, this process is highly non-linear and subject to a great manyvariables whichsignificantly complicate its use. In particular, exposure (E)is defined, undera standardizeddefinition,as being a product of the illuminance (I) multiplied by the time (t) during which the film is exposedto this illumination. In thisregard, see specifically ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard PH 3.49-1971 "American National Standard forGeneral PurposePhotographicExposure Meters" (re-affirmed in its entirety with no modifications in 1987as ANSI standard PH 3.49-1987) [hereinafter referred to asANSI standard3.49-1987], and also ANSI standardPH 2.7-1986 "AmericanNational StandardforPhotography--Photographic Exposure Guide" and specifically page13thereof. In acamera, thecombination of two settings, namely lens aperture (size of the lens opening) andshutterspeed (time during which the shutter remains open), primarily defines aparticular exposure. Unfortunately,lens aperture and shutter speed define more than just an amount of exposure, these settings also dramatically affect picture (hereinafter including both prints and transparencies)qualityand must be judiciously chosen in each photographic situation; otherwise, a picture (also referred to hereinafter as an image) havinginferior quality willresult.To illustrate the variability among photographic parameters and the difficulties in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter speed settings, consider for the moment a particular scenario that often occurs and presents significant challenges to a photographer: photographing a scenein relatively low light conditions with sufficient depth-of-field to cover a desired subject. In dealing witha low light situation, a photographer, particularly an amateur, might,at first, open the lens apertureto its maximum value inorder to passas much light aspossible therethrough to the film. A suitable shutter speed would then be chosen based on scene luminance, typically usingan indication provided by an internal light meter located in the camera. Unfortunately, such an approach might fail. Specifically, while,the lens aperturesize specifies theamount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so-called depth-of-field in the resulting photographed image, i.e. a range of minimumto maximum camera-to-subject distances in which objects located therein will be perceived in the imageas being sharp and in-focus. Asthe aperturesize of agiven lens increases, i.e. thelens is opened and its so-called "f" number decreases, which ordinarily occurs in low light conditions, the depth-of-field produced by thatlens correspondingly decreases. Accordingly,with certain subject thicknesses, the depth-of-field that results from a maximum lens aperture exposure maybe toorestricted to fully cover the entiresubject. Thus, portions ofthe subjectlocated at camera-to-subject distances thatare outside the range specified by the depth-of-field for the given lens aperture, i.e. too close to or too farfrom the camera, will appear out-of-focusin the resulting photographed image. Therefore, in order to provide an appropriate depth-of-field to cover the entire subject,a smaller lens aperture than the maximum available sizemust be used along with aslower shutter speed togeneratea sufficient exposure. Unfortunately, a photographeris often unable tosteadily hold a hand-held camera for times typically in excess of,for example, 1/50th of a second fora 50 mm lens. Hence, as the shutter remains open for increasingly longer periodsof time, the camera becomes increasingly sensitive to camera shakeorsubject motion which, when it occurs, blurs and ruins the entire picture. Therefore, to reduce the incidence of noticeable image blur, particularly resulting from camera shake, shutter speeds equal to or slower than of 1/50th second for use with a 50 mm lens should be avoidedfor use in a hand-held camera. Consequently, other techniques, suchas mounting the cameraon a tripod or using an auxiliary lightsource, e.g. a so-called flash unit, or higher speed film, i.e. a more sensitive film, are often requiredin order to provideacceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and shutter speeds in low light conditions. Unfortunately, a flash unitor a tripod may not becurrently available. Also, films that are increasingly sensitive tend to producepictures thatexhibit increasinggraininess, thereby adversely impacting the qualityof the picture. With this scenario and inthe absence of having a flashunit, a tripod or the ability tochange filmforuse in photographing a particular low light scene, the photographer may not be able to select shutter speeds and lens aperture sizes that will produce a picture of optimum quality. Instead, the photographer is forced to accept compromise settings whichwill likely produce a picture ofsub-optimum quality, such as beingunder-exposed, but, owing to thelatitudein the performance of the film, will hopefully stillexhibit sufficient quality to still be acceptable to a viewer. To a certain extent, the developingprocess can compensate (throughso-called "forcing") for under-exposure conditions, though the ability to do soand still provide pictures of sufficient quality depends uponthe subjectmatterinthe scene and hence can be rather limited. In this regard,see D. M. Zwick, "TheTechnical Basisof Photographic Speed Determination or What is a Normal Exposure", SMPTE Journal,Vol. 88, No. 8,August 1979,pages 533-537 (hereinafter referred to as the L Zwick publication) and specifically pages536-537thereof. In certain extreme situations with worsening exposure conditions than that illustratively described above, the lighting conditions may, for all practicalpurposes, totallyfrustrate the ability of even a skilledphotographer to produce a picture of merely acceptable quality. In these situations, photography would be essentially impossible. For example, consider the same low-light scenario above but where the photographerdesires to use a lens thathas a relatively large focal length, e.g. atelephoto lens, to capture a scene. For a given film size, the depth-of-field varies in proportion to the square of the focal length of the lensand hence significantly decreases with increases infocal length. Therefore, thedepth-of-field provided by sucha lens, for certain lens apertures, may not meet the scene requirements. Large focal length lensesalso tend to bebulky, massive and relatively heavy and thus,oncemounted to a hand-held camera, are hard to hold steady foreven moderate shutter speeds,such as 1/30 or 1/60th ofa second. Accordingly, to avoid significantcamera shake, the slowest shutterspeed at whichthese lenses can be used, without a tripod, is often quite limited. Moreover, since physical limitations on lens size often prevent alarge focal length lensfrom being constructed with largelens aperture sizes, this forces the use ofincreasingly long shutterspeedsto achieve a properexposureunder low-light conditions and exacerbates the need to use other techniques, such as a tripod, auxiliary light source or afaster speed film, to provide usable lens aperture andshutter speed settingsthat will provide a proper exposure. In the absence of using a tripodor an auxiliary light source, which--owing to the amplitude fall-off as the inverse squareof distance to the subject--becomes ineffective at largesubject-to-camera distances, or the ability tochange to and/or even theavailabilityofsufficiently fastfilms that exhibit low graininess during the printing process, low-light photography with large focal lengthlenses isoftentimes practically impossible.Therefore, as one cannow appreciate, evena skilledphotographer often experiences difficulties inchoosing the properphotographic settings under certain lighting conditions, e.g.lens aperture and shutter settings, selection of lens focal length, use andamount of flash illumination. While certainlighting conditions are so extreme that they simply can not be handled byeven a professional photographer, the vastmajority of scene lighting conditionsfortunately do not fall in this category.Nevertheless, someofthese latter conditions often presentsufficient difficultiestoeffectively frustrate theabilityof an amateurphotographer to takea picture of acceptablequality. In fact, formany inexperienced amateurs, choosing lens aperture size and shutterspeedsettings amounts to little more than mere guesswork,throughwhich the probability is high that theamateur will select wrong settings and quicklybecome frustrated. Frustration, if it occurs sufficiently often,leads to dis-satisfaction, which in the context of an amateur photographer often means that that photographerwill simply stop taking pictures and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more satisfying than photography. Since
|
_Photographic_ cameras have been in widespread use for quite some time. Basically, _such_ a camera operates _by_ exposing _a_ _portion_ of _a_ light sensitive media, _i.e._ a frame of film, for a _pre-defined_ period of time to scene illumination. The light is _focused_ on the frame through a lens that _has_ an _aperture_ of a given, _often_ _variable,_ _size._ A shutter, _situated_ _behind_ the _lens_ _and_ in front of _the_ film, opens for a selected period of time in order to permit the _light_ to transit therethrough, illuminate and _expose_ the film. As a result of being properly exposed and _subsequently_ developed, the film undergoes _a_ photochemical process, on a two-dimensional basis throughout _the_ frame, _that_ locally varies the optical _transmissivity_ of each portion of the frame in _proportion_ to the amount of _illumination_ that reaches _that_ portion of _the_ frame from a corresponding _portion_ of the scene, thereby producing, depending upon whether reversal _or_ negative _film_ is _used,_ either a _two-dimensional_ _positive_ _or_ negative _optical_ _image_ of the scene. As such, tonal variations that appeared in the _scene_ are _captured_ in the frame of the film. Photographic prints are _often_ made from negatives, while transparencies (commonly referred to as "slides") are made from positives. Though _this_ overall process, which _relies_ on the use of _silver_ halide as a _photosensitive_ _reagent_ in film, has basically remained unchanged over many years, this process _is_ highly _non-linear_ and subject to a great many variables which significantly complicate its use. In _particular,_ exposure (E) is defined, under a standardized definition, as _being_ _a_ product of the _illuminance_ (I) multiplied by _the_ time (t) during which _the_ film is exposed to this illumination. In this regard, see specifically _ANSI_ (American National Standards Institute) standard PH _3.49-1971_ _"American_ National Standard for General Purpose _Photographic_ Exposure Meters" (re-affirmed in its _entirety_ _with_ no modifications _in_ 1987 as ANSI _standard_ PH 3.49-1987) [hereinafter referred to as ANSI standard _3.49-1987],_ and also ANSI standard PH 2.7-1986 "American National _Standard_ _for_ Photography--Photographic _Exposure_ Guide" and specifically page _13_ thereof. _In_ a camera, the _combination_ of _two_ settings, namely lens aperture (size of the lens opening) _and_ shutter speed (time during which _the_ shutter remains _open),_ primarily _defines_ a particular exposure. Unfortunately, lens aperture and _shutter_ speed define more than _just_ an amount of _exposure,_ these settings also dramatically affect picture (hereinafter including both _prints_ and _transparencies)_ quality and must be judiciously _chosen_ in each photographic situation; otherwise, a picture (also referred to hereinafter _as_ an _image)_ having _inferior_ _quality_ will _result._ _To_ _illustrate_ the variability among photographic _parameters_ and the _difficulties_ in choosing appropriate lens aperture and shutter _speed_ settings, consider for the moment a particular scenario _that_ often occurs and presents significant challenges _to_ a photographer: photographing _a_ scene in relatively low light conditions with sufficient depth-of-field to cover a _desired_ subject. In _dealing_ with a low _light_ _situation,_ a photographer, particularly an amateur, might, at first, open the lens aperture to its _maximum_ _value_ in order to pass as much light _as_ possible therethrough to the _film._ A suitable shutter speed would then be chosen _based_ _on_ scene luminance, typically _using_ an _indication_ provided by an internal light _meter_ located in the camera. Unfortunately, such an approach might fail. Specifically, while, the lens aperture size specifies _the_ amount of light that instantaneously strikes the film, this size also defines the so-called depth-of-field in the resulting _photographed_ image, i.e. a range of minimum _to_ maximum camera-to-subject distances in _which_ objects located therein will be perceived in the _image_ as being sharp and in-focus. As _the_ _aperture_ _size_ of a _given_ lens increases, i.e. the lens is opened and its so-called "f" number decreases, which ordinarily occurs _in_ low light _conditions,_ the depth-of-field produced _by_ that _lens_ correspondingly _decreases._ Accordingly, with certain subject thicknesses, the depth-of-field that results from a maximum lens _aperture_ exposure _may_ be too restricted _to_ fully cover the entire subject. _Thus,_ _portions_ of the subject located at camera-to-subject _distances_ that are outside the range specified by the depth-of-field for the given _lens_ aperture, i.e. too _close_ _to_ or too far from the camera, _will_ appear out-of-focus _in_ the resulting photographed image. Therefore, _in_ _order_ to provide an appropriate depth-of-field to cover the entire subject, _a_ smaller lens aperture than the maximum available _size_ must be used along with a slower shutter speed to generate a sufficient exposure. Unfortunately, a photographer is often _unable_ to _steadily_ hold _a_ _hand-held_ camera for _times_ typically in excess of, _for_ example, 1/50th _of_ a second for a 50 mm _lens._ Hence, as the shutter remains open for increasingly longer periods of _time,_ the camera becomes increasingly sensitive _to_ _camera_ shake or subject _motion_ which, when it occurs, blurs and ruins _the_ entire picture. Therefore, to reduce _the_ incidence _of_ _noticeable_ image _blur,_ particularly resulting from camera _shake,_ shutter _speeds_ _equal_ to or _slower_ than of 1/50th _second_ for _use_ with a 50 _mm_ lens should _be_ avoided for use in a hand-held camera. Consequently, other techniques, _such_ as mounting _the_ camera on a tripod or using _an_ auxiliary _light_ source, _e.g._ a _so-called_ flash unit, or higher speed film, i.e. a more sensitive film, _are_ often _required_ in order to provide acceptable combinations of lens aperture openings and shutter speeds in low light conditions. Unfortunately, _a_ flash _unit_ or a tripod may not be currently available. Also, films that _are_ increasingly sensitive tend _to_ produce pictures that exhibit increasing graininess, thereby adversely impacting the _quality_ _of_ the picture. With _this_ _scenario_ and in the absence _of_ having a flash unit, a tripod _or_ the ability _to_ _change_ _film_ for use in _photographing_ a particular low light _scene,_ the photographer _may_ not be able to select shutter speeds and _lens_ aperture sizes that will _produce_ a picture _of_ optimum quality. Instead, the photographer is forced to accept compromise settings _which_ will likely produce _a_ picture _of_ sub-optimum quality, such _as_ being under-exposed, but, _owing_ to _the_ latitude in the _performance_ of the film, will hopefully still _exhibit_ sufficient quality to still be _acceptable_ to _a_ viewer. To a certain _extent,_ the developing _process_ can compensate (through so-called "forcing") for under-exposure conditions, though the _ability_ _to_ do so and still provide pictures of sufficient quality depends _upon_ the subject matter in _the_ scene _and_ hence can be rather limited. In this regard, see D. M. Zwick, "The Technical Basis of Photographic _Speed_ Determination _or_ _What_ is _a_ Normal _Exposure",_ _SMPTE_ Journal, Vol. 88, _No._ 8, August 1979, _pages_ 533-537 (hereinafter referred to as the L Zwick publication) and specifically pages 536-537 thereof. In certain _extreme_ _situations_ with worsening _exposure_ conditions _than_ that illustratively described above, the _lighting_ conditions _may,_ for all practical purposes, totally frustrate the _ability_ _of_ even a _skilled_ photographer _to_ produce a picture of merely acceptable quality. _In_ these situations, _photography_ would be essentially impossible. _For_ example, consider the _same_ low-light scenario above but where the photographer desires to use a _lens_ _that_ _has_ a relatively _large_ _focal_ _length,_ e.g. _a_ telephoto lens, _to_ capture a _scene._ For a given film size, the depth-of-field varies _in_ _proportion_ to the square of the focal length _of_ _the_ lens and hence significantly decreases with increases in focal length. Therefore, the _depth-of-field_ provided by such a lens, for certain _lens_ apertures, may _not_ meet the scene _requirements._ Large focal length _lenses_ _also_ tend to be bulky, _massive_ and relatively heavy _and_ thus, once _mounted_ to a hand-held camera, are hard to hold steady for even moderate shutter speeds, _such_ as 1/30 _or_ 1/60th of a second. _Accordingly,_ to avoid significant camera _shake,_ the slowest shutter speed at which these lenses can be _used,_ without _a_ tripod, is often quite limited. _Moreover,_ since _physical_ limitations on lens size often prevent a _large_ focal length lens from being constructed with _large_ lens aperture sizes, this _forces_ the use of increasingly long shutter _speeds_ to achieve _a_ _proper_ exposure under low-light conditions and exacerbates the need to _use_ other techniques, such as _a_ tripod, auxiliary light source or a faster speed film, to _provide_ usable lens aperture _and_ shutter speed settings that _will_ _provide_ a proper _exposure._ In the absence of using a _tripod_ or an _auxiliary_ _light_ source, _which--owing_ to the amplitude fall-off as the inverse square of distance _to_ the _subject--becomes_ ineffective at large _subject-to-camera_ _distances,_ or the ability _to_ _change_ to and/or even _the_ _availability_ _of_ sufficiently fast films that exhibit low _graininess_ during the printing process, low-light photography with large focal length lenses is oftentimes practically impossible. _Therefore,_ _as_ one can now appreciate, even a skilled photographer _often_ experiences difficulties _in_ choosing the _proper_ photographic _settings_ under certain lighting conditions, e.g. lens aperture and _shutter_ settings, selection of lens focal _length,_ _use_ and amount of flash _illumination._ While certain lighting conditions are so extreme that they _simply_ can _not_ be handled by even a professional _photographer,_ _the_ vast majority _of_ scene lighting conditions fortunately do not fall _in_ this category. _Nevertheless,_ some of these _latter_ _conditions_ often present sufficient difficulties to effectively _frustrate_ the _ability_ of an _amateur_ photographer to take a picture of acceptable quality. _In_ fact, for many inexperienced _amateurs,_ choosing lens aperture size and _shutter_ speed settings amounts _to_ little more than _mere_ guesswork, through which the probability is _high_ that _the_ amateur _will_ _select_ _wrong_ _settings_ _and_ quickly _become_ frustrated. _Frustration,_ if it occurs _sufficiently_ _often,_ leads to dis-satisfaction, which in the context of an _amateur_ photographer often means _that_ _that_ photographer will simply stop taking _pictures_ and turn to other leisure activities which he or she believes to be less trying and more _satisfying_ than photography. _Since_
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In particular, it relates to an impeller as well as method of fixing the blades of the impeller, and of fixing a lock-up damper spring plate without making a hole or slit in any of constituting members.
2. Description of Related Art
In a conventional hydraulic power transmitting apparatus, as a means of fixing blades to a shell, there are known the following, i.e., means of fixing both the members by welding or brazing, or means of fitting claws provided in the blades into slits and then fixing them together by caulking or brazing (see Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No. 79359/1982). In the above-described conventional art, welding or brazing will give rise to thermal strains to the shell and the blades. Particularly, in case of brazing, a large amount of electric power is consumed in a brazing furnace. When a flux for preventing oxidation is used, there is a possibility of generating harmful gases from the flux. In case the claws provided in the blades are fitted into the slits, three-dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured at a high accuracy in order to facilitate the assembling work. This results in a higher manufacturing cost and in a reduced strength in the shell due to the presence of the slits. In addition, since the force of fixing the blades is weak, a working fluid may leak through the slits out of the shell, resulting in a remarkable reduction in the performance of the hydraulic power transmitting apparatus.
In view of the above disadvantages accompanied by the conventional art, the present invention has an object of providing an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which the shell and the blades as well as the shell and a lock-up damper spring plate can be fixed without resort to welding or brazing as well as to fitting of claws into slits.
In order to attain the above and other objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention is an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection.
In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein each of the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed, an outer periphery of the bottom having an axially extending ring-shaped convex; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection.
Preferably, the projection is formed in a plurality of numbers, and at least one of the projections is projected inward of the impeller. According to this arrangement, in case another constituting member of the impeller is disposed in close proximity to the outside of the shell, a particular projection which is likely to interfere with the above-mentioned member can be projected inward, instead of outward as is the case with the remaining ones, to prevent the mutual interference.
Further, preferably, at least one of the projections is positioned radially inward relative to a center of radial length of the blade. Ordinarily, in the turbine blades, a large force in a direction of peeling off the blades is operated on an outlet side in an inner circumference. By arranging at least one of the projections as described above, a large fixing force against the peeling can be secured.
Preferably, the fixing flange has a larger width on a radially inner side and a diameter of a projection to be provided on the radially inner side is larger in diameter than the diameter of remaining projections. According to this arrangement, the projection of a larger diameter can generate a larger force against the peeling off the blades.
Preferably, the impeller further comprises a lock-up damper spring plate having a shape free from interference with a projection that is on a circumferentially outermost position, the damping spring plate being fixed to an outside of the shell by a projection which is the same as the projection for fixing the shell and the fixing flange. According to this arrangement, the lock-up damper spring plate can be fixed to the shell without giving rise to the interference with the projection for fixing the fixing flange and without giving rise to the thermal strains.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method comprises: preparing a shell from a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades from a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; placing the shell and the fixing flange one on top of the other; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection is expanded outward so as to be thrusted into a material of an outer member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection.
Alternatively, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method comprises: preparing a shell made of a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades made of a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; feeding the shell and each of the fixing flanges into a die assembly in a state in which one is placed on top of the other, the die assembly comprising: a die having a die hole with a bottom; and a punch which is adapted to be inserted into, and out of, the die hole; wherein a clearance between the punch and an inner surface of the die hole is smaller than a sum of thicknesses of the shell and the fixing flange, and wherein the die has a ring-shaped groove which is formed along a corner of the bottom of the die hole so as to extend in an axial direction of the die assembly; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a bottom corner portion of an outer member out of the shell and the fixing flange is forced into the ring-shaped groove and that a material in a bottom corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange is expanded diametrically outward so as to be thrusted into the material of the outer member.
|
1. field of patent invention the present invention relates to an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades to a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. in addition, it relates to an impeller as well as method of fixing the blades of the impeller, and of fixing a lock - up damper spring plate without making a blade or slit in any of constituting members. 2. description of related art in a conventional hydraulic power transmitting apparatus, as a means of fixing blades to a shell, there are known the following, i. e., means of fixing both the members by welding or brazing, or means of fitting claws provided in the blades into slits and then fixing them together by caulking or brazing ( see japanese published unexamined patent application no. 79359 / 1982 ). outside the above - described conventional art, welding or brazing will give rise to specific strains to the shell and the blades. particularly, in case of brazing, a large amount of electric power is consumed in a brazing furnace. when a flux for preventing oxidation is used, there is a possibility of generating harmful gases from the flux. in case the claws provided in the blades are fitted into the slits, three - dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured at a high accuracy in order to facilitate the assembling work. this results in a higher manufacturing cost and in a reduced strength in the shell due to the presence of the slits. in addition, since the force of fixing the blades is weak, a working fluid may leak through the slits out of the shell, resulting in a remarkable reduction in the performance of the hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. in view of the above disadvantages accompanied by the conventional art, the present invention has an object of providing an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which the shell and the blades as well as the shell and a lock - up damper neck plate can be fixed without resort to welding or brazing as well as the fitting of claws into slits. in order to attain the above and other objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention is an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. the impeller comprises : a shell ; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade extension body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main trunk ; wherein the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed ; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection. in a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. the impeller comprises : a shell ; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main body ; wherein each of the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed, an outer periphery of the bottom having an axially extending ring - shaped convex ; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection. preferably, the projection is formed in a plurality of numbers, and at least one of the projections is projected inward of the impeller. according to this arrangement, in case another constituting member of the impeller is disposed in close proximity to the outside of the shell, a particular projection which is likely to interfere with the above - mentioned member can be projected inward, instead of outward as is the case with the remaining ones, to prevent the mutual interference. further, preferably, at least one of the projections is positioned radially inward relative to a center of radial length of the blade. ordinarily, in the turbine blades, a large force in a direction of peeling off the blades is operated on an outlet side in an inner circumference. by arranging at least one of the projections as described above, a large fixing force against the peeling can be secured. preferably, the fixing flange has a larger width on a radially inner side and a diameter of a projection to be provided on the radially inner side is larger in diameter than the diameter of remaining projections. according to this arrangement, the projection of a larger diameter can generate a larger force against the peeling off the blades. preferably, the impeller further comprises a lock - up damper spring plate having a shape free from interference with a projection that is on a circumferentially outermost position, the damping spring plate being fixed to an outside of the shell by a projection which is the same as the projection for fixing the shell and the fixing flange. according to this arrangement, the lock - up damper spring plate can be fixed to the shell without giving rise to the interference with the projection for fixing the fixing flange and without giving rise to the thermal strains. according to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. the method comprises : preparing a shell from a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades from a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange ; placing the shell and the fixing flange one on top of the other ; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection is expanded outward so as to be thrusted into a material of an outer member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection. alternatively, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. the method comprises : preparing a shell made of a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades made of a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange ; feeding the shell and each of the fixing flanges into a die assembly in a state in which one is placed on top of the other, the die assembly comprising : a die having a die hole with a bottom ; and a punch which is adapted to be inserted into, and out of, the die hole ; wherein a clearance between the punch and an inner surface of the die hole is smaller than a sum of thicknesses of the shell and the fixing flange, and wherein the die has a ring - shaped groove which is formed along a corner of the bottom of the die hole so as to extend in an axial direction of the die assembly ; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a bottom corner portion of an outer member out of the shell and the fixing flange is forced into the ring - shaped groove and that a material in a bottom corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange is expanded diametrically outward so as to be thrusted into the material of the outer member.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In particular, it relates to an impeller as well as method of fixing the blades of the impeller, and of fixing a lock - up damper spring plate without making a hole or slit in any of constituting members. 2. Description of Related Art In a conventional hydraulic power transmitting apparatus, as a means of fixing blades to a shell, there are known the following, i. e. , means of fixing both the members by welding or brazing, or means of fitting claws provided in the blades into slits and then fixing them together by caulking or brazing (see Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No. 79359 / 1982 ). In the above - described conventional art, welding or brazing will give rise to thermal strains to the shell and the blades. Particularly, in case of brazing, a large amount of electric power is consumed in a brazing furnace. When a flux for preventing oxidation is used, there is a possibility of generating harmful gases from the flux. In case the claws provided in the blades are fitted into the slits, three - dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured at a hogu accuracy in order to facilitate the assembling work. This results in a higher manufacturing cost and in a reduced strength in the shell due to the presence of the slits. In addition, since the force of fixing the blades is weak, a working fluid may leak through the slits out of the shell, resulting in a remarkable reduction in the performance of the hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In view of the above disadvantages accompanied by the conventional art, the present invention has an object of providing an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which the shell and the blades as well as the shell and a lock - up damper spring plate can be fixed without resort to welding or brazing as well as to fitting of claws into slits. In order to attain the above and other objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention is an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed $ogethWr at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed; and wherein the projection comprises a dUamFtrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection. In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed to the shell, eXdh of the blades having a blade main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein each of the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed, an outer periphery of the bottom having an axially extending ring - shaped convex; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded por5iog being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection. Preferably, the projection is formed in a plurality of numbers, and at least one of the projections is project4W inward of the impeller. According to this arrangement, in case another constituting member of the impeller is disposed in close proximity to the outside of the shell, a particular projection which is likely to interfere with the above - mentioned member can be projected inward, instead of outward as is the case with the remaining ones, to prevent the mutual interference. Further, preferably, at least one of the projections is positioned radially inward relative to a center of radial length of the blade. Ordinarily, in the turbine blades, a large force in a dkrecti(n of peeling off the blades is operated on an outlet side in an inner circumference. By arranging at least one of the projections as described above, a large fixing force against the peeling can be secured. Preferably, the fixing flange has a larger width on a radially inner side and a diameter of a projection to be provided on the radially inner side is larger in diameter than the diameter of remaining projections. According to this arrangement, the projection of a larger diameter can generate a larger force against the peeling off the blades. Preferably, the impeller further comprises a lock - up damper spring plate having a shape free from interference with a projection that is on a circumferentially outermost position, the damping spring plate being fixed to an outside of the shell by a projection which is the saj4 as the projection for fixing the shell and the fixing flange. According to this arrangement, the lock - up damper spring plate can be fixed to the shell without giving rise to the interference with the projection for fixing the fixing flange and without giving rise to the thermal strains. According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method comprises: preparing a shell from a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades from a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; placing the shell and the fixing flange one on top of the other; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection is expanded outward so as to be thrusted into a material of an outer member of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection. Alternatively, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method conprisez: preparing a shell made of a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades made of a second metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; feeding the shell and each of the fixing flanges into a die assembly in a state in which one is placed on top of the other, the die assembly comprising: a die having a die hole with a bottom; and a punch which is adapted to be inserted into, and out of, the die hole; wherein a clearance between the punch and an inner surface of the die hole is smaller than a sum of thicknesses of the shell and the fixing flange, and wherein the die has a ring - shaped groove which is formed along a corner of the bottom of the die hole so as to extend in an axial direction of the die assembly; pressing the shell and the fixing eIange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a bottom corner portion of an outer member out of the shell and the fixing flange is forced into the ring - shaped groove and that a material in a bottom corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange is expanded diametrically outward so as to be thrusted into the material of the outer member.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present relates to an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In particular, it relates impeller as as method of fixing the blades of impeller, and of fixing lock-up spring plate without making a hole or slit in any of constituting members. 2. Description of Related Art a conventional power transmitting apparatus, as a means of fixing blades a shell, there are known the following, means of fixing both members by welding or brazing, or means of fitting claws provided in blades into and then fixing them together by or brazing (see Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No. 79359/1982). In the above-described conventional art, welding or brazing will give rise to thermal strains to the shell and the blades. Particularly, in case of brazing, a large amount of electric is consumed in a brazing furnace. a flux for preventing oxidation is there is a possibility of harmful gases from flux. In case the provided the blades are fitted into the slits, three-dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured at a accuracy in order to facilitate work. This in a higher manufacturing cost and in a reduced strength in the shell due to the presence of the slits. In addition, since the force of blades is weak, a working may leak through the slits out of the resulting in a remarkable reduction in the performance of the hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In view of the above disadvantages accompanied by the conventional art, present invention has object of providing an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which shell and blades as well as the shell and a lock-up damper spring plate can fixed without resort to welding or brazing as as to fitting of claws into slits. In order attain the above and objects, according to a first aspect of present invention, the present invention is an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a main body and a fixing flange which is bent at an relative to the blade main wherein shell and the fixing flange are placed one on top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that member out of the shell and fixing flange which lies on an inner in the projection, the expanded being thrusted into that member out the shell and the flange lies on an outer side in the projection. a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an impeller hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed to shell, the blades having a blade main body and a flange which is bent at angle relative to the body; wherein each of the shell and the fixing flange are placed top of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom formed, an outer periphery of the bottom an axially extending ring-shaped convex; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer of that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted into that member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an outer side in the projection. Preferably, the projection is formed in a of numbers, and at least one the projections projected inward of impeller. According to this arrangement, in case another constituting member of the impeller disposed in close proximity to the of the shell, a particular projection which is likely to interfere with the member can be projected inward, of outward as is the case with the remaining ones, to prevent the mutual interference. Further, preferably, at one of the projections is positioned radially inward relative to a center radial length of the blade. in the turbine blades, large force in a direction of peeling off the blades is operated an outlet side in an inner circumference. By arranging at least one of the projections as described above, a large fixing force against the peeling can be secured. the fixing flange has a larger width a radially inner side diameter of a projection to be on the radially inner side larger in diameter than the diameter remaining this arrangement, projection a diameter can generate a force against the peeling off the blades. Preferably, the impeller further comprises a lock-up damper spring having a shape free from interference with a projection that is a circumferentially outermost position, the damping spring being fixed to an outside of the shell by a projection which is the same as the projection for fixing the shell and the fixing flange. According to this arrangement, the lock-up damper spring plate can be fixed to the shell without giving rise the interference with the projection for fixing the fixing flange and without giving rise to the thermal strains. According to a third aspect of present invention, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method comprises: a from a first metallic plate a plurality of blades from a second metallic plate, each of the blades an integrally formed fixing flange; placing the shell and the fixing flange one top of the other; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together to form hollow cylindrical projection such that a material in corner portion of an inner member of the shell and the flange inside the projection is expanded outward so as to be into a material of an outer member of the shell and the flange the projection. Alternatively, there is provided method of blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The method comprises: preparing a shell made a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades made of a metallic plate, of the blades having an integrally fixing flange; the shell and each of the fixing flanges into a die assembly in a state in which is placed on top of the other, the die assembly comprising: a die having a die hole with a bottom; a punch which is adapted to be inserted into, and out of, the hole; wherein a clearance between the punch and an inner surface the die hole is smaller than a sum of thicknesses of the shell and the fixing flange, and wherein the has a ring-shaped groove is formed along a corner of the bottom of the die hole so as to extend in an axial direction of the die assembly; pressing the shell and fixing flange together to form a cylindrical projection such that a material in a bottom corner portion an outer member out of the shell and the fixing flange is forced into the ring-shaped groove and a material in a bottom corner of an inner member of the shell and the fixing flange is expanded diametrically outward so as to be thrusted into the material of the outer member.
|
1. fIeLd OF the INvEntIon
tHe PReSEnt InveNtIon rELaTES to aN IMpeLLer FOr a hYDrAULIc POWeR TRAnSMIttiNG appaRAtUs and a METHoD oF FIXing BlAdEs OF a hYDRAuLic PoWER tRansMITTiNG ApParaTuS. iN PaRtIcular, it rElaTes TO an impeLler as WeLl aS metHod Of FIXiNg tHE BlaDEs OF ThE iMpeLLer, and OF FIXInG A LOck-uP DampeR SPRInG PLate withOut MaKIng A hOLE oR SLIT in anY oF conStItutINg MemBeRS.
2. DEScRIptiOn Of RELaTEd arT
IN A cOnVentIOnal hydRAUlic POwer transMitTiNg ApparATUS, as A meaNs oF FixInG BLaDeS tO A sHEll, THErE ARE KnOWN THe foLloWiNg, I.E., MeanS oF fIxiNg BOtH the MEMberS by WeldiNG or bRaZINg, Or MeAns OF FITtInG CLAWs prOviDed IN the BlAdES IntO SlItS aNd tHEN FiXINg tHeM togeThEr bY cAuLkiNG OR braZIng (seE japaneSE PUBLISHED UNExamiNEd PAteNt appLiCatIoN NO. 79359/1982). In thE ABovE-dEsCriBeD coNVEnTIoNal arT, WELDing OR bRAZiNG wILl gIvE risE to tHErMAl stRAIns To The sHELL anD the BlaDes. PArtIculaRLY, IN CAse OF brAzIng, a largE AmoUnt OF ELeCtriC PowEr is cONsUMeD IN A BrAzING FuRNACE. WhEN A fLuX fOr PreVentinG oxidATioN iS useD, THERE iS A possibilIty Of GeneRaTIng hArmful Gases FrOm ThE FlUX. iN cAse tHe cLAws PROVIDED In thE blAdeS Are FittEd intO tHe SLiTS, tHRee-DImeNSioNAl SLiTS aNd The CLaWS Of THe BladES MusT BE mANUFACtureD aT A HIgH aCCUrACY IN order tO FACILiTaTe THE ASSeMbLiNG WOrK. tHiS reSULts IN a HiGHer mAnuFaCTURInG coSt And in a reDucEd STReNgth in thE ShelL Due to The PReSENCe OF THe sLITS. In aDdiTIon, SiNCe tHe FoRCe OF fiXiNg tHe BlAdes iS weAK, A WoRkiNG FlUID May leAk THRougH ThE SlITs oUt Of the sHeLl, reSuLTIng IN A REmaRKAble REDUCtion in ThE pERfOrMaNce oF ThE HydRAULIC PoWER TRANSmittING apparaTus.
In VIEw of tHE aboVE DiSaDvANTagES ACcOmPaNiED BY thE ConvEntIOnAL art, tHE PREseNt invEntION HAS An OBjEcT of ProviDing AN ImpELLER fOr a HYDraUlic POwEr tRansmIttING appAratuS aND a MeThOD oF fIXiNg BlaDes Of a HyDrAULiC PowEr TranSmITTIng aPPARatUs iN WhicH the shell And The blADes AS wELl aS tHE shELl ANd A lOcK-uP dAmper spRInG PlATE CaN BE fixed witHOut ReSORt TO WELDiNg OR BrAzing AS well AS To fItTING OF ClaWs inTO sliTS.
in Order to aTTAIN THE ABOVe AND oTHER OBJEcts, acCording to A FIrsT aSpEcT Of tHe PresenT iNVeNTioN, tHe PreseNt iNVEntiOn Is aN impELLEr FoR A HYDraulic POwer TRaNSmITTINg ApPARatUs. the ImpEllEr compRises: A ShElL; A pLUralitY OF BlAdES fixED tO THe SHELl, eacH OF THe blAdes HAviNG a bLaDE Main boDy anD a FiXInG FLange whiCh is beNt At aN aNGle relAtiVE To thE BlAdE MaIn BoDy; whEReIn tHe ShelL AnD ThE FiXiNg fLaNGE ARE pLACED oNE on Top oF tHE oTHEr AnD are prEssEd TOgEtHeR at a FIXing Point SUCh THAT a HOLlOw CYlindrIcAl ProJeCTION HAvInG a bOtToM iS FOrmeD; AnD WHereIN tHe pRoJEctioN cOmPRiSes A DIAMeTrIcALly exPaNdeD poRtIon ALOnG A BoTToM oUtEr pERIPhEry OF THAt MEmbER Out OF THE shELL AND thE Fixing flANGE whiCh lIeS ON AN inNer sIDE iN tHE PROJecTIon, THE EXPandEd POrtioN being THRUStED inTo That memBER ouT oF ThE ShElL AND the fixINg FLANGE whICh lIes on AN oUter SidE in tHE ProJEctION.
IN A sEcoND ASpECt oF THE PReSent InveNtION, tHeRe IS pROviDeD an iMpELLER foR a HydRAUliC POwer TRANSmiTtinG APPaRATUs. ThE IMpELler compriSES: A SHElL; a PlurAlITy of bLAdes FiXeD tO tHE sHelL, each Of THe bLAdEs haViNG A BLaDe Main BODY aND A fIXinG fLANge wHiCh iS bent AT An ANglE RELatIve tO THE BLade MAiN BoDy; wHeReIN EaCH Of The shEll And thE fiXiNG FLAnGe ArE placeD oNE oN TOP oF the OThEr and aRe PreSsED TogEThER aT a fIXInG Point sUCh THaT A HOllOw cYlindrical pRojeCtION hAvINg A bottoM is FoRMED, an OUTEr PeRipHerY OF tHe BottoM hAvInG an AXiALLy eXTEnDInG rINg-ShApeD CONVeX; anD whereiN THe PROjEctiON cOMPrIsEs a dIAmeTrIcAllY ExPaNdeD PORtiON AlOng a bOTtOm OUtER pErIphEry of thAT memBER Out of tHe sHell anD thE fIxiNg FLAnGe WhICh Lies oN an inneR SIdE in ThE prOjEction, ThE EXPANDEd PoRTIoN beinG ThRUsteD InTO thAt mEmBER oUT of THe ShelL And thE FiXiNG flaNGe Which lIeS ON AN oUTer siDE iN tHe PRojecTiON.
PREfeRaBly, the PROJECtion IS FOrmED In a pLurAlItY of NumBERS, aNd AT leaST ONE OF tHE pROjecTiONS is PrOJectEd InWarD of THE ImpellEr. aCCorDing tO thIs arraNGEmenT, iN CAse ANoTHER CONSTItutINg MembER Of thE impELler is DIsPoSEd In CLoSe ProXImITy To ThE OUTsidE OF THe shelL, a ParTIcUlar pROjeCTIOn wHiCh is likElY To iNtERfere WitH tHE ABOvE-mENTIoNeD meMbEr CAn Be ProjEcteD INwARD, iNStEAd OF oUTwARD AS IS tHe caSE WitH tHe rEMAiniNg Ones, To PReVENT ThE mUtuAL inTERfErEncE.
furTher, pREfeRaBly, At leAST oNE Of THE projecTioNs IS PoSITIoNed RAdIAlLY inWARD rElatIve To A CEnTer oF radIAL LenGTh oF The blaDe. OrDinArILy, iN THE TURBinE BLaDES, a LarGe FoRCE IN a diRECTioN oF PEEliNG OFF thE blaDeS IS OpERated On An outLET SIDe in aN InNEr CirCUMFERencE. bY arrANgiNG aT leasT onE Of thE proJEcTionS aS dESCrIBed AbOVe, A lArGe fiXiNg ForCe AGaiNSt ThE peElIng can be SECureD.
pREFERAbLy, THe fIXing fLaNGE haS A LARger wIDTH on A RaDIalLy InNer SIde and a DiAmetEr oF a projEcTion To BE PRoVIDEd on The RADIaLLY iNnER SIDE is LarGEr in DIaMETeR Than The DiAmEter of remAInINg PrOjecTionS. ACcordIng to this arRangEMEnT, ThE pRoJectiON OF a LArGEr DiaMEteR cAN generaTe A lArGEr FORce agAINst the peEling oFF THE BladES.
PrEfERAbLy, ThE imPElLeR FuRtHEr comPRiSEs A locK-up DAmpEr SpRInG pLatE HaVInG A shaPe free froM inTeRFEReNCE wiTH a prOJEcTioN tHaT IS On a cIrCUmfErENtialLY oUTErMoST pOSiTIon, tHe DAmpIng SPrING PlaTe BEinG fixeD TO An OutSIdE oF ThE sHelL By A proJECTION WHicH iS the same aS The PROjeCtion for FixiNg the sHeLl anD The fIXinG FLaNgE. ACCorDiNG tO tHIs ARrANgEMeNt, tHE lOCk-UP dAMper sPrInG pLATE can Be fiXEd to the shELl witHOuT gIViNG RIse To tHE INtERFereNcE wiTh the PROJECtIOn FOr FIXIng THe Fixing fLANGE aNd WitHOuT giVInG rISE To THE tHeRmaL strAiNS.
AccORdING to a THIrD asPEct OF the pRESeNt INveNTIOn, THeRE Is ProvIDed a METhOD Of fiXINg blADes of A HyDraUlIc PowER TrANSmiTTInG appARatUS. ThE methOd COMpriSEs: pREpaRINg a ShElL froM a fIrsT MEtALLIc PlAte AND A plurALIty oF BLaDes froM a sEcONd meTaLLic PLatE, EaCH OF THE BLadEs HAVInG AN iNTegraLly foRMeD FIxIng FlANGe; pLacinG THe SHell aNd THE FIxInG FlANge oNe ON tOP OF THE otHEr; PrEsSiNG The sHEll AnD the FixINg FLaNGe tOGethEr tO FORm a holLow cYliNdriCaL pRoJeCtIoN Such tHaT A maTErIal iN A coRner PORTiOn Of An Inner member of thE sHElL aNd tHe fixIng FlANGe inSiDE the PROjectION Is eXPANded oUTwARD so aS to BE thrUStED iNTO a MAtErIal OF aN oUTER MeMBEr of ThE sHELL AnD ThE FIxInG fLANgE insidE THe PROjEctIOn.
ALteRnaTivEly, THErE iS PROViDED a methoD of FIXINg BLADES Of A hYdRaULiC POwer TRAnsmITTiNg aPPaRAtUS. tHE mEthOD CompriseS: PRePaRInG A ShEll madE of A fIRsT mEtALLic PLATE AND A PLUralITY of BlADes madE Of a Second MeTallic plATe, eacH of tHE bLaDES HAVINg aN inTEgRAlLy FORMeD fIxing flanGE; FEediNG the ShElL AnD Each of tHE FIxiNG FLAnGEs into A DIE asSEmBlY In A state in wHIch one Is pLaCEd On ToP of THe otHeR, tHe dIe AssEMBlY compRisINg: A DIe hAViNg A DiE HOLE witH A botToM; and a puncH WHiCH Is ADapTED To be InSErtEd INto, And OUt Of, tHE dIe hoLe; WhEReIN a ClEArance bEtWEen the puNcH aNd An iNnEr surFAcE Of THE Die HolE iS sMalleR THan A sUM oF tHICkNEsseS Of thE SheLl ANd ThE FiXinG flANGE, ANd WhEReiN thE DIE HAS a rinG-sHApED groOVE WhIch is fOrMED aLoNG a CorNER Of tHE boTtoM of THe DiE hOle so aS To ExteND IN an Axial dirECtioN of tHE dIE AsSemBlY; prEssiNg THE SHeLL AND tHe fIXIng FLanGE tOgeThEr tO FoRM A hoLlOw CyLInDRIcal prOjECTion sUch THAT a mAteriAL in a BottOM cOrNER PoRtioN of An OutEr MeMber oUT of THE ShelL anD tHE FiXING FlaNge IS ForcEd Into the riNg-ShAPEd grOoVE aNd thAt A mAtERiAL In A BOtTom corNEr POrTiOn OF aN INnER MeMbER of the sheLl and tHe FIxInG FlAngE iS expANDeD diaMETRIcAlly oUtWArd SO as to BE THRUstED iNTo THE mATeRIal oF tHE ouTer mEMBER.
|
1.Field of the Invention Thepresentinvention relates to an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method of fixing blades of ahydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In particular, it relates to an impeller as well as method of fixing the blades of the impeller, and offixing alock-up damper spring plate without making ahole or slit inany of constituting members. 2. Description ofRelatedArt In a conventionalhydraulic powertransmitting apparatus, as a meansof fixingblades to a shell,there are known the following, i.e., means of fixing both the members bywelding or brazing, or means of fittingclaws provided in theblades intoslits and then fixing them togetherbycaulking orbrazing(see Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No.79359/1982). In the above-describedconventional art, welding or brazing willgiverise to thermal strains to the shell andthe blades. Particularly, in case ofbrazing,a large amount of electric power is consumedin a brazingfurnace. When a flux for preventing oxidation is used, there is a possibility of generating harmful gases from theflux. In case theclaws provided in the blades are fitted into the slits, three-dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured at a high accuracy in order to facilitate the assembling work. This resultsin a higher manufacturing cost and in a reduced strength in the shell due to the presence of the slits. In addition, since theforce offixingtheblades is weak, a working fluid may leak through the slits out ofthe shell, resulting in a remarkable reduction inthe performance of the hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In view of the above disadvantages accompanied by theconventional art,thepresent invention has an objectofprovidinganimpeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus and a method offixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which theshell and the blades as wellas the shell and a lock-up damper spring plate canbe fixed without resortto welding or brazing as well as to fitting of clawsinto slits. In order to attain the above and other objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, the present inventionis an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. The impeller comprises:a shell; a plurality of blades fixedto theshell, each of the blades having a blade main body anda fixingflange which is bentat an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein the shell and the fixing flange are placed one on topof the other andare pressedtogether at a fixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed; and wherein the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery ofthat member out of the shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner side in the projection, the expanded portion being thrusted intothat member outof the shell and thefixing flange which lies on an outerside intheprojection. In a second aspect ofthe present invention, there is provided an impeller for a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus.The impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of blades fixed tothe shell, each ofthe blades having a blade main body and a fixing flangewhich is bent atan angle relative to the blademain body; wherein eachof the shell andthe fixing flange are placed one on top of the other andare pressed togetherat afixing point such that a hollow cylindrical projection having abottom isformed,an outer periphery of thebottom having an axially extending ring-shaped convex; and wherein the projection comprisesa diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outerperiphery of thatmemberout of the shell and the fixing flangewhich lies on an inner side in the projection, theexpanded portion being thrusted into thatmember out of theshell and the fixing flange which lieson an outer side in the projection. Preferably, the projection isformed in a plurality of numbers, and at least one of the projections is projected inward of the impeller. According to this arrangement, in case another constituting member of theimpelleris disposed in close proximityto the outside of the shell, a particular projection which is likely to interfere with the above-mentioned member can be projected inward, instead of outward as is thecase with the remaining ones, to prevent the mutual interference.Further, preferably, at least oneof the projections is positioned radially inward relativeto a center of radiallength of the blade. Ordinarily, in the turbine blades, a large force in a direction of peeling off the blades is operated on anoutlet side in an inner circumference. By arranging atleastone of the projectionsas describedabove, a large fixing force against the peeling can besecured. Preferably, thefixing flange has a larger width on a radially inner side anda diameter of a projection to be provided on the radially inner side is largerin diameterthan the diameter ofremainingprojections. According to this arrangement,theprojection of a larger diameter can generate alarger force against the peelingoff the blades.Preferably, the impeller further comprises a lock-up damper springplate having ashape free from interference with a projectionthat is on acircumferentially outermost position, the dampingspring plate being fixed to an outside of the shell bya projection which is the same asthe projection forfixing the shell and thefixingflange. According to this arrangement, the lock-up damperspring plate canbe fixedto the shell without giving rise to the interference with the projection forfixing the fixing flange and without giving riseto the thermal strains. According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provideda method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus.The method comprises: preparing a shell from a first metallic plateand a plurality of bladesfroma second metallic plate, each of the blades havingan integrally formed fixing flange; placing the shelland the fixingflange one on top of the other;pressing the shell and the fixing flange together toformahollow cylindrical projection such that a material in a corner portion of an innermember of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection is expanded outward so as to be thrusted into a materialof an outer member ofthe shell and the fixingflange inside the projection. Alternatively, there is provided a method of fixing blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus.The method comprises: preparing ashell made of afirstmetallic plate and a plurality of blades madeof a second metallic plate, each ofthe blades having an integrally formedfixing flange; feeding the shell and each of the fixing flangesinto adieassembly in a state inwhich oneis placed on top ofthe other,the die assembly comprising: a die having adie hole with a bottom;and a punch which is adapted tobe inserted into, and out of, the diehole; wherein aclearancebetween the punch and an inner surface of thedie holeissmaller than asumof thicknesses of the shell and the fixing flange, and whereinthe die has a ring-shaped groove which is formed along acorner of the bottom ofthe die hole so as to extend inan axialdirection of the die assembly; pressing the shell and thefixing flange togetherto form a hollow cylindrical projection suchthat a material in a bottom corner portion of an outer member out of the shell and the fixing flangeis forcedintothe ring-shaped groove and that a material in a bottom cornerportionof an inner memberof the shell and the fixing flange is expanded diametrically outward so as to bethrusted into the materialof the outer member.
|
1. Field _of_ the _Invention_ The _present_ invention relates to _an_ impeller for a _hydraulic_ power transmitting apparatus and a _method_ of fixing blades of _a_ hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. In particular, it relates to _an_ impeller as well as method of _fixing_ the blades of the impeller, and of fixing _a_ lock-up damper spring plate _without_ making a hole or _slit_ in any of constituting members. 2. Description of Related _Art_ In a conventional hydraulic _power_ transmitting apparatus, as a means _of_ fixing _blades_ to a shell, there are known the following, i.e., means of _fixing_ both the members by welding or brazing, or means _of_ fitting claws provided _in_ the blades into slits and then fixing them together _by_ _caulking_ or brazing (see Japanese Published _Unexamined_ Patent Application No. 79359/1982). _In_ the _above-described_ conventional _art,_ welding _or_ brazing will give rise to thermal strains to the shell and the blades. Particularly, _in_ case of brazing, _a_ large amount of electric power is consumed in a brazing furnace. When a flux _for_ preventing oxidation is _used,_ there _is_ a possibility of _generating_ _harmful_ gases from the flux. In _case_ the claws provided in the blades are _fitted_ _into_ the slits, three-dimensional slits and the claws of the blades must be manufactured _at_ a high _accuracy_ in order _to_ _facilitate_ the _assembling_ work. _This_ _results_ in a _higher_ manufacturing _cost_ and in a _reduced_ strength in the shell _due_ to the _presence_ of _the_ slits. In _addition,_ since the force _of_ fixing _the_ blades is weak, _a_ working fluid may _leak_ through the slits out of _the_ shell, resulting _in_ a remarkable reduction in the performance of _the_ hydraulic _power_ transmitting _apparatus._ In view _of_ the above disadvantages accompanied by the conventional art, the _present_ invention has an object of _providing_ an _impeller_ for _a_ hydraulic power transmitting apparatus _and_ a method of _fixing_ blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus in which the _shell_ and the blades _as_ well as the shell and _a_ lock-up damper _spring_ _plate_ can be fixed without resort _to_ welding or brazing as well as to fitting of claws into slits. In order to _attain_ the above and other objects, according to a first _aspect_ of the present _invention,_ _the_ present invention is an impeller _for_ _a_ hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. _The_ _impeller_ comprises: a shell; a plurality _of_ blades fixed to the shell, each of the blades having a blade _main_ body and _a_ fixing flange which _is_ _bent_ at an angle relative to the blade main body; wherein the shell and the _fixing_ flange are placed one on top of the other _and_ _are_ pressed together at a fixing point such that _a_ hollow cylindrical projection having a bottom is formed; and _wherein_ the projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion _along_ a _bottom_ outer periphery _of_ that member out of _the_ shell and the fixing flange which lies on an inner _side_ in _the_ projection, the expanded portion being _thrusted_ into that member _out_ of the shell _and_ the _fixing_ flange which lies on an outer _side_ in the projection. In _a_ second aspect of the present invention, there is _provided_ an impeller for a hydraulic power _transmitting_ apparatus. _The_ impeller comprises: a shell; a plurality of _blades_ fixed to the shell, each of the _blades_ _having_ a blade main body _and_ a fixing flange which is bent at an angle relative to the _blade_ main body; wherein each of the _shell_ and the fixing flange are placed one on _top_ of the other and are pressed together at a fixing point such that a _hollow_ _cylindrical_ _projection_ having a _bottom_ _is_ formed, _an_ _outer_ periphery of the _bottom_ _having_ an axially extending ring-shaped convex; and wherein _the_ projection comprises a diametrically expanded portion along a bottom outer periphery of that _member_ out of _the_ _shell_ and the fixing _flange_ which lies on _an_ inner side in the projection, the _expanded_ portion being thrusted into that _member_ _out_ of the shell and the fixing flange _which_ lies _on_ an outer side in the projection. Preferably, the projection is formed in a _plurality_ of _numbers,_ and at _least_ one of the projections is projected inward of _the_ impeller. _According_ to this arrangement, in case _another_ constituting _member_ of the impeller is _disposed_ in close _proximity_ to the outside _of_ the shell, a particular projection which is likely _to_ interfere with the _above-mentioned_ member _can_ _be_ _projected_ inward, instead _of_ outward _as_ is the case with the remaining ones, to _prevent_ the mutual interference. Further, _preferably,_ _at_ least one of the _projections_ is positioned radially inward relative to a center of _radial_ length _of_ _the_ blade. Ordinarily, in the turbine _blades,_ a large _force_ in a direction of peeling off the blades is operated on an outlet _side_ _in_ an _inner_ circumference. By _arranging_ at _least_ one of the projections as described above, a _large_ fixing force against the peeling can _be_ secured. Preferably, the fixing flange has a larger width on a radially inner _side_ and a _diameter_ _of_ a projection to be provided _on_ _the_ radially inner side is larger _in_ diameter than the diameter of remaining projections. According to this _arrangement,_ the projection of _a_ larger diameter can _generate_ a larger force against the peeling off the blades. Preferably, the impeller _further_ comprises _a_ lock-up damper spring plate _having_ a _shape_ free from interference with a projection that is on a circumferentially outermost position, _the_ damping spring plate _being_ fixed to an outside of the shell by a projection which is the same as the _projection_ for _fixing_ the shell and the fixing flange. According to this arrangement, the lock-up damper spring plate can be fixed _to_ _the_ _shell_ _without_ _giving_ rise to _the_ interference with the projection for fixing the _fixing_ flange and without giving rise _to_ the _thermal_ strains. According _to_ a third aspect of the _present_ invention, there is _provided_ a method of _fixing_ blades of a hydraulic power transmitting apparatus. _The_ method comprises: preparing a shell from a _first_ metallic plate and a plurality of blades from a _second_ metallic plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; placing the _shell_ and the _fixing_ flange one on _top_ of the other; pressing the shell and the fixing flange together _to_ form a hollow cylindrical _projection_ such that a material _in_ a corner portion of _an_ inner member of the shell and the fixing flange inside _the_ projection _is_ expanded _outward_ so as to be thrusted into a material of an outer _member_ of the shell and the fixing flange inside the projection. Alternatively, there is provided _a_ method _of_ fixing blades of a _hydraulic_ power transmitting _apparatus._ The _method_ comprises: preparing a shell made of a first metallic plate and a plurality of blades _made_ _of_ a second _metallic_ plate, each of the blades having an integrally formed fixing flange; feeding _the_ shell and _each_ of _the_ fixing _flanges_ into _a_ die assembly in a state in which one is placed _on_ _top_ of the other, the die assembly _comprising:_ a die having a die hole with a _bottom;_ and _a_ _punch_ which is adapted to be inserted into, _and_ out of, the die _hole;_ _wherein_ _a_ _clearance_ between the punch _and_ an inner surface of the die hole is smaller than a sum of thicknesses of _the_ _shell_ _and_ the fixing flange, _and_ wherein the _die_ has a ring-shaped _groove_ which _is_ formed along a corner of the _bottom_ of the die hole so as to extend in _an_ axial direction of the die _assembly;_ pressing _the_ shell and _the_ _fixing_ flange together to form a hollow cylindrical projection _such_ that a material in a bottom corner _portion_ _of_ an outer member out of the shell _and_ the fixing flange is _forced_ into _the_ ring-shaped groove _and_ that _a_ material _in_ _a_ bottom corner portion of an inner member _of_ _the_ _shell_ _and_ the fixing flange is expanded _diametrically_ outward so as _to_ be thrusted into the material _of_ the _outer_ _member._
|
Prior to the present invention, draftsmen and/or architects and/or engineers utilizing the latest technology of utilizing a computer drawing-mouse or digital tablet-cusor while concurrently comparing blueprints or the like on a monitor screen to and in comparison with exhibit-drawings and in thee concurrent use of the mouse or digital tablet-cusor to superimpose data viewed from the drawing-exhibit onto the computer screen blueprint, have been faced with the heretofore difficulties and/or hardship and unsolved problem of inadequate ways of simultaneously handling and/or temporarily mounting/supporting all of the papers while using the computer mouse or digital tablet-cusro. Normally and often the exhibit-papers and/or documents are of large and varying width and length sizes and shapes not readily adaptable to conventional document holders. As well, frequently and normally such exhibit-papers and/or documents are in the nature of non-rigid paper not readily supportable. Paper weights and/or tacks have been less than satisfactory alternatives and conventional document holders conclusively are not functionally capable of adequately doing the job. Because of the necessity of manually handling the mouse or digital tablet-cusor when making drawing and/or notation changes to the blueprint image on the computer screen, together with visually making reference to particular points on the drawing-exhibit in comparison to the image viewed on the computer screen, the person's mere two hands while maintaining his concentrated attention to the task of making needed entries onto the computer monitor's memory as viewed on the screen, has proven to be extremely difficult and awkward and not readily possible devoid of excessive strain, consumption of excessive time and experiencing of distractions from optimal concentration and attention to the crucial matters being attended to. Moreover, in arriving at the present invention, it was noted that no easy solution existed for mounting, suspending or hanging a document support on computer monitors, it being additionally discovered that notoreously when moving from one computer monitor to another either within the same or different desks and/or offices, the width and height dimensions of word processor and/or computer monitors vary considerably from one monitor to another. That fact accounts for prior art devices heretofore having been rigidly mounted onto monitors by screws or adhesive or the like, as above-noted.
|
prior to the latest invention, artists and / or architects and / or engineers utilizing the latest technology of using a computer drawing - mouse or digital tablet - cusor while concurrently comparing blueprints or the like on a monitor screen display and in comparison with exhibit - drawings and in thee concurrent use of the mouse or digital tablet - cusor to superimpose data viewed from the drawing - exhibit onto the computer screen blueprint, have been faced with the heretofore difficulties and / or hardship and unsolved problem of inadequate ways of simultaneously maintaining and / or temporarily mounting / supporting all of the papers while using the computer mouse or digital tablet - cusro. normally and often the exhibit - papers and / or documents are of large and varying width and length sizes and shapes not readily adaptable to conventional document holders. as well, frequently and normally such exhibit - papers and / or documents are in the nature of non - durable paper not readily supportable. paper weights and / or tacks have been less than satisfactory alternatives and conventional document holders conclusively are nevertheless functionally capable of adequately doing the job. because of the necessity of manually handling the mouse or digital tablet - cusor when making drawing and / or notation changes to the blueprint image on the computer screen, together with visually making reference to particular points on the drawing - exhibit in comparison to the image viewed on the computer screen, the person ' s mere two hands while maintaining his concentrated attention to the task of making needed entries onto the computer monitor ' s memory as viewed on the screen, has proven to be extremely difficult and awkward and not readily possible devoid of excessive strain, consumption of excessive time and experiencing of distractions from optimal concentration and attention to the crucial matters being attended to. moreover, in arriving at the present invention, it was noted that such easy solution existed for mounting, suspending or hanging a document support on computer monitors, it being additionally discovered that notoreously when moving from one computer screen to another either within the same or different desks and / or offices, the width and height dimensions of word processor and / or computer monitors vary greatly from one monitor to another. that fact accounts for prior art devices heretofore having been rigidly mounted onto monitors by screws or adhesive or the like, as above - noted.
|
Prior to the present invention, draftsmen and / or architects and / or engineers utilizing the latest technology of utilizing a computer drawing - mouse or digital tablet - cusor while concurrently comparing blkepriJts or the like on a monitor screen to and in comparison with exhibit - drawings and in thee concurrent use of the mouse or digital tablet - cusor to superimpose data viewed fr)H the drawing - exhibit onto the computer screen blueprint, have been faxew with the heretofore difficulties and / or hardship and unsolved problem of inadequate ways of simultaneously handling and / or temporarily mounting / supporting all of the papers while using the computer mouse or digital tablet - cusro. Normally and often the exhibit - papers and / or documents are of large and va$yibg width and length sizes and shapes not readily adaptable to conventional document holders. As well, frequently and normally such exhibit - papers and / or documents are in the nature of non - rigid paper not readily supportable. Paper weights and / or tacks have been less than satisfactory alternatives and conventional document holders conclusively are not functionally capable of adequately doing the job. Because of the necewsi6y of manually handling the mouse or digital tablet - cusor when making drawing and / or notation changes to the blueprint image on the computer screen, together with visually making reference to particular points on the drawing - exhibit in comparison to the image viewed on the computer screen, the person ' s mere two hands while maintaining his concentrated attention to the task of making needed #n$ries onto the computer monitor ' s memory as viewed on the screen, has proven to be extremely difficult and awkward and not readily possible devoid of excessive strain, consumption of excessive time and experiencing of distractions from optimal concentration and attention to the crucial matters being Q$tended to. Moreover, in arriving at the present invention, it was noted that no exsh solution existed for mounting, suspending or hanging a document support on computer monitors, it being additionally discovered that notoreously when moving from one computer monitor to another either within the same or different desks and / or ofgiceW, the width and height dimensions of word processor and / or computer monitors vary considerably from one monitor to another. That fact accounts for prior art devices heretofore habiMg been rigidly mounted onto monitors by screws or adhesive or the like, as above - noted.
|
Prior to the present invention, draftsmen and/or architects and/or engineers utilizing the latest technology utilizing computer drawing-mouse digital tablet-cusor while concurrently comparing blueprints or the like on monitor screen to and in comparison exhibit-drawings and in thee concurrent use of the mouse digital tablet-cusor to superimpose data viewed from the drawing-exhibit onto the screen blueprint, have been faced with the difficulties and/or unsolved problem of inadequate ways of simultaneously handling and/or mounting/supporting all of the papers while using the computer mouse or digital tablet-cusro. Normally and often the exhibit-papers and/or documents are of large and width and sizes and shapes not readily adaptable to conventional document holders. As frequently and normally such exhibit-papers and/or documents are in nature of not readily supportable. Paper weights and/or tacks have been less than satisfactory alternatives and conventional document holders conclusively are not functionally capable adequately doing the job. Because of the necessity of manually handling the mouse or digital tablet-cusor when making drawing and/or notation changes to the blueprint image on with making reference to particular points on the drawing-exhibit in comparison to the image viewed on the computer screen, the person's two hands while maintaining his concentrated attention to the task of making needed entries onto computer monitor's memory as on the screen, has proven to be extremely difficult and awkward and not readily possible devoid of strain, consumption of excessive time and experiencing of distractions from optimal concentration and attention to the crucial being attended to. Moreover, in arriving the invention, it was noted that no easy solution existed for mounting, or hanging a document on computer monitors, it being additionally discovered that notoreously when from one computer monitor to either within the same or different desks and/or offices, the width and height dimensions of word processor and/or computer monitors vary considerably from monitor to another. That fact accounts for prior art devices heretofore been rigidly mounted onto monitors by screws or adhesive or the like, as above-noted.
|
PRioR to The presENt invENTiOn, draFTSmEn And/OR arCHItEcTs aND/Or EngIneeRS uTiLizing thE lATEst TEcHNoLOGy Of UTilIzInG a ComputER DrawinG-mOUSe Or dIGITAL taBLeT-CUSOR While cOncurReNtlY CoMparIng bLuEPRinTS or THe LikE oN A mONiTOr SCreen to aND in cOMPAriSON wItH exHIBIT-dRAWInGS anD in ThEE cONcUrreNt UsE Of the moUSe Or DIGITaL tAbLeT-CUSor tO sUPErIMpOsE DAtA viEWEd fROm tHe drAWing-ExhIbIT OnTO ThE coMPUtER scrEeN BLuEPRInT, hAVE bEEN faCED with tHE hERETOFOre diFfICUltieS AnD/oR HaRdSHiP AND unSoLVeD prObleM of iNadEQUaTE WAys Of simultAnEOuSLY handliNG AnD/oR TemPorARILY mOUNtiNg/SuPpORTINg ALL oF tHe PaPeRs WhIlE UsINg The compUTEr Mouse or digItAL tAblet-cusro. NOrMAllY anD oFTEN THE eXHIbiT-pApers aND/OR dOcuMenTS aRE Of largE and VarYIng widTh aND LENGTH sIZes AND shAPES nOT reaDIly AdaPtable tO coNVENtiONAL docUMenT hoLDERS. as wELl, FreqUENTlY AND NOrmaLlY SucH eXHIBIt-PAPErs anD/Or DOCuMenTs ARE in tHE natUre of non-rIgiD pApeR NOt rEADIlY sUppOrtaBle. papEr wEigHTs anD/Or TACKS HaVe been lESS THAn satISfaCTOrY aLTErNAtIVEs ANd CONVENtIonAL DOcUmeNT hOLdeRs CONcLuSIVeLy aRe NOT FuncTIonAlly capaBle oF adeQuatELY DOINg thE JoB. BEcAUSE Of the NECesSItY Of MaNuaLlY HaNDlIng The mOUSE oR DigITAl tAbLEt-cUSor WheN MAking dRawiNg AnD/Or nOtAtiOn chanGEs to thE bLUeprINT ImagE oN tHE CoMPUtEr ScrEeN, ToGetHeR WiTh vIsUALly mAkING REFeRencE to partiCUlAr pOInTS oN tHe draWINg-exHIbiT in cOmPAriSoN tO tHe imAgE vIEWed On The COmPUtEr ScrEen, THe perSon's MEre TWo HaNdS WHIlE MaiNtaInIng hiS ConcEntrAtEd AttenTion to the taSK OF mAKiNG nEeDed ENtRies ONTO The cOMputeR monITOr's MemOry as vIEWED On THe SCreEn, has pRovEn to Be ExtRemElY dIFFicUlT And AWkWard ANd noT reAdily POSSIBLe dEVOId oF ExCEssiVE STRain, cONsUMptIOn oF exCEssIvE TIMe AND EXpErieNciNg of DistrActIoNs fRoM OpTiMaL COnCENTraTIOn and AtTeNtIoN tO THE CRUciAl matTers BeING AtTEndED To. MoREOVeR, iN arrIVIng At tHE Present INvENTiON, It waS NoTeD thaT no eASY sOLutiOn ExIsted fOr mouNTiNg, suSpEnDINg OR hANginG a docUMENt SUpPOrT ON COMputer mOniTors, iT bEING adDiTioNAlly DIScOvErEd thAT notOrEOusly wHen Moving froM ONe COmPuTER moniToR tO aNoTHeR EITHeR wITHIn thE saMe OR diffERent DeSks aND/or OFfiCES, thE WIDth aNd HEighT DIMENSionS oF woRD ProCeSsOr ANd/Or COmpUTeR mOnitoRS Vary CoNSidErablY from OnE MoNITOr To AnOther. THAT FaCT accOuNTS For PRiOr Art DevicEs hEretOfOrE haVInG BEEn RiGIdlY MounTed oNtO MoniTOrS BY SCRews Or aDHEsIVe OR tHE liKE, as above-nOteD.
|
Prior tothe present invention, draftsmen and/or architects and/or engineers utilizing the latest technology of utilizing a computer drawing-mouse or digital tablet-cusor while concurrently comparing blueprints or the like on amonitor screen to and in comparison with exhibit-drawings andin thee concurrent use of themouse or digital tablet-cusor to superimpose data viewed from thedrawing-exhibit onto the computer screen blueprint, have been faced with the heretofore difficulties and/or hardship and unsolved problem ofinadequate ways of simultaneously handling and/or temporarily mounting/supporting all ofthe papers whileusingthe computer mouse or digital tablet-cusro. Normallyand often the exhibit-papers and/or documents are of large andvarying width and lengthsizesand shapes not readily adaptable toconventionaldocument holders. As well, frequently and normally such exhibit-papers and/or documents are in the nature of non-rigid paper notreadily supportable. Paper weightsand/or tacks have been less than satisfactory alternatives and conventionaldocument holders conclusively are not functionally capable of adequatelydoing the job. Because of the necessity of manually handling the mouse ordigital tablet-cusor when making drawingand/or notation changes to the blueprint image on the computer screen, together with visually makingreference to particular points on the drawing-exhibit in comparison to theimage viewed on the computer screen, theperson's mere two hands while maintaininghisconcentrated attention to the task of making needed entries onto the computer monitor'smemory as viewed on the screen,has proven to be extremely difficult and awkward and not readily possible devoid of excessive strain, consumptionof excessive time and experiencing of distractions from optimal concentrationand attentionto the crucial matters being attended to.Moreover, in arriving at the present invention, it was noted that noeasy solution existed for mounting,suspending or hanging a document support on computer monitors, it being additionally discoveredthat notoreously when moving from one computer monitor to another eitherwithin the same or different desks and/or offices, the width and height dimensions of word processor and/orcomputermonitorsvary considerably from one monitor to another. That fact accounts for prior artdevices heretoforehaving been rigidly mounted onto monitorsbyscrews or adhesive orthelike,asabove-noted.
|
_Prior_ to _the_ present invention, draftsmen and/or _architects_ and/or engineers utilizing the _latest_ technology of utilizing _a_ _computer_ drawing-mouse or _digital_ _tablet-cusor_ while concurrently _comparing_ blueprints or the _like_ on a monitor screen to and in comparison _with_ exhibit-drawings _and_ in thee concurrent _use_ of the mouse or _digital_ tablet-cusor to superimpose data viewed _from_ _the_ drawing-exhibit onto the computer screen _blueprint,_ have _been_ _faced_ with _the_ heretofore difficulties _and/or_ hardship and unsolved problem _of_ _inadequate_ ways of simultaneously handling _and/or_ temporarily _mounting/supporting_ all of the papers while using the computer mouse or digital tablet-cusro. Normally and often the exhibit-papers and/or documents are of _large_ and _varying_ width and _length_ sizes and shapes not _readily_ adaptable _to_ conventional document holders. As _well,_ frequently and normally such _exhibit-papers_ _and/or_ documents are in the nature of non-rigid paper _not_ readily supportable. Paper weights and/or tacks _have_ been less than _satisfactory_ alternatives and conventional document _holders_ _conclusively_ are not functionally capable of adequately doing the job. _Because_ _of_ _the_ necessity of manually handling the mouse or digital _tablet-cusor_ when making drawing and/or notation _changes_ to the blueprint image on the _computer_ screen, _together_ with visually making reference to particular points on the drawing-exhibit _in_ comparison to the image viewed _on_ the _computer_ screen, the person's mere two hands while _maintaining_ his _concentrated_ attention to the task _of_ making needed entries _onto_ the computer monitor's memory as viewed _on_ the screen, has _proven_ to be extremely _difficult_ and awkward and not readily possible devoid of excessive _strain,_ consumption _of_ excessive time and _experiencing_ of distractions from optimal concentration and _attention_ to _the_ crucial matters being attended to. Moreover, in arriving at the present invention, it was noted that _no_ easy solution existed for mounting, _suspending_ or _hanging_ _a_ document support _on_ computer monitors, _it_ _being_ _additionally_ discovered that notoreously when moving from one computer monitor to another either _within_ _the_ same or _different_ desks and/or offices, _the_ width and height _dimensions_ of word processor _and/or_ computer _monitors_ _vary_ considerably from one monitor to _another._ That fact accounts for _prior_ art _devices_ heretofore _having_ been rigidly mounted _onto_ monitors _by_ screws or adhesive _or_ _the_ _like,_ as above-noted.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an electronic musical instrument, such as an electronic organ or an electronic piano, having an opening/closing mechanism for a keyboard cover which closes/opens a keyboard portion.
2. Description of Related Art
An electronic musical instrument having a keyboard, e.g., an electronic organ, generally includes a keyboard cover which covers and protects a keyboard portion while the instrument is not used.
Two types of keyboard covers are used: a sliding cover which is arranged to be slidable back and forth on the main body of a musical instrument (instrument main body) and is stored in the instrument main body when it is open; and a pivot cover which is arranged to be vertically pivotal and is erected on an instrument main body when it is open.
Since the sliding cover is formed like a folding shutter by coupling a large number of cover constituent members so as to be flexible, its structure becomes complicated, and a large number of components are required, resulting in a high manufacturing cost.
In contrast to this, since the pivot cover is constituted by one plate-like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low cost. In addition, since the pivot cover is erected on the instrument main body when it is open, no storage space for the cover is required in the instrument main body.
In the latter case, however, if a musical instrument has two or more upper and lower keyboards, the depth and weight of a keyboard cover are increased. For this reason, an opening/closing operation of the cover becomes less easy. In addition, the cover may abruptly fall to clamp the hands of a player due to a shift in the center of gravity of the cover when it is opened/closed.
In order to solve such a problem, for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 62-46219 discloses a keyboard instrument in which when a keyboard cover is closed, a pivoting force based on the weight of the cover is damped by a damper mechanism using a spring at a latter stage of the pivoting movement of the cover.
A keyboard cover having such a mechanism, however, is increased in area with an increase in depth. For this reason, when the cover is opened and erected on an instrument main body, a player inevitably feels a sense of oppression.
In order to solve such a problem in a pivot keyboard cover, the present applicant has developed a keyboard instrument, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 63-11995, in which the pivot point of a keyboard cover is set at a position separated forward and downward from the rear end by a predetermined distance so that when the cover is opened, its rear end portion is inserted from an opening formed in the upper surface of an instrument main body to be stored therein.
An example of such a mechanism will be briefly described below with reference to FIG. 9. A pivot keyboard cover 3 is provided above a keyboard portion 2 arranged on a front portion of an instrument main body 1. First and second links 5a and 5b constituting a four-joint rotating link 5 are pivotally supported between a triangular support member 4 fixed to a rear end portion of the cover 3 and a fixed portion as a pivot point in the instrument main body 1 by using pins 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b.
When a front end portion of this keyboard cover 3 is raised to cause the cover 3 to pivot from a position indicated by solid lines, at which the cover 3 is closed, in a direction indicated by an arrow P, the rear end of the cover is moved along a path indicated by an alternate long and dashed line L. As a result, a rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1, resulting in an cover open state indicated by imaginary lines.
According to this keyboard opening/closing mechanism, since a torque based on the weight of the keyboard cover 3 acts in opposite directions before and after the pivot point, the cover 3 can be lightly opened and closed by overbalancing it.
In addition, since the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1 when it is open, a sense of oppression to a player can be reduced.
In such a conventional keyboard cover opening/closing mechanism, however, since the four-joint rotating link is used to pivot the keyboard cover 3, the degree of freedom of a path for pivoting movement is low, and the cover 3 is moved in the manner shown in FIG. 10A. During this pivoting movement, a large gap S is formed between the keyboard cover 3 and the front end (point A) of a top board (upper surface plate) 1a of the instrument main body 1, and an object may fall inside the instrument main body 1.
For this reason, a large dust cover 8 must be arranged, as shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, a portion of the top board 1a must be hinged to a back board 1b to be pivotal in a direction indicated by an arrow Q so that an upper portion of the instrument main body 1 can be opened, thus allowing easy removable of an object therefrom.
In addition, the use of the four-joint link requires a large space for the pivoting movement of the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 in the instrument main body 1, as shown in FIG. 9. This inevitably leads to a great reduction in mounting space for other components, e.g., a transformer 9 shown in FIG. 10A.
In any of such conventional keyboard cover opening/closing mechanisms, the safety in closing the keyboard cover is mainly considered, but damping of a shock in opening the cover is not much considered.
For this reason, since a required operating force considerably varies throughout the opening/closing process of the keyboard cover, a smooth opening/closing operation cannot necessarily be performed.
Furthermore, a gap is formed between the keyboard cover and the front end of the top board of the instrument main body upon opening/closing of the cover, and a musical score, a piece of paper, a clip, or the like may fall from the gap. As a result, a necessary thing is lost, or a mechanism or a circuit in the instrument main body may be broken down due to the object which has fallen inside the instrument main body.
In order to eliminate such inconvenience, a large dust cover must be arranged under the keyboard cover opening/closing mechanism, or a portion of the top board must be pivotally hinged to the back board to be pivoted to open the upper portion of the instrument main body, thus allowing removal of an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. Such an arrangement increases the cost. In addition, an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body cannot be removed unless a user notices it.
Moreover, if a sufficient spring constant as a damper is provided to a spring for a damper mechanism, as a safety means, for damping a pivoting force based on the weight of a keyboard cover, the pivoting force based on the weight of the cover upon closing balances the damping force of the spring. As a result, the cover floats from the keyboard portion, and a feeling that the cover is reliably closed and the stability of the cover are impaired.
|
1. field of the arts the present invention relates to an electronic musical instrument, such as an electronic organ or an electronic piano, having an opening / closing mechanism for a keyboard cover which closes / opens a keyboard portion. 2. description of related art an electronic musical instrument having a keyboard, e. g., an electronic organ, generally includes a keyboard cover which covers and protects a keyboard portion while the instrument is not used. two types of keyboard covers are used : a sliding cover which is arranged to be slidable back and forth on the main body of a musical instrument ( instrument main body ) and is stored in the instrument main body once it sits open ; and a pivot liner which is arranged to be vertically pivotal and is erected on an instrument main body when it is open. since the sliding cover is formed like a folding cloth by coupling a large number of cover constituent members so as to be flexible, its structure becomes complicated, and a large percentage of components are required, resulting in a high manufacturing cost. in contrast to this, since the pivot cover is constituted by one plate - like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low cost. in addition, since another pivot cover is erected on the instrument main body when it is open, no storage mechanism for the cover is required in the instrument main body. in the latter case, however, if a musical instrument receives two or more upper and lower keyboards, the depth and weight of a keyboard cover are increased. for this reason, an opening / closing operation of the cover becomes less easy. in addition, the cover may abruptly fall to clamp the hands of a player due to a shift in the center of gravity of the cover when it is opened / closed. in order to solve such a problem, for example, japanese utility model publication no. 62 - 46219 discloses a keyboard instrument in which when a keyboard cover is closed, a pivoting force based on the weight of the cover is caused by a damper mechanism using a spring at a latter stage of the pivoting movement of the cover. a keyboard cover having such a mechanism, however, is increased in area with an increase in depth. for this reason, when the cover is opened and erected on an instrument main body, a player inevitably feels a sense of oppression. in order to solve such a problem in a pivot keyboard cover, the present applicant has developed a keyboard instrument, as disclosed in japanese patent laid - open no. 63 - 11995, in which the pivot point of a keyboard cover is set at a position separated forward and downward from the rear end by a predetermined distance so that when the cover is opened, its rear end portion is inserted from an opening formed in the upper surface of an instrument main body to be stored therein. an example of such a mechanism will be briefly described below with reference to fig. 9. a pivot keyboard cover 3 is provided above a keyboard portion 2 arranged on a front portion of an instrument main body 1. first and second links 5a and 5b constituting a four - joint rotating link 5 are pivotally supported between a triangular support member 4 fixed to a rear end portion of the cover 3 and a fixed portion as a pivot point in the instrument main body 1 by using pins 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b. when a front end portion of this keyboard cover 3 is raised to cause the cover 3 to pivot from a position indicated by solid lines, at which the cover 3 is closed, in a direction indicated by an arrow p, the rear end of the cover is moved along a path indicated by an alternate long and dashed line l. as a result, a rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1, resulting in an cover open state indicated by imaginary lines. according to this keyboard opening / closing mechanism, since a torque based on the weight of the keyboard cover 3 acts in opposite directions before and after the pivot point, the cover 3 can be lightly opened and closed by overbalancing it. in addition, since the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1 when it is open, a sense of oppression to a player can be reduced. in such a conventional keyboard cover opening / closing mechanism, however, since the four - joint rotating link is used to pivot the keyboard cover 3, the degree of freedom of a path for pivoting movement is low, and the cover 3 is moved in the manner shown in fig. 10a. during this pivoting movement, a large gap s is formed between the keyboard cover 3 and the front end ( point a ) of a top board ( upper surface plate ) 1a of the instrument main body 1, and an object may fall inside the instrument main body 1. for this reason, a large dust cover 8 must be arranged, as shown in fig. 9. alternatively, a portion of the top board 1a must be hinged to a back board 1b to be pivotal in a direction indicated by an arrow q so that an upper portion of the instrument main body 1 can be opened, thus allowing easy removable of an object therefrom. in addition, the use of the four - joint link requires a large space for the pivoting movement of the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 in the instrument main body 1, as shown in fig. 9. this inevitably leads to a great reduction in mounting space for other components, e. g., a transformer 9 shown in fig. 10a. in any of such conventional keyboard cover opening / closing mechanisms, the safety in closing the keyboard cover is mainly considered, but damping of a shock in opening the cover is not much considered. for this reason, since a required operating force considerably varies throughout the opening / closing process of the keyboard cover, a smooth opening / closing operation cannot necessarily be performed. furthermore, a gap is formed between the keyboard cover and the front end of the top board of the instrument main body upon opening / closing of the cover, and a musical score, a piece of paper, a clip, or the like may fall from the gap. as a result, a necessary thing is lost, or a mechanism or a circuit in the instrument main body may be broken down due to the object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. in order to eliminate such inconvenience, a large dust cover must be arranged under the keyboard cover opening / closing mechanism, or a portion of the top board must be pivotally hinged to the back board to be pivoted to open the upper portion of the instrument main body, thus allowing removal of an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. such an arrangement increases the cost. in addition, an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body cannot be removed unless a user notices it. moreover, if a sufficient spring constant as a damper is provided to a spring for a damper mechanism, as a safety means, for damping a pivoting force based on the weight of a keyboard cover, the pivoting force based on the weight of the cover upon closing balances the damping force of the spring. as a result, the cover floats from the keyboard portion, and a feeling that the cover is reliably closed and the stability of the cover are impaired.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electronic musical instrument, such as an electronic organ or an electronic piano, having an opening / closing mechanism for a keyboard cover which closes / opens a keyboard portion. 2. Description of Related Art An electronic musical instrument having a keyboard, e. g. , an electronic organ, generally includes a keyboard cover which covers and protects a keyboard portion while the instrument is not used. Two types of keyboard covers are used: a sliding cover which is arranged to be slidable back and forth on the main body of a musical instrument (instrument main body) and is stored in the instrument main body when it is open; and a pivot cover which is arranged to be vertically pivotal and is erected on an instrument main body when it is open. Since the sliding cover is formed like a folding shutter by coupling a large number of cover constituent members so as to be flexible, its structure becomes complicated, and a large number of components are required, resulting in a high manufacturing cost. In contrast to this, since the pivot cover is constituted by one plate - like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low cost. In addition, since the pivot cover is erected on the instrument main body when it is open, no storage space for the cover is required in the instrument main body. In the latter case, however, if a musical instrument has two or more upper and lower keyboards, the depth and weight of a keyboard cover are increased. For this reason, an opening / closing operation of the cover becomes less easy. In addition, the cover may abruptly fall to clamp the hands of a player due to a shift in the center of gravity of the cover when it is opened / closed. In order to solve such a problem, for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 62 - 46219 discloses a keyboard instrument in which when a keyboard cover is closed, a pivoting fkrde based on the weight of the cover is damped by a damper mechanism using a spring at a latter stage of the pivoting movement of the cover. A keyboard cover having such a mechanism, however, is increased in area with an increase in depth. For this reason, when the cover is opened and erected on an instrument main body, a player inevitably feels a sense of oppression. In order to solve such a problem in a pivot keyboard cover, the present applicant has developed a keyboard instrument, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid - Open No. 63 - 11995, in which the pivot (9int of a keyboard cover is set at a position separated forward and downward from the rear end by a predetermined distance so that when the cover is opened, its rear end portion is inserted from an opening formed in the upper surface of an instrument main body to be stored therein. An example of such a mechanism will be briefly described below with reference to FIG. 9. A pivot keyboard cover 3 is provided above a keyboard portion 2 arranged on a front portion of an instrument main bIwy 1. First and second links 5a and 5b constituting a four - joint rotating link 5 are pivotally supported between a triangular support member 4 fixed to a rear end portion of the cover 3 and a fixed portion as a LivoR point in the instrument main body 1 by using pins 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b. When a front end portion of this keyboard cover 3 is raised to cause the cover 3 to pivot from a position indicated by solid lines, at which the cover 3 is closed, in a direction indicated by an arrow P, the rear end of the cover is moved along a path indicated by an alternate long and dashed line L. As a result, a rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1, resulting in an cover open state indicated by imaginary lines. According to this keyboard opening / closing mechanism, since a torque based on the weight of the keyboard cover 3 acts in opposite directions before and after the pivot point, the cover 3 can be lightly opened and closed by overbalancing it. In addition, since the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1 when it is open, a sense of oppression to a player can be reduced. In sufy a conventional keyboard cover opening / closing mechanism, however, since the four - joint rotating link is used to pivot the keyboard cover 3, the degree of freedom of a path for pivoting movement is low, and the cover 3 is moved in the manner shown in FIG. 10A. During this pivoting movement, a large gap S is formed between the keyboard cover 3 and the front end (point A) of a top board (upper surface plate) 1a of the instrument main body 1, and an object may fall inside the instrument nAin body 1. For this reason, a large dust cover 8 must be arranged, as shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, a portion of the top board 1a must be hinged to a back board 1b to be pivotal in a direction indicated by an ar5*w Q so that an upper portion of the instrument main body 1 can be opened, thus allowing easy removable of an object therefrom. In addition, the use of the four - joint link requires a large space for the pivoting movement of the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 in the instrument main body 1, as shown in FIG. 9. This inevitably leads to a great reduction in mounting space for other components, e. g. , a transformer 9 shown in FIG. 10A. In any of such conventional keyboard cover opening / closing mechanisms, the safety in closing the keyboard cover is mainly considered, but damping of a shock in opening the cover is not much considered. For this reason, since a required operating force considerably varies throughout the opening / closing process of the keyboard cover, a smooth opening / closing operation cannot necessarily be performed. Furthermore, a gap is formed between the I2yboard cover and the front end of the top board of the instrument main body upon opening / closing of the cover, and a musical score, a piece of paper, a clip, or the like may fAl: from the gap. As a result, a necessary thing is lost, or a mechanism or a circuit in the instrument main body may be broken down due to the object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. In order to eliminate such inconvenience, a large dust cover must be arranged under the keyboard cover opening / closing mechanism, or a portion of the top board must be pivotally hinged to the back board to be pivoted to open the upper portion of the instrument main body, thus allowing removal of an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. Such an arrangement increases the cost. In addition, an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body cannot be removed unless a user notices it. Moreover, if a sufficient spring constant as a damper is provided to a spring for a damper mechanism, as a safety means, for damping a pivoting force based on the weight of a keyboard cover, the pivoting force based on the weight of the cover upon closing balances the damping force of the spring. As a result, the cover floats from the keyboard portion, and a feeling that the cover is r4ljably closed and the stability of the cover are impaired.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to electronic musical instrument, such as an electronic organ or an electronic piano, having an opening/closing mechanism for a keyboard cover which closes/opens a keyboard portion. Description of Related Art An instrument having a e.g., an organ, generally includes keyboard cover which and protects a portion while the instrument not used. Two types of keyboard covers are used: a sliding cover which is arranged be slidable back and forth on the main body of a musical instrument (instrument main body) and is in the instrument main body when it is open; and pivot cover which arranged to be vertically pivotal and is erected on an instrument main it is open. Since the sliding is formed like folding shutter by coupling a number of cover members so as to be flexible, its structure becomes complicated, and a large number of components are required, resulting in a manufacturing cost. In contrast to this, since the pivot cover is constituted by one plate-like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low cost. In addition, since the pivot is erected on the instrument main body when it is open, no storage space for the cover is required in the instrument main In the latter case, if a musical instrument has two or more and lower keyboards, the and weight of a keyboard cover are increased. For this reason, an opening/closing operation of the cover becomes less easy. In addition, may to clamp the hands of a player due to a shift in the center of cover when it opened/closed. In order solve a problem, for example, Japanese Utility Model No. 62-46219 discloses a keyboard instrument in when a keyboard cover is closed, a pivoting force based on the weight of the cover is damped by a damper mechanism using a spring at a latter stage of the pivoting movement of the cover. keyboard cover a mechanism, however, is increased in with an increase in depth. For this reason, when cover opened and erected on an instrument main body, a player inevitably a sense of oppression. In order solve such a problem in a pivot keyboard cover, the applicant has a keyboard instrument, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 63-11995, in which the pivot point of keyboard cover is set a position separated forward and downward from the rear end by a predetermined distance so that when cover is opened, its rear end portion is inserted from an opening formed the upper surface of an instrument body to be stored therein. An example of such a mechanism will be briefly described below with reference to FIG. 9. A pivot keyboard cover 3 is provided above a keyboard portion 2 arranged on a front portion of an instrument main body 1. First and second links 5a and 5b constituting a four-joint rotating link 5 pivotally supported a triangular support member to a rear end portion of the cover 3 and a portion as a pivot in the instrument main body 1 by using pins 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b. When a front end portion of this keyboard cover 3 is raised to cause the cover 3 to pivot from a position indicated by lines, at which the cover 3 is closed, in a direction indicated by an arrow P, the rear end of the cover is moved along a path indicated by an alternate long and dashed line L. As a result, a rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1, in cover open state indicated by imaginary lines. According to this keyboard opening/closing mechanism, since torque based on the weight of the keyboard cover 3 acts in opposite directions before and after the pivot point, the cover 3 can be lightly opened closed by overbalancing it. In addition, since the rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1 when it is open, a sense of to a player can be reduced. In a keyboard cover opening/closing however, since the four-joint link is used to pivot the keyboard cover 3, the degree of freedom a path for pivoting movement is low, and the cover 3 moved in the manner in FIG. 10A. During this movement, a large gap S is formed between the keyboard cover 3 and the front end (point A) of a top board (upper surface plate) 1a of instrument main body and an object may fall inside the instrument main body 1. For this reason, a large dust 8 be arranged, as shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, portion of the top board 1a must hinged a board be pivotal in a indicated by arrow Q so that an upper portion the instrument main body 1 can be opened, thus allowing easy removable of an object therefrom. In addition, use of the four-joint link requires a large for the pivoting movement of the rear of the keyboard cover 3 in the instrument main body 1, as shown in FIG. 9. This inevitably leads to a great reduction in mounting space for other components, e.g., transformer shown in FIG. 10A. In any of such keyboard cover opening/closing mechanisms, the safety in closing the keyboard is mainly considered, but of a shock in opening the cover is not much considered. For this reason, since a required operating force considerably varies the opening/closing process of the keyboard a smooth operation cannot necessarily performed. Furthermore, a gap is formed between the keyboard cover the front end of the top board of the instrument main body upon opening/closing of the and a musical a piece of paper, a clip, or the like may fall from the gap. As a result, a necessary thing is lost, or a a in instrument body may broken down due to the object which fallen inside instrument main body. In to eliminate such inconvenience, a large dust cover must be arranged under the cover opening/closing mechanism, or a portion of the top board must be pivotally hinged back be pivoted to open the upper portion of instrument main body, allowing removal of an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. Such an arrangement increases the cost. In addition, an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body cannot be removed unless a user it. Moreover, if sufficient spring constant as a damper is provided to spring for a damper mechanism, a safety means, for damping a force based on the weight of keyboard cover, the pivoting force based on the of the cover upon closing balances the damping force of the spring. As a result, the cover floats from the keyboard portion, and a feeling that the cover is reliably closed and the of the cover are impaired.
|
1. fIEld oF tHE INVentIOn
The PrEseNT iNVentiON RELAteS tO An ELEctroNIc mUSicAL INStRument, SuCh aS an EleCtroniC ORGan OR An ELectrOnic pIANo, HaVing An oPENInG/ClosIng meCHanIsM fOR a KEyboARd COVer WhICh cLoseS/Opens A KEybOarD PorTiON.
2. DEScRiPTIOn OF RelatEd ARt
An eLeCTrOnIC musICAl INsTrumeNt HaViNG A KeyBOard, E.g., AN elEctRONIC oRgAn, GenerALlY inCludeS A KEYBOArD COVer Which COvers and PrOTectS a keyboARD PoRTion WHIlE The iNStrUMENT iS nOT USEd.
two TypEs Of keyBoard cOVERs ARe uSed: A SLiDING covER WHIcH is arRaNged to BE SlIDaBLe BACK aND foRTH on The mAIN boDy oF a MusIcal InSTrUment (InSTrUMENT main Body) ANd Is sTORED in ThE INstRUmENT MAiN BODY WHEN IT iS opeN; anD A PiVoT COvEr WHicH Is ARRaNgED TO bE vERtIcALLy PIvoTal ANd Is ErEcTEd on aN iNstRUMENT main boDY WHeN It is oPeN.
SINce The sLIDing COver Is FOrMed lIKE A fOLdinG SHuTtER BY COupling A lArgE NUMbeR OF cOvER cOnSTiTuENt MEMberS so As To Be fLEXiBlE, ITs sTrUcturE BeComes compLICaTEd, aNd a laRge NuMbeR Of COmPonenTs ARE rEquired, rESuLTiNG In a hIgh MAnUfACTURiNg CoST.
iN CONtRaSt to THis, SiNce ThE PIVot CovEr IS ConStituTed bY oNE plaTE-liKE cOVER Member, iT CAn Be mAnuFacTureD At A LOW cOST. in aDDiTIon, SiNcE the PivOT COvER IS eReCteD on thE InsTrumeNt mAIN BODy wHEn It iS oPen, NO sToRAGE SPACe FOr thE COveR iS ReQuirED iN tHe INStRuMeNt MAIN boDy.
In The LattEr cASe, hOWevER, iF A mUSICAl insTrUMeNT has tWO oR MorE UpPER AnD LoWer kEyboaRds, THe depTh ANd weiGhT Of a kEyboarD covER ARe INcREASEd. FoR ThIS REASOn, An OPeniNG/cLOsInG OpeRATiOn of thE cOvER BEcoMeS LEsS EASy. In ADdITIOn, thE CoVER MAy AbruPtly FAlL To CLaMP the HANDS Of a PlaYer duE To A sHiFt In THe cEntER oF gravItY Of THE COveR wheN it Is opEnEd/cLoSeD.
in ORdeR to SOLVE SucH a pRoBLEm, fOr eXamplE, japaneSe UTILItY MODel PUbliCATioN no. 62-46219 DISclOsEs A KeYbOArD InstrUMeNt iN wHiCH When a keYboARd coVER IS closEd, a PivOtiNg fOrcE BasED ON tHE wEight OF The CoveR is daMpEd bY A damper mechAnISM uSiNg a SpRIng at A laTTer STAge OF The piVotING mOVeMENt OF tHE coveR.
A kEYboArD COVeR HaviNg sUcH A mECHAnIsm, HOWEVEr, IS INCrEasEd in aREA WiTh an INCReAsE IN DepTh. foR tHiS ReaSon, WHEN thE COveR is opENED ANd erEcTED On An InSTrumeNT MAiN body, a plAYeR INEviTABLY FeeLs A SeNSe of OPPrEssiOn.
IN ordeR to sOlVE SUch A PROblem iN A pIvOT kEyBOarD coVEr, ThE PREsEnt ApPlicAnt Has DEVeloPED a KeyBOarD iNStrUmeNt, AS dIsClOsEd iN jApAnese PAtEnt LAid-open No. 63-11995, iN whICH THe PivOt poinT OF a kEyBOarD cover IS sET aT a poSITIon SepArATed ForWard aND downWArd FroM tHE REar End by A PredeTERmineD DIstAnCE so THAT WHeN ThE COvEr is oPEned, ITs REAr eNd PortioN is InSErTed FroM an opEnING FoRmeD IN THE UPpEr SuRfacE oF An INSTRumeNT MaIN bodY To be STORED thEreIN.
an eXaMpLE oF SUcH A mEcHAniSm wIlL Be BRIEfLY desCriBED BELOW with REfEReNCe to fig. 9. a piVoT KEyBOaRd COVEr 3 IS PrOViDED above A KEYboaRD POrtION 2 ArRangED on A fRont PORTION Of aN InSTrument mAIn BODy 1. fIRst AND sECOnD LINks 5A ANd 5B COnStiTUtInG a FOUr-JoInT rotATING LiNK 5 ArE PivotALly suppoRted betweeN A tRIanGULAr sUpPorT mEMBer 4 FIXEd tO a rEAR enD PortiON of thE coveR 3 aND a FIXeD porTIoN AS A pIvOt PoINT in thE InSTruMeNT MAin BODY 1 BY usInG PInS 6A, 6b, 7A, anD 7B.
when A FroNT End porTion OF thIS keyboard COVer 3 is RaiSEd to cauSe tHe cOVer 3 TO PIVOT FRoM A POSItiOn indiCAtEd BY SoLiD LiNeS, AT WhicH THe CoVeR 3 IS closed, IN a directiOn IndicateD bY aN aRRoW p, tHE REaR ENd oF tHe COvER IS mOVed aLoNG A PatH iNdICAtEd by aN ALtErNAtE LoNg anD DAsHEd line l. As A ResULT, a rear pORtioN oF The KEyBOard coVER 3 is STOrEd in tHe inStrumeNt MaIn bODY 1, rESulting iN an CoVer OpeN STATe IndiCATed by iMagiNary liNeS.
AccorDing tO thIS keybOArD oPeNinG/cLosiNG MeCHAnisM, SINce a toRqUe bAsED ON tHe WEIGHT OF tHE keYboARD covER 3 acTs iN OPpoSiTE direCtiOns BeFORE AND aFTeR thE pivoT pOint, ThE cover 3 cAN be lIGHtLY OPenEd and CLOSED by OVerBALAncInG iT.
In aDdiTion, sInCE tHE REAR porTioN OF the keYboARd Cover 3 IS sTorED In The inStRUMENT mAIn Body 1 WhEN IT IS opeN, A sEnse Of OpPrEsSioN To a PlaYEr CAn bE REDUCeD.
iN SucH A ConvENtiONal kEYbOArd COVEr opeNIng/CLOSING MeChaNiSM, howEVer, sInCE thE foUr-JOINt ROtAting lINk iS uSed tO PIVOT thE kEyBOArD cover 3, tHE DeGrEe Of frEeDoM Of A patH For pIvoTInG MOVemEnt Is LOW, and the coveR 3 is mOVeD IN ThE MANNeR SHOwN In fiG. 10a. duRIng this pIvotING mOVemeNT, A LaRGe Gap S Is foRMED BetwEEn the KeybOARd CoVER 3 anD THe frOnT end (PoINT a) of A TOp BOard (UPPER SUrfACe PLATE) 1A Of tHE InSTruMeNt maIN bodY 1, aND aN OBJecT maY Fall iNSIdE tHe inStRumEnT maIn BODY 1.
FOR thIS ReASON, a laRGe DUst coVER 8 MuSt bE aRraNged, aS sHOwN IN FIG. 9. aLTerNAtIvelY, A poRtiOn of ThE toP boaRD 1a mUsT Be HIngED To A bACk boArD 1b to be piVoTaL in a DIrECtion INdiCateD bY aN ArrOW Q So thAt AN uPpeR POrtiOn OF ThE INStRUMeNt mAIN boDy 1 CAN bE opened, ThUS aLLoWING EaSy removablE oF An obJEcT tHEREfRoM.
iN adDItiON, ThE use OF The FOur-joINT link REquiREs A lARGe spACe fOr ThE PiVOtIng MOVemEnT oF The Rear portion OF the KeYboArD COVER 3 in tHe insTRuMent maiN bOdY 1, as ShOwn IN fig. 9. THIS inEvItAbly leaDS To a GreaT ReDUctIon iN MoUntIng SPACE For otHeR COMpoNENts, E.g., A tranSFormer 9 shOwn in Fig. 10A.
IN ANY oF SUch CoNvENtIoNaL kEyBOarD CoVer Opening/ClosinG mEchAnismS, tHE safetY iN closINg tHE keyBOARD COvER IS MainLy cOnSiDERED, But DAmPINg Of A sHOck In opENInG THe CovEr IS NoT MUch CONSiDeReD.
FOR tHis ReasoN, sINCE A rEQUirEd OPeRatiNg FORCe cOnSIDerably VaRIeS ThroughOUt the opEning/ClOSINg PROCESs Of THE KEyBoArd covEr, A SmoOtH OpENIng/CLoSiNg OPeraTIoN caNnot nECESsArIly Be pErFoRMed.
FURtHERMOrE, A Gap Is Formed BetWeEN THe KEYBoARd coVEr ANd tHe FROnT eND Of tHE toP BoaRd of The InsTRuMeNt MaIn bODY UPOn opening/ClOsinG oF tHe coVEr, anD a Musical sCOre, A PIecE oF PAPer, a CLip, OR THe lIKe MAY fAll fROm THE gAP. as A rEsUlt, a neCeSSaRy tHINg Is LOst, OR A MechANIsM or a cIrCuIt IN tHE INSTRUmeNT Main bODY mAy BE BRoKeN dOwN duE to THe oBJecT WHicH has FaLLEN INsiDe ThE iNSTRumEnt MAin bOdy.
in oRdEr TO elimInatE sUcH InCoNvENIeNce, A lArGe dust coVer MUsT BE arRANGed unDer The keyBOarD COver OPeNInG/clOSINg meCHaNisM, or A PorTIoN of The TOp BoaRd MusT BE PIVoTAlLY HInGed TO thE bacK board To bE pivoTeD To OPEn the uPPER PortioN Of THe InstrumENt mAin BOdy, ThUs ALLowINg REmoVAl oF aN OBJECT wHIch HAs FaLleN InsiDe the iNstrumeNt MaIn BODy. SUcH an ARRangeMEnT InCreAsES the cOst. IN aDdItion, an objEcT WhICh Has FalleN iNSIde ThE iNSTRuMenT maIn BoDy CaNNoT bE rEMoVED uNlEsS A UsEr noticeS IT.
mOReOvEr, if a suFFIciEnT SpRiNG CONStAnT aS A Damper Is proviDeD To A SPrINg FOr a DAMper meChANIsm, AS a safetY means, For DAMPiNg A piVOTiNg foRcE bAseD On thE WEIGhT oF A KeYboARD CoVeR, tHe PiVoTIng FoRce BaseD on tHe wEIgHt oF tHE coveR UPoN CLOsing balaNceS thE DaMpING force OF thE SPrIng. As A ReSuLt, The COveR flOaTs frOm The kEYBoard POrTION, AnD a FeelING tHAT THe CoVer Is REliablY ClOSEd anD the StABilItY Of the COvER arE imPAIreD.
|
1. Field of the InventionThe present inventionrelates to an electronic musical instrument, such asan electronicorgan or an electronic piano, having anopening/closing mechanism fora keyboard cover which closes/opens a keyboard portion. 2. Description of Related Art An electronic musical instrument having akeyboard,e.g., an electronic organ, generally includes akeyboard cover which covers andprotects a keyboard portion whilethe instrument is not used.Two types of keyboard covers are used: a slidingcover which is arranged to be slidable back and forth on the main body of a musical instrument (instrument main body) and isstored in the instrument main body when it is open; and a pivot cover which is arranged to be vertically pivotal and is erected onan instrument main body whenit is open. Since the sliding cover isformed like afolding shutter bycoupling a large number of cover constituent members so as to be flexible, its structurebecomescomplicated,and a large number ofcomponents are required, resulting ina high manufacturingcost. In contrast to this, since the pivot cover is constituted by one plate-like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low cost. Inaddition,since the pivot cover iserected on the instrument main body when it is open, no storage space for the cover is required in the instrument main body. In the latter case, however, if a musical instrument has two or moreupper and lower keyboards, the depth and weight of a keyboard cover are increased. For this reason, an opening/closingoperation of the cover becomes less easy. In addition, the cover may abruptlyfall to clamp the hands of a player due to a shift in the center of gravity of the cover when it is opened/closed. In order to solve such a problem, for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 62-46219 discloses a keyboard instrument in which when a keyboard cover is closed, a pivoting force basedon the weight of the cover isdamped by a dampermechanismusingaspring at a latterstage of the pivoting movementof the cover.A keyboard cover having such a mechanism,however, is increased inarea withan increase in depth. Forthis reason, when the cover is opened and erected on an instrument main body, a player inevitably feels a sense of oppression. In order to solve such a problem in a pivotkeyboard cover, the present applicant has developed a keyboard instrument, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 63-11995, in whichthe pivot point ofa keyboardcover is set ata positionseparatedforward and downward from the rear end bya predetermined distance so that when the cover is opened, its rear end portion is inserted from an opening formed in theupper surface of an instrument main body to be stored therein. An example of such a mechanism will be brieflydescribed below with reference to FIG. 9.Apivot keyboard cover 3 is provided above akeyboard portion 2 arranged on a front portionof an instrument mainbody 1. Firstand second links 5a and 5b constituting afour-jointrotating link 5are pivotallysupportedbetween a triangular support member 4 fixed to a rear end portion of the cover 3 and a fixed portion as a pivotpoint in the instrument mainbody 1 by using pins 6a, 6b,7a, and 7b. When a front end portion of this keyboard cover 3 is raised tocause the cover 3 to pivot from aposition indicated by solid lines, at which the cover 3 is closed,in a directionindicated by an arrow P, the rear end of the cover is moved along a path indicated by analternatelong and dashed line L. As a result, a rear portion of the keyboard cover 3 is stored in the instrument main body 1, resulting in an cover open state indicated by imaginary lines. According to this keyboard opening/closing mechanism, since a torque based on the weight of the keyboard cover 3 acts in opposite directions before and after the pivot point, the cover3 can be lightly openedand closed by overbalancingit.In addition, since the rear portion of the keyboard cover3 is stored in the instrument main body 1when itis open, a sense of oppression to a player canbereduced. In such a conventional keyboardcover opening/closing mechanism, however, since the four-joint rotating link is used to pivot the keyboardcover 3, the degree of freedom of apath for pivotingmovement is low, and the cover 3ismoved in themanner shownin FIG. 10A.During this pivoting movement, a large gap S isformed between the keyboard cover 3and thefront end (point A)of atop board (upper surface plate) 1a of the instrumentmain body 1, and an object may fall inside the instrumentmainbody1. For this reason, a large dust cover 8 must be arranged, as shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, a portion of the top board 1a must be hinged to a back board 1b to be pivotal in a directionindicated by an arrow Q so that an upper portion of the instrumentmain body1 can be opened, thus allowingeasy removable ofan object therefrom. In addition, the use of the four-joint link requires alarge space for the pivoting movementof the rear portion ofthe keyboard cover 3 in theinstrument main body 1, asshown in FIG. 9. This inevitablyleads toa great reduction in mounting spacefor other components, e.g., a transformer 9 shown inFIG. 10A.In any of suchconventional keyboard cover opening/closing mechanisms, the safetyin closingthe keyboardcover is mainly considered, but damping of a shock in opening the cover isnotmuch considered. For this reason, since a required operating force considerably variesthroughout theopening/closingprocessofthe keyboard cover, a smooth opening/closing operation cannot necessarily be performed. Furthermore,a gapis formed between the keyboard cover and the front end of the top board of the instrumentmain body upon opening/closing of thecover,and a musical score,a piece of paper, a clip, or thelike may fall from the gap. As a result,a necessary thing is lost, or a mechanism ora circuit in theinstrument main body may be broken down due to the object which hasfalleninside the instrument main body. In order to eliminate such inconvenience, a large dust cover must be arranged under the keyboard cover opening/closing mechanism, or a portion ofthe top board mustbe pivotally hinged to the back boardto bepivoted to open the upperportion of the instrument main body, thus allowing removal of an object whichhas fallen inside the instrument main body. Such an arrangement increases thecost. In addition, an object whichhas fallen insidethe instrument main bodycannot be removed unless a usernotices it. Moreover, if a sufficient spring constant as a damper is providedtoa springfor adamper mechanism, as a safety means, for damping a pivoting forcebased on the weight of a keyboardcover,thepivoting force based on the weight of thecoverupon closing balances the damping force of the spring. As a result,thecover floats fromthe keyboard portion, anda feeling that the cover is reliably closed and the stability of the cover are impaired.
|
1. _Field_ of the Invention The present invention relates to an _electronic_ _musical_ instrument, such _as_ _an_ _electronic_ _organ_ or an electronic piano, having _an_ opening/closing _mechanism_ _for_ a _keyboard_ cover _which_ closes/opens a keyboard portion. _2._ Description of Related Art An _electronic_ musical _instrument_ having a keyboard, e.g., an _electronic_ _organ,_ generally _includes_ a keyboard cover which covers and protects _a_ _keyboard_ _portion_ while the instrument is not _used._ Two types of _keyboard_ covers are used: a sliding cover which is arranged to be slidable back and forth on _the_ main body of a musical instrument (instrument main _body)_ and is stored _in_ the _instrument_ main _body_ when it is open; and a pivot _cover_ which is arranged to be vertically _pivotal_ and is erected on an instrument _main_ body when _it_ is open. Since _the_ sliding cover is _formed_ like a _folding_ shutter _by_ _coupling_ a large number _of_ _cover_ constituent members so as to be flexible, _its_ structure becomes complicated, and a large number of _components_ are required, resulting in a high manufacturing cost. In contrast to this, _since_ the pivot cover is constituted by one plate-like cover member, it can be manufactured at a low _cost._ _In_ addition, _since_ _the_ pivot _cover_ is erected on the instrument main body _when_ _it_ is _open,_ no storage space for the cover is required in the instrument main body. In the latter case, however, if _a_ musical instrument has _two_ or _more_ upper _and_ lower keyboards, the depth and weight of a keyboard _cover_ are increased. For this reason, an _opening/closing_ operation of the cover becomes less easy. In _addition,_ the _cover_ _may_ abruptly fall to clamp the hands of a player due to _a_ shift in the center of gravity of the _cover_ when it is opened/closed. _In_ order _to_ solve such a problem, for example, _Japanese_ Utility Model Publication _No._ _62-46219_ discloses _a_ keyboard _instrument_ in _which_ when _a_ keyboard _cover_ is _closed,_ a pivoting force based _on_ the _weight_ of the cover is damped by a damper mechanism using a spring at _a_ latter _stage_ of _the_ pivoting movement of _the_ _cover._ A keyboard cover having _such_ a mechanism, however, is increased in area with an _increase_ in depth. For _this_ reason, when the cover is _opened_ and erected on an instrument main body, _a_ _player_ inevitably _feels_ a sense of oppression. _In_ order _to_ solve such a problem in _a_ pivot keyboard cover, the _present_ applicant has developed a keyboard _instrument,_ as disclosed in Japanese Patent _Laid-Open_ No. 63-11995, in which the pivot _point_ of a keyboard _cover_ is set at a position separated forward and downward from _the_ rear end by a _predetermined_ distance so that when the cover is _opened,_ _its_ rear end _portion_ _is_ _inserted_ _from_ _an_ opening formed in the upper surface of an instrument main body to be stored _therein._ An example _of_ such a mechanism _will_ be _briefly_ _described_ below _with_ reference to FIG. 9. A _pivot_ keyboard _cover_ 3 is provided above a keyboard portion 2 arranged on _a_ front portion of _an_ instrument main _body_ 1. First and second links 5a and _5b_ constituting a _four-joint_ rotating link 5 are pivotally supported between a triangular support member _4_ fixed to _a_ _rear_ end portion of the cover _3_ and a _fixed_ portion as a pivot point _in_ the instrument main body 1 _by_ using _pins_ 6a, 6b, 7a, and _7b._ _When_ a front end portion _of_ this keyboard cover _3_ _is_ raised to cause the cover _3_ to pivot _from_ a position indicated by solid _lines,_ _at_ which the cover _3_ is closed, in _a_ direction indicated by _an_ _arrow_ _P,_ the rear _end_ _of_ the cover is moved along a _path_ _indicated_ by an alternate long and dashed line L. As a result, a rear portion _of_ _the_ keyboard _cover_ 3 is stored in the _instrument_ _main_ body _1,_ resulting in an cover open state indicated by imaginary _lines._ According to this keyboard opening/closing _mechanism,_ _since_ a torque based on the weight of the keyboard _cover_ 3 acts in opposite directions before and _after_ _the_ pivot point, _the_ _cover_ 3 can be lightly opened _and_ closed by overbalancing it. In addition, since the rear portion of the _keyboard_ cover _3_ is stored _in_ the _instrument_ main _body_ 1 when it is open, _a_ sense of oppression to a player _can_ be reduced. In such a conventional _keyboard_ _cover_ opening/closing mechanism, however, since the four-joint rotating link is used to _pivot_ the keyboard _cover_ 3, the degree of freedom of a path for pivoting movement is low, and _the_ cover 3 is moved in the manner _shown_ in FIG. 10A. During this pivoting _movement,_ a large gap _S_ is _formed_ between the keyboard cover 3 and the front end (point _A)_ of a _top_ board (upper _surface_ plate) 1a _of_ the instrument main body 1, and an object may fall _inside_ the instrument main _body_ 1. For _this_ _reason,_ a large dust cover 8 must be arranged, _as_ _shown_ in FIG. 9. Alternatively, a portion of the top board 1a must be hinged to a back board 1b to be pivotal in a _direction_ indicated by an arrow Q so that an upper portion of the instrument _main_ body _1_ can be opened, thus allowing _easy_ removable of an _object_ therefrom. In _addition,_ _the_ use of the four-joint link requires a large space for the pivoting movement of the rear portion of the keyboard cover _3_ in the instrument main _body_ 1, _as_ shown in _FIG._ 9. This inevitably leads to a great reduction in mounting _space_ for other components, e.g., a transformer 9 _shown_ in FIG. _10A._ In any of _such_ conventional keyboard cover opening/closing mechanisms, _the_ safety in closing the keyboard _cover_ is mainly considered, _but_ damping of _a_ shock in opening the cover is _not_ _much_ considered. For this reason, _since_ a required _operating_ force considerably _varies_ throughout the _opening/closing_ process of _the_ keyboard _cover,_ a smooth opening/closing operation cannot _necessarily_ be performed. Furthermore, _a_ _gap_ is formed between the keyboard cover and _the_ front end _of_ the top board of the instrument main body upon opening/closing of the cover, and a _musical_ score, a piece of paper, a clip, or the like _may_ fall from _the_ gap. As a result, a _necessary_ thing is _lost,_ or a mechanism or a circuit in the instrument _main_ body may be broken down due _to_ the object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. _In_ _order_ to eliminate _such_ _inconvenience,_ a large dust _cover_ must _be_ arranged under the keyboard cover opening/closing _mechanism,_ or a portion of the top _board_ _must_ be pivotally hinged to the _back_ board _to_ be pivoted _to_ _open_ the upper _portion_ of the instrument _main_ body, thus allowing removal _of_ an object which has fallen inside the instrument main body. _Such_ an arrangement increases the cost. In _addition,_ an object _which_ has fallen inside the instrument _main_ _body_ _cannot_ be removed _unless_ a user notices _it._ Moreover, _if_ a _sufficient_ spring _constant_ as a damper is provided to _a_ _spring_ for a damper _mechanism,_ _as_ _a_ safety _means,_ _for_ damping a pivoting force based on _the_ weight of a keyboard cover, the pivoting force based _on_ the weight of _the_ cover _upon_ _closing_ _balances_ _the_ damping _force_ of the _spring._ As a result, the cover floats from _the_ keyboard _portion,_ and a feeling that the _cover_ is reliably closed and the stability of _the_ cover are impaired.
|
The invention proceeds from an optical plug-in connector, having a first plug part and a second plug part which can be latched to said first plug part, wherein the optical plug-in connector has, along a plug axis, a plug-in region in a front region and a connection region in a rear region.
Optical plug-in connectors of this kind are required in order to establish a releasable connection between two optical conductors or cables and to release said connection again. Coupling of two optical conductors is very complicated since the connection has to be free of contaminants and is therefore highly susceptible to faults.
The light exit and light entry areas of the optical conductors have to be extremely clean and free of contaminants in order for contact to be made. In the plug-connected state, it is also necessary to ensure that, as far as possible, no contaminants, moisture or dust come into contact with the contact points. Any kind of foreign body on the coupling point between the conductors has an adverse effect on the transmission accuracy of the plug-in connector.
In order to reduce the influence of foreign bodies on the transmission point, so-called beam widening is often used in optical plug-in connectors. In this case, the optical beam which exits from the optical conductor is widened by means of a lens. The diameter of the light beam is increased in size and oriented in parallel by the lens. Contaminants made up of small particles are smaller in relation to the light beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this way. The widened light beam is therefore less sensitive to contaminants, soiling and moisture than the light beam in its original size. Therefore, optically widened light beams are advantageously used in the field of optical plug-in connectors.
One problem with plug-in connectors of this kind is created by the production method. A high degree of accuracy is required for producing optical plug-in connectors which are intended to widen an optical beam, transmit said optical beam and focus said optical beam again. Many traditional production methods, such as injection-molding methods for example, are highly inaccurate for this purpose.
The primary reason for this is that, in the injection-molding method, different areas of the article produced are provided in different moldings. When these different moldings are assembled, relatively large tolerances occur, these tolerances being transferred to the manufactured article.
|
the invention proceeds from an optical plug - in connector, having a first threaded part and a second plug part which can be latched to said first plug part, wherein the optical plug - in connector has, along a plug axis, a plug - in region in a front region and a connector region in a rear region. optical plug - like connectors of this kind are required in order to establish a releasable connection between two optical conductors or cables and to release said connection again. coupling of two optical conductors is very complicated since the connection has to be free of contaminants and is therefore highly susceptible to faults. the light exit and light entry areas of the optical conductors have to be extremely clean and free of contaminants in order for contact to be made. in the plug - connected state, it is also necessary to ensure that, as far as possible, no contaminants, moisture or dust come into contact with the contact points. any impact from foreign body on the coupling point between the conductors has an adverse effect on the transmission accuracy of the plug - in connector. in order to reduce the influence of foreign bodies on the transmission point, so - called beam widening is often used in optical plug - in connectors. in either case, the optical beam which exits from the optical conductor is widened by means of a lens. the diameter of the light beam is increased in size and oriented in parallel by the lens. contaminants made up of small particles are smaller in relation to the light beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this way. the widened light beam is therefore less sensitive to contaminants, soiling and moisture than the light beam in its original size. therefore, optically widened light beams are advantageously used in the field of optical plug - in connectors. this problem with plug - in connectors of this kind is created by the production method. a high quality of accuracy is required for producing optical plug - in connectors which are intended to widen an optical beam, transmit said optical beam and focus said optical beam again. many traditional production protocols, such as injection - molding methods for example, are highly inaccurate for this purpose. the primary reason for narrowing is that, in the injection - molding method, different areas of the article produced are provided in different moldings. when these different moldings are assembled, relatively large tolerances occur, these tolerances being transferred to the manufactured article.
|
The invention proceeds from an optical plug - in connector, having a first plug part and a s#Vond plug 9ar6 which can be latched to said first plug part, wherein the optical plug - in connector has, aIonn a plug axis, a plug - in region in a front region and a connection FegiLn in a rear region. Optical plug - in connectors of this kind are required in order to establish a releasable connection between two optical conductors or cables and to release said connection again. Coupling of two o0tiVal conductors is very complicated since the connection has to be free of contaminants and is therefore highly susceptible to faults. The light exit and light entry areas of the optical conductors have to be extremely clean and free of contaminants in order for contact to be made. In the plug - connected state, it is also necessary to ensure that, as far as possible, no contaminants, moisture or dust come into contact with the contact points. Any kind of foreign body on the coupling point between the conductors has an adverse effect on the transmission accuracy of the plug - in connector. In order to reduce the influenx2 of foreign bodies on the transmission point, so - called beam widening is often used in optical plug - in connectors. In this case, the optical G2am which exits from the optical conductor is widened by means of a lens. The diameter of the light beam is increased in size and oriented in parallel by the lens. Contaminants mwRe up of small particles are smaller in relation to the light beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this way. The widened light beam is therefore less sensitive to contaminants, soiling and moisture than the light beam in its original size. Therefore, optically widened light beams are advantageously used in the gielw of optical plug - in connectors. One problem with plug - in connectors of thkC kind is created by the production method. A high degree of accuracy is required for producing optical plug - in connectors which are intended to widen an optical beam, transmit said optical beam and focus said optical beam again. Many traditional production methods, such as injection - molding methods for example, are highly inaccurate for this purpose. The primary reason for this is that, in the injection - molding method, different areas of the article produced are provided in different moldings. When these different moldings are assembled, relatively large tolerances occur, these tolerances being transferred to the manufactured article.
|
The invention proceeds from an plug-in connector, having a first plug part and second plug part which can be latched to said first plug part, wherein the optical plug-in along a axis, a plug-in region in a front and connection region in a rear region. Optical plug-in connectors of this kind are required in order to establish a releasable connection two optical conductors or cables and to release said connection again. Coupling of two optical conductors is very complicated since the connection has to be free of contaminants and is therefore highly susceptible to faults. The light exit light entry areas of the optical conductors have to be extremely clean and free of contaminants in order for contact to be made. the plug-connected it is also necessary to ensure that, as far possible, no contaminants, or dust come into contact with the points. Any kind of foreign body on the coupling point between the conductors has an adverse effect on transmission accuracy the plug-in connector. In order to reduce the influence of foreign bodies the transmission point, beam widening is often used in optical plug-in connectors. In this the optical beam which exits from the optical conductor is widened by means of a lens. The diameter the light beam is increased in size and oriented parallel by the lens. made up of small particles are in relation to the light beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this way. The widened beam is therefore less sensitive to contaminants, soiling moisture than the light beam in original size. Therefore, optically widened light beams are the field optical plug-in connectors. One problem with plug-in this created by the production method. A high degree of accuracy is required for producing optical plug-in connectors are intended to widen an optical beam, transmit said optical beam and focus said optical again. Many traditional production methods, such as injection-molding methods for example, are highly inaccurate for this purpose. The primary reason this is that, in the injection-molding method, different areas of the produced are provided in different moldings. these different moldings are assembled, relatively large tolerances occur, these tolerances transferred to the manufactured article.
|
THE InvEntiON prOCEEDs FRoM AN OPtiCAL plug-In cOnnecTOR, hAvinG a FirSt pLuG pArt AND a SECoNd pLUg PaRt whiCH caN BE LaTcHED tO SaId fIrst plug PaRt, WHErEIN thE OPTICal pLuG-IN cOnnECTor has, aLoNG A PLUg axis, a plug-In REgIOn In A FroNt REGioN ANd a CoNneCtIOn regiOn In a REAR rEgIoN.
opTIcal PlUG-in cOnneCtors of tHIS kInd arE reqUIRed IN oRdEr tO EStABlISH a rElEAsabLE cOnNeCtiOn betWEEn TwO oPTiCaL COnDuCToRs OR CaBLes AnD To RELEAsE sAid cONNecTIOn AGain. cOUPlINg oF TwO OpTICaL ConDuCTOrs IS veRy COMpLICAtEd siNce tHE cONnecTION HAS tO bE FRee of CoNtaMInaNtS ANd IS tHEReFoRe HIGHlY SuSCeptIbLE TO faultS.
tHE lIGHT exIt anD LIGht entRy aREAS OF tHe oPTicAl cOndUCtoRs HAve TO BE ExtRemEly CleaN And free OF cONtamInantS IN OrDeR for contACT TO Be madE. IN tHe pLuG-cONnECTEd StAte, iT iS alSo nECeSsarY tO EnSURE tHAt, as FAr AS pOSsIBLE, nO contaMINaNtS, MoIstUrE Or DUST CoMe IntO coNTacT WitH tHE CONTaCT POIntS. ANy Kind of ForEIgn bodY On the CouPlINg poinT BEtween tHE conducTORs Has aN AdVerSE EFfeCt on tHe TraNSmisSIoN ACcuracy oF tHe PLug-In ConneCTOR.
in ORdeR TO reduce THE iNfLUenCE of FoReiGN bODiES ON tHE tRANsMIssIoN pOiNT, SO-CAlleD beam wIdEniNg is ofTEn Used In OPTicAl PlUG-iN coNneCTOrs. in thIs CAse, thE opTiCAL BeAm WHicH EXIts FrOm The OptIcaL CoNducTOr is wiDENEd bY MeANs oF a LEnS. tHE diaMEtER Of thE lIgHT Beam Is inCREAseD IN sIZe And ORienTeD IN ParaLlEl bY THe leNs. contAmiNANts MaDe up of sMALl paRTICLeS ARe SMalLEr iN relAtIon to thE liGHT bEam WiTH its reLATIvely LArGe CroSs SECTiON OBtaINed iN THiS Way. tHE wideNeD lIghT BeAM is tHEREFORE lEsS SeNsiTIvE tO CoNTAMiNaNts, SOilINg aNd moistURe Than tHe LIghT BeAm in ITS orIGinAL sIzE. thErEFOrE, optIcaLLy wIdeNed liGHT BEAMS Are ADvaNTAGEouSlY Used IN thE fIEld OF oPTICaL PLUg-IN CONnECTORS.
One pRobLEm WiTH Plug-iN cOnNecToRS Of thIs kinD Is CReATed by The ProDuCtioN mEtHod. A hiGh DegrEe Of accURACY iS RequIreD For PROduCiNG OpTicAl plug-In CoNneCtoRs whICh ARE intEnDeD tO wideN AN oPTIcal bEAm, tRANSmIT SAId oPtiCaL BEAM aND FOcus sAID opTiCAL bEaM aGaIn. maNy TRadItionaL PRODucTion meTHODS, SucH As iNjecTiOn-MOLDINg MethOdS for EXample, ARE hIghLY InAcCUrAtE For ThIs pUrPoSe.
THE PRIMAry rEasON fOR ThIs Is THat, In THE InJECtiON-mOLDinG MeThoD, difFereNt AReas of THE aRtIcLE PrODucEd arE pRoVIDEd iN DIFfErent mOLDInGS. wHEn theSe DIFFEreNT mOLdinGs aRE ASSEMBlED, reLaTivelY LARGE TOLeRAncES occur, THEsE ToLEraNcES bEiNG tranSFeRrED to tHE MaNUfAcTURed ARTicLE.
|
The invention proceeds from an optical plug-in connector, having a first plugpart and a second plug part which can belatched tosaid firstplug part, whereinthe optical plug-in connector has, along a plug axis, a plug-in region in a frontregion and a connection region in a rear region. Optical plug-in connectors of this kind are required in orderto establish a releasable connection between twooptical conductors or cables and to release said connection again. Coupling of two optical conductors is very complicated since the connection has to be free of contaminants andis therefore highlysusceptible to faults. The light exit and light entry areas of the optical conductors have to be extremely cleanand free of contaminants in order for contact to be made. In the plug-connected state, it is also necessary toensure that, as far as possible, no contaminants, moisture or dust comeinto contact with the contact points. Any kind of foreignbodyon the coupling point between the conductors has an adverse effecton the transmissionaccuracy of the plug-in connector. In order to reducethe influence of foreign bodies on the transmission point,so-called beam widening is often used in optical plug-in connectors. In thiscase, the optical beam which exits fromthe optical conductor iswidened bymeans of a lens. The diameter of the light beam is increased in size and oriented in parallel by the lens. Contaminantsmade up of small particles aresmaller in relationto thelight beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this way. Thewidened light beam is thereforeless sensitive to contaminants,soiling and moisture than the light beam inits original size. Therefore,optically widenedlight beams are advantageously usedinthe field of opticalplug-in connectors. One problem with plug-in connectors of this kind is created by the production method.A high degree of accuracy is required for producing optical plug-inconnectors which areintended to widen an optical beam, transmit saidoptical beam and focus said optical beam again. Many traditional production methods, such as injection-moldingmethods forexample,are highly inaccurate for this purpose.Theprimary reason for thisis that,in the injection-molding method,different areas of the article produced are provided in different moldings. When these different moldings are assembled,relatively largetolerances occur, thesetolerances being transferred tothe manufactured article.
|
_The_ invention _proceeds_ from _an_ optical plug-in connector, having _a_ first plug part and a _second_ plug part which can be latched _to_ said first _plug_ part, wherein the optical plug-in _connector_ has, _along_ a plug axis, a plug-in region _in_ a front region _and_ a connection region in a rear region. _Optical_ plug-in _connectors_ of _this_ kind are required _in_ order _to_ _establish_ a _releasable_ _connection_ between two _optical_ _conductors_ or _cables_ and _to_ release _said_ connection again. _Coupling_ of two optical _conductors_ is very _complicated_ since the connection has to be free of contaminants and is _therefore_ highly susceptible to faults. The _light_ exit and _light_ entry areas _of_ the optical conductors _have_ _to_ be _extremely_ clean and free of contaminants in order for contact to _be_ made. In _the_ plug-connected state, it is also _necessary_ to ensure that, as _far_ as possible, no contaminants, moisture _or_ _dust_ come into contact with the contact points. Any kind of foreign body on _the_ _coupling_ point between the conductors has an adverse effect _on_ _the_ transmission accuracy of _the_ _plug-in_ _connector._ In order to reduce _the_ influence of foreign bodies on the transmission _point,_ so-called _beam_ widening _is_ _often_ _used_ in optical _plug-in_ connectors. _In_ this _case,_ the _optical_ beam _which_ _exits_ from the optical conductor _is_ widened by means of a lens. The _diameter_ of _the_ light beam is increased in size and oriented in parallel by the lens. Contaminants _made_ up of small _particles_ are smaller in relation to the light beam with its relatively large cross section obtained in this _way._ _The_ widened light beam is therefore less sensitive to contaminants, soiling and _moisture_ than the light beam in its original size. _Therefore,_ optically widened light beams are advantageously _used_ in the _field_ of optical plug-in connectors. _One_ problem _with_ plug-in connectors of this _kind_ is _created_ by the _production_ method. A high degree of accuracy is required for producing optical _plug-in_ connectors which are intended _to_ widen an optical _beam,_ transmit said optical beam and _focus_ said optical beam again. Many traditional _production_ methods, such _as_ injection-molding methods for example, _are_ highly inaccurate for this _purpose._ The primary _reason_ for this is that, in the injection-molding method, _different_ _areas_ of the article produced are provided in _different_ moldings. When these different _moldings_ are assembled, relatively large tolerances occur, _these_ tolerances _being_ transferred to the manufactured article.
|
There are numerous steps in the development of any novel, desirable soybean variety. Plant breeding begins with the analysis and definition of problems and weaknesses of the current germplasm, the establishment of program goals, and the definition of specific breeding objectives. The next step is selection of germplasm that possess the traits to meet the program goals. The breeder's goal is to combine in a single variety an improved combination of desirable traits. These traits may include higher seed yield, resistance to diseases and insects, reducing the time to crop maturity, tolerance to drought and/or heat, altered fatty acid profiles, abiotic stress tolerance, improvements in compositional traits, and better agronomic characteristics.
These product development processes, which lead to the final step of marketing and distribution, can take from six to twelve years from the time the first cross is made until the finished seed is delivered to the farmer for planting. Therefore, development of new varieties is a time-consuming process that requires precise planning, efficient use of resources, and a minimum of changes in direction.
A continuing goal of soybean breeders is to develop stable, high yielding soybean varieties that are agronomically sound with maximal yield over one or more different conditions and environments.
|
there are numerous steps behind the design of any novel, desirable soybean variety. plant breeding begins with the analysis and definition of problems governing weaknesses of the current germplasm, initial establishment of program goals, and the definition of specific breeding objectives. the next step includes selection of germplasm that possess the traits to meet the program goals. the breeder ' s goal is to combine in a single variety an improved combination of desirable traits. these traits also include higher seed yield, resistance to diseases and insects, reducing the time to crop maturity, tolerance to drought and / or heat, altered fatty acid profiles, abiotic stress tolerance, improvements in compositional traits, and better agronomic characteristics. these product development processes, which lead to the final step of marketing and preparation, can take from six to twelve years from the time the first harvest is made until the finished seed is delivered to the farmer for planting. therefore, development of new varieties is a time - consuming process that requires precise planning, efficient use of resources, and a minimum of changes in packaging. a continuing goal for soybean breeders is to develop stable, high yielding soybean varieties that are agronomically sound with maximal yield over one or more different conditions and environments.
|
There are numerous steps in the development of any novel, desirable soybean variety. LlaBt breeding b@gihs with the znalTsis and definition of problems and weaknesses of the c7drent germplasm, the establishment of program goals, and the definition of specific breeding objectives. The next step is selection of germplasm that possess the traits to meet the program goals. The breeder ' s goal is to combine in a single variety an improved combination of desirable traits. These ttakts may include higher seed yield, resistance to diseases and insects, reducing the time to crop maturity, tolerance to drought and / or heat, altered fatty acid profiles, abiotic stress 5ol4rance, improvements in compositional traits, and better agronomic characteristics. These product development processes, which lead to the final step of marketing and distribution, can take from six to twelve years from the time the fo%st cross is made until the finished seed is delivered to the farmer for planting. Therefore, development of new varieties is a time - consuming process rhaG requieeW precise planning, efficient use of resources, and a minimum of changes in direction. A continuing goal of soybean breeders is to devSlol stable, high yielding soybean varieties that are agronomically sound with maximal yield over one or more different conditions and environments.
|
There are numerous steps in the of any novel, desirable soybean Plant breeding begins with the analysis and definition problems and weaknesses of the current germplasm, the establishment of goals, and the definition of specific breeding objectives. The next step is selection of that possess the traits to meet the program goals. The breeder's goal is to combine in a single variety an improved combination of desirable traits. These traits may include higher seed yield, resistance to diseases reducing the time to crop maturity, tolerance to drought and/or heat, fatty acid profiles, abiotic stress tolerance, improvements in traits, and better characteristics. These product development processes, which lead to final step of marketing and distribution, can take six to twelve from the the first cross is made until the finished seed is delivered to the farmer planting. Therefore, development of varieties is a time-consuming process that requires precise planning, efficient use of resources, and minimum of changes in direction. A continuing goal of soybean breeders is to develop stable, high yielding varieties that agronomically sound with maximal yield over one or more different and environments.
|
tHERe Are numerouS STEPs in THe dEveloPmeNT Of ANy NOveL, deSIrabLE SoYBeaN VaRiETy. PlANT BreEdiNg BeGins WITH the aNALYsiS and dEFInITiON OF pRoBlEMs AND WEakNeSsEs Of The CuRrENt germPlaSM, the esTAblISHmenT OF ProGraM gOaLS, AnD the deFiNitiON oF sPeCiFIc BreEdinG ObJEcTiveS. tHE neXt StEP IS SeLEctiON of GErMPlasm tHat posSESs THE TRaiTS To meET The pROGram gOals. thE brEeDEr'S goAL Is to COMBine IN A sIngLe vARieTy An iMPROvEd COMBInAtiOn Of deSirABLE TrAITS. THeSE TraItS may iNCluDe HighER SEED yieLD, resIsTANCe tO diseaseS AND INseCTs, reDucINg ThE TIMe to CROP MATUriTy, tOlErAnce TO DRoUGHT AnD/OR HEat, ALtErEd fATtY AcId PrOfILeS, AbiOtIC sTREss TOleranCe, imProVemEnTS IN cOmPosITIonal TRaiTs, aND bEtTER AgrONomic CHArACtEristics.
THesE PrOdUCT dEVeLOpMent pROcESseS, whIch LEad To ThE FiNAL sTeP oF mARKETING and dIsTrIbuTioN, cAn TAkE from six to twElve yearS fRoM The tIme THE FIrSt crOss Is mAde unTIl The FInished SEed iS DELIVEred TO thE FARMeR for PlaNTInG. tHErefoRe, deVelOpment oF New VaRiETIEs IS A TIME-ConSuMiNg PROcESS THAT REquirES PRECiSe PLanNing, eFficIEnt uSe OF RESouRCeS, aNd a miNImum oF cHangEs in dIRECTiOn.
a cONtINUiNG GOAl Of SoybEaN BrEEdERS is to DEvelOP stAblE, HiGh YIELDING sOyBeAn vAriEtieS ThaT are AgROnomICally sOunD wiTh MaxImAL YIeLd oVEr OnE oR mOre DIFfERenT CONditioNS aNd eNVIrOnMEntS.
|
There are numerous steps in the development of anynovel,desirable soybean variety. Plant breedingbegins with theanalysis and definition of problems and weaknesses of thecurrent germplasm, the establishment of program goals, and the definition of specific breeding objectives. Thenext step isselection of germplasm that possess the traits to meet the program goals. The breeder's goal is to combine in a singlevariety an improvedcombination of desirable traits. These traits may include higher seed yield,resistance to diseases and insects, reducing the time to crop maturity,tolerance to drought and/or heat,altered fatty acid profiles, abiotic stress tolerance, improvements in compositional traits, and better agronomic characteristics. These product development processes, which leadto the finalstep of marketing and distribution, can take fromsix totwelve years from the time the first cross is made untilthe finished seed is delivered to the farmer for planting. Therefore, development of new varieties is a time-consumingprocess that requires precise planning, efficient use ofresources,and aminimum ofchanges in direction. A continuing goal of soybean breeders is to develop stable, high yielding soybean varieties that are agronomically sound with maximal yield over oneormore different conditions and environments.
|
There are numerous steps _in_ the development of _any_ novel, desirable _soybean_ variety. Plant breeding begins with the _analysis_ and definition of problems and _weaknesses_ _of_ the current germplasm, the _establishment_ of program _goals,_ _and_ the definition _of_ specific _breeding_ objectives. The _next_ step _is_ selection of _germplasm_ that possess the traits to meet the _program_ goals. The _breeder's_ goal is to combine in a single variety _an_ improved combination of desirable traits. These _traits_ may _include_ _higher_ seed _yield,_ resistance to _diseases_ and insects, reducing the time _to_ crop maturity, tolerance to drought and/or _heat,_ altered fatty acid _profiles,_ abiotic stress tolerance, improvements in compositional traits, and better agronomic characteristics. These product development processes, which lead to _the_ _final_ _step_ of marketing and distribution, can take from six to twelve _years_ from the time the first cross _is_ made until _the_ finished seed is delivered _to_ the farmer for planting. Therefore, development of new varieties is a time-consuming process that requires precise _planning,_ efficient use of resources, _and_ a minimum of changes in _direction._ A continuing goal of soybean breeders _is_ to _develop_ _stable,_ _high_ yielding soybean varieties that _are_ agronomically sound with _maximal_ yield over one _or_ more _different_ conditions and environments.
|
It has been shown that, for time-harmonic electromagnetic fields with exp(-i.omega.t) excitation, a homogeneous, low loss, isotropic chiral (optically active) medium can be described electromagnetically by the following constitutive relations: EQU D=.epsilon.E+i .xi..sub.c B (1) EQU H=i.xi.E+(1/.mu.)B (2)
where E, B, D and H are electromagnetic field vectors and .epsilon., .mu., .xi..sub.c represent the dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of the chiral medium, respectively. A "chiral medium" comprises chiral objects of the same handedness, randomly oriented and uniformly distributed. A chiral object is a three-dimensional body that cannot be brought into congruence with its mirror image by translation and rotation. Therefore, all chiral objects can be classified in terms of their "handedness." The term "handedness," as known by those with skill in the art, refers to whether a chiral object is "right-handed" or "left-handed." That is, if a chiral object is fight-handed (left-handed), its mirror image is left-handed (right-handed). Therefore, the mirror image of a chiral object is its enantiomorph.
Chiral media exhibit electromagnetic chirality which embraces optical activity and circular dichroism. Optical activity refers to the rotation of the plane of polarization of optical waves by a medium while circular dichroism indicates a change in the polarization ellipticity of optical waves by a medium. Them exists a variety of materials that exhibit optical activity. For example, for 0.63-.mu.m wavelength, TeO.sub.2 exhibits optical activity with a chirality admittance magnitude of 3.83.times.10.sup.-7 mho. This results in a rotation of the plane of polarization of 87.degree. per mm. These phenomena, known since the mid nineteenth century, are due to the presence of the two unequal characteristic wavenumbers corresponding to two circularly polarized eigenmodes with opposite handedness.
The fundamentals of electromagnetic chirality are known. See, e.g., J. A. Kong, Theory of Electromagnetic Waves, 1975; E. J. Post, Formal Structure of Electromagnetics, 1962. More recent work includes the macroscopic treatment of electromagnetic waves with chiral structures D. L. Jaggard et at. Applied Physics, 18, 211, 1979; the analysis of dyadic Green's functions and dipole radiation in chiral media, S. Bassiri et al. Alta Frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 and N. Engheta et al. IEEE Trans. on Ant. & Propag., 37, 4, 1989; the reflection and refraction of waves at a dielectric-chiral interface, S. Bassiri et at. J. Opt. Soc. Am. A5, 1450, 1988; and guided-wave structures comprising chiral materials, N. Engheta and P. Pelet, Opt. Lett., 14, 593, 1989. The following table compares the electromagnetic properties of chiral and nonchiral materials:
__________________________________________________________________________ Simple Medium Chiral Medium Characteristics D = .epsilon.E D = .epsilon.E + i.xi..sub.c B Constitutive Relations H = (1/.mu.)B H = i.xi..sub.c E + (1/.mu.) __________________________________________________________________________ B Wave Equation .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times. E - k.sup.2 E = .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times. E - k.sup.2 E - 2.omega..mu..xi..sub.c .gradient. .times. E = 0 Wavenumbers ##STR1## ##STR2## Eigenmodes Linear Polarization Allowed RCP and LCP Only Wave Intrinsic Impedance ##STR3## ##STR4## __________________________________________________________________________
Prior radomes have been known and used to protect antenna elements from the adverse effects of a harsh environment. Radomes have also been used to control the radiation cross-section ("RCS") parameters of antennas and antenna arrays that receive and transmit electromagnetic energy. Typically, prior radomes have been made of low loss dielectric materials which have been designed to have minimal interaction with the antennas found therein. However, prior radomes have been unable to efficiently and effectively provide control of radiation and scattering properties for antennas and antenna arrays both in low RCS applications and high efficiency antenna design. There therefore exists a long-felt need in the art for sophisticated and effective antenna radomes to provide sensitive radiation control and RCS management for low profile antennas.
|
it has been shown that, for time - harmonic electromagnetic fields with exp ( - i. omega. t ) excitation, a homogeneous, low loss, isotropic chiral ( optically active ) medium can be described electromagnetically by the following constitutive relations : equ psi =. epsilon. e + i. xi.. sub. c b ( 1 ) equ h = i. xi. e + ( 1 /. mu. ) b ( 2 ) where e, b, d and h are electromagnetic field vectors and. epsilon.,. mu.,. xi.. sub. c represent the dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of the chiral medium, respectively. a " chiral medium " comprises chiral objects of the same handedness, randomly oriented and uniformly distributed. a chiral object is a three - dimensional body that cannot be brought into congruence with its mirror image by translation and rotation. therefore, magnetic chiral objects can be classified using terms of their " handedness. " the term " handedness, " as known by those with skill in the art, refers to whether a chiral object is " right - handed " or " left - handed. " that is, if a chiral object is fight - handed ( left - handed ), its mirror picture is left - handed ( right - handed ). therefore, the mirror image of this chiral object is its enantiomorph. chiral media exhibit electromagnetic chirality which embraces optical activity and circular dichroism. optical activity refers to the rotation of the plane of polarization of all waves by the medium while circular dichroism indicates a change in the polarization ellipticity of optical waves by a medium. them exists a variety of materials that exhibit optical activity. for example, for 0. 63 -. mu. m wavelength, teo. sub. 2 exhibits optic activity with a chirality admittance magnitude of 3. 83. times. 10. sup. - 7 mho. this results in a rotation of the plane of polarization of 87. degree. per m². these phenomena, known since the mid nineteenth century, are due to the presence of the two unequal characteristic wavenumbers corresponding to two circularly polarized eigenmodes with opposite handedness. topological fundamentals of electromagnetic chirality are known. see, e. g., j . a. kong, theory of electromagnetic waves, 1975 ; e. j. post, formal structure of electromagnetics, 1962. more recent work includes the macroscopic treatment of electromagnetic waves with chiral structures d. l. jaggard et at. applied physics, 18, 211, 1979 ; the analysis of dyadic green ' s functions and dipole radiation in chiral media, s. bassiri et al. alta frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 and n. engheta et al. ieee trans. on ant. & propag., 37, 4, 1989 ; the reflection and refraction of waves at a dielectric - chiral interface, s. bassiri et at. j. opt. soc. am. a5, 1450, 1988 ; and guided - wave structures comprising chiral materials, n. engheta and p. pelet, opt. lett., 14, 593, 1989. the following table compares the electromagnetic properties of chiral and nonchiral materials : _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ simple medium chiral medium characteristics d =. epsilon. e d =. epsilon. e + i. xi.. sub. c b constitutive relations h = ( 1 /. mu. ) b h = i. xi.. sub. c e + ( 1 /. mu. ) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ b wave equation. gradient.. times.. gradient.. times. e - k. sup. 2 e =. gradient.. times.. gradient.. times. e - k. sup. 2 e - 2. omega.. mu.. xi.. sub. c. gradient.. times. e = 0 wavenumbers # # str1 # # # # str2 # # eigenmodes linear polarization allowed rcp and lcp only wave intrinsic impedance # # str3 # # # # str4 # # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ prior radomes have been known and used to protect antenna elements from the adverse effects of a harsh environment. radomes have also been used to control the radiation cross - section ( " rcs " ) parameters of antennas and antenna arrays that receive and transmit electromagnetic energy. typically, prior radomes have been made of low loss dielectric materials which have been designed to have minimal interaction with the antennas found therein. however, prior radomes have been unable to efficiently and effectively provide control of radiation and scattering properties for antennas and antenna arrays both in low rcs applications and high efficiency antenna design. there therefore exists a long - felt need in the art for sophisticated and effective antenna radomes to provide sensitive radiation control and rcs management for low profile antennas.
|
It has been shown that, for time - harmonic electromagnetic fields with exp (- i. omega. t) excitation, a homogeneous, low loss, isotropic chiral (Lotically active) medium can be described electromagnetically by the following constitutive relations: EQU D =. epsilon. E + i. xi. . sub. c B (1) EQU H = i. xi. E + (1 /. mu.) B (2) where E, B, D and H are electromagnetic field vectors and. epsilon. ,. mu. ,. xi. . sub. c represent the dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of the chiral medium, respectively. A " chiral medium " comprises chiral objects of the same handedness, randomly oriented and uniformly distributed. A chiral object is a three - dimensional body that cannot be brought into congruence with its mirror image by translation and rotation. Therefore, all chiral objects can be classified in terms of their " handedness. " The term " handedness, " as known by those with skill in the art, refers to whether a chiral object is " right - handed " or " left - handed. " That is, if a chiral object is fight - handed (left - handed ), its mirror image is left - handed (right - handed ). Therefore, the mirror image of a chiral object is its enantiomorph. Chiral media exhibit electromagnetic chirality which embraces optical activity and circular dichroism. Optical activity refers to the rotation of the plane of polarization of optical waves by a medium while circular dichroism indicates a change in the polarization ellipticity of optical waves by a medium. Them exists a variety of materials that exhibit optical activity. For example, for 0. 63 -. mu. m wavelength, TeO. sub. 2 exhibits optical activity with a chirality admittance magnitude of 3. 83. times. 10. sup. - 7 mho. This results in a rotation of the plane of polarization of 87. degree. per mm. These phenomena, known since the mid nineteenth century, are due to the presence of the two unequal characteristic wavenumbers corresponding to two circ&lariy polarized eigenmodes with opposite hqndeXness. The fundamentals of electromagnetic chirality are known. See, e. g. , J. A. Kong, Theory of Electromagnetic Waves, 1975; E. J. Post, Formal Structure of Electromagnetics, 1962. More recent work includes the macroscopic treatment of electromagnetic waves with chiral structures D. L. Jaggard et at. Applied Physics, 18, 211, 1979; the analysis of dyadic Green ' s functions and dipole radiation in chiral media, S. Bassiri et al. Zl6a Frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 and N. Engheta et al. jEwE Trans. on Ant. & Propag. , 37, 4, 1989; the reflection and refraction of waves at a dielectric - chiral interface, S. Bassiri et at. J. Opt. Soc. Am. A5, 1450, 1988; and guided - wave structures comprising chiral materials, N. Engheta and P. Pelet, Opt. Lett. , 14, 593, 1989. The following table compares the electromagnetic properties of chiral and nonchiral materials: __________________________________________________________________________ Simple Medium Chiral hedi7m Characteristics D =. epsilon. E D =. epsilon. E + i. xi. . sub. c B Constitutive Relations H = (1 /. mu.) B H = i. xi. . sub. c E + (1 /. mu.) __________________________________________________________________________ B Wqv4 Equation. gradient. . times. . gradient. . times. E - k. sup. 2 E =. gradient. . times. . gradient. . times. E - k. sup. 2 E - 2. omega. . mu. . xi. . sub. c. gradient. . tiJex. E = 0 Wavenumbers # # STR1 # # # # STR2 # # Eigenmodes Linear Polarization Allowed RCP and LCP Only Wave Intrinsic Impedance # # STR3 # # # # STR4 # # __________________________________________________________________________ Prior radomes have been known and jses to protect antenna elements from the adverse effects of a harsh environment. Radomes have also been used to control the radiation cross - section (" RCS ") parameters of antennas and antenna arrays that receive and transmit electromagnetic energy. Typically, prior radomes have been made of low loss dielectric materials which have been designed to have minimal interaction with the antennas found therein. However, prior radomes haFS been unable to efficiently and effectively provide control of radiation and scattering properties for antennas and antenna arrays both in low RCS applications and high efficiency antenna design. There therefore exists a long - felt need in the art for sophisticated and effective antenna radomes to provide sensitive radiation control and RCS management for low profile antennas.
|
It has been shown that, for time-harmonic electromagnetic with exp(-i.omega.t) excitation, a homogeneous, low loss, isotropic (optically active) medium can be described electromagnetically by the following constitutive EQU D=.epsilon.E+i .xi..sub.c B (1) EQU H=i.xi.E+(1/.mu.)B (2) where D and H are electromagnetic field vectors and .epsilon., .mu., .xi..sub.c represent the dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of the medium, respectively. A "chiral medium" comprises chiral objects the same handedness, randomly oriented and uniformly distributed. A chiral object is a three-dimensional body cannot be brought into congruence with its mirror image by translation and rotation. Therefore, all chiral objects can be classified in terms of their "handedness." The term "handedness," as known by those with skill in the art, refers whether a chiral is "right-handed" or "left-handed." That if a chiral is fight-handed (left-handed), its image is left-handed (right-handed). Therefore, the mirror image of object is enantiomorph. Chiral media exhibit electromagnetic chirality embraces optical activity and circular Optical activity to the rotation of the plane of polarization of optical waves by medium while circular dichroism indicates a change in the polarization ellipticity of optical by a Them exists a variety of that exhibit optical activity. For example, 0.63-.mu.m wavelength, TeO.sub.2 exhibits optical activity with a chirality magnitude of 3.83.times.10.sup.-7 mho. This results in a rotation of the plane of polarization per mm. These phenomena, known since the mid nineteenth century, are due to the presence of the two unequal characteristic wavenumbers corresponding to two polarized eigenmodes with handedness. The fundamentals electromagnetic chirality are See, e.g., J. A. Kong, Theory of Electromagnetic Waves, 1975; E. Post, Formal Structure of Electromagnetics, 1962. More recent includes the macroscopic treatment of electromagnetic waves chiral structures L. Jaggard et at. Applied Physics, 18, 211, 1979; the analysis of dyadic Green's and dipole in chiral media, S. Bassiri et al. Alta Frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 N. Engheta et al. IEEE Trans. on Ant. & Propag., 37, 4, 1989; the reflection and refraction of waves a dielectric-chiral interface, S. Bassiri et at. J. Opt. Soc. Am. A5, 1450, 1988; and guided-wave structures comprising chiral N. and Pelet, Opt. Lett., 14, 593, 1989. The following table compares the electromagnetic properties of chiral and nonchiral materials: __________________________________________________________________________ Simple Medium Chiral Medium Characteristics D = .epsilon.E D .epsilon.E + i.xi..sub.c B Constitutive Relations = (1/.mu.)B H i.xi..sub.c + (1/.mu.) __________________________________________________________________________ B Equation .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times. E k.sup.2 E = .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times. E - k.sup.2 E - 2.omega..mu..xi..sub.c .gradient. .times. E = 0 Wavenumbers ##STR1## Eigenmodes Linear Polarization Allowed RCP and LCP Only Wave Intrinsic Impedance ##STR3## ##STR4## Prior radomes have been known and used to protect antenna elements from the adverse effects of a harsh environment. have been used to control the radiation ("RCS") parameters of antennas and antenna arrays that and transmit electromagnetic energy. Typically, prior radomes have been made of low loss dielectric materials which have designed to have minimal interaction with the antennas found therein. However, prior radomes have unable efficiently effectively provide control of radiation and scattering properties for and antenna arrays both low RCS applications and high efficiency antenna design. There therefore exists a long-felt need in the art for sophisticated and effective antenna radomes to provide sensitive radiation control and RCS management for low profile antennas.
|
it Has BEEN ShoWn ThAT, FOr TIMe-harmOniC EleCtRoMagnETic FielDS WITH Exp(-i.OmEga.T) eXcitATiOn, a HOMogEneoUS, LOw LosS, isotropIc chIRAL (oPtIcalLy aCtive) MEDIuM Can be DEScRIbeD electRomAGNETicAlLY bY ThE fOLloWInG CoNsTItUtiVe ReLatiOnS: Equ d=.EPSIlon.e+I .xi..sub.C b (1) EqU H=i.xI.E+(1/.Mu.)b (2)
wHeRE E, b, D anD H ArE eLECTroMagnETic fiElD VecTORs AnD .EpSILon., .mU., .XI..sUb.c REprESEnT thE DIElecTRiC conSTAnt, PerMEabIliTY and ChiraLiTy aDmitTANCe of ThE CHIral MeDIum, ReSPECtIvElY. A "ChiRaL mEdIUM" coMPrIseS cHirAl OBJecTS Of the Same handEDNesS, RANDOMLy OriENteD AND uniFORmlY diSTributed. a chIRAL oBJEct Is A tHREE-diMENSIoNAl boDy That CaNnOt BE brOUGhT INto CONgRuencE wiTh ItS MiRrOr IMage By TRansLATIoN ANd rOtAtIOn. thEreforE, alL chIraL ObjEcts Can Be CLassifiED iN tErMs OF THeir "haNDEdneSs." THe teRm "HAndEDnESs," as kNOwN By tHOse WIth skILl IN THE arT, rEFers tO wHeThEr a CHiRal oBJECT is "rIGht-hANDed" Or "LEFT-haNdeD." ThAT is, if A ChIRAl ObjeCT IS FIGHt-HANDEd (left-HAndED), itS MiRrOR ImAgE Is lEfT-hANded (rigHt-haNDED). tHErEfORe, The mirROR iMAge of a ChIral ObJeCt iS ITs enAnTiOmORph.
ChIRaL medIA exHibit eLEcTRoMaGNeTiC ChIraLiTY WHICH EMbRaCeS oPtIcAl aCtIVity aND cIRcUlar DIcHrOiSM. oPTiCAL ACTIvity ReFerS TO The rotATioN OF tHE plaNe OF POlArIzAtION of oPtIcAL wavEs By A medium WhILE CIrcUlAr DiCHRoiSM IndiCATeS A ChaNge iN ThE polARizATiON eLLipTIciTY oF oPTICAL wAVeS By A mediUM. thEm ExisTS a vaRIety Of MAteriaLs ThaT EXhiBit optIcal actiVITy. FOR eXaMPlE, FoR 0.63-.MU.M WAVeLEngTh, TeO.sUB.2 ExHIbIts optical ACTiVity WItH A chIRALiTY ADmiTTAnCe MAgNiTude OF 3.83.TIMES.10.sup.-7 mhO. THis REsUlTS IN a ROTAtioN of THE PlANe Of pOlarizatION OF 87.DeGREe. PEr mm. tHESE PhenomeNa, knowN sInce tHE mid NinetEENTH centURy, Are duE To thE pREsEnce Of THE TWO UNeQUal charactERiSTiC WaVENumBerS coRRESPonDiNg tO tWO ciRcULaRly POLaRIzed eiGEnMoDEs wiTH OPPOSITE HaNDEdneSS.
the fUnDAmeNtAlS oF elECtROmAGNETIC cHIRaLity Are KNOwN. SEE, e.G., j. A. KOng, TheOrY Of eLecTROmAGnetic WAveS, 1975; e. J. PoSt, ForMal STructuRe oF ElECTroMaGnetiCs, 1962. MoRe RecEnt woRk IncLudEs tHE maCroSCopiC tReAtmEnT OF ELeCTRomAgNETic wAvES wITh ChiRal STRucTUreS D. l. jaggArd Et aT. ApPlieD PHYSics, 18, 211, 1979; THe analYsIs of dyadiC gREEN'S fUNcTIoNS aNd dipole RadiAtION IN chiral MeDia, s. bAsSirI et Al. ALtA FrEQUENzA, 2, 83, 1986 AnD n. eNgheta et AL. IEEe TRAns. ON aNt. & PrOpaG., 37, 4, 1989; the refLeCtIon anD REFRacTiON oF wAves At A DIeLECtRIC-CHIral INtErface, S. bAssIRi et aT. j. oPT. sOc. aM. A5, 1450, 1988; And gUIDed-waVE STrUctUrES COMPrISinG chIrAL materIAls, N. enGheTA And p. pelET, opt. LeTt., 14, 593, 1989. The FoLLOwInG TaBLe COmpaReS tHE ElECtroMAgNetIc PropERTiEs Of CHIRAl AND NonChiRaL MaterIals:
__________________________________________________________________________ simpLe MediuM ChIRAl MediUm CHarACtERiSTICS d = .EpSIlOn.e d = .EPSiLon.e + I.Xi..sUb.c B CONStITuTiVe reLatiONs H = (1/.mu.)b H = i.xI..SuB.c E + (1/.mU.) __________________________________________________________________________ B wAVE eqUatIOn .GradIENt. .tiMeS. .GRadieNt. .TImES. E - k.Sup.2 e = .GrADiENt. .tiMEs. .gRadIeNT. .TimeS. e - K.SUP.2 E - 2.OMeGA..mU..xi..suB.C .GRAdienT. .TiMES. E = 0 WAVenUmbeRs ##STR1## ##StR2## EiGenmodEs liNEAr POLARizATiON aLloWED rCP AnD lCp oNly WAve INtRiNsic iMpEdAnCe ##sTr3## ##stR4## __________________________________________________________________________
pRior raDomes HaVe beEn KNOwn And usED tO ProTEcT ANteNNA ElemEnts FROM thE AdvERSe EfFecTS oF a hArsH EnvIrOnmENt. radOMES hAvE aLsO beEN usED to coNTrOL THE RADIatIon cRoSS-secTioN ("rcS") pARametErS Of anTENnaS ANd AnTEnnA ArRaYs thAT reCEIVE And tRANSmiT electromAGNETIC ENeRGy. TYpIcALLy, PrIor RAdomES HavE bEeN mAdE oF LOW LOsS DIelectRIc MaterIaLS whiCH Have BeeN DEsigneD to HAvE MInimAL interaCTiON WiTH thE AntENnAS FOund tHErEiN. hOWeveR, PRIOr raDomEs haVe bEEN UnablE TO eFfiCiEnTLY aND EfFEctiVelY prOvIDE ContrOL OF radiaTIon And sCATTERinG pROperTIes fOR ANTEnnas AnD antENNA aRRAyS both In LOw rcS appliCATiONs AnD HiGH eFfIcIEncY AnTEnnA dEsIgN. tHErE THereFORE ExistS A LOnG-felT NEED in tHE ArT For sOPHiSticAtED And effECTive AntENna RAdomEs tO PRovide seNSItIve RADIAtION COntROl aND rcS MaNAgeMEnt fOr LOW prOfiLe aNtEnNas.
|
It has been shown that, for time-harmonicelectromagnetic fields with exp(-i.omega.t) excitation, a homogeneous, lowloss,isotropicchiral(optically active)medium can be described electromagnetically by thefollowing constitutive relations: EQU D=.epsilon.E+i .xi..sub.c B (1) EQU H=i.xi.E+(1/.mu.)B (2)where E, B, D and H are electromagnetic field vectors and .epsilon., .mu., .xi..sub.c representthe dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of thechiral medium, respectively. A"chiral medium" comprises chiralobjects of the same handedness, randomly oriented anduniformly distributed.A chiral object is a three-dimensional body that cannot be broughtinto congruence with its mirror image by translation and rotation.Therefore, all chiral objects can be classifiedin terms of their "handedness." The term "handedness," as known by thosewithskill in the art, refersto whethera chiral object is "right-handed" or "left-handed." That is, if achiral object is fight-handed(left-handed), its mirror imageis left-handed (right-handed).Therefore, the mirrorimage ofa chiralobject is its enantiomorph. Chiral media exhibit electromagneticchiralitywhich embraces optical activity and circulardichroism. Optical activity referstothe rotation of the plane of polarization of optical waves by a medium while circular dichroism indicates a changein the polarization ellipticity of optical wavesby a medium.Them existsa variety ofmaterials that exhibit opticalactivity. For example, for 0.63-.mu.m wavelength, TeO.sub.2 exhibits optical activity with a chirality admittance magnitude of 3.83.times.10.sup.-7 mho. This results in a rotation of the plane of polarizationof 87.degree. per mm. These phenomena, known since the mid nineteenth century, are due to the presence of the two unequalcharacteristic wavenumbers corresponding to two circularly polarized eigenmodes with opposite handedness. The fundamentals of electromagnetic chirality are known.See,e.g., J. A.Kong, Theory of ElectromagneticWaves,1975; E. J.Post, Formal Structure ofElectromagnetics, 1962. Morerecent work includes the macroscopic treatmentofelectromagnetic waves with chiral structures D. L. Jaggard et at.Applied Physics, 18, 211, 1979; theanalysis of dyadic Green's functions and dipoleradiation in chiral media, S. Bassiri et al. Alta Frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 and N. Engheta et al.IEEETrans. on Ant. & Propag.,37, 4, 1989; the reflection and refraction of waves at a dielectric-chiralinterface, S. Bassiri et at. J. Opt. Soc.Am.A5, 1450, 1988;and guided-wave structures comprisingchiral materials, N. Engheta and P. Pelet, Opt. Lett., 14, 593, 1989. The following table compares the electromagnetic properties ofchiral andnonchiral materials: __________________________________________________________________________ Simple Medium Chiral Medium Characteristics D = .epsilon.E D= .epsilon.E + i.xi..sub.c B ConstitutiveRelations H = (1/.mu.)B H = i.xi..sub.c E + (1/.mu.) __________________________________________________________________________ B Wave Equation .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times.E - k.sup.2 E = .gradient. .times. .gradient. .times. E - k.sup.2 E - 2.omega..mu..xi..sub.c.gradient. .times. E = 0Wavenumbers ##STR1## ##STR2## Eigenmodes Linear Polarization Allowed RCP and LCP Only Wave Intrinsic Impedance ##STR3####STR4## __________________________________________________________________________ Prior radomes have been known and used to protectantenna elements from the adverse effectsof a harsh environment.Radomes have also been used to control the radiation cross-section("RCS")parameters of antennas and antenna arrays that receive and transmit electromagnetic energy. Typically, prior radomes have been madeof low loss dielectric materials which have been designed to have minimal interactionwith the antennas found therein.However, prior radomes have been unable toefficiently andeffectivelyprovide controlof radiation and scatteringpropertiesfor antennas and antenna arrays both in low RCS applications and high efficiencyantenna design. There thereforeexists along-felt need inthe art for sophisticated andeffective antenna radomes to provide sensitiveradiation control andRCS management forlow profileantennas.
|
_It_ has been shown that, for time-harmonic _electromagnetic_ fields _with_ _exp(-i.omega.t)_ excitation, a homogeneous, _low_ loss, isotropic chiral (optically active) medium can be _described_ electromagnetically by the following constitutive relations: _EQU_ D=.epsilon.E+i _.xi..sub.c_ B (1) EQU H=i.xi.E+(1/.mu.)B (2) where E, B, D and _H_ are electromagnetic _field_ vectors and .epsilon., _.mu.,_ _.xi..sub.c_ represent _the_ dielectric constant, permeability and chirality admittance of the chiral medium, respectively. A "chiral medium" comprises _chiral_ objects of the same handedness, _randomly_ oriented _and_ uniformly distributed. A chiral object is a three-dimensional body that cannot be brought _into_ congruence with its mirror image _by_ _translation_ and _rotation._ Therefore, all chiral objects can be classified _in_ terms of _their_ "handedness." The term "handedness," _as_ known by those with skill in the art, _refers_ to whether a chiral object is _"right-handed"_ or "left-handed." That is, if a chiral _object_ is _fight-handed_ (left-handed), its mirror image is left-handed (right-handed). Therefore, the mirror _image_ of _a_ chiral object is _its_ enantiomorph. _Chiral_ media exhibit electromagnetic chirality which _embraces_ optical _activity_ and circular dichroism. Optical activity refers to the _rotation_ of the plane _of_ polarization of optical _waves_ _by_ a medium while circular dichroism indicates a change _in_ the polarization ellipticity of _optical_ waves by a medium. Them exists a variety _of_ materials that exhibit optical activity. For example, for 0.63-.mu.m wavelength, _TeO.sub.2_ exhibits optical activity with a _chirality_ admittance magnitude of 3.83.times.10.sup.-7 mho. This results _in_ a rotation of the plane of polarization of 87.degree. per _mm._ These _phenomena,_ known since the mid _nineteenth_ century, are due _to_ the presence _of_ the two _unequal_ characteristic wavenumbers corresponding _to_ two _circularly_ _polarized_ eigenmodes with opposite _handedness._ The _fundamentals_ of electromagnetic chirality are known. See, e.g., J. A. _Kong,_ Theory of Electromagnetic Waves, 1975; E. J. Post, Formal Structure of _Electromagnetics,_ 1962. More recent work _includes_ the macroscopic treatment of _electromagnetic_ waves with _chiral_ structures D. L. Jaggard et at. Applied Physics, 18, 211, 1979; the analysis of dyadic _Green's_ functions _and_ dipole radiation _in_ chiral media, S. Bassiri et al. Alta Frequenza, 2, 83, 1986 and N. Engheta et al. IEEE Trans. on Ant. & Propag., _37,_ 4, 1989; the reflection and refraction _of_ waves at a _dielectric-chiral_ interface, _S._ Bassiri et _at._ J. Opt. Soc. Am. A5, 1450, 1988; and _guided-wave_ structures comprising chiral materials, N. Engheta _and_ _P._ Pelet, Opt. Lett., _14,_ _593,_ 1989. The _following_ table _compares_ the electromagnetic properties of chiral and nonchiral materials: ____________________________________________________________________________ _Simple_ Medium Chiral Medium Characteristics D = .epsilon.E _D_ = _.epsilon.E_ _+_ _i.xi..sub.c_ B Constitutive Relations H = (1/.mu.)B H = _i.xi..sub.c_ E _+_ (1/.mu.) __________________________________________________________________________ B Wave Equation .gradient. _.times._ .gradient. .times. E _-_ k.sup.2 _E_ = .gradient. _.times._ .gradient. .times. E - k.sup.2 E _-_ 2.omega..mu..xi..sub.c .gradient. .times. E = _0_ Wavenumbers ##STR1## ##STR2## Eigenmodes Linear Polarization Allowed RCP and LCP Only _Wave_ Intrinsic Impedance ##STR3## ##STR4## ____________________________________________________________________________ Prior radomes _have_ been known _and_ used _to_ _protect_ antenna elements from the adverse _effects_ of a harsh _environment._ Radomes have also been used to control the radiation cross-section _("RCS")_ parameters _of_ _antennas_ and antenna arrays that receive _and_ transmit _electromagnetic_ energy. Typically, _prior_ radomes have been made _of_ low loss dielectric materials which have _been_ designed to have minimal _interaction_ with the antennas found therein. However, prior radomes have been unable _to_ efficiently _and_ effectively provide control of radiation and scattering properties for antennas and antenna _arrays_ both in low _RCS_ _applications_ and high efficiency antenna design. There therefore exists _a_ long-felt need in the art for sophisticated and effective antenna _radomes_ to _provide_ sensitive radiation control and _RCS_ management for _low_ profile antennas.
|
1. Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to attachment systems for staple line buttress materials. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress materials to an anvil and staple containing cartridge of a surgical stapling instrument.
2. Background of Related Art
Surgical stapling instruments, or “stapling devices”, are employed by surgeons to sequentially or simultaneously apply one or more rows of fasteners, e.g., staples or two-part fasteners, to body tissue for the purpose of joining segments of body tissue together. Such devices generally include of a pair of jaws or finger-like structures between which the body tissue to be joined is placed. When the stapling device is actuated, or “fired”, longitudinally moving firing bars contact staple drive members in one of the jaws. The staple drive members push the surgical staples through the body tissue and into an anvil in the opposite jaw which crimps the staples closed. If tissue is to be removed or separated, a knife blade can be provided in the jaws of the device to cut the tissue between the lines of staples.
When stapling relatively thin or fragile tissues, it is important to effectively seal the staple line against air or fluid leakage. Additionally, it is often necessary to reinforce the staple line against the tissue to prevent tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through the tissue. One method of preventing tears or pull through involves the placement of a biocompatible fabric reinforcing material, or “buttress” material, between the staple and the underlying tissue. In this method, a layer of buttress material is placed against the tissue and the tissue is stapled in conventional manner. In more recent methods, the buttress material is positioned on the stapling instrument itself prior to stapling the tissue. An exemplary example of this is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,594 to McKean et al. In McKean et al., a tube of buttress material is slipped over the jaw of the stapler. The stapler is then actuated to staple the subject tissue and secure the buttress material between the tissue and staple line to reinforce the tissue and staple line.
Some novel surgical staplers utilize fasteners or clips to temporarily connect buttress material to the jaws of the staplers. However, in some instances, it would be desirable to mold or machine structure into the jaws themselves to facilitate attachment of correspondingly structured buttress materials. It would be further desirable to provide such structure in a manner which does not interfere with the operation of a knife blade associated with the jaws.
|
1. technical field the present disclosure relates functional attachment systems for staple line buttress materials. more particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress materials to an anvil and staple containing cartridge of a surgical stapling instrument. 2. background of related art surgical stapling instruments, or “ stapling devices ”, are employed by surgeons to sequentially or simultaneously apply one or more rows of fasteners, e. g., staples or two - part fasteners, to body tissue for the purpose of joining segments into body tissue together. such devices generally include of a pair of jaws or finger - like structures between which the body tissue to be joined were placed. when the stapling device is actuated, or “ fired ”, longitudinally moving firing bars contact staple drive members in one of the jaws. the staple drive members push the surgical item through the body tissue and into an anvil in the opposite jaw which crimps the staples closed. if tissue is to be removed or separated, a knife blade can be provided in the jaws of the device to cut the tissue between the lines of staples. when stapling relatively thin or fragile tissues, it is desirable to effectively seal the staple line against air or fluid leakage. additionally, it is often necessary to reinforce the staple line against the tissue to prevent tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through the tissue. one method of preventing tears or pull through involves the placement of a biocompatible fabric reinforcing material, or “ buttress layer material, between the staple and the underlying tissue. using this method, a layer of buttress material is placed against the tissue and the tissue is stapled in conventional manner. in more recent methods, the buttress material was positioned on the stapling instrument itself prior to stapling the tissue. an exemplary example of this is disclosed in u. s. pat. no. 5, 542, 594 to mckean et al. in mckean et al., a tube of buttress yarn is slipped over the jaw of the stapler. the stapler is then actuated to staple the subject tissue and secure the buttress line between the tissue and staple line to reinforce the tissue and staple line. some novel surgical staplers utilize fasteners or clips to temporarily connect buttress material to the jaws of the staplers. however, in some instances, it would be desirable to mold or machine structure into the jaws themselves to facilitate attachment of correspondingly structured buttress materials. it would be further desirable to provide such structure in a manner which does not interfere with the operation of a knife blade associated with the jaws.
|
1. Technical Field The present disclosure relates to attachment systems for staple line buttress materials. More particularly, the present disclKsKre relates to systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress materials to an anvil and staple containing cartridge of a surgical stapling instrument. 2. BaFuground of Related Art Surgical stapling instruments, or “ stapling devices ”, are employed by surgeons to sequentially or simultaneously apOOy one or more rows of fasteners, e. g. , staples or two - part fasteners, to body tissue for the purpose of joining segments of body tissue fogwther. Such devices generally include of a pair of jaws or finger - like strudtureW between which the body tissue to be joined is placed. When the stapling device is actuated, or “ fired ”, longitudinally moving firing bars contact staple drive mWmhers in one of the jaws. The staple drive members push the surgical staples through the body tissue and into an anvil in the opposite jaw which crimps the staples closed. If tissue is to be removed or separated, a knife blade can be provided in the hawZ of the device to cut the tissue between the lines of staples. When stapling relatively thin or fragile tissues, it is important to effecfiGely seal the staple line against air or fluid leakage. Additionally, it is often necessary to reinforce the staple line against the tissue to prevent tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through the tissue. One method of preventing tears or pull through involves the placement of a biocompatible fabric reinforcing material, or “ buttress ” material, between the staple and the underlying tissue. In this method, a layer of buttress material is placed against the tissue and the tissue is stapled in conventional manner. In more recent methods, the buttress material is positioned on the stapling instrument itself prior to stapling the tissue. An exemplary example of this is disclosed in U. S. Pat. No. 5, 542, 594 to McKean et al. In McKean et al. , a tube of buttress material is slipped over the jaw of the stapler. The stapler is then astuat$d to Wtap;e the subject tissue and secure the buttress material between the tissue and staple line to reinforce the tissue and staple line. Some novel surgical staplers utilize fasteners or clips to temporarily connect buttress material to the jaws of the staplers. However, in some instances, it would be desirable to mold or machine structure into the jaws themselves to facilitate attachment of correspondingly structured buttress materials. It would be further desirable to provide such structure in a manner which does not interfere with the operation of a knife blade associated with the jaws.
|
1. Field The present disclosure relates to attachment systems staple line buttress materials. particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress materials to an anvil and staple containing cartridge of a surgical stapling instrument. 2. Background of Related Surgical stapling instruments, or “stapling are employed by surgeons sequentially or simultaneously apply one or more rows of fasteners, e.g., staples or two-part fasteners, to body tissue for the purpose of segments of body tissue together. Such devices generally include a of or finger-like structures between which the body tissue to be joined is placed. When the stapling device is actuated, or “fired”, longitudinally moving firing bars staple drive members in one of the jaws. The staple drive members push the surgical staples through the body tissue and into an anvil in the opposite jaw crimps the staples closed. If tissue is to removed or separated, blade can be provided in the of the device to cut the tissue between the lines of staples. When stapling relatively fragile tissues, it is important to effectively seal the staple line against air or fluid leakage. Additionally, it is often reinforce the staple line against the tissue to prevent tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through the tissue. One method of preventing tears or pull through involves the of a reinforcing material, or material, between staple and the underlying tissue. In this method, a layer of buttress is placed against the tissue and the tissue is stapled in conventional manner. In more recent methods, the material is positioned on the instrument itself prior to stapling the tissue. An exemplary example this is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,594 to McKean et al. In McKean et al., a tube of buttress material is slipped over the of the stapler. The stapler is then actuated to staple the subject and secure the buttress material between the tissue and staple line to reinforce the tissue and staple line. Some novel utilize fasteners to temporarily connect buttress the jaws of the staplers. However, in some instances, it would be desirable to or machine into the jaws themselves to facilitate attachment of structured buttress materials. It would be further desirable to provide such structure in a manner which not with the operation of a knife blade with the jaws.
|
1. TECHNIcal fIeLD
thE preSENT disCLOSUrE ReLAtES To AttacHMEnt SYSTEmS fOr staPle LINE ButTreSs MATeRIAlS. MorE pArTIcularlY, tHe pReseNT diSCLOsuRe RElATEs TO sySTeMS aND meThodS of teMpORARily attacHiNG sTAple LiNe BuTtresS mATErIalS tO an aNvil And sTAPLE cOnTAINiNG CARtrIdGE of A sURgICaL StApliNg INstruMEnt.
2. BACKGrounD of RELATed Art
suRgiCAl STAplIng iNstRuMenTs, Or “StApliNg devIceS”, ARe EMPloyED By suRgeoNS To SEQuEntiAllY or sIMULTaNeOusLY APply one Or MOre rOWS oF FAstEnERS, e.g., STAPlES or TWo-Part faSTENeRS, tO body TISSuE for tHe puRPose Of JoINiNg SEgMENts Of BoDy tIssUE TOgeTheR. sUCh deViceS genERALLY INClUDE oF a PAIR Of JAWS oR FINGEr-lIke StRuCtUReS BEtWeEN WhICH tHE bOdy TISsUE TO bE joineD iS PLaced. WHen the STaPLING DEviCe is ACTuaTEd, Or “fiReD”, LonGITuDinalLy MOvING firing BARs COnTAcT StAPLe dRIve MEmbers in ONe oF thE jAws. The sTAplE dRIve MEmberS push the surGICal STaples ThROugh THE bOdY tiSsUe aNd INto An ANvIL In THE opPosITE JaW WHich CRIMPs the stAPLes ClosEd. iF tisSUE Is tO be rEmoveD oR sePARated, A knife blADe Can be ProvIded iN THE JAws of THE DEVice To Cut thE TisSUE BEtWeEn thE LINes OF STAples.
when stApLing ReLAtIveLY tHIN or FragILe TiSsuEs, IT IS ImpoRtANT tO efFECTIvELY SeAL the stAplE lINE aGAInST AIr Or FlUID lEAKage. ADdItIONAlly, IT IS OFTEn NEceSsArY to ReINFoRce THe stAplE linE AGaINST tHe tisSuE TO PreVeNt TEaRS iN the tiSsUe or puLliNG Of thE STaPles throUGH tHe tIsSUe. One mETHOD oF PrEvEnTiNg teaRS or PuLl tHrough InvolVEs tHe PLACEMeNT oF a bIoComPaTiBlE fabrIc ReINfOrCing MaTEriAl, oR “BUTTrESs” MAterIal, BEtwEEN thE sTaplE and THe UnDeRLyING TiSsUe. In ThIS mEThod, A LAYEr OF buTtrEsS matErIAL is pLacEd AGAiNst thE TiSsue aND tHE TissuE is StapLED iN CONvENTioNal mAnNer. in mORE recEnT METHods, the buttreSS MAtERiAl Is poSITioneD oN ThE stAPLINg INStRUment itSelf pRior to staPLiNg THE TisSUe. aN EXeMPLAry exAMPLE Of thiS is dISClOsEd IN U.S. PAT. NO. 5,542,594 To mCKEaN et AL. IN MCkeAN Et al., A TUBE OF buttreSS mAtEriAl is sliPPED OVer tHE jAw OF THE STAPlEr. ThE sTaPlER is TheN actUAtEd To stAPlE ThE SUbjECt TISSuE and seCUre THe ButTRESs mAterIal BETWeEn tHe tIsSuE ANd sTaple LINe to reINfORce thE tisSUE aNd STAPle liNe.
sOME NOVEL surGICaL sTaPLers uTIlizE FastenErS OR cLiPS to tEMporariLY Connect buTTREsS MAteriAl To the JAWS OF tHE stapleRS. HoWeVER, IN SOME instaNces, It wOuLd Be DesirABle TO MOlD Or mAChINE stRucTure iNTo THE Jaws ThEMseLvES to faCiLITaTE AtTachmENt Of COrrEsponDiNgLY struCtURED BUTTREss matEriAlS. It WoULD Be FUrTHeR DesirAbLe tO PROvIDE SuCH STRuCTUrE iN a MaNNeR WHich dOES NOt INterfEre WITH The oPerAtION oF a kNiFe bLAdE asSOcIaTED wItH ThE jawS.
|
1. Technical FieldThe presentdisclosure relates to attachment systems for staple line buttress materials. Moreparticularly, the present disclosure relatesto systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress materials to ananvil and staple containing cartridge ofa surgical stapling instrument. 2. Backgroundof Related Art Surgical stapling instruments, or “stapling devices”,are employed bysurgeons to sequentiallyor simultaneouslyapply one or morerows of fasteners, e.g., staples or two-part fasteners, to bodytissue for the purposeof joining segments of body tissuetogether. Such devices generally include of a pair of jaws or finger-likestructures between which thebodytissue to be joined is placed. When the stapling device is actuated, or “fired”, longitudinally moving firingbars contact staple drive members in oneof the jaws. The staple drive members pushthe surgicalstaples through the body tissue and into an anvilin the opposite jaw whichcrimps the staples closed. Iftissue isto be removed orseparated,aknife blade canbe provided in the jaws of the deviceto cutthe tissue between the lines of staples. Whenstapling relativelythin orfragile tissues, it is important to effectivelyseal the staple line againstair or fluid leakage. Additionally,it is often necessary to reinforce the staple line againstthe tissue to prevent tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through the tissue. One method ofpreventing tears orpullthrough involvesthe placementof a biocompatiblefabric reinforcing material, or “buttress” material, betweenthe staple and the underlying tissue.In thismethod, a layerof buttress materialis placedagainst the tissue and the tissue is stapledin conventional manner.Inmore recent methods, thebuttress material is positioned on the stapling instrument itself prior to stapling the tissue. An exemplary example of this isdisclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,542,594 toMcKean etal. InMcKean et al., a tube ofbuttressmaterial is slipped over the jaw of the stapler. The stapler is then actuated to staplethe subjecttissue and secure the buttress material between the tissue and staple line to reinforce the tissue and staple line. Some novel surgical staplers utilize fasteners or clips to temporarily connect buttress material to the jaws of the staplers. However,in some instances, it would be desirableto mold or machine structure into the jaws themselves to facilitate attachment of correspondingly structured buttress materials. It would be further desirable toprovide suchstructurein amanner which does notinterfere with the operation ofa knifeblade associated with the jaws.
|
1. Technical Field _The_ present disclosure relates to attachment systems _for_ staple line buttress materials. More particularly, the present _disclosure_ relates to systems and methods of temporarily attaching staple line buttress _materials_ _to_ an anvil _and_ _staple_ containing cartridge _of_ a surgical _stapling_ instrument. 2. Background of Related Art _Surgical_ stapling instruments, or “stapling devices”, are employed by surgeons to _sequentially_ or simultaneously apply one or more rows of fasteners, e.g., staples or _two-part_ fasteners, to body tissue for the _purpose_ of _joining_ _segments_ of _body_ tissue together. _Such_ devices generally include of a _pair_ of jaws or finger-like _structures_ between _which_ the body _tissue_ _to_ be joined is _placed._ When the stapling device is actuated, or “fired”, longitudinally _moving_ firing _bars_ contact staple _drive_ members _in_ _one_ of the _jaws._ The staple drive members push _the_ surgical staples through _the_ body tissue and into an anvil in the opposite _jaw_ which _crimps_ the staples closed. If _tissue_ is to _be_ removed or separated, a knife blade can _be_ provided in the jaws of the device to cut _the_ tissue between the lines of staples. When stapling relatively thin _or_ _fragile_ tissues, it is _important_ _to_ effectively _seal_ _the_ staple line against air or fluid _leakage._ Additionally, it is often necessary to reinforce the staple _line_ against the _tissue_ _to_ _prevent_ tears in the tissue or pulling of the staples through _the_ tissue. One method of preventing tears or pull through _involves_ the _placement_ of a biocompatible fabric reinforcing material, or “buttress” _material,_ between the staple and _the_ underlying tissue. In this method, _a_ layer of buttress material is placed _against_ the tissue and the tissue is _stapled_ in conventional manner. In _more_ _recent_ methods, the buttress material is _positioned_ on the stapling _instrument_ itself prior to stapling the tissue. An exemplary example of _this_ is disclosed in _U.S._ Pat. No. 5,542,594 to McKean _et_ al. _In_ _McKean_ _et_ al., a tube _of_ buttress material is slipped over _the_ jaw of _the_ _stapler._ The stapler is then actuated to staple the subject tissue and secure the buttress material between the tissue and staple line _to_ reinforce the tissue and staple line. Some novel surgical staplers utilize fasteners or clips to temporarily _connect_ buttress material _to_ the jaws of the staplers. _However,_ in some instances, it _would_ _be_ desirable to _mold_ or machine structure into _the_ jaws themselves to _facilitate_ attachment of correspondingly structured buttress materials. It would be further desirable to provide such structure in a _manner_ which does _not_ interfere with the operation of a _knife_ _blade_ associated with the jaws.
|
Fishing lures have been provided generally in the shape of spoons and minnows having a line attachment means on one end and hook attachment means on the other, often in the form of embedded or otherwise rigidly attached eyelets. The bodies of such lures have been painted or otherwise coated with reflective material applied as by dipping. Such lures have been bent or weighted so as to provide a variety of movements or actions as, for example, simulating an injured minnow so as to attract fish.
The use of reflective paint or material on lures is illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 284,056 and 564,839. A lure having a bright color is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 1,805,416. The fishhook of U.S. Pat. No. 1,390,767 has a body of pliable lead while the sinker of U.S. Pat. No. 2,591,294 has a spoon shape with attachment means on one end. A sinker having a particulate puttylike mass of sinker composition or heavy material is attachable to a fishing line assembly.
It is an important object of this invention to provide a lure which is constructed of heavy moldable lead like material which may be bent by the fisherman as desired to vary the action of the lure while casting is facilitated avoiding the addition of at least part of additional sinker material as may otherwise have been necessary to cause the lure to sink and act as desired for a lure of given shape and appearance.
It is also an important object of the invention to provide a line to which a reflective tape which may have an iridescent appearance has been adhesively applied.
Another important object of the invention is the provision of a lure having a body which may be molded of lead like material to which eyelets may be attached during molding and which may be coated with a water resistant bendable material and to which reflective material may be applied in the material or otherwise as by a reflective adhesive tape.
|
fishing lures have been provided generally in the shape of spoons and minnows having a line attachment means on one end and hook attachment means on any other, often in the form of embedded or otherwise rigidly attached eyelets. the bodies of such lures have been painted or otherwise coated with reflective enamel applied as by dipping. such lures have been bent or weighted so as to provide a variety of movements or actions as, for example, simulating an injured minnow so as to attract fish. the use of reflective paint or material on lures is illustrated in u. s. pat. nos. 284, 056 and 564, 839. a lure having a bright color is illustrated in maj. s. pat. no. 1, 805, 416. the fishhook of u. s. pat. no. 1, 390, 767 has a body of pliable lead while the sinker of u. s. pat. no. 2, 591, 294 has a spoon shape with attachment means on one end. a sinker having some particulate puttylike mass of sinker composition or backing material is obtained using a fishing line assembly. it is most important object of this invention to provide a lure which is constructed of heavy moldable lead like material which may be bent by the fisherman as desired to vary the action of the lure while casting is facilitated avoiding the addition of at least part of additional sinker material as may otherwise have been necessary to cause the lure to sink and act as desired for a lure of given shape and appearance. it is also an important object of the invention to provide a line to which a diving tape which may have an iridescent appearance has been adhesively applied. another important object of the invention is the provision of a lure having a body which may be molded of lead like material upon which eyelets may be attached during molding and which may be coated with a water resistant bendable material and to which reflective material may be applied in the material or otherwise as by a reflective adhesive tape.
|
Fidhlng lures have bewb provided generally in the shape of spoons and minnows having a line attachment means on one end and hook attachment NeAns on the other, often in the form of embedded or otherwise rigidly attached eyelets. The bodies of such lures have been painted or otherwise coated with reflective material applied as by dipping. Such lures have been bent or weighted so as to provide a variety of movements or actions as, for example, simulating an injured minnow so as to aHtrac$ fish. The use of reflective paint or material on lures is illustrated in U. S. Pat. Nos. 284, 056 and 564, 839. A lure having a bright color is illustrated in U. S. Pat. No. 1, 805, 416. The fishhook of U. S. Pat. No. 1, 390, 767 has a body of pliable l3Wd while the sinker of U. S. Pat. No. 2, 591, 294 has a spoon shape with attachment means on one end. A sinker having a particulate puttyli,D mass of sinker composition or heavy material is attachable to a fishing line assembly. It is an important object of this invention to provide a lure which is constructed of heavy moldable lead like material which may be bent by the fisherman as desired to vary the action of the lure while casting is facilitated avoiding the addition of at least part of additional sinker material as may otherwise Bwve been necessary to cause the lure to sink and act as desired for a lure of given shape and appearance. It is also an important object of the invention to provide a line to which a reflecYivR tape which may have an iridescent appearance has been adhesively applied. Another important object of the invention is the provision of a lure having a body which may be Ho>ded of lead like material to which eyelets may be attached during molding and which may be coated with a qate$ resistant bendable material and to which reflective material may be applied in the material or otherwise as by a reflective adhesive tape.
|
Fishing lures have been provided generally in the shape of spoons and minnows having a line attachment means on one end and hook attachment means on the other, often in the form of or otherwise rigidly attached eyelets. The bodies of such lures been painted or otherwise coated material applied as by dipping. Such lures have been bent or weighted so as provide a variety of movements or actions as, for simulating an injured minnow so as to attract fish. The use of reflective or material on lures is illustrated U.S. Pat. Nos. 284,056 and 564,839. A lure a bright is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 1,805,416. The fishhook of U.S. Pat. No. 1,390,767 has a body of pliable lead while the sinker of Pat. No. 2,591,294 has a spoon shape attachment means on end. A having a particulate puttylike mass of sinker composition or heavy material is attachable to a line assembly. It is an important of this invention provide a lure which is constructed of heavy moldable lead like material which may be bent by the desired to vary the of the lure while casting is facilitated avoiding the addition of at least part of additional sinker material as may otherwise necessary to cause the lure to sink and act as desired for a lure of given shape and It is also an object of the invention to a line to reflective tape which may have an iridescent appearance has been adhesively applied. Another important object of the invention is the provision of a lure having a body which may be molded of lead material to which eyelets be attached molding and which may be coated with a water bendable material and to which reflective material may be applied the material or otherwise as by reflective adhesive tape.
|
fishINg LUREs haVe bEEn pROviDeD GeNeRALlY iN THE ShaPe Of SpOOnS aNd MiNnOWS HAVing A liNe ATTAcHmENT meAns on ONe ENd aND hOOK attaChMENt mEaNs ON the OTHER, OfTeN In ThE FOrM OF emBEddED oR OtherwIse riGiDlY aTTacheD eYElETs. THe bODies Of SUCh lURES haVe BEEn PaINTED oR OtheRwiSE cOatEd wItH rEflEcTiVE maTerIAL APpLiEd As BY dIpPING. sUCH lURES havE bEEn BENt OR weiGhtEd sO AS TO pROvIDe a vaRietY of MoVeMENts Or aCtIOnS aS, FoR exAmple, SIMULaTiNg AN iNJUred miNnow So AS TO aTtRaCT FiSH.
ThE use of rEfLECTiVe pAINT oR MaTErIaL on lureS IS illuStraTed In U.S. pAt. Nos. 284,056 AnD 564,839. A LurE HaVINg a brIgHT ColoR IS iLLUSTRaTED IN U.s. pAT. nO. 1,805,416. ThE FISHHoOK oF u.s. pAT. nO. 1,390,767 Has A bOdy of pLIAbLe lEAd wHile tHE SiNKeR Of u.s. Pat. nO. 2,591,294 HaS A spoON SHaPe wItH atTacHmenT meAns on oNE End. a SiNKeR HavING A PaRTicUlaTE puttYLIKe MASS Of sInKeR CoMPOSiTIon Or hEAVY MAtErIal IS ATtaCHABle TO a FiShING LinE AssEmBly.
iT is aN ImpORTaNt ObJeCT Of THIS invENTiOn tO PrOviDe a Lure WhIcH is cONstrUcTed oF heAVY MoLDablE lEAd LikE MateRiAl WhICH may BE BEnT by thE fIsHERmAn aS deSIREd TO vArY THe acTiON Of thE luRE WHIlE CASTInG is FacILiTatED avoiDing tHE additiOn OF At LEast PART of addItIonaL SINkeR maTErIal As mAy oTHErwiSE HAVe BEEN neCESsary tO cauSe thE LURe to sINk and acT As deSirED fOR A lUre oF GIVeN shApe AND aPpeaRAncE.
it Is Also AN IMPORTANT OBject oF THe iNventiOn to prOViDE a lIne TO WhiCh A REFLecTIVE tAPe which mAY hAVe AN iRiDesCENt APpeArANce HaS BEen ADHesIvELy APplIed.
AnotheR IMpOrtANt oBject oF thE InvenTIOn IS tHE PROvISiOn oF A LUre haVIng A body wHICH MaY bE MolDeD OF LEaD lIkE mAterIAl tO WhICh eYEletS MAY be attaCheD durIng MOldIng anD WhIch maY BE coAted WITh a wATEr RESiSTaNt BEnDAblE mATerIAL and TO WHicH rEFLECTIvE MAteriAL MAy Be APPLied in tHe MATEriAl or otherWise As BY A RefLecTIVE adheSiVe taPE.
|
Fishing lures havebeenprovided generally inthe shape of spoons and minnows having a line attachment means on one end and hook attachment means onthe other,often intheform of embedded or otherwise rigidly attached eyelets. The bodies of such lures have been painted or otherwise coatedwith reflective materialapplied as by dipping. Such lures have been bent or weighted so as toprovide a variety of movements or actions as, for example, simulatingan injured minnow soas to attract fish. The use of reflective paintor material on lures is illustratedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 284,056 and 564,839. A lurehaving a bright color is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 1,805,416. The fishhook ofU.S. Pat. No. 1,390,767has a body of pliable lead while thesinkerof U.S. Pat.No. 2,591,294 has a spoon shape with attachmentmeans on one end. A sinker having a particulateputtylike mass of sinker composition or heavy material isattachable to a fishing line assembly. It is an important object of this inventionto providealure whichis constructed of heavy moldable leadlike material which may be bentby the fisherman as desired to varythe action of the lure while castingis facilitated avoiding the addition of at least partofadditional sinkermaterial as may otherwise have been necessary to causethe lure to sink and act as desired for a lure of given shape and appearance. It is also animportant object of the invention to provide a line to which a reflective tapewhich may have an iridescent appearance has been adhesively applied.Another important object of the invention is the provision ofa lure having a body which may be molded ofleadlikematerial to which eyelets maybe attachedduring molding and which may be coated with a water resistant bendable material andto whichreflective material may be applied in the material or otherwise as by areflective adhesive tape.
|
_Fishing_ lures have _been_ provided generally in _the_ shape of spoons _and_ minnows _having_ a line attachment means on one end _and_ hook attachment means on _the_ _other,_ often in the form of _embedded_ _or_ otherwise _rigidly_ attached eyelets. The bodies of such lures have been painted or otherwise coated with reflective material _applied_ _as_ by dipping. Such lures _have_ been bent or weighted so _as_ to provide a variety of _movements_ or actions as, for example, simulating an injured _minnow_ so _as_ to attract _fish._ The use of reflective paint or material on lures is illustrated in U.S. _Pat._ Nos. 284,056 and _564,839._ A lure having a bright color is illustrated in U.S. Pat. _No._ 1,805,416. _The_ fishhook of U.S. Pat. _No._ 1,390,767 has a body of pliable lead while _the_ sinker _of_ U.S. Pat. No. 2,591,294 has a spoon shape _with_ _attachment_ means on _one_ end. A sinker having a particulate puttylike mass _of_ sinker composition or heavy material is attachable to a fishing line assembly. _It_ is _an_ important object of this invention to provide a lure _which_ is _constructed_ of heavy moldable _lead_ like _material_ which may be bent by the _fisherman_ as _desired_ to vary the action _of_ the lure while _casting_ is facilitated avoiding the addition of at _least_ part of additional sinker material as may otherwise have _been_ _necessary_ to cause _the_ lure to sink _and_ act as desired for a lure of _given_ shape and _appearance._ It _is_ _also_ _an_ _important_ object of the invention _to_ provide _a_ line _to_ which a reflective tape _which_ may have an _iridescent_ _appearance_ has been adhesively applied. Another important object of _the_ invention is the _provision_ of a lure having _a_ body which may be molded _of_ _lead_ like material to which eyelets may be attached during molding and which may be coated _with_ a water _resistant_ bendable material _and_ to which reflective _material_ may be applied in _the_ material or otherwise as by _a_ reflective _adhesive_ tape.
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a device equipped with series connected thyristors and adapted for use as a reactive power compensator or the like.
FIG. 1 shows a conventional reactive power compensator as an example of this type, wherein there are included an AC power source 1 for supplying a voltage V, a power source impedance 2, an inductive load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase advance capacitor 5, a current controller 6 consisting of a diode 7 and a thyristor 8 which are so connected as to constitute an antiparallel circuit, a voltage transformer 9, a current transformer 10, a reactive power detector 11, and a gate signal generator 12. The reactive power detector 11 serves to detect a reactive power Q out of a circuit voltage V.sub.R obtained from the voltage transformer 9 and a circuit current I.sub.R obtained from the current transformer 10 and, upon increase of the detected reactive power Q to a preset value, feeds a capacitor output command signal q to the gate signal generator 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the gate signal generator 12 comprises a timing pulse generator 121, an inverter 122, AND elements 123a and 123b, and a signal generator 124. The timing pulse generator 121 receives the output V.sub.R of the voltage transformer 9 shown in FIG. 1 and, as illustrated in FIG. 5, produces a gate-on command pulse P.sub.ON synchronously with the negative maximum value of the output V.sub.R and also a gate-off command pulse P.sub.OFF after delay of a predetermined time To therefrom. And both the pulse P.sub.ON and the capacitor output command signal q are fed to the AND circuit 123a, while the pulse P.sub.OFF and the inverted capacitor output command signal q obtained from the inverter 122 are fed to the AND circuit 123b. The gate signal generator 124 consists of a self-excited oscillator which, in response to an input signal received at its terminal A from the AND circuit 123a, feeds a wide-duration gate signal GP to the gate of the thyristor 8 and maintains such an action continuously until arrival of a signal at its terminal B from the AND circuit 123b.
FIG. 2 shows a current controller 6 employed when the main circuit of the device is of high-voltage type. This controller consists of a plurality of series connected diodes 7a, 7b and 7c and a plurality of series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c. Also shown are pulse transformer 13 and demodulators 14a, 14b and 14c.
Hereinafter the operation of this device will be described with reference to the waveform charts of FIGS. 4 and 5.
Since the thyristor 8 remains in its off-state until arrival of the capacitor output command signal q, the phase advance capacitor 5 is charged at a potential equivalent to the negative maximum value V.sub.max of the voltage V, so that a voltage V.sub.A-K having a waveform of FIG. 4 (c) including both the supply voltage V and the output voltage V.sub.C of the capacitor 5 superposed thereon is applied between the anode and the cathode of the thyristor 8.
Supposing now that the capacitor output command signal q is produced at time t.sub.0, the gate-on command signal P.sub.ON is not outputted despite application of the signal q to the gate signal generator 12 until time t.sub.1 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value, so that the gate signal GP is not generated either until arrival of time t.sub.1. This circuit configuration is designed in such a manner as to prevent flow of a rush current from the phase advance capacitor 5 by placing the thyristor 8 in a conducting state when the voltage V.sub.A-K applied thereto is in the vicinity of its zero level. Upon generation of the gate signal GP, the thyristor 8 is turned on to permit flow of a capacitor current Ic of FIG. 4 via the phase advance capacitor 5, thereby compensating for the reactive power in the main circuit to improve the power factor thereof.
When the power factor is thus improved to reduce the reactive power below a predetermined value, the capacitor output command signal q comes to be extinct. But even after extinction of the signal q at time t.sub.2 as shown, the capacitor current Ic still keeps flowing via the diode 7 until time t.sub.4 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value. For this reason, the gate-off command pulse P.sub.OFF is preset to have a duration shorter than one cycle of the supply voltage V by the turn-off time T.sub.OFF of the thyristor 8.
The above conventional device performs its operation as mentioned when the load 3 is an inductive one. However, in case the load 3 is a thyristor unit or the like, the waveform of the supply voltage V is distorted as shown in FIG. 6 due to higher harmonics included in the circuit current I, so that a distorted current comes to flow in the phase advance capacitor 5. An example of such distorted current is shown in FIG. 6 (d). If the time point, at which the current Icd flowing in the diode 7 (hereinafter referred to as diode current) becomes zero like the capacitor current Ic, deviates toward time t.sub.3 of extinction of the gate signal GP in the case where the current controller 6 is equipped with series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c as shown in FIG. 2, there may occur an undesired phenomenon that, for example, the thyristors 8a and 8b are turned off while the thyristor 8c fails to be turned off because of some variation in the turn-off characteristics of the individual thyristors. And with subsequent increase of the supply voltage V posterior to time t.sub.4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8c alone to eventually cause its withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this will be referred to as first case of withstand voltage breakdown.)
Furthermore, when the waveform of the capacitor current Ic is distorted as shown in FIG. 7 (d), i.e. in case the current flowing in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at the time of extinction of the gate signal GP is commutated to the circuit of diodes 7a, 7b and 7c at time t.sub.42 and then is blocked by the thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at time t.sub.43 : the period from time t.sub.42 to time t.sub.43 is excessively short to fail in securing a sufficient turn-off time as a result, and due to the variation in the characteristics of the individual thyristors, there occurs a phenomenon that, e.g. the thyristor 8c alone is left in its on-state and is finally led to withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this will be referred to as second case of withstand voltage breakdown.)
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to a device equipped with series connected thyristors and adapted for use as a reactive power compensator or the like. fig. 1 shows a conventional reactive power compensator as an example of this type, whereas there are included an ac power source 1 for supplying a voltage v, a power source impedance 2, an inductive load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase advance capacitor 5, a current controller 6 consisting of a diode 7 and a thyristor 8 which are so connected as to constitute an antiparallel circuit, with voltage transformer 9, a current transformer 10, a reactive power detector 11, and a gate signal generator 122. the reactive power detector 11 serves to detect the reactive power q out of a circuit voltage v. sub. r obtained from the voltage transformer 9 and a circuit current i. sub. r obtained from the current transformer 10 and, upon increase of the detected reactive power q to a preset value, feeds a capacitor output command signal q to the gate signal generator 12. as illustrate in fig. 3, the gate signal generator 12 comprises a timing pulse generator 47, an inverter 122, and elements 123a and 123b, and a signal generator 124. the timed pulse generator 121 receives the output v. sub. r of the voltage transformer 9 shown in fig. 1 and, as illustrated in fig. 5, produces a gate - on the output p. sub. on synchronously with the negative maximum value of the output v. sub. r and also a gate - off command pulse p. sub. off after delay of a predetermined time to therefrom. and both intermediate pulse p. sub. on and the capacitor output command signal q are fed to the and circuit 123a, while the pulse p. sub. off and the inverted capacitor output command signal q obtained from the inverter 122 are fed to the and circuit 123b. the gate signal generator 124 consists of a self - excited oscillator which, in response to an input signal received at its terminal a from the and circuit 123a, feeds a wide - duration gate signal gp to the gate of the thyristor 8 and maintains such an action continuously until arrival of a signal at its terminal b from the and circuit 123b. fig. 2 shows a current controller 6 employed when the main circuit of the device is of high - voltage type. this controller consists of a plurality of series connected diodes 7a, 7b and 7c and a plurality of series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c. also shown are pulse transformer 13 and demodulators 14a, 14b and 14c. hereinafter the operation of this device will be described with reference to the waveform charts of figs. 4 and 5. since the thyristor 8 remains in its off - state until arrival of the capacitor output command signal q, the phase advance capacitor 5 is charged at a potential equivalent to the negative maximum value v. sub. max of the voltage v, so that a voltage v. sub. a - k having a waveform of fig. 4 ( c ) including both the supply voltage v and the output voltage v. sub. c of the capacitor 5 superposed thereon is applied between the anode and the cathode of the thyristor 8. supposing now that the capacitor output command signal q is produced at time t. sub. 0, the gate - on command signal p. sub. on is not outputted despite application of the signal q to the gate signal generator 12 until time t. sub. 1 at which the supply voltage v reaches its negative maximum value, so that the gate signal gp is not generated either until arrival of time t. sub. 1. this circuit configuration is designed in such a manner as to prevent flow of a rush current from the phase advance capacitor 5 by placing the thyristor 8 in a conducting state when the voltage v. sub. a - k applied thereto is in the vicinity of its zero level. upon generation of the gate signal gp, the thyristor 8 is turned on to permit flow of a capacitor current ic of fig. 4 via the phase advance capacitor 5, thereby compensating for the reactive power in the main circuit to improve the power factor thereof. when the power factor is thus improved to reduce the reactive power below a predetermined value, the capacitor output command signal q comes to be extinct. but even after extinction of the signal q at time t. sub. 2 as shown, the capacitor current ic still keeps flowing via the diode 7 until time t. sub. 4 at which the supply voltage v reaches its negative maximum value. for this reason, the gate - off command pulse p. sub. off is preset to have a duration shorter than one cycle of the supply voltage v by the turn - off time t. sub. off of the thyristor 8. the above conventional device performs its operation as mentioned when the load 3 is an inductive one. however, in case the load 3 is a thyristor unit or the like, the waveform of the supply voltage v is distorted as shown in fig. 6 due to higher harmonics included in the circuit current i, so that a distorted current comes to flow in the phase advance capacitor 5. an example of such distorted current is shown in fig. 6 ( d ). if the time point, at which the current icd flowing in the diode 7 ( hereinafter referred to as diode current ) becomes zero like the capacitor current ic, deviates toward time t. sub. 3 of extinction of the gate signal gp in the case where the current controller 6 is equipped with series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c as shown in fig. 2, there may occur an undesired phenomenon that, for example, the thyristors 8a and 8b are turned off while the thyristor 8c fails to be turned off because of some variation in the turn - off characteristics of the individual thyristors. and with subsequent increase of the supply voltage v posterior to time t. sub. 4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8c alone to eventually cause its withstand voltage breakdown. ( hereinafter this will be referred to as first case of withstand voltage breakdown. ) furthermore, when the waveform of the capacitor current ic is distorted as shown in fig. 7 ( d ), i. e. in case the current flowing in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at the time of extinction of the gate signal gp is commutated to the circuit of diodes 7a, 7b and 7c at time t. sub. 42 and then is blocked by the thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at time t. sub. 43 : the period from time t. sub. 42 to time t. sub. 43 is excessively short to fail in securing a sufficient turn - off time as a result, and due to the variation in the characteristics of the individual thyristors, there occurs a phenomenon that, e. g. the thyristor 8c alone is left in its on - state and is finally led to withstand voltage breakdown. ( hereinafter this will be referred to as second case of withstand voltage breakdown. )
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a device equipped with series connected thyristors and adapted for use as a reactive power compensator or the like. FIG. 1 shows a conventional reactive power compensator as an example of this type, wherein there are included an AC power source 1 for supplying a voltage V, a power source impedance 2, an inductive load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase advance capacitor 5, a current controller 6 consisting of a diode 7 and a thyristor 8 which are so connected as to constitute an antiparallel circuit, a voltage transformer 9, a current transformer 10, a reactive po@Fr detector 11, and a gate signal generator 12. The reactive power detector 11 serves to detect a reactive power Q out of a circuit voltage V. sub. R obYalned from the voltage transformer 9 and a circuit current I. sub. R obtained from the current transformer 10 and, upon increase of the detected reactive power Q to a preset vaPuF, feeds a capacitor output command signal q to the gate signal generator 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the gate signal generator 12 comprises a timing pulse generator 121, an inverter 122, AND elements 123a and 123b, and a signal generator 124. The timing pulse generator 121 receives the output V. sub. R of the voltage transformer 9 shown in FIG. 1 and, as illustrated in FIG. 5, produces a gate - on command pulse P. sub. ON synchronously with the negative maximum vao Te of the output V. sub. R and also a gate - off command pulse P. sub. OFF after delay of a predetermined time To therefrom. And both the pulse P. sub. ON and the capacitor output command signal q are fed to the AND circuit 123a, while the pulse P. sub. OFF and the inverted capacitor output command signal q obtained from the inverter 122 are fed to the AND circuit 123b. The gate signal generator 124 consists of a self - excited oscillator which, in response to an input signal received at its terminal A from the AND circuit 123a, feeds a 1id@ - duration gate signal GP to the gate of the thyristor 8 and maintains such an action continuously jnYil arrival of a signal at its terminal B from the AND circuit 123b. FIG. 2 shows a current controller 6 employed when the main circuit of the device is of high - voltage type. This controller consists of a plurality of series connected diodes 7a, 7b and 7c and a plurality of series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c. Also shown are pulse transformer 13 and demodulators 14a, 14b and 14c. Hereinafter the operation of this device will be described with reference to the waveform charts of FIGS. 4 and 5. Since the thyristor 8 remains in its off - state until arrival of the capacitor output command signal q, the phase advance capacitor 5 is charged at a potential equivalent to the negative maximum value V. sub. max of the voltage V, so that a voltage V. sub. A - K having a waveform of FIG. 4 (c) including both the supply voltage V and the output voltage V. sub. C of the capacitor 5 superposed thereon is applied between the anode and the cathode of the thyristor 8. Supposing now that the capacitor output command signal q is produced at time t. sub. 0, the gate - on command signal P. sub. ON is not outputted despite application of the signal q to the gate signal generator 12 until time t. sub. 1 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value, so that the gate signal GP is not generated either until arrival of time t. sub. 1. This circuit configuration is designed in such a manner as to prevent flow of a rush current from the phase advance capacitor 5 by placing the thyristor 8 in a conducting state when the voltage V. sub. A - K applied thereto is in the vicinity of its zero level. Upon generation of the gate Zognal GP, the thyristor 8 is turned on to permit flow of a capacitor current Ic of FIG. 4 via the phase advance capacitor 5, thereby compensating for the reactive power in the main circuit to improve the power factor thereof. When the power factor is thus improved to reduce the reactive power below a predetermined value, the capacitor output command signal q comes to be extinct. But even after extinction of the signal q at time t. sub. 2 as shown, the capacitor current Ic still keeps flowing via the diode 7 until time t. sub. 4 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value. For this reason, the gate - off command pulse P. sub. OFF is preset to have a duration shorter than one cycle of the supply voltage V by the turn - off time T. sub. OFF of the thyristor 8. The above conventional device performs its operation as mentioned EhWn the load 3 is an inductive one. However, in case the load 3 is a thyristor unit or the like, the waveform of the supply voltage V is distorted as shown in FIG. 6 due to higher harmonics included in the circuit current I, so that a distorted current comes to flow in the phase adFancR capacitor 5. An example of such distorted current is shown in FIG. 6 (d ). If the time point, at which the current Icd flowing in the diode 7 (hereinafter referred to as diode current) becomes zero like the capacitor current Ic, deviates toward time t. sub. 3 of extinction of the gate signal GP in the case where the current controller 6 is equipped with series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c as shown in FIG. 2, there may occur an undesired phenomenon that, for example, the thyristors 8a and 8b are turned off while the thyristor 8c fails to be turned off because of some variation in the turn - off characteristics of the individual thyristors. And with subsequent increase of the supply voltage V posterior to time t. sub. 4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8c a:Ine to eventually cause its withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this will be referred to as first case of withstand voltage breakdown.) Furthermore, when the waveform of the capacitor current Ic is distorted as shown in FIG. 7 (d ), i. e. in case the current flowing in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at the time of extinction of the gate signal GP is commutated to the circuit of diodes 7a, 7b and 7c at time t. sub. 42 and then is blocked by the thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at time t. sub. 43: the period from time t. sub. 42 to time t. sub. 43 is excessively short to fail in securing a sufficient turn - off time as a result, and due to the variation in the characteristics of the individual thyristors, there occurs a phenomenon that, e. g. the thyristor 8c alone is left in its on - state and is finally led to withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this will be referred to as second case of withstand voltage breakdown. )
|
1. of the Invention The present invention relates a device equipped with series connected thyristors and adapted use as a reactive power or the like. FIG. shows a conventional reactive power compensator as an example this type, there included an AC power source 1 for supplying a V, a power source impedance 2, an inductive load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase capacitor a current controller 6 of a diode 7 and a thyristor 8 which are so connected as to constitute an antiparallel circuit, a voltage transformer 9, a current transformer 10, a reactive power detector 11, and a signal generator The reactive power detector 11 serves to detect a reactive power Q out of a circuit V.sub.R obtained from the voltage transformer 9 and circuit current I.sub.R obtained from the current transformer 10 and, upon increase of the detected reactive power Q to a preset value, feeds a capacitor output command signal q to the gate signal generator 12. shown in FIG. 3, the gate signal generator 12 comprises a timing pulse 121, an 122, AND elements 123a and 123b, and a signal 124. The timing pulse generator 121 receives the output the voltage transformer 9 FIG. 1 and, as illustrated in FIG. 5, produces a gate-on command pulse P.sub.ON synchronously the negative maximum value of the output V.sub.R and also command pulse P.sub.OFF after delay of a predetermined time To therefrom. And both the pulse P.sub.ON and the capacitor output command signal q are fed the circuit 123a, while the pulse P.sub.OFF and the inverted capacitor output command signal q obtained from the inverter 122 fed to the AND circuit 123b. The gate signal generator 124 consists of a self-excited oscillator which, in response to an signal received at its terminal A the AND circuit 123a, feeds a wide-duration GP to the gate the thyristor 8 and maintains such an action continuously until arrival of a its terminal B from the AND circuit 123b. FIG. 2 shows current controller 6 employed when the main circuit of the device is of high-voltage This controller consists a plurality series connected diodes 7a, 7b and 7c and a plurality of series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c. Also are pulse transformer 13 and demodulators 14a, 14b and 14c. Hereinafter the operation of this device will be described with reference to the waveform charts FIGS. and 5. Since the thyristor 8 remains in its off-state until arrival of output command signal q, the advance capacitor 5 is charged at a potential equivalent to the negative maximum value V.sub.max of the voltage V, so a voltage V.sub.A-K having waveform of FIG. 4 including both the supply voltage V and voltage V.sub.C of the capacitor 5 superposed thereon is applied between the anode and the cathode of the thyristor 8. Supposing now that capacitor output command signal q is produced at t.sub.0, the gate-on command signal P.sub.ON is not outputted despite application of the q the gate signal generator 12 until time t.sub.1 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value, so that gate signal GP not generated until arrival of time t.sub.1. This circuit configuration designed in such a manner as prevent flow of a rush current from the phase advance capacitor 5 by placing thyristor 8 in a conducting state the V.sub.A-K applied thereto is in the vicinity of its zero level. Upon of the gate signal GP, thyristor 8 is turned on to permit flow of a capacitor current Ic of FIG. 4 via the phase advance capacitor thereby compensating for the reactive power in main circuit improve the power factor thereof. When the power factor is thus improved to the reactive power below a value, the capacitor output command signal q comes to be extinct. But even after extinction of the signal q at time t.sub.2 as shown, the capacitor current Ic still keeps flowing via the diode 7 until time t.sub.4 at which the supply voltage reaches its negative maximum value. For this reason, the gate-off command P.sub.OFF is preset to have a duration shorter than one cycle of the supply voltage V by the turn-off time T.sub.OFF of the thyristor 8. The above conventional device performs its operation as mentioned when the load 3 is an inductive However, in case the load 3 is a unit or the like, the waveform the supply V distorted shown in FIG. 6 due to higher harmonics included in the current I, so that a distorted current comes to flow capacitor 5. An example of such distorted current is shown in FIG. 6 (d). the time point, at which the current Icd flowing in the diode 7 (hereinafter referred to as diode current) becomes zero like the current Ic, deviates toward t.sub.3 of extinction of the gate signal GP in case where the controller 6 is equipped with series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c as shown in FIG. 2, occur an undesired phenomenon that, for example, the thyristors and turned off while the thyristor 8c fails to be turned off because of some variation in the turn-off characteristics of the individual thyristors. And with subsequent increase of the supply voltage V posterior to time t.sub.4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8c alone eventually its withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter will be referred to as first case of withstand breakdown.) when the waveform of the capacitor current Ic distorted as shown in FIG. 7 (d), i.e. in case the current flowing in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at the time extinction of the gate signal GP is commutated to the circuit of diodes 7a, and 7c at time t.sub.42 and then is blocked by the thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at t.sub.43 : the period from t.sub.42 to time t.sub.43 is excessively to fail in securing a sufficient turn-off as a result, and due the variation in the characteristics of the thyristors, there occurs a that, e.g. the 8c alone is left in on-state and finally led to withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this will be referred to second case of withstand voltage breakdown.)
|
1. FiEld of thE iNventIoN
the PrESEnT iNVENtION rELATes To A DEvicE EquIpped with SerIeS ConNeCted THYrIsTORs ANd adApted foR uSE as a ReaCtivE PoWEr COmPensAtOR or ThE lIkE.
FIG. 1 ShOWs a CoNVeNTiOnal reActIVe PoWER cOMPensATOR AS An eXaMPlE of THiS TYpe, wheReIn THeRe ArE iNclUDEd an AC poweR SourCe 1 fOR suppLyiNg A VOLTAge V, a pOwER sOurcE iMpeDaNcE 2, an InductIVE LOAd 3, A rEACTIVE PoWER coMpENsATOR 4, a pHAsE ADvAnCE CapacItOr 5, a cUrREnT CONtroLlEr 6 cONSIstINg oF a dIoDe 7 anD a thyRIstor 8 WhiCH Are sO cONnecTED aS tO ConstiTutE AN ANTIPARallel circUIT, A vOLTagE TraNSfOrmer 9, A CUrrENt TrAnsFORmEr 10, a ReACTIVe PowER deTeCTor 11, and a Gate sIGnAl gEnERator 12. ThE ReaCtive PoweR Detector 11 SErveS tO DEtEct a REACtIVE POwEr q OUt Of A CIrcuit VoLTAge v.Sub.R OBtAinEd fRom tHe volTagE traNsFOrMEr 9 aNd A CirCUiT curREnt i.SuB.r ObtaINEd FrOm tHe CuRrENT tRANsfORmer 10 AND, UPoN incREaSe OF The deteCTEd rEActive PoweR Q To A preSEt VaLUE, feedS a CaPAcitOR ouTpuT cOMmaND sIGNal q to THe GATe SIGNAl GeNeRator 12. as ShOWn iN fIg. 3, tHE GaTE sIgNaL GeNeRATOR 12 COmPrIsES a tiMiNG PuLsE GeNErAtOr 121, An inverteR 122, And elEMents 123A aNd 123B, anD A SIgNAL GEnEraTor 124. ThE tIminG PULSe GeNERatOr 121 receiVES thE OUtpUt v.SuB.r OF THe volTAge trAnsfOrMER 9 ShoWN IN Fig. 1 And, aS iLLuStrAtEd in fIG. 5, ProdUcES a GaTe-oN CommAnd puLsE p.suB.on synCHRoNously WiTH the NEGatiVE MAxIMuM VAlue Of tHe outpUT v.sUB.r AnD ALso A gaTE-OFf COMmaND pulse p.sUB.off after Delay oF a pReDeTeRMiNED Time tO ThERefRoM. aND BoTH tHe pulSe p.SUB.on aND the CAPACiTor OUTPUt COmmaNd SIGNAl q Are FED To The AND cIRcUIt 123A, whIlE thE pULse P.sub.OFF aND The INVERTEd CAPaCiToR ouTPut COMMANd sIgNal Q ObTaiNeD FrOm tHE iNveRTEr 122 ArE FED To tHe anD ciRcUiT 123B. tHe gATe SigNAL generAtOR 124 consIsts of A seLF-eXCiTEd OscIllAtor whIcH, In REspONse To An inPUt SIgNAl RECeiVeD at itS tERMinAl a From tHE AND cIRcuIt 123a, feedS A wiDe-dURATIOn GATe SIGnal Gp tO tHE gAtE Of THe ThYrIstOr 8 aND mAINTaINs sucH AN ACTion contINUOusly uNtil aRrIvaL oF A sigNaL At iTS tErmINaL B fRoM thE aND ciRCuit 123B.
fIg. 2 shOWS A cuRRenT cOntroLLer 6 emplOyED wHEn tHe maIn circUIT of the dEVicE Is OF hIGH-voLtAGe tyPe. This cONTrOLlER coNsISTs OF A PluRALiTy of serieS conNeCTeD dIODes 7A, 7B And 7c ANd a plUraliTY oF SeRies conNECTed THyrIsTORs 8a, 8B AND 8c. aLSo sHOWN ARE puLSe TrANSFOrMeR 13 AnD deMoDUlATOrs 14A, 14b and 14C.
HEreINaFtEr THE OpERAtIOn of tHiS DeViCE wILl bE DESCRIBEd WITH ReFERenCe To THE WaveforM CHaRts Of figs. 4 And 5.
since THe ThyrIStoR 8 REMAinS iN its OfF-STATE UnTiL arriVal of ThE cApACItOr OuTput CoMmaND sIGnAl Q, tHE pHaSE aDvAncE CAPaciToR 5 IS cHaRGeD at A POtentIal eQuivaLeNT To the neGATIvE MAximuM Value V.SUB.MAx Of tHE volTaGe v, sO tHat a VolTaGe V.Sub.A-k Having a WAvEForm Of FIG. 4 (C) IncLuDING BOtH The SUppLY VOLtage v AND thE Output vOlTage V.sub.C of the CaPAciTOR 5 SupErPosED THerEON Is aPplIEd beTweEn thE ANOdE aND tHe CatHODE Of tHE tHyRiStOr 8.
sUpPOsIng NOW ThaT tHe CAPACITor OUTPUt COMmAnd Signal Q Is proDUced AT time t.suB.0, THE GATE-ON CoMMAND siGnAL P.sUB.on is Not OUTPuTted DESPiTE ApplicatIOn of tHe sIgnal Q To tHE GAte SiGNAl geNEraTOR 12 UnTiL tIMe t.sub.1 aT WhicH thE SupPLy voLtaGe v reaCHeS iTs negatIVE MAXImUM VAlUe, so ThAT ThE gatE SiGNAL Gp iS nOt GEnErATed EitHeR UntiL arRIvAl of timE t.SUB.1. thIs Circuit coNfIGuraTIoN iS dEsIGneD iN SucH a manNEr aS TO prevEnT FlOW OF A rush CURREnT fROm THe phASE AdVaNCe CApacITor 5 bY PLAciNG thE ThyRISTor 8 In a CONduCtinG StATe WHEn thE vOLtAGE V.SUb.A-K aPPLieD thERETO IS in The vIcINity oF ITS ZeRo lEvel. UPON genERation OF tHE gate SIGNaL gP, The THyrisTor 8 is TurNed on tO PErMIT flOw OF a CAPAcItor cUrrenT ic OF FIG. 4 VIA THe PHASE adVaNce cApaciTOR 5, THerebY comPenSATINg FoR the rEactIVE pOWER In the Main cIrCuiT to IMProVe the pOwER FAcTor TheREoF.
WhEN The poWeR FACTOR iS ThUS IMPrOVeD To REdUCE ThE REAcTiVE poWer bEloW A PRedeteRMiNeD vALue, the capACiTor OuTpUT COMmAND sIgNAl q ComeS to bE eXTiNCt. BuT EVEN AftEr extiNcTIoN OF tHe SigNal Q at tiMe t.suB.2 AS sHOwn, tHE cApAcitOR cUrRENt IC StILl KEEPs fLowiNG vIA THE DIoDE 7 untiL TiMe t.SUb.4 aT wHicH ThE suppLY volTAgE V ReaCHEs ITs NEgaTiVe mAXIMUM vAluE. fOR This ReASoN, thE GATE-OFF coMmAnD PuLse p.sUB.OfF Is pReSeT tO HAve A DUratIOn sHorteR Than ONE CyclE of THe SUpPLy VolTAge V BY THE tURN-off tiME t.suB.oFf of THe ThyriSTOr 8.
thE AbOVE CoNVeNtIonAL device PeRfORMs ITS operATIoN aS meNtIoned WHeN The LOaD 3 iS an induCTive onE. HoWeveR, in caSe tHE Load 3 iS A tHyRIStOR uNIt OR thE LiKE, thE wAvefoRM of tHe sUppLy VOltagE V Is DiSTORteD aS SHown iN fiG. 6 DUE TO hiGher HARmoNIcs inClUdEd iN tHe cIrcUit curRENT i, So tHAT a DisTORtEd CuRReNT cOMES tO fLow IN thE PHaSe AdVAnCE CapACiToR 5. an ExAmplE OF SucH distOrTeD CuRrenT is sHoWN IN FIg. 6 (D). IF tHE time POInt, at whIcH THe CuRreNt icD flowInG In The DIoDE 7 (hEReinaFtER REFErReD to as DiOde cUrrent) becOMeS ZEro lIkE ThE CaPACiTOr CuRREnt IC, DeViAteS TowaRd Time T.Sub.3 OF eXTinctIon oF tHE GaTE SIgnAl gP in the cAsE WhERe tHe cuRrEnT COntroller 6 iS equIppEd wItH seRiES cONNeCTEd ThYristors 8a, 8B ANd 8C as SHOwN In fIG. 2, ThERe MAy Occur aN UndEsIRED PHeNoMenon ThaT, fOr ExAmPLe, the thyrIStoRs 8A anD 8b Are TURneD OFf wHILE the THYrisTOr 8C Fails TO Be tUrned OfF BecAUSe Of Some VARiAtion In the tURn-oFf ChARactErISTICS oF tHe iNdivIdual ThYRistOrs. And WItH sUBSEqUENt incREaSE oF tHE SuPplY vOLTAgE V POstERiOR tO tIME t.suB.4, the entiRE volTagE COMEs to be AppLIED tO THe ThYRIstoR 8C aLONE To EVeNTUAlly cAuse itS WItHStAnD VOltaGe BReAkdown. (hEReinAFTER This wiLL be rEfErRED To as fIRsT CAse OF WITHStaNd VoLtage BREAkDown.)
fUrtHErmORE, WHEN The waveFORM OF tHe caPaCItOR cUrRENT Ic Is dIStoRtEd aS shOwn In fIg. 7 (D), I.e. In CAsE The CurReNt FlOWinG IN The cIRcUIt OF thYRIStorS 8A, 8B And 8C AT THE TimE OF EXTiNCTIOn of The GaTE sIgNal Gp IS coMmUTatED To tHE ciRCuIT OF DIodeS 7A, 7b AnD 7c aT TIMe T.sUb.42 aND THEN IS BlocKEd bY thE tHyRisTors 8A, 8b ANd 8C aT TimE t.SUb.43 : tHE periOd FroM TIMe t.SuB.42 To TIME T.SuB.43 is eXCeSSIVElY ShoRt TO FAiL in securINg A sUFficiEnt TURN-OFF TIme aS a reSULT, And DUe TO tHE VaRiaTIon In ThE cHArACTeRIStIcS Of THE indIVidUAl THYrISToRS, THERe occUrS A PhENOmENOn thaT, e.G. THE tHYrisTor 8c ALONE IS LefT IN itS On-StaTE aND iS fiNalLY LED To wItHStaNd VoltaGe BREAkDOwN. (HEreInAfTeR This WILL bE reFErred to aS SEconD CaSE Of wiTHStAnD vOLTAge BREakdOwn.)
|
1. Fieldof the Invention The present invention relates to a deviceequipped with seriesconnected thyristors and adapted for use as a reactive powercompensator or thelike. FIG.1 shows a conventional reactive power compensator as an example of this type, wherein there are included an AC power source 1 for supplying a voltage V, a power source impedance 2, an inductive load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase advance capacitor 5, a current controller6 consisting of a diode7 anda thyristor 8which are so connectedas to constitute an antiparallel circuit, a voltage transformer 9, acurrent transformer 10, areactive power detector 11, and a gate signal generator 12. The reactive power detector 11 serves to detect a reactivepower Q out of a circuit voltage V.sub.R obtained from the voltage transformer9 and a circuitcurrent I.sub.R obtained fromthe current transformer 10 and, upon increase ofthe detected reactive power Q to a presetvalue,feeds a capacitor output command signal qto the gatesignalgenerator 12. Asshown inFIG. 3, the gate signal generator 12comprises a timing pulse generator 121, an inverter 122, AND elements123a and 123b, and a signal generator 124. The timing pulse generator 121receives theoutput V.sub.Rof the voltage transformer 9 shown in FIG. 1 and, as illustratedin FIG. 5, produces a gate-on command pulse P.sub.ON synchronously with the negative maximum value ofthe output V.sub.R and also agate-off command pulse P.sub.OFF after delay of a predetermined time To therefrom. And both the pulse P.sub.ON and the capacitor output command signal qarefed to the AND circuit 123a, while the pulse P.sub.OFF and the invertedcapacitor output command signal q obtained from the inverter 122 are fed to the AND circuit 123b. The gate signal generator 124 consists ofaself-excitedoscillator which, in response to an input signal received at its terminal A from the AND circuit 123a, feeds a wide-duration gate signal GP to the gate of the thyristor 8 and maintains such an action continuously until arrivalof a signal at its terminal B from the AND circuit 123b. FIG. 2 shows a current controller6 employed whenthe main circuit of thedevice is of high-voltage type. This controller consists of a plurality of series connected diodes 7a, 7b and 7c and a plurality of series connectedthyristors 8a, 8b and 8c.Also shown are pulse transformer 13 and demodulators 14a, 14b and 14c. Hereinafter theoperation of this device will bedescribed with reference to the waveform charts of FIGS. 4 and 5. Since the thyristor 8 remainsin its off-state until arrival of thecapacitor output command signal q, the phase advancecapacitor 5 ischarged at a potential equivalent to the negative maximum value V.sub.max of the voltageV, sothat a voltageV.sub.A-K having a waveform of FIG. 4(c) including both the supply voltage Vand the output voltage V.sub.C of the capacitor 5 superposed thereon is applied between the anode and the cathode ofthe thyristor 8. Supposing now that the capacitor output command signal q is produced at time t.sub.0, the gate-on command signal P.sub.ON isnot outputted despite application of the signal qto the gate signal generator 12 until time t.sub.1 at which the supply voltage V reaches its negative maximum value, sothat the gate signal GP is not generated either untilarrival of time t.sub.1. This circuit configuration is designed insuch a manner as to preventflow of a rush current fromthe phase advancecapacitor 5 by placingthe thyristor 8 in a conducting state when the voltage V.sub.A-K applied theretois in the vicinity ofits zero level. Upon generation of thegate signalGP, thethyristor 8 is turned on to permit flowof a capacitor current Ic of FIG. 4 via the phase advance capacitor 5, thereby compensating for the reactive power in the main circuit to improve the power factor thereof. When the power factoris thus improved toreduce the reactive powerbelow a predeterminedvalue, the capacitor output command signal q comes to be extinct. But evenafter extinction of the signal q at time t.sub.2 as shown, the capacitor current Ic still keeps flowing viathe diode 7 until time t.sub.4 at which the supplyvoltageV reachesits negative maximum value. For this reason,the gate-off command pulseP.sub.OFF is preset to have a duration shorter than one cycle of the supply voltage V by the turn-off time T.sub.OFF of the thyristor 8. Theabove conventionaldevice performs its operation as mentioned when the load 3 is aninductive one. However, incase the load 3 isa thyristor unit or the like, the waveformof the supply voltage V is distortedas shown inFIG. 6 due to higher harmonics included in the circuit current I, sothat a distorted current comes to flow in the phase advance capacitor 5. An exampleof such distorted current is shown in FIG. 6 (d).If the time point, at which the current Icd flowing in the diode 7 (hereinafter referredto as diode current) becomes zero like the capacitor current Ic, deviates toward time t.sub.3 of extinction of the gate signal GP in the case where the current controller 6 is equipped with series connected thyristors 8a, 8band 8c as shown in FIG. 2, there may occur anundesiredphenomenon that, for example,the thyristors 8a and 8b areturned off while thethyristor 8cfailsto beturned off because of somevariation in the turn-off characteristics of the individualthyristors. Andwith subsequent increase of the supply voltage V posterior to time t.sub.4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8calone to eventually cause itswithstand voltage breakdown.(Hereinafter this will be referred to as first case of withstand voltage breakdown.) Furthermore, whenthewaveform of the capacitor current Ic is distorted as shownin FIG. 7 (d),i.e. in case the current flowing in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and8c at the time ofextinction of the gate signalGPis commutated to thecircuit of diodes 7a, 7band7c at time t.sub.42 and then is blocked bythe thyristors 8a, 8b and 8cat time t.sub.43 : the period from time t.sub.42 to time t.sub.43 is excessively short to fail in securing a sufficient turn-off time as a result, and due tothe variation in the characteristics of the individual thyristors, there occurs a phenomenon that, e.g. the thyristor 8c alone is leftinits on-stateand is finally led to withstand voltage breakdown.(Hereinafter thiswill be referredtoassecond case of withstand voltage breakdown.)
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention _relates_ to _a_ device equipped _with_ series connected thyristors and adapted for use _as_ _a_ reactive power compensator or the like. _FIG._ 1 _shows_ _a_ conventional reactive power compensator as an example of this type, wherein _there_ are included an AC _power_ _source_ 1 for supplying a voltage V, a power source impedance 2, an _inductive_ load 3, a reactive power compensator 4, a phase advance capacitor 5, _a_ current controller 6 consisting of a diode 7 and a _thyristor_ 8 which _are_ so connected as to constitute an antiparallel _circuit,_ _a_ voltage transformer 9, a _current_ transformer 10, a _reactive_ power detector 11, _and_ _a_ gate _signal_ generator 12. _The_ reactive power _detector_ _11_ serves to detect a reactive power Q out of a circuit voltage _V.sub.R_ _obtained_ from _the_ voltage _transformer_ 9 and a circuit current I.sub.R obtained from the current transformer _10_ and, upon increase of the detected _reactive_ power _Q_ _to_ a _preset_ value, feeds a capacitor output command _signal_ q to the _gate_ signal generator 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the _gate_ signal generator 12 _comprises_ a timing pulse _generator_ 121, an inverter 122, AND elements 123a _and_ 123b, _and_ _a_ signal _generator_ 124. _The_ timing _pulse_ generator 121 receives the output V.sub.R of the voltage transformer 9 shown in FIG. 1 and, as illustrated in FIG. 5, _produces_ a gate-on command pulse _P.sub.ON_ synchronously with the negative maximum value of the output V.sub.R _and_ _also_ a gate-off command pulse P.sub.OFF after delay of a predetermined time To therefrom. _And_ both the _pulse_ P.sub.ON and the _capacitor_ _output_ command signal q _are_ _fed_ to the AND _circuit_ 123a, while the pulse P.sub.OFF and _the_ inverted _capacitor_ output command signal q obtained _from_ the inverter 122 _are_ fed to the AND circuit _123b._ The gate signal generator _124_ _consists_ of a _self-excited_ _oscillator_ which, in response to an input signal received at _its_ terminal A from the AND circuit 123a, feeds a _wide-duration_ gate _signal_ GP to _the_ _gate_ of the thyristor 8 and _maintains_ such an action _continuously_ until _arrival_ of _a_ signal at its terminal B from the AND circuit 123b. FIG. 2 shows a _current_ controller _6_ employed when the main circuit of the device is of high-voltage type. This controller _consists_ _of_ a _plurality_ of _series_ connected diodes _7a,_ _7b_ and 7c and a plurality of series connected thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c. Also shown are pulse transformer 13 and _demodulators_ 14a, 14b and 14c. Hereinafter the operation of _this_ device _will_ be described with reference _to_ the _waveform_ charts of FIGS. 4 and 5. Since _the_ thyristor _8_ remains in its off-state until arrival _of_ the capacitor output command signal q, _the_ _phase_ _advance_ capacitor 5 is charged at a potential equivalent to the negative _maximum_ value _V.sub.max_ _of_ the voltage _V,_ so _that_ a voltage _V.sub.A-K_ having a waveform of FIG. 4 (c) _including_ both the supply voltage _V_ and _the_ output _voltage_ V.sub.C _of_ the capacitor 5 superposed _thereon_ _is_ applied between the anode and the cathode of the thyristor 8. Supposing now that the capacitor output _command_ signal q is produced _at_ time t.sub.0, the gate-on command signal P.sub.ON is not outputted despite _application_ of the signal q to the gate signal _generator_ 12 until _time_ t.sub.1 at which the _supply_ voltage V reaches its negative maximum value, so that the gate _signal_ GP is not _generated_ either until arrival _of_ time t.sub.1. This circuit configuration is designed _in_ such a manner as to _prevent_ flow of a rush _current_ from _the_ phase advance capacitor 5 by placing the thyristor 8 in _a_ conducting state when _the_ _voltage_ _V.sub.A-K_ applied thereto is in the vicinity _of_ _its_ _zero_ level. Upon generation of _the_ _gate_ signal GP, _the_ thyristor 8 _is_ turned _on_ to permit flow of a capacitor current Ic of FIG. 4 via the phase _advance_ _capacitor_ 5, thereby compensating _for_ the _reactive_ _power_ _in_ the main circuit to improve the power factor thereof. When the power factor is thus _improved_ _to_ reduce the reactive power below a _predetermined_ value, the capacitor _output_ command signal q comes to be extinct. But _even_ _after_ extinction of _the_ signal q _at_ time t.sub.2 as _shown,_ the capacitor current Ic still _keeps_ flowing via the diode 7 until time _t.sub.4_ at _which_ the _supply_ _voltage_ V reaches its negative maximum _value._ For _this_ reason, the gate-off command pulse P.sub.OFF is preset _to_ have _a_ duration shorter than one cycle of _the_ _supply_ voltage V by the _turn-off_ _time_ T.sub.OFF of the _thyristor_ _8._ The above conventional device performs its operation as mentioned when the load 3 is an inductive _one._ However, in case the load 3 is a thyristor unit _or_ the _like,_ the waveform of the supply voltage V is distorted as shown in FIG. 6 _due_ to higher harmonics included in the _circuit_ current I, so that a distorted _current_ _comes_ to flow in the phase advance capacitor _5._ An _example_ _of_ _such_ distorted current is shown in FIG. 6 (d). If the time point, _at_ which the current Icd flowing _in_ _the_ diode _7_ _(hereinafter_ referred to as diode current) becomes _zero_ like the _capacitor_ _current_ Ic, deviates toward time t.sub.3 of _extinction_ of the gate signal GP _in_ the case where the current controller 6 is equipped with _series_ connected thyristors 8a, _8b_ and 8c as shown in FIG. 2, there _may_ occur an undesired phenomenon _that,_ for example, the thyristors _8a_ and _8b_ are turned off _while_ the thyristor 8c fails to be turned off _because_ of some variation in _the_ _turn-off_ characteristics of the individual thyristors. And _with_ subsequent increase of the supply _voltage_ V posterior to time t.sub.4, the entire voltage comes to be applied to the thyristor 8c alone to _eventually_ cause its withstand voltage breakdown. _(Hereinafter_ _this_ will be referred _to_ as first _case_ _of_ withstand voltage breakdown.) Furthermore, when _the_ waveform of the capacitor current Ic is distorted as shown in FIG. 7 _(d),_ i.e. in case the current _flowing_ in the circuit of thyristors 8a, 8b and 8c at _the_ time of extinction of the _gate_ signal GP is commutated to the circuit of diodes 7a, 7b and 7c at time _t.sub.42_ and then is blocked by the thyristors 8a, _8b_ and 8c _at_ time t.sub.43 : the period from _time_ t.sub.42 to _time_ t.sub.43 _is_ excessively short to fail in securing _a_ _sufficient_ turn-off _time_ as a result, and due _to_ the _variation_ in the _characteristics_ _of_ the individual _thyristors,_ _there_ _occurs_ _a_ phenomenon that, e.g. _the_ thyristor 8c alone _is_ _left_ _in_ its _on-state_ _and_ is _finally_ led to withstand voltage breakdown. (Hereinafter this _will_ be referred _to_ _as_ second case _of_ withstand _voltage_ breakdown.)
|
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a lithographic apparatus and a device manufacturing method.
2. Related Art
A lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desired pattern onto a target portion of a substrate. The lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits (ICs), flat panel displays, and other devices involving fine structures. In a conventional lithographic apparatus, a patterning means, which is alternatively referred to as a mask or a reticle, can be used to generate a circuit pattern corresponding to an individual layer of the IC (or other device), and this pattern can be imaged onto a target portion (e.g., comprising part of one or several dies) on a substrate (e.g., a silicon wafer or glass plate) that has a layer of radiation-sensitive material (e.g., resist). Instead of a mask, the patterning means can comprise an array of individually controllable elements that generate the circuit pattern.
In general, a single substrate will contain a network of adjacent target portions that are successively exposed. Known lithographic apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposing an entire pattern onto the target portion in one go, and scanners, in which each target portion is irradiated by scanning the pattern through the beam in a given direction (the “scanning” direction), while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel or anti-parallel to this direction.
It will be appreciated that, whether or not a lithographic apparatus operates in stepping or scanning mode, it is desired that the patterned beam or beams is/are directed onto the appropriate target portion of the substrate surface. In many circumstances, multi-layer structures are built up on the surface of the substrate as a result of a sequence of lithographic processing steps. It is of course desired that the successive layers formed in the substrate are correctly in register with each other. Thus, great care is taken to ensure that the position of the substrate relative to the beam projection system is accurately known.
Various techniques are used to determine the position of a substrate relative to the beam projection system. These generally rely upon the substrate having formed upon it alignment marks that are arranged around the periphery of areas of the substrate onto which active circuit components or the like are to be formed. These marks are located to provide reference points relative to which the position of target portions on the substrate are determined. The alignment marks can be detected optically using the beam projection system, which is also used to project patterns onto the substrate. Such a “through the lens” or TTL approach to the problem of locating alignment marks allows for the position measurement location to be the same as the image formation location. Thus, “Abbe” errors are minimized. In other systems, the alignment mark detectors and the main beam projection system have different optical axes, in which case some means can be provided for compensating for relative movement of these axes.
In an example of a scanning-based system, as the frame supporting the beam projection system and the alignment mark detectors is scanned across the surface of a substrate by moving the substrate, the position of the substrate in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction and the scan speed is adjusted in dependence upon the measured positions of the alignment marks. Alternatively, or additionally, the digital image to be projected can be adjusted. In the case where the patterning means comprises an array of individually controllable elements, this can involve translating or otherwise adjusting the digital pattern applied to the array. The height of the substrate can also be controlled using some type of level sensor arrangement.
Typically, a lithographic apparatus of a given production facility is designed (or configured in a relatively inflexible way) for use with substrates of a fixed size. In the case of flat panel displays or color filter plates, the substrate dimensions can be of the order of several meters, with multiple panels being formed on each substrate. The alignment marks are provided around the periphery of the substrate, as well as between panels. However, there is a desire to introduce flexibility in the layout of panels on the substrates, such that a given production facility can be used to produce panels with different dimensions. This has meant that, for non-standard panel layouts, either only alignment marks around the periphery of the substrate can be used (as the periphery is the only “blank” region common to all substrate layouts), or some manual realignment of the detectors must be carried out While a continuous array of alignment mark detectors positioned across the substrate to detect alignment marks in various intermediate positions can be desirable, this is not practical due to the very high resolution required and the number of detectors that that would necessitate.
A number of factors, for example thermal effects, can cause local variations in the shape of a substrate. It is therefore desirable to provide alignment marks at relatively small intervals across the surface of the substrate. However, the approach described in the previous paragraph mitigates against this as the entire central area of the substrate is effectively unusable for the placement of alignment marks.
Therefore, what is needed is a lithographic apparatus and method that allow for the flexible positioning of alignment marks within the central area of a substrate to be patterned.
|
1. field of the invention the present invention relates to a lithographic apparatus and a device manufacturing method. 2. related art a lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desired pattern onto a target portion of a substrate. the lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits ( ics ), flat panel displays, and other devices involving fine structures. in a conventional lithographic apparatus, a patterning means, which is alternatively referred to as a mask or a reticle, can be used to generate a circuit pattern corresponding to an individual layer of an ic ( or other device ), and this pattern can be imaged onto a target portion ( e. g., comprising part of one or several dies ) on a substrate ( ae. g., a silicon wafer or glass plate ) that has a layer requiring radiation - sensitive material ( e. g., resist ). instead of a mask, the patterning means can comprise an array of individually controllable elements who generate the circuit pattern. too general, a single substrate will contain a network of adjacent target portions that are successively exposed. known lithographic apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposing an entire pattern onto the target portion in one go, and scanners, in which each target portion is irradiated by scanning the pattern through the beam in a given direction ( the “ scanning ” direction ), while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel by anti - parallel to this direction. it will be appreciated that, whether or not a lithographic apparatus operates in stepping or scanning mode, it is desired that the patterned beam or beams is / are directed onto another appropriate target portion of the substrate surface. in many circumstances, multi - layer structures are built up on the surface of the substrate as a result of various sequence of lithographic processing steps. it is in course desired that the successive layers formed in the substrate are correctly in register with each other. thus, great care is taken to ensure that the position of the substrate relative to the beam projection system is accurately known. various techniques are used to determine the position of a substrate relative to the beam projection system. these generally rely upon the substrate having formed upon it alignment marks that are arranged around the periphery of areas of underlying substrate onto which active circuit components or the like are to be formed. these marks are located to provide reference points relative to which the position of target portions on the substrate are determined. the alignment marks can be detected optically using the beam projection system, which is also used to project patterns onto the substrate. such a “ through the lens ” or ttl approach to the problem of locating alignment marks allows for the position measurement location to be the same as the image formation location. thus, “ abbe ” errors are minimized. in other systems, the alignment mark detectors and the main beam projection system have different optical axes, in which case some means can be provided for compensating for relative movement of these axes. in an example of a scanning - based system, as the frame supporting the beam projection system and the alignment mark detectors is scanned across the surface of a substrate by moving the substrate, the position of the substrate in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction and the scan speed is adjusted in dependence upon the measured positions of the alignment marks. alternatively, or additionally, the digital image to be projected can be adjusted. in the case where the patterning means comprises an array of individually controllable elements, this can involve translating or otherwise adjusting the digital pattern applied to the array. the height of the substrate can also be controlled using some type of level sensor arrangement. typically, a lithographic apparatus of a given production facility is designed ( or configured in a relatively inflexible way ) for use with substrates of a fixed size. in the case of flat panel displays or color filter plates, the substrate dimensions can be of the order of several meters, with multiple panels being formed on each substrate. the alignment marks are provided around the periphery of the substrate, as well as between panels. however, there is a desire to introduce flexibility in the layout of panels on the substrates, such that a given production facility can be used to produce panels with different dimensions. this has meant that, for non - standard panel layouts, either only alignment marks around the periphery of the substrate can be used ( as the periphery is the only “ blank ” region common to all substrate layouts ), or some manual realignment of the detectors must be carried out while a continuous array of alignment mark detectors positioned across the substrate to detect alignment marks in various intermediate positions can be desirable, this is not practical due to the very high resolution required and the number of detectors that that would necessitate. a number of factors, for example thermal effects, can cause local variations in the shape of a substrate. it is therefore desirable to provide alignment marks at relatively small intervals across the surface of the substrate. however, the approach described in the previous paragraph mitigates against this as the entire central area of the substrate is effectively unusable for the placement of alignment marks. therefore, what is needed is a lithographic apparatus and method that allow for the flexible positioning of alignment marks within the central area of a substrate to be patterned.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a lithographic apparatus and a device manufacturing method. 2. Related Art A lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desired pattern onto a target portion of a substrate. The lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits (ICs ), flat panel displays, and other devices involving fine structures. In a conventional lithographic apparatus, a patterning means, which is alternatively referred to as a mask or a reticle, can be used to generate a circuit pattern corresponding to an individual layer of the IC (or other device ), and this pattern can be imaged onto a target portion (e. g. , comprising part of one or several dies) on a substrate (e. g. , a silicon 1aEer or glass plate) that has a layer of radiation - sensitive material (e. g. , resist ). Instead of a mask, the patterning means can cpmprixe an array of individually controllable elements that generate the circuit pattern. In general, a single substrate will contain a network of adjacent target portions that are successively exposed. uno3n lithographic apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposing an entire pattern onto the target portion in one go, and scanners, in which each target portion is irradiated by scanning the pattern through the beam in a given direction (the “ scanning ” direction ), while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel or anti - parallel to this direction. It will be appreciated that, whether or not a lithographic apparatus operates in stepping or scanning mode, it is desired that the patterned beam or beams is / are directed onto the appropriate target portion of the substrate surface. In many circumstances, multi - layer structures are built up on the surface of the substrate as a result of a sequence of lithographic processing steps. It is of course desired that the successive layers formed in the substrate are correctly in register with each other. Thus, great care is taken to ensure that the position of the substrate relative to the beam projection system is accurately omown. Various techniques are used to determine the position of a substrate relative to the beam projection system. These generally rely upon the substrate having formed upon it alignment marks that are arranged around the periphery of areas of the substrate onto which active circuit sompknents or the like are to be formed. These marks are located to provide reference points relative to which the position of target portions on the substrate are determined. The alignment marks can be detected optically using the beam projection system, which is also used to project patterns onto the substrate. Such a “ through the lens ” or TTL approach to the problem of locating alignment marks allows for the position measurement location to be the same as the image formation location. Thus, “ Abbe ” errors are minimized. In other systems, the alignment mark detectors and the main beam projection system have different optical axes, in which case some means can be provided for compensating for relative movement of these axes. In an example of a scanning - bad4d system, as the frame supporting the beam projection system and the alignment mark detectors is scanned across the surface of a substrate by moving the substrate, the position of the substrate in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction and the scan speed is adjusted in dependence upon the measured positions of the alignment marks. Alternatively, or additionally, the digital image to be projected can be adjusted. In the case where the patterning means comprises an array of indiBiduaily controllable elements, this can involve translating or otherwise adjusting the digital pattern applied to the array. The height of the substrate can also be controlled using some type of level sensor arrangement. Typically, a lithographic apparatus of a given priduc$ion facility is designed (or configured in a relatively inflexible way) for use with substrates of a fixed size. In the case of flat panel displays or color filter plates, the aubEtrate dimensions can be of the order of several m3terd, with multiple panels being formed on each substrate. The alignment marks are provided around the periphery of the substrate, as well as between panels. However, there is a desire to introduce flexibility in the layout of panels on the substrates, such that a given production facility can be used to produce panels with different dimensions. This has meant that, for non - standard panel layouts, either only alignment marks around the periphery of the substrate can be used (as the periphery is the only “ blank ” region common to all substrate layouts ), or some manual realignment of the detectors must be carried out While a continuous array of alignment mark detectors positioned across the substrate to detect alignment marks in various intermediate positions can be desirable, this is not practical due to the very high resolution required and the number of detectors that that would necessitate. A number of factors, for example thermal effects, can cause local variations in the shape of a substrate. It is therefore desirable to provide alignment marks at relatively small intervals across the surface of the substrate. However, the approach described in the previous paragraph mitigates against this as the entire central area of the substrate is effectively unusable for the placement of alignment marks. Therefore, what is needed is a lithographic apparatus and method that allow for the flexible positioning of alignment marks within the central area of a substrate to be patterned.
|
1. Field of Invention The present invention relates to a apparatus and a device manufacturing method. 2. Related Art A lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desired pattern a target portion of a substrate. The lithographic apparatus can be used, for example, in the manufacture of integrated circuits (ICs), flat panel displays, and other devices involving fine structures. In a conventional lithographic apparatus, a means, which is alternatively referred to a mask or a can be used to generate a corresponding an individual layer the IC (or other device), and this pattern can be imaged onto a target (e.g., comprising part of one or several dies) on a substrate (e.g., a silicon wafer or glass plate) that has a layer of radiation-sensitive material (e.g., resist). Instead a mask, the patterning means can comprise an array of individually controllable elements that generate the circuit pattern. In general, a single substrate contain a of adjacent target portions that are successively exposed. Known lithographic apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposing an entire pattern target portion in one go, and in each target portion is irradiated by scanning the pattern through the beam in a given direction (the “scanning” direction), while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel or anti-parallel to this It will be appreciated that, whether or not a lithographic apparatus operates in stepping scanning mode, is desired that the patterned beam or beams is/are directed onto the target portion of the surface. In many circumstances, multi-layer structures are built on the surface of the substrate as a result a sequence of lithographic processing steps. It course desired the layers in the substrate are correctly in register with each Thus, great care is to that the position of the substrate relative to the beam projection system is accurately Various techniques are used to determine the position of a substrate relative to the projection system. These generally rely upon the substrate having formed upon it alignment marks that are arranged around the periphery of areas of the substrate onto active circuit components or the like to be formed. These marks are located to provide reference to which the position of target portions substrate are determined. The marks can detected optically using the beam projection system, which is also project patterns onto the substrate. Such a “through the lens” or TTL approach to the problem of locating alignment allows for position measurement location to be the same the formation location. Thus, “Abbe” errors are minimized. In other systems, the alignment mark detectors and main beam projection system have different optical axes, in which case some can be provided for for relative movement of these axes. In an example of a scanning-based system, the frame supporting the beam projection system and the alignment mark scanned across the surface of a substrate by moving the substrate, the position the substrate in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction and the scan speed is adjusted in upon the measured positions of the alignment marks. Alternatively, or additionally, the image to be projected can adjusted. case where the patterning means comprises an array of individually controllable elements, this can translating or otherwise adjusting the digital pattern applied to the array. The height of the substrate can also be controlled using some type of level arrangement. Typically, a lithographic apparatus of a given production facility is designed (or configured in a relatively inflexible way) for use with of a size. In the of flat panel displays or color filter the substrate dimensions can be of the order of several meters, with multiple panels being formed on each The alignment marks are around the periphery of the substrate, as as between panels. However, there is a desire to introduce flexibility in the layout of on the substrates, such that a given production facility can be used to produce panels with dimensions. has meant that, for panel layouts, either only alignment marks around the periphery of the substrate can be used the periphery is the only “blank” region common to all substrate layouts), some realignment of the detectors be carried out While a continuous array of alignment mark detectors positioned across the substrate to detect alignment marks in various positions can be is not practical due to the very high resolution required and the of detectors that that would necessitate. A of factors, for example thermal effects, can cause local variations the shape of a substrate. It is therefore desirable to provide alignment at relatively small intervals across the surface of the substrate. However, the approach described in the previous paragraph mitigates against this as entire central area of the substrate is effectively unusable for the alignment marks. Therefore, what is needed is a lithographic apparatus and method that allow for the of alignment marks within the central area of a substrate to be patterned.
|
1. fieLD Of THE INveNTioN
THE presenT iNvENtiOn RELAtEs to a lIthOgraPHIc apparaTUs AnD A DeVicE MAnuFaCTurInG mEthOD.
2. ReLaTeD ART
a liTHogRaphIC ApPARatUs Is a MAchiNe ThaT ApPLIes A desIRED PatTern ONtO a tArGEt PORTiON of A sUbstRAtE. tHe LitHoGRapHiC APPaRatus can be used, fOr eXAMple, IN the mAnufaCTURe oF iNtEgRATEd CIrcUITS (Ics), FlAt pANel DiSplAyS, aNd otHEr devICeS iNVOLvinG FINe stRuctUReS. in A cONvEnTIoNAl lItHograPHic APpAratus, a paTTERNinG MEAns, WhiCH is ALtERnaTiVelY RefERreD To AS a maSk Or a rEticlE, Can bE USeD To GeNERATe A CIRCuIT PATTERN CoRRespOnDiNG to aN INdIVIDuAl Layer Of ThE Ic (OR OTheR DeVIcE), AND THIS PATtErn CaN BE iMaGed oNTo A TArgEt PoRTION (E.g., coMPrIsINg PART Of oNE or severAl DIES) On A SUbsTRaTE (E.G., A sILicOn WaFEr or GLass platE) THat haS A LAyeR of RAdiAtIon-SEnSiTivE MAtEriAl (E.g., reSiSt). INSTead oF a MaSK, the pATTeRnING mEAns CAn CoMPriSe An aRrAy of InDIvIduAllY ConTROllAbLe elEmEnTS tHaT GeNERatE THe circuIt pAtTERN.
IN geNerAl, a sInGle SubStRATE will ContAiN A NEtworK of adjaCENt tARGet PORTIONS tHat ARe suCCESsIVeLy EXPoSeD. kNOWN liTHoGrAPhIc apParaTus INClUDe sTepPERS, in which EAch TaRgeT pORtiON Is IRradiAteD By EXpOsIng aN EnTire patteRN OnTO tHE TArGEt PoRTIOn in ONe Go, AnD SCANnERS, IN whiCh Each TARget pOrTION is irRaDIaTed BY sCannInG the PatTERn tHroUGh the bEam iN A gIvEn dIrEcTIoN (THE “sCaNnING” diRectiOn), WhiLE synchronOUSLY sCaNNiNg ThE SubsTraTE parALLeL Or AnTI-PArALLEl To ThIS diREcTION.
iT WIll Be APPRECIAtEd tHat, WHEtHER or NoT a LIThoGraPHIC apPARaTus oPeRatES in steppinG Or scAnNiNG mOdE, it is DEsiReD ThaT tHe PatTerned BeaM OR BEAMS iS/ARe DIRecTeD ONtO the aPprOpriaTE TArGet poRtiON oF THe SubsTRATe SuRFace. iN ManY CiRCUMsTAnCes, MuLTi-LAYeR stRUcTUres ARE built up on THe SurfacE of THe suBStrate as A resuLt of a SequEnCE OF LitHogRaPHIC pRoCessInG stEpS. It Is of coUrse deSiRed tHAT thE SUCCessiVE LAYerS FORMED In The SUBstrATE ARe corrEctlY iN rEGIsTER wItH eAch oTHer. THUS, great CARE Is tAKeN tO ensURe ThaT tHE PoSitioN Of thE SuBSTRATE rELAtiVE To The bEAm PRoJECTion sysTeM Is aCcURAteLy known.
VaRIOUs tEChnIques are uSeD tO DetERMINe The PoSiTioN OF a SubsTRAte RelAtiVE to tHE BeAm ProJeCtIoN SysTEM. tHeSe gENeRaLlY RELY upoN The SUBsTratE HAVInG foRmed UPOn it ALIgnMENT MarKS tHaT are ArrANgED AROUND THe PeRIPHerY of AReAs of tHe SuBsTrAte onTo whicH aCTivE ciRCuIT CoMPOneNTs or THE LIKe arE to BE ForMED. TheSE MArks aRE LOcATED To pRoVide rEfErENcE poiNTs rElAtIVE to wHich thE PosItioN Of taRGET PORtiOnS On tHE sUBstRATE aRe detERMiNEd. the AlignmeNt marks can Be deteCTeD OPtICAllY USinG THe beAM prOJECtION sYSTEM, WhIcH Is ALSo uSeD To PRoJEcT PATteRnS OntO tHE suBstRaTe. SuCh A “tHrouGH the Lens” Or ttl apprOACH to THe PRobLEM OF lOcATinG ALiGnmeNT mARks AlLOWS FoR thE POSiTIon meaSuRemEnT LoCation tO BE thE sAME aS thE ImAge FORMaTIon lOcaTIOn. THus, “Abbe” ErROrS are mInImIzED. IN OTheR SySteMs, THE aLIGNmEnt MARK DEteCtORS AnD THe MAiN beAM prOjecTIoN SYsTEm hAve diFfeRent oPTICAL axeS, in WHICh casE somE MeANS can be pRovIdED for coMPeNSATiNg FOR RELaTiVe MoveMEnt of thESE aXEs.
in An exAmPlE Of a SCAnNIng-bASeD System, As THE fRAMe SUPPoRtInG ThE BeAm pRojECTion SysTEM AND thE alIgnment mArk DETecTOrs iS ScAnnED aCROSS ThE sUrfacE OF a subsTraTE bY mOvINg ThE sUBStraTe, thE PoSITion Of THE SuBsTrate IN The DIrEction peRPeNDICulAR tO ThE sCAn DiRECTion aND The scaN spEEd Is AdJUsTED IN dependEnCE upON tHE MEaSURED POsItioNs of the alIgnMeNT MARKs. alTerNAtiVeLY, OR addITIONaLlY, tHe diGital imaGE to bE PROjeCTED cAN be aDjusTed. IN tHE cAse WHeRE THe PATteRnIng meANs COMpRiseS An arrAy OF InDividUAlLY CoNTROLLAble eLEMentS, ThiS caN iNvolve trAnsLatING Or oTherWiSe ADjUstInG THe DiGital pATTeRn aPPLiED To tHe arrAy. THe hEiGHT OF THe sUbstrATE Can ALsO Be COnTrolled usING SOme TyPe Of LEveL SENSor arrAngEMent.
tyPICally, a lITHogrAphIc ApPAraTuS Of A giveN pRODUctIoN FaCiLItY IS deSigNed (OR ConfIgured IN a RelaTiVeLY infLeXIbLE waY) foR use wItH SuBsTRATEs of a fiXEd Size. IN tHE CAse OF FLaT PaNEL DISplayS Or ColOr FILtER PlATeS, tHe subsTrAtE dimENsIonS Can bE of the ordEr Of SevERal MetErS, With mulTIple panEls BEiNg fOrMEd ON EacH subsTRatE. ThE ALignMENT mARKs aRE prOviDEd AroUNd The PERIphERy OF ThE SuBsTrAtE, AS WeLL AS BEtWEEN PANElS. HOwEVeR, thERE iS A DESiRE to INTRodUce FleXIbiLitY IN thE LayOuT of panEls On THe SubStRATeS, SUch ThAT A gIVeN pRODUctIoN faCiLiTY CAn BE uSeD To ProDuce PANElS WItH DiFFEreNt diMenSIonS. this HAS MEaNT that, fOr NOn-StaNdARd PaNel LAYouTS, EItHeR OnlY ALIgNMEnT maRKs aROUND THE pERIphERy OF the suBsTrATe CaN Be USeD (as thE peRiPhEry is The only “BlAnK” reGIon cOMMon To AlL substRatE lAYOUTs), Or SOmE MANuAL rEAliGNMENt OF tHe deteCTOrs MuSt be Carried ouT wHIle a coNtiNuOUs aRRay oF alIgnmeNT mARK DEtEcToRs POsITIONED acroSs ThE SUbStRaTe to dEteCt AlIgNMeNT mArKs iN VARIoUs iNtERMEdiaTE pOSItIOns caN Be deSIRAblE, this IS NOT PRACTical duE To ThE VeRY hiGh reSolution reQuireD aND the NuMBer OF DEtectOrS That THAt WoUld nECESSItATE.
A NUMbER of facToRs, FOR eXamplE THerMal eFfectS, CAN CAusE Local variatIOns in the SHapE of A SUBstraTe. it is THeReFOre deSirAblE TO pROvIDe alignMenT MArKs at RElaTiVEly SMalL inTeRVALS acROSs the SUrfAce OF THE sUbsTRaTE. hOweVEr, The AppRoacH DEscRIBEd IN the prevIOuS PARAGrapH mitiGAtes againsT This As ThE eNtiRE cENTRaL AreA Of tHe SUbstRAte is EffeCTIvELy UNuSable FOr thE PlACeMENT OF ALIGnmEnt Marks.
TheReFORe, WHaT iS NEeDed iS A lItHOGrAphIC APpARatUS anD mETHod thAT AllOW FOR ThE fLexiBle pOsITIoniNG oF aLiGnmenT mARKS witHiN THE cEntrAL AReA OF A sUbstRATe to BE PatTERNeD.
|
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates toa lithographicapparatusand a device manufacturing method. 2.RelatedArt A lithographic apparatus is a machine that applies a desiredpattern onto atarget portion of a substrate. The lithographicapparatus canbe used, for example, in the manufactureof integrated circuits (ICs),flat panel displays, and other devices involvingfine structures. In aconventional lithographic apparatus, a patterning means, which is alternatively referred to as a mask or a reticle, can be used togenerate a circuit pattern corresponding toan individuallayer of theIC(or other device), andthis pattern can be imaged onto a target portion (e.g., comprisingpart of oneor several dies) on a substrate(e.g., asilicon waferor glassplate) that has a layer of radiation-sensitive material (e.g.,resist).Insteadof a mask, the patterning means can comprise an array of individually controllable elements that generate the circuit pattern. Ingeneral,a singlesubstrate will contain a network of adjacent target portions that are successively exposed. Knownlithographic apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is irradiated by exposingan entire pattern onto the target portioninone go, and scanners, in which each target portion isirradiatedby scanningthe pattern through the beam in agiven direction (the“scanning” direction), whilesynchronously scanningthesubstrateparallel or anti-parallel to this direction. It will be appreciated that, whether or not a lithographicapparatus operates in steppingorscanning mode,it isdesired thatthe patterned beam or beams is/are directed ontothe appropriate target portion of the substrate surface. In many circumstances, multi-layer structuresare built up on the surfaceof the substrate as a result of a sequence of lithographic processing steps. It is ofcoursedesired that thesuccessive layers formed in the substrate are correctly in register with each other. Thus, great care is taken to ensure that theposition of the substraterelative to thebeam projection system isaccurately known. Varioustechniques are usedto determine the position of a substrate relative to the beam projection system. These generally rely upon the substrate having formed upon italignment marks that are arranged around the periphery of areas ofthe substrate onto which active circuit components or the like areto be formed.These marks arelocated to provide reference points relative to whichthe position of target portions on the substrate are determined. The alignment marks can bedetected optically using the beam projection system, which is also used to project patterns ontothe substrate. Such a “throughthe lens” orTTLapproach to the problemof locating alignment marks allows for the position measurement locationtobe the same as the imageformation location. Thus, “Abbe” errors are minimized. In other systems, the alignment mark detectorsand the mainbeam projectionsystem have different optical axes, in which case somemeans can be providedfor compensating for relative movement of these axes.In an example of a scanning-basedsystem, as the frame supporting the beam projection systemand the alignment mark detectorsis scanned acrossthe surface of asubstrate by moving the substrate, the position ofthe substrate in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction and the scan speed is adjustedin dependence upon the measured positions of the alignment marks. Alternatively, or additionally, the digital image to be projectedcan beadjusted. In the case where the patterning means comprises an array of individually controllable elements, this can involve translating orotherwise adjusting the digital patternapplied to the array. The height of the substratecan also be controlled using some type oflevel sensor arrangement. Typically, a lithographic apparatus of a given production facility is designed (or configured in a relatively inflexible way) for usewith substrates of a fixed size. In the case of flat panel displays orcolor filter plates, the substrate dimensions can be ofthe order of several meters, with multiple panels being formed on each substrate. The alignment marks areprovided around the periphery of the substrate, aswell as between panels. However, there is a desire to introduce flexibility inthe layout of panels on the substrates, such that agiven production facility can be used to produce panels with different dimensions.This has meant that, for non-standardpanel layouts, either onlyalignment marks around theperipheryof the substrate can be used (as the periphery is theonly “blank” region common to all substrate layouts),or some manual realignment of the detectors must becarriedout While a continuous array of alignmentmark detectors positioned across the substrate to detect alignment marksin various intermediate positions can be desirable, this is notpractical due to the very high resolution requiredand the number of detectors thatthatwould necessitate. A numberof factors, for example thermaleffects, can cause local variations in theshape of a substrate. It isthereforedesirable to provide alignment marks at relatively small intervals across the surface of the substrate. However, the approach described in the previous paragraph mitigates against this as the entire central area of the substrate is effectivelyunusable for the placement of alignmentmarks. Therefore, what is needed isa lithographic apparatusand method thatallowfor the flexible positioningof alignment marks within the central area of a substrateto be patterned.
|
_1._ _Field_ of the Invention The present invention relates _to_ _a_ lithographic apparatus and a _device_ manufacturing method. 2. Related Art A lithographic _apparatus_ is a machine that applies a desired pattern onto a target portion of a substrate. The _lithographic_ apparatus can be _used,_ for example, in the manufacture _of_ _integrated_ circuits (ICs), flat panel _displays,_ _and_ other _devices_ involving fine structures. In a conventional lithographic apparatus, a patterning means, which is alternatively _referred_ to as a mask or a reticle, can be used to _generate_ a circuit pattern corresponding to an individual layer of the _IC_ _(or_ _other_ device), and this pattern can be imaged _onto_ a _target_ portion (e.g., comprising part of one _or_ several dies) on a substrate (e.g., a silicon wafer _or_ glass _plate)_ _that_ has a layer of radiation-sensitive material _(e.g.,_ resist). Instead of a mask, the patterning means _can_ comprise an array of individually controllable elements that generate the circuit pattern. _In_ general, a single substrate will contain a network of _adjacent_ _target_ portions _that_ _are_ successively _exposed._ Known _lithographic_ apparatus include steppers, in which each target portion is _irradiated_ by exposing an entire pattern onto the target portion in _one_ go, and _scanners,_ in which each target _portion_ _is_ _irradiated_ by scanning the pattern through the _beam_ _in_ _a_ given _direction_ _(the_ _“scanning”_ _direction),_ while synchronously scanning the substrate parallel or anti-parallel to this direction. _It_ will be appreciated _that,_ whether _or_ not a _lithographic_ apparatus operates in stepping or scanning mode, it is desired that the patterned beam or beams is/are directed _onto_ the appropriate _target_ portion of the substrate surface. In many _circumstances,_ multi-layer _structures_ are _built_ up on the surface of the _substrate_ as a result of a sequence of _lithographic_ processing steps. It is of _course_ _desired_ that the successive _layers_ _formed_ in the substrate are _correctly_ in register _with_ each _other._ Thus, great care is _taken_ to ensure _that_ _the_ _position_ of the substrate relative to the beam projection system is accurately known. Various _techniques_ are used _to_ determine _the_ _position_ of a substrate relative to the beam projection system. These generally rely upon _the_ _substrate_ having formed upon it _alignment_ marks that are arranged around the _periphery_ of areas of the substrate _onto_ _which_ _active_ circuit components _or_ the like are to be _formed._ _These_ marks _are_ located to provide _reference_ _points_ relative to which _the_ position of _target_ _portions_ on _the_ _substrate_ are determined. The alignment marks can _be_ detected optically using the beam projection _system,_ which _is_ _also_ used to project patterns onto the substrate. Such a _“through_ the lens” or TTL approach to _the_ problem of locating _alignment_ marks allows for the position measurement location to be the _same_ as the image formation _location._ _Thus,_ “Abbe” errors are minimized. In other systems, the alignment mark _detectors_ and the main beam projection system have different optical axes, _in_ which case _some_ means _can_ _be_ provided for _compensating_ for _relative_ movement of these axes. _In_ an _example_ of _a_ _scanning-based_ _system,_ as the _frame_ supporting the _beam_ projection system and the _alignment_ mark detectors is scanned across the surface of _a_ substrate by moving the substrate, the position of the _substrate_ _in_ the direction perpendicular to _the_ _scan_ direction and the scan speed _is_ adjusted in _dependence_ upon the measured positions _of_ the alignment marks. _Alternatively,_ or _additionally,_ the digital image to be projected can be adjusted. _In_ the case where the patterning means comprises an array of individually controllable elements, this can involve translating _or_ otherwise adjusting the digital pattern applied _to_ the array. The height of the substrate can also be controlled using some type of _level_ sensor arrangement. Typically, a _lithographic_ apparatus of a given production facility is _designed_ (or configured in a _relatively_ inflexible way) for use with substrates of a _fixed_ size. In the _case_ of flat panel _displays_ or color filter plates, the substrate dimensions can be _of_ the order of _several_ _meters,_ with multiple _panels_ being formed on _each_ _substrate._ _The_ alignment marks are provided around the _periphery_ _of_ the substrate, as well as between panels. However, there _is_ a desire to _introduce_ _flexibility_ in the layout _of_ panels on the substrates, such that _a_ given production facility can be used _to_ _produce_ panels with different dimensions. This has meant that, for non-standard panel layouts, _either_ only _alignment_ marks around _the_ periphery of the substrate can _be_ used _(as_ the _periphery_ is the only “blank” region _common_ to all substrate layouts), _or_ some manual realignment of the detectors must be carried out While a _continuous_ array of alignment mark detectors _positioned_ _across_ the substrate to detect alignment _marks_ _in_ various intermediate positions can be desirable, this is not practical due to the very high resolution required _and_ _the_ _number_ of detectors that that would necessitate. A _number_ of _factors,_ for example thermal effects, can cause local variations _in_ _the_ _shape_ _of_ a substrate. It is therefore desirable _to_ provide alignment marks at _relatively_ small intervals across the surface of the _substrate._ However, the approach _described_ in _the_ previous _paragraph_ mitigates against _this_ as the entire central area of the _substrate_ is _effectively_ unusable for the _placement_ of alignment marks. Therefore, what is needed is a _lithographic_ apparatus and method that allow for the flexible positioning of alignment marks within the _central_ area of a _substrate_ to be patterned.
|
Photoelectric technology has spawned a wide variety of digital products, such as scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, and the like. Scanners can rapidly transform paper documents to electronic files and have been widely used in paperless office environments.
Refer to FIG. 1 for a conventional scanning apparatus 1, which includes at least a body 11, a lid 12, a carrier 13 for holding an optical module, a transport mechanism 14, a human-machine interface 15, a data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18. The body 11 has a scan window 111 that is permeable to light. The lid 12 is pivotally coupled on one side of the body 11. The carrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18 are housed in the body 11. The transport mechanism 14 is coupled on the carrier 13 to move the carrier 13 reciprocally within the range of the scan window 111. The data processing unit 16 is connected electrically to the carrier 13 and the human-machine interface 15 through the connection lines 17 and 18. When users operate the human-machine interface 15 through the connection line 18, the data processing unit 16 drives the carrier 13 through the connection line 17 to move along the transport mechanism 14 to scan a scanning document (not shown in the drawing) by projecting light through the scan window 111.
The optical module determines the scanning quality of the scanning apparatus 1. As the optical module is movable, to prevent the optical module from losing focus or being damaging during transportation, the carrier 13 or the optical module is generally coupled by a locking structure 131 before shipping from the plant so that the carrier 13 (or the optical module) is fixed during transportation or moving to avoid damage.
Furthermore, the scanning apparatus 1 is generally quite bulky. When the scanning apparatus 1 is not used, the interior space of the scanning apparatus 1 not filled with scanner elements is not fully utilized.
|
optical technology has spawned a wide variety of digital products, such as scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, and the like. scanners can rapidly transform paper documents containing electronic files and have been widely used in paperless office environments. refer to fig. 1 for a conventional tracing apparatus 1, which includes at least a body 11, a lid 12, a carrier 13 for holding an optical module, a transport mechanism 14, a human - machine interface 15, a data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 through 18. the body 11 has a scan window 111 that is permeable to light. the lid 12 is pivotally coupled on one side of the body 11. the carrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18 are housed in the body 11. the transport mechanism 14 is coupled on the carrier 13 to move the carrier 13 reciprocally across the range of the scan window 111. the data processing unit 16 is connected electrically to the carrier 13 and the human - machine interface 15 through the connection lines 17 and 18. when users operate the human - machine interface 15 along the connection line 18, the data processing system 15 drives the carrier 13 through the connection line 17 to move along the transport mechanism 14 to scan a scanning document ( not shown in the drawing ) by projecting light through the scan window 111. the optical module determines the scanning quality of the scanning apparatus 1. as the optical module is movable, to prevent the optical module from losing focus or being damaging during transportation, the carrier 13 or the optical module is generally coupled by a special structure 131 before shipping from the plant so that the carrier 13 ( or the optical module ) is fixed during transportation or moving to avoid damage. furthermore, the scanning apparatus 1 is generally quite bulky. when the scanning apparatus 1 is not used, the interior space of the scanning apparatus 1 not filled with scanner elements is often fully utilized.
|
Photoelectric technology has spawned a wide variety of digital products, such as scanners, digital cameras, Rig&tal video cameras, and the like. Scanners can rapidly transform paper documents to electronic E8les and have been widely uxDd in paperless office environments. Refer to FIG. 1 for a conven$9onal scanning apparatus 1, which includes at least a bov% 11, a lid 12, a carrier 13 for holding an optical module, a transport mechanism 14, a human - machine iGferface 15, a data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18. The body 11 has a scan window 111 that is permeable to light. The lid 12 is pivotally coupled on one side of the body 11. The carrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18 are housed in the body 11. The transport mechanism 14 is coupled on the carrier 13 to move the carrier 13 reciprocally within the range of the scan window 111. The data processing unit 16 is connected electrically to the carrier 13 and the human - machine interface 15 through the connection lines 17 and 18. When users operate the human - macjige interface 15 through the connection line 18, the data processing unit 16 drives the carrier 13 through the connection line 17 to move along the transport mechanism 14 to scan a scanning document (not shown in the drawing) by projecting light through the scan window 111. The optical module determines the scanning quality of the scanGinR apparatus 1. As the optical module is movable, to prevent the optiva> module from losing focus or being damaging during transportation, the carrier 13 or the optical module is generally coupled by a locking structure 131 before shipping from the plant so that the carrier 13 (or the optical module) is fixed during transportation or moving to avoid damage. Furthermore, the scanning apparatus 1 is generally quite bulky. When the scanning apparatus 1 is not used, the interior space of the scanning ap0ara4us 1 not filled with scanner elements is not fully utilized.
|
Photoelectric technology has spawned a wide variety of digital products, such as scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, and the like. Scanners can rapidly transform paper to electronic files and have been widely used paperless office environments. Refer FIG. 1 for a conventional apparatus 1, which includes at least a body 11, a lid 12, a carrier 13 for holding module, a transport mechanism 14, human-machine interface 15, a data processing unit 16 and connection lines and 18. The body 11 has a window 111 that is permeable to light. The lid 12 pivotally coupled on one side of body 11. The carrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18 are housed in the body 11. The transport mechanism 14 is coupled on the carrier 13 to move carrier 13 within the range the scan window The data processing unit 16 is connected electrically to the carrier and the human-machine interface 15 through the connection lines 17 and 18. When users operate the human-machine interface 15 through the connection line 18, the data processing unit drives the carrier 13 through the connection line 17 to move along the transport mechanism 14 to scan a scanning (not in drawing) by projecting through the scan window 111. optical module determines the quality of scanning apparatus As the optical module is movable, to prevent the optical module from losing focus or being damaging during transportation, the carrier 13 or the is generally coupled by a locking structure before shipping from the plant so that the carrier 13 (or the optical module) is fixed during transportation or moving to avoid damage. Furthermore, the scanning apparatus 1 is generally quite bulky. When the scanning apparatus 1 is used, the space of scanning 1 not filled with scanner is not fully utilized.
|
PHoTOelEcTrIc TeChnolOGY hAS SpAwNEd A WIde VaRIEty of dIGItAL ProDuCTs, sUCh aS sCAnNErS, dIgitAL cAmERAS, DIGItal viDeO CaMeRaS, aNd ThE LIkE. SCANners caN RApIDLY traNSFORm PAPER dOcUmEnTs TO eLEcTronIC fiLeS And have bEEn WIDely UsED iN pAperlEsS OFfIce eNviROnMentS.
rEFeR to fIg. 1 FoR a cONvenTioNAl sCaNnING aPPARATuS 1, wHich inCluDes at least a BODy 11, A LId 12, a cArrier 13 fOR hoLding an opTiCAl MOdule, A TRAnsPoRT meCHANISM 14, a hUMaN-MacHine InteRFACe 15, A dATa proCeSsIng UnIT 16 and cOnNeCTion LiNeS 17 AnD 18. thE BodY 11 hAS a SCaN wIndOw 111 THAT is pErMeABlE TO LIght. The LID 12 is PiVotAllY CoUPLeD On one sIdE oF The bOdy 11. ThE CarRIER 13, TRANSporT mEchAnISM 14, DatA proCesSing Unit 16 And cONNEcTIOn liNES 17 AnD 18 ARE HouSeD IN THE BOdy 11. ThE TRANSPORt mECHAniSm 14 Is cOUpLEd ON tHE cArRIER 13 TO MOve the caRRIER 13 ReCiPrOCaLlY wiThIN The rANGe OF tHE scAn wINDoW 111. THE dAtA PrOCEsSInG Unit 16 IS CONneCTED ELEcTRiCALLY To tHE caRrIer 13 anD thE hUmaN-MAcHINe InTerFACE 15 THroUgh the cONNecTIOn LINES 17 aNd 18. WHEN USeRS OpErATE tHe hUmaN-maCHINE INtERface 15 THrougH ThE COnnectIon Line 18, the datA pROCESsinG UnIT 16 dRivEs THe caRRier 13 tHRouGh THe CoNnEcTION Line 17 TO MOve AlonG tHE TrAnspOrt MECHaniSm 14 To ScaN A scANNINg DOcUMeNt (nOT SHoWN in The DrAwing) BY pROJEcTIng LIgHT THrouGH tHE sCaN WIndow 111.
THe oPTIcAL MoDULE deTErmiNes ThE SCANnING QuALity oF the scaNNiNG apParatuS 1. as THE oPticAl ModULE Is MoVaBLE, to preveNT The opTiCaL moduLe From lOsing Focus or being DaMAGINg DUrIng traNSPoRtatION, The CArRieR 13 Or tHE OpTiCAL mODulE Is GenERaLlY cOUpleD bY a LOckiNg STRucturE 131 beFoRE sHIppINg fRoM tHE planT sO tHAT ThE cARrIeR 13 (OR The OPTicAl MoDUle) iS FIxED DURing traNsPoRTaTion oR mOVInG To avOId damAge.
FuRTHERMOre, THe ScAnNINg APPAraTUS 1 Is GENERaLlY qUITE BulkY. WHEn THE scanNING aPPAratUS 1 is NoT uSED, THE InteRiOr sPaCE of thE scAnnING aPPArAtUS 1 Not filLed WiTh ScAnneR EleMeNts iS NoT fUlLy utILIZEd.
|
Photoelectric technology has spawned a wide variety of digital products, such as scanners, digital cameras,digital video cameras, and the like. Scanners can rapidly transform paperdocumentsto electronic files and havebeenwidely used in paperless office environments. Refer to FIG. 1 for a conventional scanning apparatus 1,which includes at least a body 11, a lid 12, a carrier 13 for holding an optical module, a transportmechanism14, a human-machine interface 15, a data processing unit 16 and connection lines 17 and 18. The body 11 has a scan window 111 that is permeable to light. The lid 12 is pivotally coupled on one side of the body11. Thecarrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit 16 and connection lines17 and 18 are housed in the body 11. The transport mechanism 14 is coupled on the carrier 13 to move the carrier13 reciprocally within the range of the scan window 111. The data processingunit 16 isconnected electrically to the carrier13 and the human-machine interface 15 through the connection lines 17 and 18. When users operate the human-machine interface 15 through the connection line 18, the data processing unit 16 drives the carrier 13 through theconnection line 17to move along the transport mechanism14to scan a scanning document (not shown in the drawing) by projecting light through the scan window111. Theoptical module determinesthe scanningquality of thescanning apparatus 1. As the optical module is movable, to prevent theoptical module from losing focus or being damaging during transportation, the carrier 13 or the optical module is generally coupled by a locking structure 131 beforeshipping from the plant so that the carrier13 (or the optical module) is fixed during transportationor moving to avoid damage. Furthermore, the scanning apparatus1 is generally quite bulky. When thescanning apparatus 1 is not used, the interior space of the scanning apparatus 1not filled with scanner elements is notfully utilized.
|
Photoelectric technology has spawned a wide variety of digital _products,_ such as scanners, digital cameras, digital video cameras, and the like. Scanners can rapidly transform paper documents to _electronic_ _files_ _and_ have been widely used _in_ paperless office environments. Refer _to_ FIG. 1 for _a_ conventional scanning apparatus _1,_ which _includes_ _at_ _least_ a body 11, a _lid_ 12, a _carrier_ 13 for holding an _optical_ _module,_ a transport mechanism 14, a human-machine interface 15, a data processing unit _16_ and connection _lines_ _17_ and 18. The body 11 has a scan _window_ 111 that is permeable _to_ _light._ The lid 12 is pivotally coupled on one side _of_ the body 11. The carrier 13, transport mechanism 14, data processing unit _16_ and connection lines _17_ and _18_ _are_ housed in the _body_ 11. The transport _mechanism_ 14 is _coupled_ _on_ the carrier 13 to move the carrier 13 reciprocally within the _range_ of the scan window 111. The data processing unit 16 _is_ connected electrically to the carrier _13_ and the _human-machine_ interface 15 _through_ the connection lines _17_ _and_ 18. When users operate the _human-machine_ _interface_ 15 through the connection line 18, the _data_ processing unit _16_ drives the carrier 13 _through_ _the_ _connection_ line 17 to move along the transport mechanism 14 to scan a scanning document _(not_ _shown_ in the drawing) _by_ projecting light through the scan window 111. _The_ optical module determines the scanning quality of _the_ _scanning_ apparatus 1. As the _optical_ module _is_ movable, to _prevent_ the optical module _from_ losing _focus_ or being damaging during _transportation,_ the carrier 13 or the optical module is _generally_ coupled _by_ a locking structure 131 before shipping _from_ the plant so _that_ _the_ carrier _13_ _(or_ the optical _module)_ is _fixed_ during _transportation_ _or_ _moving_ to avoid _damage._ Furthermore, the scanning apparatus 1 is generally quite bulky. When the scanning apparatus 1 is not used, the interior space _of_ the _scanning_ apparatus 1 not _filled_ with scanner elements _is_ not _fully_ _utilized._
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention pertains generally to encoding and decoding data, and more particularly to a method for embedding data in still images and video frames.
2. Description of the Background Art
As multimedia data becomes widespread, such as on the internet, there is a need to address issues related to the security and protection of such data, as well as to ensure copyright protection. Most multimedia data sources are readily accessible to, and downloadable by, all users of the internet. While access restriction can be provided using electronic keys, they do not offer protection against further (illegal) distribution of such data.
Digital watermarking is one approach to managing this problem by encoding user or other copyright information directly in the data. The purpose of digital watermarking is not to restrict use of multimedia resources, but to resist attack from unauthorized users.
While watermarking of image data could be visible, such as a background transparent signature, a visible watermark may not be acceptable to users in some contexts. Therefore, it is preferable to digitally watermark and image by invisibly hiding a signature information into the host image. The signature is then recovered using an appropriate decoding process.
In order to be effective, an invisible watermark should be secure, reliable, and resistant to common signal processing operations and intentional attacks. Recovering the signature from the watermarked media could be used to identify the rightful owners and the intended recipients as well as to authenticate the data. In this paper we are mainly interested in embedding data such that the signature is invisible in the host image. The challenge is to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be perceptually indistinguishable from the original, and that the signature be recoverable even when the watermarked image has been compressed or transformed by standard image processing operations.
Research on digital watermarking can be categorized into two broad classes depending on the data embedding domain. One such class is based on embedding data in the spatial domain, while the other is based on injection in the frequency or transform domain. Most of the recent research on watermarking emphasizes the transform domain approach. Targeted applications include watermarking for copyright protection or authentication. Typically, the data used to represent the digital watermarks are a very small fraction of the host image data. Such signatures include, for example, pseudo-random numbers, trademark symbols and binary images. Spatial domain methods usually modify the least-significant bits of the host image, and are, in general, not robust to operations such as low-pass filtering. Much work has also been done in modifying the data in the transform domain. These include DCT domain techniques and wavelet transforms.
While most of the contemporary research on watermarking concentrates on copyright protection in internet data distribution, a different kind of watermarking, commonly known as data hiding, is at present receiving considerable attention. Data hiding is a generalization of watermarking wherein perceptually invisible changes are made to the image pixels for embedding additional information in the data. Data hiding is intended to hide larger amounts of data into a host source, rather than just to check for authenticity and copyright information. In fact, the problem of watermarking or copyright protection is a special case of the generic problem of data hiding, where a small signature is embedded with greater robustness to noise.
Data hiding provides a mechanism for embedding control, descriptive, or reference information in a given signal. For example, this information can be used for tracking the use of a particular video clip, e.g., for pay-per-use applications, including billing for commercials and video and audio broadcast. Data hiding could be quite challenging if one considers embedding one image in another image.
There has also been work on data hiding in color images. Once method is to use an amplitude modulation scheme wherein signature bits are multiply embedded by modifying pixel values in the blue channel. The blue channel is chosen as the human visual system is less sensitive to blue than other primary colors. Also, changes in regions of high frequencies and high luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for data embedding. Robustness is achieved by embedding the signature several times at many different locations in the image. Another approach is use the S-CIELAB, a well-known standard for measuring color reproduction errors. In that approach, amplitude-modulated sinusoidal signals are embedded into the yellow-blue color band of an opponent-color representation scheme.
It will also be appreciated that, in perceptual data hiding, one is interested in embedding and recovering high quality multimedia data, such as images, video and audio. The host multimedia data itself could be subject to signal processing operations, typically compression. Depending on the end user application, both lossy and lossless data embedding is of interest. Like in digital watermarking, two scenarios are possible. One is that the original host into which the data is embedded is available. Alternatively, the original host information may not available. This is a much more difficult problem.
Data hiding can also be used for transmitting different kinds of information securely over an existing channel dedicated for transmitting something else, such as transmitting hidden speech over a channel meant for transmitting H.263 video, as in this work. Since a substantial amount has already been invested in the development of the software and hardware infrastructure for standard-based data transmission, it makes monetary sense to try to use the same for transmission of secure or non-standard data.
|
1. field of the internet this invention pertains generally to encoding and decoding data, and more particularly to a method for embedding data in still images and video frames. 2. description of the background art as such data becomes widespread, such as on the internet, there is a need to address issues related to the security and protection of such data, as well as to ensure copyright protection. most multimedia data sources are readily accessible to, and downloadable by, all users of the internet. while access restriction can be provided using electronic keys, they do not offer protection against further ( unlawful ) distribution of such data. digital watermarking is one approach to managing this problem by encoding user or other copyright information directly in the data. the purpose of digital watermarking is not to restrict use of multimedia resources, but to resist attack from unauthorized users. while watermarking of image data could be visible, such as a background transparent signature, a visible watermark may not be acceptable to users in some contexts. therefore, it is preferable to digitally watermark each image by invisibly hiding a signature information into the host image. the signature is then recovered using an appropriate decoding process. in order to be effective, an invisible watermark should stay secure, reliable, and resistant during common signal processing operations and intentional attacks. recovering the signature from the watermarked media could be used to identify the rightful owners and the intended owners as well as to authenticate the data. in this paper we are mainly interested in embedding data such that the signature is invisible in the host image. the challenge is to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be perceptually indistinguishable from the original, and that the signature be recoverable even when the watermarked image has been compressed or transformed by standard image processing techniques. research on digital watermarking can be categorized into two broad classes depending on the data embedding domain. one such class is based on embedding data in the spatial domain, while the other is based on injection in the frequency or transform domain. most of the recent research on watermarking emphasizes the transform control approach. targeted applications include watermarking for copyright protection or authentication. typically, the data used to represent the digital watermarks are a very small fraction of the host image data. such signatures include, for example, pseudo - random symbols, trademark symbols and binary images. spatial domain methods usually modify the least - significant bits of the host image, and are, in general, not robust to operations such as low - pass filtering. much work has also been done in modifying the data in the transform domain. these include dct domain techniques and wavelet transforms. while most of the contemporary research on watermarking concentrates on copyright protection in internet data distribution, a different kind of watermarking, commonly known as data hiding, is at present receiving considerable attention. data hiding is a generalization of watermarking wherein perceptually invisible changes are made to the image pixels for embedding additional information in the data. data hiding is intended to hide larger amounts of data into a host source, rather than just to check for authenticity and copyright information. in fact, the problem of watermarking or copyright protection is a special case of the generic problem of data hiding, where a small signature is embedded with greater robustness to noise. data hiding provides a mechanism for embedding control, descriptive, or reference information in a given signal. for example, this information can be used for tracking the use of a particular video clip, e. g., for pay - per - use applications, including billing for commercials and video and audio broadcast. data hiding could be quite challenging if one considers embedding one image in another image. there has also been work on data hiding in color images. once method is to use an amplitude modulation scheme wherein signature bits are multiply embedded by modifying pixel values in the blue channel. the blue channel is chosen as the human visual system is less sensitive to blue than other primary colors. also, changes in regions of high frequencies and high luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for data embedding. robustness is achieved by embedding the signature several times at many different locations in the image. another approach is use the s - cielab, a well - known standard for measuring color reproduction errors. in that approach, amplitude - modulated sinusoidal signals are embedded into the yellow - blue color band of an opponent - color representation scheme. it will also be appreciated that, in perceptual data hiding, one is interested in embedding and recovering high quality multimedia data, such as images, video and audio. the host multimedia data itself could be subject to signal processing operations, typically compression. depending on the end user application, both lossy and lossless data embedding is of interest. like in digital watermarking, two scenarios are possible. one is that the original host into which the data is embedded is available. alternatively, the original host information may not available. this is a much more difficult problem. data hiding can also be used for transmitting different kinds of information securely over an existing channel dedicated for transmitting something else, such as transmitting hidden speech over a channel meant for transmitting h. 263 video, as in this work. since a substantial amount has already been invested in the development of the software and hardware infrastructure for standard - based data transmission, it makes monetary sense to try to use the same for transmission of secure or non - standard data.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention pertains generally to encoding and decoding data, and more particularly to a method for embedding data in still images and video frames. 2. Description of the Background Art As multimedia data becomes widespread, such as on the internet, there is a beeC to address issues related to the security and protection of such data, as well as to ensure copyright protection. Most multimedia data sources are readily accessible to, and downloadable by, all users of the internet. While access restriction can be provided using electronic keys, they do not offer protection against further (illegal) distribution of such data. Digital watermarking is one approach to managing this problem by encoding user or other copyright information directly in the data. The purpose of digital watermarking is not to restrict use of multimedia resources, but to resist attack from unauthorized users. While watermarking of image data could be visible, such as a background transparent signature, a visible watermark may not be acceptable to users in some contexts. Therefore, it is preferable to digitally watermark and image by invisibly hiding a signature information into the host image. The signature is then recovered using an appropriate decoding process. In order to be effective, an invisible watsdmark cBould be secure, reliable, and resistant to common signal processing operations and intentional attacks. Recovering the signature from the watermarked media could be used to identify the rightful owners and the intended recipients as well as to authenticate the data. In this paper we are mainly interested in embedding data such that the signature is invisible in the host image. The challenge is to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be perceptually indistinguishable from the original, and that the signature be recoverable even when the watermarked image has been compressed or transformed by standard image processing operations. Research on digital watermarking can be categorized into two broad classes depending on the data embedding domain. One such class is based on fmbeddigg data in the spatial domain, while the other is based on injection in the frequency or transform domain. Most of the recent research on watermarking emphasizes the transform domain approach. Targeted applications include watermarking for copyright protection or authentication. Typically, the data used to represent the digital watermarks are a very small fraction of the host image data. Such signatures include, for example, pseudo - random numbers, trademark symbols and binary images. Spatial domain methods usually modify the least - significant bits of the host image, and are, in general, not robust to operations such as low - pass filtering. Much work has also been done in modifying the data in the transform domain. These include DCT domain techniques and wavelet transforms. While most of the contemporary research on watermarking concentrates on copyright protection in internet data distribution, a different kind of watermarking, commonly known as data hiding, is at present receiving cinsiderabke attention. Data hiding is a generalization of watermarking wherein perceptually invisible changes are made to the image pixels for embedding additional information in the data. Data hiding is intended to hide larger amounts of data into a host source, rather than just to check for authenticity and copyright information. In fact, the problem of watermarking or copyright protection is a special case of the generic problem of data hiding, where a small signature is embedded with greater robustness to noise. Data hiding provides a mechanism for embedding control, descriptive, or reference information in a given signal. For example, this information can be used for tracking the use of a particular video clip, e. g. , for pay - per - use applications, including billing for commercials and video and audio broadcast. Data hiding could be quite challenging if one considers embedding one iNaVe in another image. There has also been work on data hiding in color images. Once method is to use an amplitude modulation scheme wherein signature bits are multiply embedded by modifying pixel values in the blue channel. The blue channel is chosen as the human visual system is less sensitive to blue than other primary colors. Also, changes in regions of high frequencies and high luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for data embedding. Robustness is achieved by embedding the signature several times at many different locations in the image. Another approach is use the S - CIELAB, a well - known standard for measuring color reproduction errors. In that approach, amplitude - modulated sinusoidal signals are embedded into the yellow - blue color band of an opponent - color representation scheme. It will also be appreciated that, in perceptual data hiding, one is interested in embedding and recovering high quality multimedia data, such as images, video and audio. The host multimedia data itself could be subject to signal processing operations, typically compression. Depending on the end user application, both lossy and ;oasless data embedding is of interest. Like in digital watermarking, two scenarios are possible. One is that the original host into which the data is embedded is available. Alternatively, the original host information may not available. This is a much more difficult problem. Data hiding can also be used for transmitting different kinds of information securely over an existing channel dedicated for transmitting something else, s tcB as transmitting hidden speech over a channel meant for transmitting H. 263 video, as in this work. digce a substantial amount has already been invested in the development of the software and hardware infrastructure for standard - based data transmission, it makes monetary sense to try to use the sAm4 for transmission of secure or non - standard data.
|
Field of Invention This invention pertains generally to encoding decoding data, and more particularly to a method for embedding data still images and video frames. 2. Description of the Background Art As data becomes widespread, such as on the internet, there is a need to address issues related the security and protection of such data, as well as to ensure protection. Most multimedia data sources are readily accessible and downloadable by, all users of the internet. While access can be using keys, they do not offer protection against further (illegal) of such data. Digital watermarking is one approach to managing this problem encoding user other copyright information directly in the data. The purpose of digital watermarking is not to restrict use of multimedia resources, but resist attack from unauthorized users. While watermarking of image data could be visible, such as a background transparent signature, a visible watermark may not be acceptable to users in contexts. Therefore, it is preferable to digitally watermark and image hiding a signature information into the host image. The signature is then using an appropriate process. In order to be effective, an invisible watermark should be reliable, and to common signal processing operations and intentional attacks. Recovering the signature from the media could be used to identify the rightful owners and intended recipients as well as authenticate the data. In this paper we are mainly interested embedding data such that the signature is invisible in the host image. The is to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be perceptually indistinguishable from the original, and that the signature be even when the watermarked image has been compressed or transformed by standard image processing operations. Research digital can be categorized into two broad classes depending on the data embedding domain. One such class is based on embedding data in the spatial domain, while the other is based on injection the or transform domain. Most of the recent research on watermarking emphasizes the transform approach. Targeted applications include watermarking copyright protection or authentication. the data used to represent the watermarks are a very small fraction of host image Such signatures include, for example, numbers, trademark symbols and binary images. Spatial domain methods usually modify the least-significant bits of the host and are, in general, robust to operations such as low-pass filtering. Much has also been done in modifying the data in the transform domain. These include DCT domain techniques and wavelet transforms. While most of the contemporary research watermarking concentrates copyright protection in data distribution, a different kind of watermarking, commonly known as data hiding, at present receiving considerable attention. Data hiding is a generalization of watermarking wherein perceptually invisible changes are to the image pixels for additional information in data. Data is intended to hide larger amounts of data into a host source, rather to check for authenticity copyright information. In fact, the problem of watermarking or copyright protection is a special case of the problem of data hiding, a small embedded with greater robustness to noise. Data hiding provides a mechanism embedding control, descriptive, or reference information in a given signal. For example, this information can used for tracking the use of a video clip, for pay-per-use applications, including billing for commercials and video and broadcast. hiding could be quite challenging if one considers embedding one image in another image. There has also been work on data in images. Once method is to modulation scheme wherein signature bits are multiply embedded by modifying pixel values in the blue channel. The blue is chosen as the human visual system is less sensitive to blue than other primary colors. Also, changes in regions of high and high luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for data embedding. Robustness is by embedding signature several times at different locations in the image. Another approach is use the S-CIELAB, a well-known standard measuring color reproduction errors. In that approach, amplitude-modulated sinusoidal signals are embedded into the yellow-blue color band opponent-color representation scheme. It will also be appreciated that, in perceptual data hiding, one interested in embedding and recovering high quality multimedia data, such images, video and audio. The host multimedia data itself could be subject to signal processing typically compression. Depending on the end user application, both lossy and lossless data embedding of interest. Like in digital watermarking, two are possible. One is that the original host into which the data is embedded is available. Alternatively, the information may not available. This is a much more difficult problem. Data hiding can also be used for transmitting different kinds of information securely over an existing channel dedicated for something else, such transmitting hidden speech over a channel meant for transmitting H.263 video, in this Since a substantial amount has already been invested in the development of the software and hardware infrastructure for data it makes monetary sense to try to use same for transmission of secure or non-standard data.
|
1. FiEld OF THE iNVEntIoN
THIS INVentIOn PeRTAInS GeNerAlLY tO ENCodinG and DecOdInG dAtA, aNd moRe PARTIcularlY To A MEthod FOR emBeddiNG data in StILl ImaGes AnD VIDeo fRAmeS.
2. desCrIPTIon OF The BackgROund aRT
AS muLtiMEdia DAta BEcOmES wiDEspReAD, SucH As On THE iNTERnET, ThErE is A NeED TO adDrEsS isSUES ReLatEd to the secUrity aNd ProTEcTIoN OF sucH data, as WelL aS tO EnsurE copYRigHT pRoTEcTIOn. MosT MUlTiMedIa dATA SourceS ARe REAdiLY acceSSible tO, and DOwnloaDaBlE BY, ALL usErS Of the INteRnEt. WhilE acCEsS rEStrICtIoN caN Be ProvidED usiNG eLECtronic KeYS, THEY Do not OFFEr ProTEcTIOn AGainSt FurThER (iLleGaL) DIsTribution oF SUCh dATA.
DIgital waTErmARkINg IS onE APpROAcH tO maNAgInG THiS prOBlEM By eNcodinG uSER oR otheR cOpyrIgHt InFOrmatIoN DIrEctLy in ThE DATA. tHe PUrpOsE Of DigITAl wATeRmarkIng iS NOt To RESTRICT USe oF mulTimEDIA ResouRCEs, BUT tO RESiST ATtack fROm UNaUTHOrized useRs.
wHIlE WATerMArKing Of imAGE datA Could Be visIBLE, SuCh aS a BackgRounD TranspaREnt SIgnaTuRe, A viSIbLe wAtErmarK MAy noT Be AccEpTABle tO uSers IN some CONtexts. thEREfoRE, IT Is PrEfERaBLE tO DIGItAlLY waTeRmarK anD iMaGE bY inViSIbly hiding A SiGNATuRe inFormatIOn InTO tHe Host iMAge. tHE siGnature IS then REcOVeReD usInG AN AppropRiaTe deCOdINg prOceSs.
In ORDEr TO BE EFfECTive, an invisIble watERMarK SHOulD bE Secure, RElIAblE, And ReSISTAnt To coMMoN SIgnAl ProCESsiNg oPeratIONs anD InTeNtIoNal AttaCKS. rEcoveRING The signaTURe FRom tHe wAtErMArKEd MEDIa CoUld bE useD to iDeNtiFy tHe RightfUL oWnErs AND the InteNDeD RECIpiENTs as WeLl As To AuTHENTICaTe tHe daTa. iN ThIS PApeR WE aRE mAINLY INTeResTEd In EMbeddIng dATA sUcH thAt The SIgNaTURe IS InVIsiBle IN ThE hosT ImagE. The CHALLeNgE is to sIMuLtAneOUSlY EnsuRE THAT thE WaTERMaRkEd IMAGE Be percePTUalLy INdiStiNgUiShABle frOm The oRIGINAL, and ThAT THE SIGnaTUrE BE RECOvERablE eVEn when tHe wAtermARkED imaGe has BeEn COMpressed or tRAnsformeD bY STaNDARd iMage prOcESSInG oPerAtIons.
rESEArCh on diGitaL WaTErMArKiNg CaN bE cateGOrizeD Into tWo bRoaD ClAssEs dePENdiNg oN The DaTA emBEddING doMain. ONe sucH CLasS iS BAseD ON emBeDDing data iN ThE sPAtIAl dOMAin, WHile the OThER Is baSEd ON iNJEction iN thE fReQuEncY Or TRAnSfoRm domaIN. mosT Of THE rEcEnt ReSEarCH oN wATErmArkIng EMPhASizES THE TRanSfoRm DoMAIN aPproaCh. TArgeTeD ApPLicaTions inclUDE WaTERmaRKinG foR COPyrIgHT prOTeCTION OR AUThENTIcAtiOn. TyPicalLy, THe datA useD tO rEpResEnT The dIgItAL WaTermaRkS Are A veRy SMaLL FRacTiON of tHe hOSt iMaGE DAtA. sUCh sIGNaTurES InCLude, fOr ExAMPlE, psEUdO-RanDoM NuMBeRS, TrAdemArK SymBoLS aND BInARy IMagEs. spAtiAl dOmain MeTHoDS usuALLY modiFy tHe LeasT-sIgnIFIcaNT BiTS oF thE HOSt iMagE, anD ARe, in geNeRAl, NOT robUsT To operaTiONS suCh as lOW-Pass FILterING. mucH Work HaS ALso bEen doNE IN moDiFYINg The DaTa iN THe tRanSfORm dOmaIn. ThESe iNClUDe DCT doMain TECHniqueS AND wAVELET tRaNsfORMs.
WhILE mOsT oF ThE CoNtEMPORARY reSEARCH oN wAtermARkING COnCentRaTEs ON CoPYriGHt PrOtECTiOn IN intERneT Data DISTRIbuTioN, A DiFFERenT KInd of watermArKING, CommoNlY knowN as DaTa hiding, iS AT PreSenT rEcEiviNG consIdErABlE ATTEnTion. dATa HiDinG iS A geNeralizATIon Of wAteRmaRkIng wHerEiN PeRCePtUalLy inviSiBle ChAngEs ARE MaDe TO the IMagE PIxeLS FOr embeddINg aDdITiONAl iNFormatiON In tHE daTa. DATA HiDIng Is INTEnded tO HiDe LaRGer aMOUNts oF DATA Into a hOSt SouRcE, RaThEr tHaN JUst tO ChecK For aUthenTiCiTy aND CoPyRIghT InFORmATion. In FAcT, THE PrOblEm oF wAterMArKIng or CopyRIGht protECTIoN Is A SpecIAL casE of THe GEnEric prOBLem of DatA hidiNG, WheRe a smalL sIgNaTUre IS EmBeDdED wITH GrEateR roBUSTNess tO noiSE.
Data hIdINg pRovIdes A mechANIsm FoR eMBEdding CONTrOL, DESCriptIvE, or REfEReNCe iNFORmaTION In a gIvEn SIGNAl. For ExAmPLE, ThiS InfORmaTIOn cAN BE uSED for traCKINg ThE Use of a pARTicULaR vidEO CliP, E.g., foR paY-peR-UsE APPLICaTIOnS, inCLUdIng BILLiNG fOR CommeRciaLs aNd vIDeo and AudIO bRoADCAsT. data hidINg coUlD BE QUITE cHALLeNGING iF One CONsiders EMbeDDiNG oNE image in anOThEr ImAgE.
TheRe Has AlSO bEeN WOrK oN daTA hiding iN ColOr imaGES. oNCE mEtHOD iS tO USe aN amplitUDE MOduLATioN sChemE WHeREiN SIGnatuRE BITS aRE MulTiPlY EMbEDdED By MoDIfyIng PIXEL vAlues iN The BLue ChAnNEL. tHe bLUe chanNEL is cHoSen aS The hUMaN vIsual SYStEm Is leSs SenSItiVe tO BLuE THAn otHER priMaRy cOLOrs. AlsO, CHAnGES iN REgiOnS oF HiGH freqUeNcIES aNd HiGh lumINAnCE ARE lEss PERcepTIbLE, aND thus Are FAvorabLe LocAtiONs FOr DAtA eMbEddIng. rOBusTNeSs IS AchieVEd bY emBeDding tHE SIgnAtuRE sEvEraL tImES aT MaNy dIffeRENt LocatIons IN ThE IMagE. aNoTHeR APpROacH is uSe ThE S-CIelAB, a wELL-KNOWn STANdArD fOR MEaSUriNg ColOR rePRODuCtion ErROrs. IN thAt aPpROaCh, AmPLiTuDE-mODULaTed sINuSoIDaL Signals ARe EmBEDDed intO tHE yElLow-blUE coLOR BANd OF An opponENT-cOLOr rEPREsENTAtiON scHEmE.
it WiLl AlSo Be APprEcIAtED that, IN peRcEpTual dATA HIDInG, oNE iS iNTEREsTED iN eMbeddINg AND REcoVErINg high QuALItY mULtImEDia dAta, suCH As iMAGES, vIDEo and AuDio. thE hOst MULtImedia dAta ItselF coUld bE SUBJECT TO SIGnaL prOCesSiNg oPerATioNs, typIcaLLy coMPReSsIoN. DePeNdinG On ThE eND useR apPliCAtIOn, bOTh lossy and loSsLESs DaTa eMbeDdinG is oF intEreST. LIKE iN DigItAl WAtERMArKiNg, tWO sceNarIos aRE poSSIbLe. ONE Is THat THe ORIgiNal hOsT into WHIch the dAta IS eMBeDdED is aVaIlable. alTERnATiVElY, tHE OrigInal HOst INForMatIOn MAy NoT avaiLABLE. ThiS IS a Much MORe DiFFiCuLT PROBlEm.
datA HidiNG caN AlsO Be used fOr TRANSMITtING dIffErenT kIndS Of InFORmAtion sEcUrELY Over An EXIsTiNG ChanneL DedIcaTEd For TRanSmITTING somETHIng ELSe, sUCh AS trANSMitTiNG HIdDeN SpeecH Over a ChAnNeL MeaNT fOR TraNsMitTinG H.263 vIDEO, AS IN ThIs WORK. sINce a SubsTaNtIaL aMoUNT haS alrEAdY BEEn InvEStED IN the DEveLOpMeNT Of THe SoftWARe AND HArDWaRe INFrAsTrucTuRe for STaNDArd-BASed DATa TrANsMIssIOn, it makES monEtARY sEnSe TO tRY TO UsE THe same For TrANSMiSSION OF secURE Or non-STaNdARD DaTA.
|
1. Field of theInvention Thisinvention pertains generally to encoding and decoding data, and moreparticularly to a method for embedding data in still images and video frames. 2. Description ofthe Background Art As multimediadata becomes widespread, such as on theinternet, there is a need to address issuesrelated to the security and protection of such data, as well as to ensure copyright protection. Most multimedia data sources are readily accessible to, and downloadable by, all users of the internet.While access restriction can be provided using electronic keys,they donot offer protection against further (illegal) distribution of suchdata. Digital watermarking is one approach to managing this problem byencoding user or other copyright information directly in the data. The purpose of digital watermarking is notto restrict use ofmultimedia resources, but to resist attack from unauthorized users. While watermarking of image data could bevisible, such asa backgroundtransparent signature,a visible watermarkmaynot be acceptable to users in some contexts. Therefore, it is preferable to digitally watermark andimageby invisibly hiding a signatureinformation into the host image. The signature is then recovered using an appropriate decoding process. In order to be effective, an invisible watermark should besecure,reliable, and resistant to commonsignal processing operations and intentional attacks. Recovering the signaturefrom the watermarkedmedia could be usedto identify therightful owners and the intended recipients as well as to authenticate the data.In thispaper we are mainly interested in embedding data such that the signature isinvisible in thehost image. The challenge is to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be perceptually indistinguishablefrom the original,and that the signature be recoverable even when the watermarked image has been compressed or transformed by standard image processing operations. Researchondigital watermarking can be categorized into two broad classes depending on thedata embedding domain. One such class is based onembeddingdata in the spatialdomain, while the other is based on injection in the frequency or transform domain. Most of therecent research on watermarking emphasizes the transform domain approach. Targeted applications includewatermarking for copyright protection or authentication. Typically, the data used to represent the digital watermarks are a very small fraction ofthe host image data. Such signatures include, for example,pseudo-random numbers, trademark symbols and binaryimages. Spatial domain methods usually modify the least-significant bitsof the host image,and are,in general, not robust to operations such as low-pass filtering. Much work has also been done inmodifying the data in the transform domain. These include DCT domain techniques and wavelettransforms. While mostof the contemporary research on watermarkingconcentrates on copyright protection in internet datadistribution,adifferent kind of watermarking, commonlyknown as data hiding, is at present receiving considerable attention.Data hiding is a generalization of watermarking wherein perceptually invisible changesaremade to the image pixels for embedding additional information in the data. Data hiding is intendedto hide larger amounts of datainto a host source, rather than just to check for authenticity andcopyrightinformation. In fact, the problem of watermarking or copyright protection is a specialcase of the generic problem of data hiding, where a small signature is embedded with greater robustness to noise. Datahiding provides a mechanism forembedding control, descriptive, or reference information in a givensignal. Forexample, this information can be usedfor tracking theuse of a particular video clip,e.g., for pay-per-use applications, including billing for commercials and video and audio broadcast. Data hiding could be quitechallenging ifone considers embedding one imagein another image. Therehas also beenwork on data hiding in colorimages. Once method is to use anamplitude modulation schemewherein signaturebits are multiplyembedded by modifying pixel values in the blue channel. The blue channel is chosen as the human visual system is less sensitive to bluethanother primary colors.Also, changes in regions of high frequenciesandhigh luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for dataembedding. Robustness is achieved by embedding the signature several times at many different locations in the image. Another approach is use the S-CIELAB, a well-known standardfor measuring color reproduction errors. In that approach, amplitude-modulated sinusoidal signals areembedded intothe yellow-blue color band of an opponent-color representation scheme. It will also be appreciated that,in perceptual data hiding,oneis interested inembedding and recovering high quality multimedia data,such as images, video and audio. The host multimedia dataitself could be subject to signal processing operations, typically compression. Depending on the enduser application,both lossy andlossless data embedding is of interest.Like in digital watermarking,two scenarios are possible. One is that the original host into which the data is embedded isavailable. Alternatively, theoriginal host information maynot available. This is a much more difficult problem. Data hiding can also be used for transmitting different kinds ofinformation securely over anexisting channel dedicated for transmitting something else, such as transmitting hiddenspeech over a channelmeant for transmitting H.263 video,as inthis work. Since a substantial amount has alreadybeen invested in the development of the software andhardware infrastructure for standard-based data transmission,it makes monetary sense to tryto use the same for transmission of secure or non-standarddata.
|
_1._ Field of the Invention This invention pertains generally to _encoding_ _and_ decoding data, and more particularly to a _method_ _for_ embedding data _in_ still images and video frames. 2. Description of the Background Art As multimedia data becomes widespread, such as on _the_ internet, _there_ is a need to _address_ _issues_ related to the security and _protection_ of _such_ data, as well as to ensure _copyright_ _protection._ Most multimedia data sources are readily _accessible_ to, and downloadable by, all users of the internet. While _access_ restriction can be provided using electronic keys, they do not offer protection against further (illegal) _distribution_ of such data. _Digital_ watermarking is _one_ approach to managing this problem by encoding user _or_ other copyright information directly in the data. The purpose of _digital_ watermarking is not to _restrict_ use of multimedia resources, but to resist attack _from_ unauthorized users. While watermarking of image data could _be_ visible, such _as_ _a_ background _transparent_ _signature,_ a visible watermark _may_ _not_ be _acceptable_ to _users_ in _some_ contexts. _Therefore,_ it is _preferable_ _to_ digitally _watermark_ and image by invisibly hiding a signature _information_ _into_ the host image. The signature is then recovered using an appropriate decoding process. In order _to_ be _effective,_ an invisible watermark should be _secure,_ _reliable,_ and resistant to common _signal_ processing operations _and_ intentional attacks. Recovering the signature from the watermarked media could be used to identify _the_ _rightful_ owners and the _intended_ recipients _as_ _well_ as to authenticate the data. In _this_ paper we are _mainly_ interested _in_ embedding data such that the signature is invisible in the host image. The challenge _is_ to simultaneously ensure that the watermarked image be _perceptually_ indistinguishable from _the_ original, _and_ that the signature be recoverable even when the watermarked _image_ has _been_ compressed or transformed by standard image processing operations. Research on digital watermarking can be categorized _into_ _two_ _broad_ classes depending on the _data_ _embedding_ domain. One _such_ class is based _on_ _embedding_ _data_ in _the_ spatial domain, while _the_ _other_ is based on injection in the frequency or transform domain. Most of _the_ recent research on _watermarking_ _emphasizes_ the transform _domain_ approach. _Targeted_ applications include watermarking for _copyright_ protection or _authentication._ Typically, the data used to represent _the_ digital _watermarks_ are _a_ _very_ small fraction of the host image data. _Such_ signatures include, for example, pseudo-random _numbers,_ trademark symbols and _binary_ _images._ Spatial domain methods usually modify the _least-significant_ bits of the host image, and are, in _general,_ _not_ robust to operations such as low-pass filtering. Much _work_ has also been done in modifying _the_ data _in_ the transform domain. _These_ include _DCT_ domain techniques and _wavelet_ transforms. _While_ most _of_ the contemporary research on watermarking concentrates on _copyright_ protection in internet data distribution, a different kind of watermarking, commonly known as data hiding, is at present receiving _considerable_ _attention._ Data hiding _is_ a generalization of watermarking wherein _perceptually_ invisible _changes_ are made to the image pixels _for_ embedding additional information in _the_ data. Data hiding is intended _to_ hide larger amounts of data into a host _source,_ rather than just to check for authenticity and copyright _information._ In fact, the problem of watermarking _or_ copyright protection is _a_ _special_ case _of_ the generic problem _of_ data hiding, where _a_ small signature is _embedded_ with greater robustness _to_ noise. Data hiding provides a mechanism for embedding _control,_ descriptive, or reference information in a given signal. For example, this information can be used for _tracking_ the _use_ of a particular video clip, e.g., for pay-per-use applications, including billing _for_ commercials and video and audio broadcast. Data _hiding_ could _be_ quite _challenging_ _if_ one _considers_ embedding one image _in_ _another_ image. There has _also_ _been_ work on data hiding in color images. Once method is to use an amplitude _modulation_ scheme wherein signature bits are _multiply_ embedded by modifying _pixel_ values in the blue _channel._ The blue _channel_ _is_ _chosen_ as the human _visual_ system is less sensitive to blue than _other_ primary colors. Also, _changes_ in regions _of_ high frequencies _and_ high luminance are less perceptible, and thus are favorable locations for _data_ embedding. Robustness _is_ achieved by embedding _the_ signature several times at many different locations in _the_ image. Another approach is use the S-CIELAB, a well-known standard _for_ measuring color reproduction errors. In that approach, amplitude-modulated sinusoidal signals _are_ embedded into the yellow-blue color band of an opponent-color representation scheme. It will also be appreciated that, in _perceptual_ data hiding, one is _interested_ in embedding and recovering high quality multimedia _data,_ such _as_ images, _video_ and audio. The host multimedia data itself could be _subject_ to signal processing operations, typically compression. Depending on the end user _application,_ both lossy and _lossless_ data embedding is of _interest._ Like in _digital_ watermarking, two scenarios are possible. _One_ is that _the_ original host into _which_ the data is embedded is available. Alternatively, the original host information may _not_ available. _This_ is a _much_ _more_ difficult problem. Data _hiding_ can also _be_ used for transmitting different _kinds_ _of_ information _securely_ _over_ an existing channel dedicated for transmitting something else, such _as_ transmitting _hidden_ speech _over_ a channel _meant_ for transmitting H.263 _video,_ as _in_ this _work._ _Since_ a _substantial_ amount has _already_ been invested in the development of the _software_ and hardware _infrastructure_ _for_ standard-based data transmission, it makes monetary sense to try _to_ use the same for _transmission_ of _secure_ _or_ non-standard data.
|
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a novel system and methodology for providing information with respect to electronic entertainment and more particularly to an information program content guide which provides for related services.
2. Description of the Related Art
Various text based systems for providing information on television shows and the like are now available. However, these devices and/or printed publications are rather limited in their scope. Systems such as the VCR+(trademark) system which employs information found in a local newspaper, provides a code based system which requires that the manual codes printed in a newspaper be entered into a VCR to allow automatic programming of the VCR. This system however, does not allow for an interactive link of the flexibility that is demanded or needed by users at the present time. This invention expands upon, and provides a significant improvement over, the text based preprinted information systems and further provides a mechanism by which additional related services and information can be provided to a user.
Other computer and electronic based systems, such as would be found on a cable system, suffer from various other problems, such as a lack of interactivity and the ability to provide interactive links or for the information to be updated in an easy manner.
A computer based system is provided in this invention which may use, for example, a personal computer which extracts, consolidates and provides a display mechanism for displaying the various types of information to access from multiple sources of electronic signals and sources for use by an individual. Although this computer system is primarily designed to incorporate a large screen monitor capable for viewing at a distance, this invention should not be considered so limited in its use and in fact be used in conjunction with monitors of all sizes. The computer system of this invention incorporates integrated hardware and functionality in which electronic signals from a plurality of sources and of various types can be acquired by the computer system""s central processing unit. The system interprets and processes information which is played back and displayed to the user. These signals may be acquired from an analog signal or from a digital signal. Just some of the examples of the signal sources might be standard analog television transmission, which occurs over the air, cable analog television transmissions, digital cable television transmissions, and direct broadcast satellites, either digital or analog. Additional digital information can be carried as part of an analog television signal for example, as part of the vertical blanking interval (VBI) or in other portions of the video and audio wave form, including in the picture portion itself. Digital data may also be acquired by the central processor by cable modem, satellite digital video transmission or over standard telephone lines, including Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), wireless transmission, AM/FM radio broadcasts, digital media such as CD ROM, CDI, magnetic diskettes or the like. Further additional information can be acquired from prerecorded items such as would be used in video cassette recorders, audio CD players or the like. This information would then be converted either from its native analog format or reformatted from its stored digital format or transmittal digital format into a data format by which the computer may use this information.
The presentation of this information in a manner which is usable by an average user, is one of the significant features and advantages of this invention. Specifically, the computer system acquires information from a multiplicity of electronic signals and provides a coherent mechanism of presenting this information to a user in a format which is easy to understand and suitable for usage. For example, in the case of broadcast television signals, these signals are received and converted into a moving digital graphical display and the processed signals can then be displayed on a system monitor with the accompanying audio signals being received and converted to digital samples and then replayed through the digital display to analog converters provided in the system. Obviously, the signal acquisition method and apparatus and its processing used to present the signal, either visual or aural, will vary depending upon the type of signal source that is received and the manner in which it is received.
In the case of digital signal sources, the processing method used to interpret and present the signal obviously depends upon the type of digital information. One of the concerns is how the information is contained within the data stream or on the context in which the data is received. The mechanism by which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as set forth above and this invention should not be limited to the specific methodology of receiving the signal.
In any complex computer system which is capable of receiving and displaying or playing back audio signals, there is obviously a rich and diverse source of signals for entertainment and for content. However, it is difficult for an individual user to select from the wide selection of possible programs and content types in an easy and expeditious manner. In conventional approaches, once a selection is made or in use, it is difficult or time consuming to change to or investigate other signal/content sources without entering complex commands. In the case of searching and finding content delivered over different means (for example, switching from a television broadcast signal and a modem data signal), it may be necessary to consult multiple sources of information or xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what material might be of interest to the user and what is available.
Another problem that is present in prior art systems is the ease with which actions can be prompted to the user on a given signal type and carried out using another signal type. An example of this is an advertisement on television containing a telephone number for placing an order to purchase goods, or a world wide web address, which is displayed as part of a television program. The conventional method of taking action would be for the user to note the telephone number, pick up a telephone, dial the telephone number, request the specific merchandise and provide credit card information or billing information to the operator. If a world wide web address is provided on the television show, it may require several displays of this address before the user can note the exact syntax of the address, copy it down, enter it into his web browser and communicate with this web page.
One of the unique advantages of this invention is an integrated content guide (ICG) with associated features is provided. This content guide provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and across pluralities of signal types and programming and provides an integrated approach for the presentation of this information and of advertising information which is sent along with this signal.
An additional advantage of this invention is a mechanism by which links and/or related information, which are (is) kept in the context of the program being viewed or listened to, may be used as part of the content guide.
|
1. field of the invention this invention relates to a novel system and methodology for providing information with respect to electronic entertainment and more particularly to an information program content guide which provides for related publications. 2. description of the related art various text based systems for providing information on television shows and the like are now available. however, these devices and / or printed publications are rather limited in their scope. systems such as the vcr + ( trademark ) system which employs information found in a local newspaper, provides a code based system which requires that the manual codes printed in a newspaper be entered into a vcr to allow automatic programming of the vcr. this system however, does not allow for an interactive link of the flexibility that is demanded or needed by operators at the present time. this invention expands upon, and provides a significant improvement over, the text based preprinted information systems and further lacks a mechanism by which additional related services and information can be provided to a user. other computer and electronic based methods, such as to be found on a cable system, suffer from various other problems, such as a lack of interactivity and the ability to provide interactive links or for the information to be updated in an easy manner. a computer based system is provided in this invention which may use, for example, a personal computer which extracts, consolidates and provides a display mechanism for displaying any various types of information to access from multiple sources of electronic signals and possibly for use by an individual. although this computer system is primarily designed to incorporate a large screen monitor capable for viewing at a distance, this invention should not be considered so limited in its use and in fact be used in conjunction with monitors of all sizes. the computer system of this invention incorporates integrated hardware and functionality in which electronic signals from a plurality of countries and of various types can be acquired by the computer system " " s central processing unit. the system interprets and processes information which is played back and displayed to the user. these signals may be acquired from an analog signal or from a digital signal. just some of the examples of the signal sources might be standard analog television transmission, which occurs over the air, cable analog television transmissions, digital cable television transmissions, and direct satellite satellites, either digital or analog. additional digital information can be carried as part of an analog television signal for example, as part of the vertical blanking interval ( vbi ) or in other portions of their video and audio wave form, including in the picture portion itself. digital data may also be acquired by the central processor by cable modem, satellite digital video transmission or over standard telephone lines, including integrated services digital network ( isdn ), wireless transmission, am / fm radio broadcasts, digital media such as cd rom, cdi, magnetic diskettes or the like. further additional information can be acquired from prerecorded items such as would be used in video cassette recorders, audio cd players or the like. this information would then be converted either from its native analog format or reformatted from its stored digital format or transmittal digital format into a data format by which the computer may use this information. the presentation of this information in a manner which is usable by an average user, is one of the significant features and advantages of this invention. specifically, the computer system acquires information from a multiplicity of electronic signals and provides a coherent mechanism of presenting this information to a user in a format which is easy to understand and suitable for usage. for example, in the case of broadcast television signals, these signals are received and converted into a moving digital graphical display and the processed signals can then be displayed on a system monitor with the accompanying audio signals being received and converted to digital samples and then replayed through the digital display to analog converters provided in the system. obviously, the signal acquisition method and apparatus and its processing used to present the signal, either visual or aural, will vary depending upon the type of signal source that is received and the manner in which it is received. in the case of digital signal sources, the processing method used to interpret and present the signal obviously depends upon the type of digital information. one of the concerns is how the information is contained within the data stream or on the context in which the data is received. the mechanism by which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as set forth above and this invention should not be limited to the specific methodology of receiving the signal. in any complex computer system which is capable of receiving and displaying or playing back audio signals, there is obviously a rich and diverse source of signals for entertainment and for content. however, it is difficult for an individual user to select from the wide selection of possible programs and content types in an easy and expeditious manner. in conventional approaches, once a selection is made or in use, it is difficult or time consuming to change to or investigate other signal / content sources without entering complex commands. in the case of searching and finding content delivered over different means ( for example, switching from a television broadcast signal and a modem data signal ), it may be necessary to consult multiple sources of information or xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what material might be of interest to the user and what is available. another problem that is present in prior art systems is the ease with which actions can be prompted to the user on a given signal type and carried out using another signal type. an example of this is an advertisement on television containing a telephone number for placing an order to purchase goods, or a world wide web address, which is displayed as part of a television program. the conventional method of taking action would be for the user to note the telephone number, pick up a telephone, dial the telephone number, request the specific merchandise and provide credit card information or billing information to the operator. if a world wide web address is provided on the television show, it may require several displays of this address before the user can note the exact syntax of the address, copy it down, enter it into his web browser and communicate with this web page. one of the unique advantages of this invention is an integrated content guide ( icg ) with associated features is provided. this content guide provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and across pluralities of signal types and programming and provides an integrated approach for the presentation of this information and of advertising information which is sent along with this signal. an additional advantage of this invention is a mechanism by which links and / or related information, which are ( is ) kept in the context of the program being viewed or listened to, may be used as part of the content guide.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to a novel system and methodology for providing information with respect to electronic entertainment and more particularly to an information program content guide which provides for related services. 2. Description of the Related Art Various text based systems for providing information on television shows and the like are now available. However, these devices and / or printed publications are rather limited in their scope. Systems such as the VCR + (trademark) system which employs information found in a local newspaper, provides a code based system which requires that the manual codes printed in a newspaper be entered into a VCR to allow automatic programming of the VCR. This system however, does not allow for an interactive link of the flexibility that is demanded or needed by users at the present time. This invention expands upon, and provides a significant improvement over, the text based preprinted information systems and further provides a mechanism by which additional related services and information can be provudee to a user. Other computer and electronic based systems, such as would be found on a cable system, suffer from various other problems, such as a lack of interactivity and the ability to provide interactive links or for the information to be updated in an easy manner. A computer based system is provided in this invention which may use, for example, a personal computer which extracts, consolidates and provides a display mechanism for displaying the various types of information to access from multiple sources of electronic signals and sources for use by an individual. Although this computer system is primarily designed to incorporate a large screen monitor capable for viewing at a distance, this invention should not be considered so limited in its use and in fact be used in conjunction with monitors of all sizes. The computer system of this invention incorporates integrated hardware and functionality in which electronic signals from a plurality of X)urces and of vaGioJs types can be acquired by the computer system " " s central processing unit. The system interprets and pgocess@s information which is played back and displayed to the user. These signals may be acquired from an analog signal or from a digital signal. Just some of the examples of the signal sources might be standard analog television transmission, which occurs over the air, cable analog television transmissions, digital cable television transmissions, and direct broadcast satellites, either digital or analog. Additional digital information can be carried as part of an analog television signal for example, as part of the vertical blanking interval (VBI) or in other portions of the video and audio wave form, including in the picture portion itsdld. Digital data may also be acquired by the central processor by cable modem, satellite digital video transmission or over standard telephone lines, including Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN ), wireless transmission, AM / FM radio broadcasts, digital media such as CD ROM, CDI, magnetic diskettes or the like. Further additional information can be acquired from prerecorded items such as would be used in video cassette recorders, audio CD players or the like. This information would then be converted either from its native analog format or reformatted from its stored digital format or transmittal digital format into a data format by which the computer may use this information. The presentation of this information in a manner which is usable by an average user, is one of the significant features and advantages of this invention. Specifically, the computer system acquires information vroJ a multiplicity of electronic signals and provides a coherent mechanism of presenting this information to a user in a format which is easy to understand and suitable for usage. For example, in the case of broadcast television signals, these signals are received and converted into a moving digital graphical display and the processed signals can then be displayed on a system monitor with the accompanying audio signals being received and converted to digital samples and then replayed through the digital display to analog converters prifided in the system. Obviously, the signal acquisition method and apparatus and its processing used to present the signal, either visual or aural, will vary depending upon the type of signal source that is received and the manner in which it is received. In the case of digital signal sources, the processing method used to interpret and present the signal obviously depends upon the type of digital information. One of the concerns is how the information is contained within the data stream or on the context in which the data is received. The mechanism by which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as set forth above and this invention should not be limited to the specific methodology of receiving the signal. In any complex computer system which is capable of receiving and displaying or playing back audio signals, there is obviously a rich and diverse s*urse of signals for entertainment and for content. However, it is difficult for an individual user to select from the wide selection of possible programs and content types in an easy and expeditious manner. In conventional approaches, once a selection is made or in use, it is difficult or time consuming to change to or investigate other signal / content sources without entering complex commands. In the case of searching and finding content delivered over different means (for example, switching from a television broadcast signal and a modem data signal ), it may be necessary to consult multiple sources of information or xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what material might be of interest to the user and what is available. Another problem that is present in prior art systems is the ease with which actions can be prompted to the user on a given signal type and carried out using another signal type. An example of this is an advertisement on television containing a telephone number for placing an order to purchase goods, or a world wide web address, which is displayed as part of a television program. The conventional method of taking action would be for the user to note the telSohone number, pick up a telephone, dial the telephone number, request the specific merchandise and provide credit card information or billing information to the operator. If a world wide web address is provided on the television show, it may require several displays of this address before the user can note the exact syntax of the address, copy it down, enter it into his web browser and communicate with this web page. One of the unique advantages of this invention is an integrated content guide (ICG) with associated features is provided. This content guide provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and across pluralities of signal types and programming and provides an integrated approach for the presentation of this information and of advertising information which is sent along with this signal. An additional aVvantXge of this invention is a mechanism by which links and / or related information, which are (is) kept in the context of the program being viewed or listened to, may be used as part of the content guide.
|
1. Field of the This invention relates to a novel system and methodology for providing information with respect to electronic entertainment and more particularly to an information guide which provides for related services. 2. Description of the Art Various text based systems for providing information on television shows and the like are now available. However, these devices and/or publications are rather limited in their scope. Systems such as the VCR+(trademark) system which employs found in a local newspaper, provides a code based system which requires the manual codes printed in a newspaper be entered into a VCR to automatic programming of the VCR. This system however, does not allow for an interactive link of the flexibility that is demanded or needed by users at the present time. This invention expands upon, and provides a significant over, the preprinted information systems and further provides a mechanism which additional related services and can be provided to a user. Other and electronic based systems, such as would be found on a cable system, suffer from various other problems, as lack of interactivity and the ability to provide interactive links or the to updated in an easy manner. A computer based system is provided in this invention which may use, for example, a personal computer which consolidates and provides a mechanism for displaying the various types of information to access from multiple sources of electronic signals and sources for use by an individual. Although this computer system primarily designed incorporate a large monitor for viewing at a distance, this invention should not be considered so limited in use and in be used in conjunction with monitors of all sizes. The computer system of invention incorporates integrated hardware and functionality in which electronic signals from a plurality of sources and of types can be acquired by the system""s central processing unit. The system interprets processes information which is played back and displayed to the user. These signals may be acquired from an analog signal or from a digital signal. Just some of the examples of the signal sources might be standard analog television transmission, which occurs over the air, cable analog television digital cable television transmissions, and direct broadcast satellites, either digital or analog. Additional digital information can be as part of an analog television signal for example, as part of the vertical blanking interval or in other portions of the video and audio wave including in picture portion itself. Digital data also be acquired by central processor by cable modem, satellite video transmission or over telephone lines, including Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), wireless transmission, AM/FM radio broadcasts, digital media as CD ROM, CDI, magnetic diskettes the like. Further information can be acquired from prerecorded items such would be used in cassette recorders, audio CD players or the This information would then be converted either from its native analog format or reformatted from its stored digital format or transmittal digital format into a data format by which the computer may use this information. The presentation of this in manner which is usable by an average user, one of the significant features and advantages of this invention. Specifically, the computer system acquires from a multiplicity of electronic signals and provides a coherent mechanism of presenting this information to a user in a format which is easy to understand and suitable for usage. in case of television these signals are and converted into a moving digital graphical display and the processed signals can then be displayed on a system monitor with the accompanying audio signals being received and converted to digital samples and then replayed through the digital display to analog converters provided in the system. Obviously, signal acquisition method and apparatus and its processing used to present the signal, either visual or aural, vary depending upon the of signal source that is received and the manner in it is received. In the case of digital signal sources, the processing method used to interpret and present the signal obviously depends upon the type information. One of the is how the information is contained within the data stream on the context in which the data is received. The mechanism which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as set forth above and this invention should not be limited to the specific methodology of receiving the In any complex computer system which is of receiving and displaying or playing back audio signals, there is obviously a rich and of signals for entertainment and content. However, it for an user to select from the wide selection of possible programs and types in an easy and expeditious manner. In conventional approaches, once a selection is made or in use, it is difficult or time consuming to change or investigate other signal/content sources without commands. In the case of searching and finding content delivered over different means (for switching from a television signal and modem data signal), it may be necessary to consult multiple sources information or xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what might be of interest to the user and available. Another problem is present in prior art systems is the ease with which actions can be prompted to the user on a given signal type and carried out using signal An of this is an advertisement on television containing a telephone for placing to purchase goods, or a world wide web address, is displayed part of a television program. The conventional method of action would be for the user to note the telephone number, pick up telephone, dial telephone number, request specific merchandise provide credit card information or billing to the operator. If a world wide web address is provided on television show, it may require several displays of this address before the user can note the exact syntax of the copy it down, enter it into his web browser communicate with this web page. One the of this invention is an integrated content guide (ICG) associated provided. This content guide provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and pluralities of types and programming provides an integrated approach for the presentation of this information and of information which is sent along with this signal. An of this invention is a mechanism links and/or related information, which (is) kept in the context of the program being or listened to, may be used as part of the content guide.
|
1. FIeLD of The invENtioN
tHiS iNveNtION rELATes to A nOVel SYSTem AnD MEtHOdolOGy for pRoviding INfORmatION wIth REspecT to eleCTROnIC entertAiNMEnt And MoRE PaRtICuLArly to an iNFORmAtion PrograM COnTeNT gUiDe WHich prOvideS foR reLAtEd SeRVIcES.
2. deSCrIptION OF thE reLAtED Art
variOuS texT BaSED SYSTeMS fOR PROvIdiNg InFOrMatioN on TELEviSiOn Shows aND the LIKE ArE NOw aVaIlAblE. HoWEvEr, THESe DeVices ANd/or pRiNtED pUBLICaTIOnS ARe RatHer LImiTEd in THEIr scOPE. SysTems sUCH as THe VCR+(tRADeMarK) SYSTem wHiCh EMploys iNfoRMAtioN FoUnd in a LOcAL newSpAPER, provIDEs a cODE BaSED SYStEM WHich REqUIRES ThAT THE MAnual coDes prInTEd In a NewsPApER BE EnTERED InTO A vCR to AlLOW AuTOMatiC prOgRAmmING oF THe vCr. THIs SyStEM hOWeVeR, DOES Not alloW FOR An INTerACTiVe link of thE fleXiBiliTY tHAt is DEMANDED OR NeedeD by UsErS at the PResent tiME. this INVEnTIOn eXpAnDs upoN, aNd PROVIdEs a siGNIfiCant IMpRoVemENT ovER, tHe tExT BaSeD prEpRINTEd InformaTiOn SYsTemS AND FurthEr PRoviDEs a mechanIsM By wHiCH AddiTIONal RelaTEd ServiceS AND iNfOrmAtioN CaN Be PROVIdEd To A uSer.
OtHeR compUTeR And eLeCtROnIc BAsed sYSTEmS, sUch aS WoUlD BE fOunD oN a caBle SyStEM, SUffEr fRom variOuS othEr problEmS, sUCh as a LACk Of iNTerACTiviTY anD THe ABIlItY tO PROViDE INTeraCTive LINKs OR fOr thE iNfOrmATiOn tO be updaTEd iN AN eAsY MaNNer.
a CompUter BaSED systEm is PRoViDEd iN ThIs iNvEntiON whIch May USE, FOR ExampLE, A peRSoNAL cOMpuTer whIcH EXtRACts, cOnsolidaTEs and PROVidEs a DIsPlay MeChANISm foR DIsPLAYiNg tHe VArIOUS TyPES Of INFoRmATiOn TO acCESs frOm muLTIpLe SOurcES OF eLECtroNiC sIgNAlS aNd SouRcES For usE by an iNdividUAL. although This CoMpuTER SysTEm is PriMarIly dEsigNed TO INCOrpORate A LaRgE sCReEN monIToR caPABle foR ViEWinG at A disTaNCe, tHIS INVeNtion sHoULD nOt BE cONSIDeREd So LImITED IN iTs Use AND in FACt be uSEd In conjunCtIon wITh mOnitoRS OF AlL SIZeS. THe cOMPutER sySTEM OF tHis INVENtioN INcorPoRateS InTeGRatEd HARDWaRe aNd fuNCtiONAliTy IN whiCH eLEcTRoNIc SignaLs fROm A PlURAlity Of sOUrces And oF VarIoUs tyPeS CAN be ACQuireD By ThE comPUTEr sySteM""s cENTral prOcEsSING uNit. THE sYstEM INTeRprETs anD pRoCESseS informATION whICH iS PlayED back AND dIspLAyed To THE uSer. THeSe sigNals maY BE acQuired from aN anALOG SignaL or fROM A diGITAl SignAL. juSt sOME oF The eXamPLes OF tHE SIgNAL sOUrces mighT bE StAndARD ANaLog tELeVISIOn TransMisSiOn, whIcH oCCURS oveR THe AIr, caBLe ANalOG TeLEVIsION traNSmIsSiONS, DIGiTAL CaBlE teLeVisIoN trAnsMIssIonS, aNd dIRecT bRoadCasT SATELlItES, eITHeR DigiTaL oR AnaloG. AdDItIOnAL dIGiTal infORmAtIon CaN BE CArrIED as paRT of an anAlOg TelEVISIOn sIGnAL foR ExampLe, as PARt Of the vERTical BLankInG inTerval (VbI) oR IN OtHER PORTIONS of tHe VIDeo ANd Audio WAvE foRm, Including IN THe PIctURe pOrtiOn itSELf. DIgiTaL DatA MAY aLso BE acqUiRed bY tHE CENTRal PrOcessoR By cAblE mOdeM, sATELlITE DIGITal VidEO tRANsMiSSiON or ovEr STAndaRd teLEphonE LinES, InClUdinG iNTEgRAted SErViCes diGItAl nETwOrK (iSdN), wIreleSS tRANsMiSsION, am/Fm RadIO BrOAdcASTS, dIgitAL MediA SucH AS cd rOm, cdI, maGNEtIc DISKETTEs Or The like. FurthER addITIoNaL InForMaTion Can bE aCQUIrEd frOm PrerecorDeD ItemS sUCH aS wouLD be usEd In vidEo cassETte RECORDerS, AUdiO Cd PlAyERs OR THe liKe. thIs iNfOrMatIon WoulD THEn be coNVeRted eITher frOm ItS NAtIVe AnALog FORMAT Or ReFOrMaTtEd FrOM ITS StORED dIGitaL FoRMAT OR tRANSMITTAl dIgiTal FOrMAT into A dATA ForMat BY WhiCh tHe coMpUteR may UsE THiS iNforMATIoN.
THE prESENtAtION of thIs inFormAtIoN IN a mANnER which iS uSABle by AN AVERage UsEr, is onE oF ThE SigNiFIcAnt FEaTUres aND AdVANTAGES of THiS iNvEnTIOn. spECIfIcaLly, ThE CoMPUTer SySTEM acQuireS infORMaTioN FRoM A mULtIPliCity Of eLEctrONIc sIgNAlS AND ProvideS a COheReNt MECHAnisM oF preSeNTinG thIs iNfoRmatIon To a user In A FormAT whICh iS EAsy to UnDERstAnd AnD suITABLE FoR USage. FOr ExAMPlE, IN tHE casE OF BrOADcAst telEvISION siGNAlS, tHEsE sIgNaLS ARe RECeIVeD And CoNVeRTEd iNTO A MOVIng DigitAl grAPHiCAL diSplAY aND The PRocesseD sIgNalS CaN thEn BE dISplayeD ON A syStEm MONItor WiTH ThE AcCoMPaNYInG AuDiO SigNaLs BeIng recEivED anD cONVERTEd To DIGItal SAmpLeS anD thEn ReplAyEd throUGh THe diGiTAL DIsPLAy to aNalog CoNvErtErs ProvIdeD in THe sYSTEm. oBVioUSLY, ThE sIGNal ACQuISItion mETHod AND AppaRAtUS aND ItS prOcESSinG USED To PresenT the SIgnaL, EITHER VisUAl oR AuRaL, WIlL vaRY DepENDInG UpOn THE TyPe OF sIGNAL SOUrCe THaT is RECEiVEd anD thE Manner In wHICh IT Is ReCeivEd.
IN the cASE oF dIGitAl SIGNal soUrCEs, THe proCesSiNg MEthOD uSed to InTerpRET ANd PrEsenT thE siGNaL oBVIously DepenDs UPOn THE TYpE of diGiTAl iNFOrMaTioN. OnE OF thE ConcerNs is HOW tHE iNformATION IS cOntAINed wItHin the Data stREam oR ON the ContEXt iN WHiCH tHE DATa Is recEIvED. THe MeCHaniSm By wHICh thE siGNAL ARriveS AT THE cOmPUTer SYstem OBvIoUSLY may vAry as SeT fOrtH above and tHis InVenTiON shoULd NOt bE lIMITED To THE SpECific MeThODOlOgy of rECeIVInG tHE siGNAl.
iN any ComPlex CoMPuTER syStEm which iS capaBLE oF ReceIViNg ANd diSpLAYIng OR PLaying baCk aUdio SiGNaLs, THEre Is ObviouslY A RIcH aNd DiVERsE SoURce of SigNAls fOR EnterTAiNMENt ANd for contENt. howevER, iT Is DiffICULt fOr an INdiVIduAl UsER to sELecT frOm THE wIdE SeLeCTIon OF PoSSIBLe PRogRAmS And coNteNT typES IN An Easy AnD exPEdITIoUs maNNer. IN conVenTioNAL ApprOAcHeS, ONCE a selEcTiON is MaDE OR iN Use, it is DiFfICuLt OR tIME coNSUMing To CHaNGE tO oR InvESTIgAte OThEr siGnAL/CoNteNt SoUrcES wiThoUT entERiNG cOmpLEX COMmANDs. In THE CaSe oF seArcHing And finDING cONtenT DElIvered over DifFERent meANs (foR examplE, sWiTCHIng FROM a TeleViSIon BROaDcast SIgNal aND a ModEM daTA sIgnAL), IT May be nEcesSArY to consult muLTIpLE SouRCes of INForMAtion Or Xe2x80X9cCONTeNT GuIdesxe2x80x9d TO deterMINe wHAt MATErIaL might be Of IntEreST TO THe uSEr aND WhAT IS AVAILABLE.
ANOTHer ProbleM tHaT is pREsent iN PRIOR art SYSteMs iS The EasE WITh wHICh actIonS Can bE pRoMPted TO THe USEr oN A GiVEN SIGNAL typE AND cARried oUt USinG AnOTheR SiGnal tYpe. aN eXampLE oF ThiS Is AN AdVERtISEMeNT ON TelEvISiOn cONTaINinG a TElePHONE NumBeR For pLaciNg an OrdEr to puRChASe Goods, Or a wOrlD WidE WEb AdDreSS, wHIch iS DISplAyEd aS parT oF A teLEVisiON PRogrAM. the COnventiONal meThoD OF TakING acTiON WoUlD bE FOr THE UseR tO NOTe tHE TelePHONE NUMber, PIcK up A TeLEpHOne, diaL the teLephone NumBER, rEQUeST thE spECIfIC meRChaNdise AnD PrOVIDe CREdIt cArD InfoRmAtioN Or BIlling infORmATiON To THE OpeRatoR. IF a wORLd WidE weB AdDRESS Is pRoVIdeD On the TELEVISIon ShOW, it may requirE SevERaL dISPlayS of THIs ADdress BEfORE THe USEr CAN nOTe THE ExaCT syntAX oF THe AdDreSs, COPy IT down, EnteR IT Into his Web BRowSEr anD cOmMuniCATe witH ThiS wEB pagE.
onE oF THE UniQuE ADVAnTAgeS Of THiS iNvEntion iS An iNtegRaTed cOntEnT gUIDE (iCG) witH ASsoCiaTED FEAtuRes iS pROVIdED. tHIs ContEnT GuIde provIdeS An InTEgraTED MetHod fOR SEaRchIng aNd fIndInG coNteNT OF iNterest BOth WithiN And acrOSs PLUraliTIES Of sigNaL TyPes AnD PROgRamminG AnD pROvIdEs an intEgrAteD ApPROAcH FOr tHe PreSeNtatION oF this INfORmaTioN AND OF ADVeRtisiNG InFORMaTiOn wHIch IS SEnT AloNG wiTH ThiS sIGnAL.
an AddiTiOnal AdVAnTagE OF THis InVentIon is A MeCHaNIsM By whICH liNKS and/OR rELATed iNformATION, WhiCH aRe (Is) KEPT In THe CoNtExT OF ThE pROgRAm beiNg ViEwED or LiStENeD tO, mAy BE uSED As pARt of the CONTent gUIde.
|
1. Fieldof the Invention This inventionrelates to a novelsystem and methodologyfor providing information with respect to electronic entertainment and more particularly toan informationprogram content guide which provides for related services. 2. Description of the Related Art Various text based systems for providing information on television shows and the like arenow available. However, these devices and/or printed publications are rather limited in their scope. Systems such asthe VCR+(trademark) system which employs information found in a local newspaper, provides a codebased systemwhich requires that the manual codesprinted ina newspaper be entered into a VCR to allow automatic programming oftheVCR. Thissystem however, does not allowfor an interactivelink of the flexibility that is demanded or neededby users at the present time. This invention expands upon, and provides a significant improvementover, thetext based preprinted information systems and further providesa mechanism bywhich additional related services and information can be provided toa user. Other computer and electronic basedsystems, such aswould be found on a cable system, suffer from various other problems, such as a lack of interactivity and the abilityto provide interactive links orforthe information to be updated in an easy manner. A computer basedsystem is providedin this invention which may use, for example, a personal computer which extracts, consolidates and provides a display mechanism for displaying the various types of information to access from multiple sources of electronic signals andsources for use by an individual. Although thiscomputer systemisprimarilydesigned to incorporate a large screen monitor capable forviewing ata distance, this invention should not be consideredso limited in its use and infactbe used in conjunction with monitors of allsizes. The computersystem of this invention incorporates integrated hardware and functionality in whichelectronic signals from a plurality ofsources and ofvarious types can be acquired bythe computer system""s central processing unit. The system interprets andprocesses information which is played back anddisplayed to the user. These signals maybeacquired from an analog signal or from a digital signal. Just some of the examples of the signal sources mightbe standard analogtelevision transmission, which occurs over the air, cable analog televisiontransmissions, digital cable television transmissions, anddirect broadcast satellites, eitherdigital or analog. Additional digital informationcan be carriedas part of an analog television signal for example, as part of the vertical blanking interval (VBI) or in other portions of thevideo and audio wave form, includingin the pictureportion itself. Digitaldata may also be acquiredby thecentral processor by cable modem, satellite digital video transmissionor over standard telephone lines, including Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), wireless transmission, AM/FM radiobroadcasts,digital media such as CD ROM, CDI, magnetic diskettes or thelike. Further additional information can be acquired from prerecorded itemssuch aswould be used in videocassette recorders, audio CD players or thelike. This information would thenbe convertedeither from its native analog format or reformatted fromits stored digital formator transmittal digital format intoa data format by which thecomputer may use this information. The presentation of this information in a manner which is usable by an average user,isone of the significant features and advantages of this invention. Specifically, the computer system acquires informationfrom amultiplicityof electronic signals andprovides a coherentmechanism of presenting this information to a user in a format which is easy to understand and suitable for usage. For example, in the case of broadcast television signals, these signals arereceivedand converted into a moving digital graphical display andthe processedsignals can then be displayed on a system monitor with the accompanying audio signalsbeing received and convertedto digital samples and then replayed through the digital display toanalog convertersprovided in thesystem. Obviously, the signal acquisition method and apparatus and its processing used to present the signal, either visualor aural, will vary depending uponthe type ofsignal sourcethat is received and the manner in which it is received. In the case ofdigital signal sources, the processing method used to interpretand present the signal obviouslydepends upon the type of digital information. One of the concerns ishow the information is contained within the data stream or on the context in which the data is received. The mechanism by which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as set forth above and this invention shouldnot be limitedto the specific methodology of receivingthe signal. In any complex computer system which is capable of receivingand displaying or playing back audio signals, there isobviously a rich and diverse source of signals for entertainment and for content. However, it is difficult for an individual userto select from the wideselection of possibleprograms and content types in an easy and expeditious manner. In conventional approaches, once a selection ismade or in use, it is difficult or time consuming to change to or investigate othersignal/contentsources without entering complex commands. In the case of searching and finding content delivered over different means (for example, switching from a television broadcast signal and a modem data signal), it may be necessary toconsult multiple sources of informationor xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what material might beof interest to the user andwhat is available. Another problem that is present inprior art systems is the ease withwhich actions can be prompted to the user on a givensignal type and carried outusing another signal type. An example of this is an advertisement ontelevision containinga telephone number for placing an order to purchase goods, or a worldwide webaddress, which is displayed as part of atelevision program. Theconventional method of taking action would be for the user tonote the telephone number, pick up a telephone, dialthetelephone number, request the specific merchandise and provide credit cardinformation orbilling information to the operator.If a world wide web address is provided on the television show,it mayrequire several displays of thisaddress before the user cannote the exactsyntax of the address, copy it down, enter it into hisweb browser and communicatewith this web page. One of the unique advantages ofthisinvention is an integratedcontent guide (ICG) withassociated features is provided. This content guide provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and acrosspluralities of signal types andprogramming and provides an integrated approach for the presentation of thisinformation and of advertising information which is sent along with this signal.An additionaladvantage of this invention is a mechanism by whichlinks and/or related information, which are(is) keptin the context of the program being viewed orlistenedto, may be used aspart of the contentguide.
|
1. Field of the Invention This invention relates to a novel system and methodology for providing _information_ with respect to _electronic_ entertainment and more particularly to an information program content guide _which_ provides _for_ related services. 2. Description of _the_ _Related_ Art Various _text_ based systems for _providing_ information _on_ television shows and the like are _now_ available. However, these devices and/or printed publications are rather limited in their scope. _Systems_ such as the VCR+(trademark) _system_ _which_ employs information found in a local newspaper, provides a code based system which requires _that_ the manual _codes_ printed in a newspaper be entered into a VCR to allow automatic programming of _the_ _VCR._ This system however, does not allow for an _interactive_ _link_ _of_ the flexibility that is demanded or needed by _users_ at _the_ _present_ time. _This_ invention expands upon, and provides a _significant_ _improvement_ over, the text based preprinted information _systems_ and further provides a _mechanism_ by _which_ additional related services _and_ information can _be_ provided _to_ _a_ _user._ Other computer and electronic _based_ systems, such as would _be_ found on a _cable_ system, suffer from various _other_ problems, such as a lack of interactivity and the ability to provide interactive _links_ or _for_ the information _to_ be updated in an easy _manner._ A computer based system is provided in this invention _which_ may use, for example, a personal computer which _extracts,_ consolidates and provides a display mechanism for displaying the various _types_ _of_ information to _access_ from multiple _sources_ of electronic signals _and_ sources for use by an individual. _Although_ this computer _system_ _is_ _primarily_ designed to incorporate a large screen _monitor_ capable _for_ viewing at a distance, this invention should not _be_ considered so limited in its use _and_ _in_ _fact_ be used in _conjunction_ with monitors of all sizes. The computer system of this _invention_ incorporates _integrated_ _hardware_ _and_ functionality _in_ which electronic signals from _a_ plurality of sources and of various types _can_ be acquired by the computer _system""s_ central processing unit. The system interprets and processes information which is _played_ _back_ and displayed to the user. These signals may be _acquired_ _from_ an analog signal or from a _digital_ signal. Just some of the examples of the signal sources might be standard analog television _transmission,_ _which_ _occurs_ _over_ _the_ air, _cable_ analog television transmissions, digital _cable_ television transmissions, and direct broadcast satellites, either digital or analog. Additional digital information can be carried as part of an analog _television_ _signal_ for _example,_ as part _of_ the vertical blanking interval _(VBI)_ or in other portions of the _video_ and audio wave _form,_ including in the picture portion itself. Digital data may _also_ be acquired by _the_ _central_ processor by cable modem, _satellite_ digital video _transmission_ or _over_ _standard_ telephone lines, including Integrated Services _Digital_ Network (ISDN), wireless transmission, AM/FM radio broadcasts, _digital_ media such as CD ROM, CDI, magnetic _diskettes_ or the like. _Further_ _additional_ information _can_ be acquired from prerecorded _items_ such _as_ would be used in video cassette recorders, audio _CD_ _players_ or the like. This information would then be converted _either_ from its native analog format or _reformatted_ from its stored _digital_ format or transmittal _digital_ format into a _data_ format by _which_ the computer _may_ use this _information._ The presentation of _this_ _information_ in a _manner_ _which_ is usable by an _average_ user, is one of the significant features and advantages of this invention. Specifically, _the_ computer _system_ acquires information from a multiplicity of electronic signals _and_ provides a coherent mechanism of presenting this information to a user _in_ a format _which_ is easy _to_ understand _and_ suitable _for_ usage. For _example,_ in the case of broadcast _television_ signals, these _signals_ are received and _converted_ into a moving digital graphical display and the processed signals can then be _displayed_ on a _system_ monitor with the accompanying audio _signals_ being received and converted to _digital_ _samples_ and then replayed through the digital display to _analog_ converters provided in _the_ _system._ Obviously, the _signal_ acquisition method and _apparatus_ and its processing used to present the signal, either _visual_ _or_ aural, _will_ vary depending upon the type of signal _source_ _that_ is received and the manner in which it is received. In the case of _digital_ signal sources, the processing method used _to_ interpret and _present_ the signal obviously _depends_ _upon_ the type of _digital_ information. One of the _concerns_ is how _the_ _information_ is contained within the data stream or on the context in which the data is received. The mechanism _by_ which the signal arrives at the computer system obviously may vary as _set_ forth above and this invention should not be _limited_ to the specific _methodology_ of receiving the _signal._ _In_ any complex computer system which is capable _of_ receiving _and_ displaying or playing back _audio_ signals, there is _obviously_ a rich and diverse source of signals for entertainment and for content. However, _it_ is _difficult_ for an individual user to _select_ from the wide selection of possible _programs_ and content types in _an_ easy _and_ expeditious _manner._ In conventional _approaches,_ once a selection is _made_ _or_ in use, it is difficult or time consuming to _change_ _to_ or _investigate_ other signal/content _sources_ _without_ entering _complex_ commands. _In_ the case of searching and finding content delivered _over_ different means (for example, switching from a television broadcast signal and a modem _data_ signal), it may be _necessary_ to consult multiple sources of information or xe2x80x9ccontent guidesxe2x80x9d to determine what _material_ might be of interest to the _user_ _and_ what is _available._ _Another_ _problem_ _that_ is present in _prior_ art systems is _the_ ease with which actions can be prompted to the _user_ on a _given_ signal type and carried out _using_ another signal type. An example of this is an _advertisement_ on television containing a telephone number for placing _an_ order to purchase goods, _or_ a world wide _web_ address, which is displayed as part of a television program. _The_ conventional method of _taking_ action _would_ be for the user to note the _telephone_ number, pick up a telephone, dial the telephone _number,_ request the specific merchandise and provide credit _card_ information or billing information to _the_ operator. If a world wide web address is provided on the television show, _it_ may require several _displays_ of _this_ address _before_ the user can _note_ the _exact_ syntax _of_ the address, copy it _down,_ enter it _into_ his web browser and communicate with _this_ web _page._ One of the unique advantages _of_ _this_ invention is an integrated content _guide_ (ICG) with associated features is provided. This content _guide_ provides an integrated method for searching and finding content of interest both within and _across_ _pluralities_ of _signal_ types _and_ programming and provides _an_ integrated approach for the presentation of _this_ _information_ _and_ of advertising information which is sent _along_ with this signal. An additional _advantage_ of this invention is a mechanism by which _links_ _and/or_ related _information,_ which are (is) kept in _the_ context of the program being viewed or _listened_ to, may be used _as_ _part_ of the content guide.
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.