[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Semiconductor Device, Electronic Device, And Self-Diagnosis Method For Semiconductor Device

Technical Field and Background:
The present disclosure relates to a semiconductor device and is applicable, for example, to a semiconductor device having a self-diagnosis function. Recently, ISO26262 set by the International Organization for Standardization has been collecting attention as a functional safety standard for in-vehicle electronic devices. Functional safety refers to securing minimum tolerable safety by implementing a functional measure, should any element of an in-vehicle electronic device, for example, a microcontroller develop a fault. In the ISO26262, requesting a high fault detection rate, in-vehicle microcontrollers incorporate a scan circuit for performing a built-in self-test (BIST). Generally, in a microcontroller, a BIST is performed during a period between after the microcontroller is powered on and before the microcontroller starts real operation (in-vehicle control such as engine control and brake control). The BIST performed in an in-vehicle microcontroller is required to achieve a high fault detection rate in a predetermined amount of time, so that the BIST when performed involves a high rate of current consumption variation. Generally, it is known that, when the rate of current consumption variation is high in a circuit, resonance noise is generated in the power supply line in the circuit. A method to reduce power supply resonance noise is disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-188881 (patent document 1).

Invention Disclosure:
A semiconductor device addresses to a problem in which a current consumption variation rate increases during BIST execution causing resonance noise generation in a power supply line. The semiconductor device includes a self-diagnosis control circuit, a scan target circuit including a combinational circuit and a scan flip-flop, and an electrically rewritable non-volatile memory. A scan chain is configured by coupling a plurality of the scan flip-flops. In accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory, the self-diagnosis control circuit can change a length of at least one of a scan-in period, a scan-out period and a capture period, and can also change a scan start timing.

[Assistant]
1. A semiconductor device comprising:
a self-diagnosis control circuit;
a scan target circuit including a combinational circuit and scan flip-flops; and
an electrically rewritable non-volatile memory,
wherein a scan chain is configured by coupling a plurality of the scan flip-flops, and
wherein, in accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory, the self-diagnosis control circuit is configured to:
change a length of at least one of a scan-in period in which test data is inputted to the scan chain and a scan-out period in which a test result is outputted from the scan chain by changing a shift frequency of the scan chain, and
change a length of a capture period in which a test result on the combinational circuit is captured into the scan chain by changing a low period of a capture clock capturing the test result.

2. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising
a scan chain control circuit,
wherein the scan target circuit includes a selector for switching between outputs of the scan flip-flops, and
wherein the scan chain control circuit is configured to change a scan chain configuration by controlling the selector in accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory.

3. The semiconductor device according to claim 2,
wherein the scan target circuit includes a plurality of concurrently operational scan chains.

4. The semiconductor device according to claim 2,
wherein the number of scan flip-flops coupled in the scan chain can be changed.

5. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising:
a clock control circuit,
wherein the clock control circuit is configured to change a shift clock frequency for the scan chain in accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory.

6. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising:
a clock control circuit,
wherein, in accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory, the clock control circuit is configured to change the low period of the capture clock capturing the test result on the combinational circuit into the scan chain.

7. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising:
a pattern generation circuit to generate test data;
a compression circuit to compress a scan test result; and
a comparison result circuit to store a compression result,
wherein an expected scan test result value is stored in the non-volatile memory.

8. The semiconductor device according to claim 7,
wherein the scan target circuit includes a CPU which writes the expected scan test result value stored in the non-volatile memory to the scan target circuit to cause the scan target circuit to compare the scan test result with the expected scan test result value.

9. The semiconductor device according to claim 1, further comprising:
a self-diagnosis non-target circuit including a memory; and
a memory self-diagnosis circuit to self-diagnose the memory,
wherein the self-diagnosis non-target circuit includes the memory self-diagnosis circuit.

10. The semiconductor device according to claim 9,
wherein the memory self-diagnosis circuit includes:
a memory self-diagnosis control circuit;
a memory pattern generation circuit; and
a memory self-diagnosis result checking circuit.

11. The semiconductor device according to claim 1,
wherein each of the scan flip-flops includes a multiplexer and a flip-flop, the multiplexer switching between an output of the combinational circuit and an output of a scan flip-flop for input to the flip-flop.

12. The semiconductor device according to claim 1,
wherein the scan target circuit includes a plurality of concurrently operational scan chains, and
wherein, in accordance with parameters stored in the non-volatile memory, the self-diagnosis control circuit is further configured to set different scan start times for the plurality of scan chains.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Non-Volatile Memory Unit And Method For Manufacturing The Same

Technical Field and Background:
1. Technical Field This disclosure relates to non-volatile memory unit and method for manufacturing the same, in particular, to a damascene and a flattening process using dielectric layer for hard mask to form erase gate (EG) and the selective gate (SG). 2. Related Art A split gate unit is widely used in independent and embedded type non-volatile application. Since it has a smaller sector cleaning and a more easily supported circuit design, in the embedded non-volatile IC industry it becomes more and more important. For instance, could be used at the MCU and smartcard. In previous non-volatile memory units of split gate of the Microchip™ and SST™ are consider to be easily manufactured and have a reliable reliabilities, thus are considered a most approval solution nowadays. In the core of the non-volatile memory unit, double layered polycrystalline silicon layer is consider as the floating gate of the first polycrystalline silicon layer and selective gate of the second polycrystalline silicon layer. As the IC device become smaller and smaller, the double polycrystalline silicon of slit gate could not satisfy the nowadays' trend. By adding addition polycrystalline silicon layer for couple control gate, the tri-polycrystalline silicon split gate is getting smaller and also gains its importance. In the core of the non-volatile, in this technique, the three-layer polycrystalline silicon is considered as the floating gate of the first polycrystalline silicon layer, the second polycrystalline silicon layer as couple control gate, and the third polycrystalline silicon layer as erase gate/selective gate. Similar to convention non-volatile memory unit of stacking gat, such as ETOX. First of all, formed the floating gate along the bit line direction, and formed the couple control gate (CG) as mask for etching the floating gate. By back-etching tri-polycrystalline silicon to form the erase gate and the select separator of the erase gate and selective gate. Since the erase gate and select separator includes different gate dielectric for different usage, so the fabrication process of the transistor oxide layer of the selective gate and the tunnel oxide layer have to be carefully consider. Unfortunately, at the existing split gate structure and manufacturing method the above said request are hard to realize. The dielectric between the floating gate and the selective gate has to integrate to the combination of the tunneling oxide layer, which disposed between the floating gate and the selective gate. Therefore, the manufacturing process will be more complicate and lack of flexibility thus became a closed system. Finally and most importantly, now existing tri-polycrystalline silicon split gate cannot avoid involving etching, and growing of the oxidizing layer with rough surface of the floating gate. The floating gate is used in erasing the nodes. Assume that the surface of the polycrystalline silicon and the tunneling oxide layer are not carefully handle, the uneven micro surface structure of the floating gate polycrystalline silicon will not be able to cause the tunneling effect of the tunnel oxidation layer thus affect the reliability.

Invention Disclosure:
A non-volatile memory unit and method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The non-volatile memory unit includes a substrate with a source region and a drain region. A first dielectric layer forms on the substrate. An erase gate, a floating gate and couple control gate are forms on the first dielectric layer. The second dielectric layer and coupled dielectric layer are formed among and above the erase gate, the floating gate and the selective gate, and formed on the couple control gate of the coupled dielectric layer.

[Assistant]
1. A method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit, comprising the steps of:
(1) providing a substrate;
(2) forming a first base dielectric layer on the substrate;
(3) forming a sacrificial layer and a first polycrystalline silicon layer on the first base dielectric layer;
(4) defining a first pattern opening and a second pattern opening at the first base dielectric layer, the sacrificial layer and the first polycrystalline silicon layer;
(5) performing a first ion implantation according to the first pattern opening;
(6) selectively changing a thickness of the first base dielectric layer in order to form damascene grooves that are spaced apart along a horizontal direction;
(7) forming a sidewall dielectric layer at two side of the first polycrystalline silicon layer and the sacrificial layer;
(8) forming a second base dielectric layer on the substrate of the second pattern opening;
(9) forming damascene grooves along the horizontal direction at the first polycrystalline silicon layer, the sacrificial layer and the sidewall dielectric layer;
(10) forming a second polycrystalline silicon layer on the first base dielectric layer and the second base dielectric layer;
(11) forming a covering dielectric layer on the second polycrystalline silicon layer;
(12) forming a coupled dielectric layer on the first polycrystalline silicon layer, the sidewall dielectric layer and the covering dielectric layer;
(13) selectively forming a third polycrystalline silicon layer on the coupled dielectric layer;
(14) defining a third pattern opening; and
(15) performing a second ion implantation according to the third pattern opening.

2. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (4) further comprises steps of:
applying a photoresist, etching the sacrificial layer and the first polycrystalline silicon layer at a region outside the first pattern opening and the second pattern opening, thus forming the sacrificial layer on the first polycrystalline silicon layer, and a stacked separated sacrificial layer and the first polycrystalline silicon layer are separated along the horizontal direction.

3. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (4) further comprises steps of:
the first polycrystalline silicon further comprising a floating gate (FG) formed on the first base dielectric layer via the first pattern opening and the second pattern opening.

4. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (6) further comprises steps of:
via the second pattern opening, formed a thinned first base dielectric layer under the second pattern opening.

5. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (6) further comprises steps of:
forming a separator at each side of the sacrificial layer upon the second pattern opening, wherein the separators are electrically isolated.

6. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 5, wherein step (6) further comprises:
forming a temporary sidewall dielectric layer at the sidewall of the first polycrystalline silicon layer, selectively thickening the first base dielectric layer and forming the temporary sidewall dielectric layer and the sidewall of the first polycrystalline silicon layer at the same time, connecting the first base dielectric layer.

7. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 6, wherein step (6) further comprises:
selectively changing the thickness of the first base dielectric layer, and removing the temporary sidewall dielectric layer formed at the sidewall of the first polycrystalline silicon layer.

8. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (7) further comprises:
forming a temporary base dielectric layer at the second pattern opening at the substrate, and forming a trench above second pattern opening and between the temporary base dielectric layer and the sidewall dielectric layer.

9. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (8) further comprises:
according to a mask defined by the second pattern opening, removing the temporary base dielectric layer at the second pattern opening.

10. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (8) further comprises:
forming a separator at each side of the sidewall of the sacrificial layer at the second pattern opening, and the separators are electrically isolated.

11. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein forming the second polycrystalline silicon layer of step (10) further comprises:
forming a fourth polycrystalline silicon layer, which with the second polycrystalline silicon layer both are formed in the damascene grooves, wherein the second polycrystalline silicon layer is formed in the damascene grooves of the first pattern opening and the fourth polycrystalline silicon layer is formed in the damascene grooves of the second pattern opening.

12. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (11) further comprises:
removing the sacrificial layer according to the first and the second pattern openings, wherein the sacrificial layer outside first and the second pattern openings are removed.

13. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein step (11) further comprises:
defining a region outside the third pattern opening as a mask; and
removing the first polycrystalline silicon layer outside the third pattern opening.

14. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first dielectric layer is defined, and the first dielectric layer comprises the first and the second base dielectric layers formed on the substrate.

15. The method for manufacturing a non-volatile memory unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein a second dielectric layer is defined, the second dielectric layer comprises the sidewall dielectric layer is formed at two sides of the first polycrystalline silicon layer and the sacrificial layer, and the covering dielectric layer is formed on the second polycrystalline silicon layer, wherein the second dielectric layer covers an erase gate (EG) and a selective gate (SG).

16. A non-volatile memory unit comprising:
a substrate, wherein a source region and a drain region are formed on a surface, and the source region and the drain region are separated apart via a channel region;
a first dielectric layer, formed on the substrate and defining a first pattern opening along a depth direction of the first dielectric layer;
an erase gate (EG), formed on the first dielectric layer and is disposed upon a projection of the first pattern opening along the depth direction;
a floating gate (FG), formed on the first dielectric layer and near the erase gate;
a selective gate (SG), formed on the first dielectric layer and near the floating gate, wherein the selective gate and the floating gate are disposed upon a channel region's projection along the depth direction;
a second dielectric layer, formed on the first dielectric layer and covering the erase gate and the selective gate, wherein the floating gate is disposed between the erase gate and the selective gate;
a coupled dielectric layer, formed on the erase gate, the floating gate, the selective gate and the second dielectric layer; and
a couple control gate (CG), formed on the coupled dielectric layer;
wherein the first pattern opening of the first dielectric layer has a first thickness, a thickness of the first dielectric layer below a projection of the floating gate (FG) is defined as a second thickness, and a thickness of the first dielectric layer below a projection of the selective gate (SG) is defined as a third thickness,
wherein the first thickness is thicker than the second thickness, and the second thickness is thicker than the third thickness.

17. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the second dielectric layer is disposed two sides of the erase gate (EG) and the second dielectric layer is formed from two sides of the first pattern opening from a central of the erase gate (EG).

18. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the first dielectric layer has a second pattern opening, which is defined by the selective gate (SG) along the depth direction.

19. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the first dielectric layer has a third pattern opening, which is defined by the source region along the depth direction.

20. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the selective gate (SG) further comprises a separator formed above the second pattern opening at each side of the selective gate (SG), and the separator is electrically isolated.

21. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the erase gate (EG) and the selective gate (SG) are formed in a damascene grooves, and the floating gate (FG) and the second dielectric layer are disposed between the erase gate (EG) and the selective gate (SG).

22. The non-volatile memory unit of claim 16, wherein the second dielectric layer formed above the erase gate (EG) and the selective gate (SG) is covered by a covering dielectric layer, and the covering dielectric layer is parallel to the first dielectric layer.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Ratchet Strap Apparatus Including Easily Attachable Cargo Strap

Technical Field and Background:
1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to the field of ratchet strap apparatus typically used in tying down cargo and other things and for tensioning purposes. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved ratchet strap apparatus including an easily attachable cargo strap. 2. Background Ratchet strap apparatus are today commonly used, for example, in tying down cargo and loads on vehicles, trailers, etc., and for tensioning purposes as needed or desired. Ratchet strap apparatus are, for example, shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,915; U.S. Pat. No. 6,654,987; U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,218; U.S. Pat. No. 6,195,848; and, U.S. Pat. No. 4,199,182. These apparatus essentially include a mechanism having a wind up drum rotatably mounted between two walls, and a handle engaging and rotatably driving the drum. A flat tensioning strap is selectively wound onto the drum and unwound therefrom. Another flat strap referred to herein as a cargo strap is also secured to the apparatus. The terminal ends of the straps include hooks whereby the strap ends can be hooked onto each other, the cargo/load or parts of the vehicle, trailer, etc. By winding the tension strap onto the drum, the straps are placed in tension and the cargo/load is thereby secured or tension is placed as needed or desired on the components whereat the hooks are affixed. In most ratchet strap apparatus, the cargo strap is relatively short and is permanently affixed to the ratchet mechanism. The tensioning strap is relatively longer and must be inserted through a slot in the drum, pulled taught and then, by rotatably driving the drum, caused to become wound around the drum and thereby also become frictionally engaged and tensioned. As can be appreciated, it can be difficult to simultaneously hook the cargo strap at a desired location, hook the tensioning strap at another desired location, insert the tensioning strap through the drum slot while maintaining or drawing it taught and then grasping and moving the handle for rotatably driving the drum and tensioning the tension strap. The ratchet strap apparatus of U.S. Pat. No. 6,654,987 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,199,182 make the use thereof easier by essentially providing a mechanism that includes an inboard pin and an outboard pin on the ratchet strap apparatus for more easily attaching the cargo strap. The cargo strap is selectively attachable to the mechanism by bending it into a loop with a slack end on one side thereof and a cargo engagement end on the other, locating the outboard pin through the loop and both the slack end and cargo engagement end around the inboard pin. The slack end is sandwiched between the inboard pin and the cargo engagement end whereby tension on the cargo engagement end frictionally secures the slack end between the cargo engagement end and the inboard pin. The tensioning strap may then be wound around the drum using the ratchet handle for tensioning. However, there remain shortcomings and drawbacks in such ratchet strap apparatus and in the securement of the cargo strap to the mechanism with the inboard and outboard pins, and a need exists for an improved ratchet strap apparatus wherein the cargo strap is relatively more easily selectively attachable to the apparatus using inboard and outboard pins.

Invention Disclosure:
A ratchet strap apparatus includes a tensioning strap adapted to be selectively tensioned and a cargo strap adapted to be secured to the apparatus using an inboard pin and an outboard pin and bending the cargo strap into a loop. In one embodiment, the outboard pin is secured to a side wall and an opening is provided between the outboard pin and another side wall whereby the outboard pin may be inserted into a cargo strap loop. In another embodiment, the outboard pin is slidingly received through a hole in one side wall and is selectively unseated from a saddle on the other side wall for insertion into the cargo strap loop. In yet another embodiment, the outboard pin is secured between two side walls and the inboard pin is selectively removable from and seated on saddles in each of the walls whereby the inboard pin extends therebetween.

[Assistant]
1. A ratchet strap apparatus comprising a tensioning strap adapted to be selectively tensioned, an inboard pin and an outboard pin secured to the apparatus, and a cargo strap selectively attachable to the apparatus by bending into a loop with a slack end on one side thereof and a cargo engagement end on the other, locating the outboard pin through the loop and both the slack end and cargo engagement end around the inboard pin, the slack end being sandwiched between the inboard pin and the cargo engagement end whereby tension on the cargo engagement end frictionally secures the slack end between the cargo engagement end and the inboard pin, wherein:
the outboard pin extends from a side wall to a terminal end;
an opening is provided between the terminal end and another side wall;
the outboard pin is located through the loop by inserting one of the loop slack end or cargo engagement end through the opening; and,
said two walls are formed by bending a sheet into a U-shape with said two walls extending from a base portion, wherein a bridge is provided in the base between said walls forming said inboard pin and an arm is provided in the base extending from one of the walls forming said outboard pin.

2. The ratchet apparatus of claim 1 wherein, between said bridge and arm, said one wall and part of said base portion form an L-shaped beam for supporting the arm.

3. The ratchet apparatus of claim 2 further comprising a stop member on the outboard pin terminal end formed by bending a terminal end of said arm for preventing inadvertent withdrawal of the pin from the loop while said loop is engaged over and on the outboard pin.

4. The ratchet apparatus of claim 1 wherein an inboard opening is provided through said base portion and said bridge is located between said inboard opening and said arm.

5. The ratchet apparatus of claim 4 wherein, between said bridge and arm, said one wall and part of said base portion form an L-shaped beam for supporting the arm.

6. The ratchet apparatus of claim 5 further comprising a stop member on the outboard pin terminal end formed by bending a terminal end of said arm for preventing inadvertent withdrawal of the pin from the loop while said loop is engaged over and on the outboard pin.

7. A ratchet strap apparatus comprising a tensioning strap adapted to be selectively tensioned, an inboard pin and an outboard pin secured to the apparatus, and a cargo strap selectively attachable to the apparatus by bending into a loop with a slack end on one side thereof and a cargo engagement end on the other, locating the outboard pin through the loop and both the slack end and cargo engagement end around the inboard pin, the slack end being sandwiched between the inboard pin and the cargo engagement end whereby tension on the cargo engagement end frictionally secures the slack end between the cargo engagement end and the inboard pin, wherein:
the outboard pin extends from a side wall to a terminal end;
an opening is provided between the terminal end and another side wall;
the outboard pin is located through the loop by inserting one of the loop slack end or cargo engagement end through the opening; and,
said two walls are formed by bending a sheet into a U-shape with said two walls extending from a base portion and an arm is provided in the base extending from a first one of the walls and forming said outboard pin.

8. The ratchet apparatus of claim 7 wherein, between said inboard pin and said arm, said first one wall and part of said base portion form an L-shaped beam for supporting the arm.

9. The ratchet apparatus of claim 7 further comprising a stop member on the outboard pin terminal end formed by bending a terminal end of said arm for preventing inadvertent withdrawal of the pin from the loop while said loop is engaged over and on the outboard pin.

10. A ratchet strap apparatus comprising a tensioning strap adapted to be selectively tensioned, an inboard pin and an outboard pin secured to the apparatus, and a cargo strap selectively attachable to the apparatus by bending into a loop with a slack end on one side thereof and a cargo engagement end on the other, locating the outboard pin through the loop and both the slack end and cargo engagement end around the inboard pin, the slack end being sandwiched between the inboard pin and the cargo engagement end whereby tension on the cargo engagement end frictionally secures the slack end between the cargo engagement end and the inboard pin, wherein:
the outboard pin extends from a side wall to a terminal end;
an opening is provided between the terminal end and another side wall;
the outboard pin is located through the loop by inserting one of the loop slack end or cargo engagement end through the opening; and,
said two walls are formed by bending a sheet into a U-shape with said two walls extending from a base portion, and a first one of the walls between said inboard pin and said outboard pin is L-shaped forming a beam for supporting said outboard pin.

11. A ratchet strap apparatus comprising a tensioning strap adapted to be selectively tensioned, an inboard pin and an outboard pin secured to the apparatus, and a cargo strap selectively attachable to the apparatus by bending into a loop with a slack end on one side thereof and a cargo engagement end on the other, locating the outboard pin through the loop and both the slack end and cargo engagement end around the inboard pin, the slack end being sandwiched between the inboard pin and the cargo engagement end whereby tension on the cargo engagement end frictionally secures the slack end between the cargo engagement end and the inboard pin, wherein:
the outboard pin extends from a side wall to a terminal end;
an opening is provided between the terminal end and another side wall;
the outboard pin is located through the loop by inserting one of the loop slack end or cargo engagement end through the opening; and,
said side wall between said inboard pin and said outboard pin is L-shaped forming a beam for supporting said outboard pin.

12. The ratchet apparatus of claim 11 wherein an inboard opening is provided between said side walls and said inboard pin is located between said inboard opening and said outboard pin.

13. The ratchet strap apparatus of claim 12 further comprising a stop member on the outboard pin terminal end projecting beyond an outer surface of said outboard pin and preventing inadvertent withdrawal from the loop while said loop is engaged over and on the outboard pin.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Systems And Methods For Detecting Degradation Of A Microphone Included In An Auditory Prosthesis System

Technical Field and Background:
Various types of auditory prosthesis systems have been developed to assist patients who have severe (e.g., complete) hearing loss. For example, cochlear implant systems may provide a sense of hearing for sensorineural hearing loss patients by providing electrical stimulation representative of sound directly to stimulation sites within the cochlea. As another example, electro-acoustic stimulation (“EAS”) systems may assist patients with some degree of residual hearing in the low frequencies (e.g., below 1000 Hz) by providing acoustic stimulation representative of low frequency audio content and electrical stimulation representative of high frequency content. Many auditory prosthesis systems include a sound processor apparatus (e.g., a behind-the-ear (“BTE”) sound processing unit, a body worn device, etc.) configured to be located external to a patient. The sound processor apparatus may perform a variety of functions, such as processing audio signals presented to the patient, controlling an operation of one or more implantable devices (e.g., one or more cochlear implants), and providing power to the one or more implantable devices. Audio signals presented to the patient are initially detected by a microphone located near the ear of the patient, such as mounted to an ear hook coupled to a housing that houses the sound processor. In order to properly detect sound, at least a portion of the microphone typically must be exposed to the environment. As a result, the microphone is exposed to many environmental contaminants such as skin, earwax, perspiration, and the like. The environmental contaminants and ordinary wear due to continued operation may cause the microphone to degrade. Degradation may manifest itself as a general decrease in sensitivity (e.g., drift) as well as a change in the frequency response of the microphone. For small children especially, this degradation can be difficult to detect. Where the degradation affects the intelligibility of speech, the learning and language development of children can be affected. For patients in general, the degradation may occur slowly over time and therefore not be perceptible.

Invention Disclosure:
An exemplary system includes a sound processor associated with a patient, a first microphone communicatively coupled to the sound processor and configured to detect an audio signal presented to the patient and output a first output signal representative of the audio signal, and a second microphone communicatively coupled to the sound processor and configured to detect the audio signal presented to the patient and output a second output signal representative of the audio signal. The sound processor is configured to 1) receive the first and second output signals, 2) determine that a difference between the first and second output signals meets a threshold condition, and 3) perform, in response to the determination that the difference between the first and second output signals meets the threshold condition, a predetermined action associated with the quality level of the first microphone. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed.

[Assistant]
1. A system comprising:
a sound processor associated with a patient;
a first microphone communicatively coupled to the sound processor and configured to detect an audio signal generated from a source external to the patient and output a first output signal representative of the audio signal;
a second microphone communicatively coupled to the sound processor and configured to detect the audio signal generated from a source external to the patient and output a second output signal representative of the audio signal;
wherein the sound processor is configured to
receive the first and second output signals,
determine that a difference between the first and second output signals meets a threshold condition by
determining a distance between the first and second microphones,
determining a cutoff frequency for a low-pass filter definition in accordance with c/(X*d), where c is a speed of sound in air, d is the determined distance between the first and second microphones, and X is a value greater than three,
identifying a first filtered portion from the first output signal by low-pass filtering the first output signal according to the low-pass filter definition,
identifying a second filtered portion from the second output signal by low-pass filtering the second output signal according to the low-pass filter definition, and
determining that a difference between the first and second filtered portions meets the threshold condition, and
perform, in response to the determination that the difference between the first and second output signals meets the threshold condition, a predetermined action associated with a quality level of the first microphone.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sound processor is configured to determine that the difference between the first and second filtered portions meets the threshold condition by:
averaging the first filtered portion to obtain a first averaged output signal;
averaging the second filtered portion to obtain a second averaged output signal;
generating a difference signal representative of a difference between the first and second averaged output signals; and
determining that the difference signal is outside a predetermined tolerance range of a reference signal maintained by the sound processor.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein X is equal to 4.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the sound processor is configured to generate the reference signal by:
receiving a first reference output signal from the first microphone prior to receiving the first and second output signals;
receiving a second reference output signal from the second microphone prior to receiving the first and second output signals;
generating a difference signal representative of a difference between the first and second reference output signals; and
designating the difference signal representative of the difference between the first and second reference output signals as the reference signal.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the sound processor is configured to perform the predetermined action associated with the quality level of the first microphone by adjusting one or more control parameters that govern an operation of at least one of the sound processor and a cochlear implant implanted within the patient.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the sound processor is configured to perform the predetermined action associated with the quality level of the first microphone by providing a notification that the quality level of the first microphone is below the acceptable level.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the sound processor is configured to provide the notification by activating a light-emitting device communicatively coupled to the sound processor.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the sound processor is configured to provide the notification by activating a speaker communicatively coupled to the sound processor.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein the sound processor is configured to provide the notification by producing a diagnostic signal at a diagnostic interface communicatively coupled to the sound processor.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a housing configured to be wearable by a patient and configured to house the sound processor;
wherein
the first microphone is separate from the housing, and
the second microphone is at least partially disposed within the housing.

11. A system comprising:
a housing configured to be wearable by a patient;
a sound processor disposed within the housing;
a first microphone separate from the housing and communicatively coupled to the sound processor, the first microphone being configured to detect an audio signal generated from a source external to the patient and output a first output signal representative of the audio signal;
a second microphone at least partially disposed within the housing and communicatively coupled to the sound processor, the second microphone configured to detect the audio signal generated from the source external to the patient and output a second output signal representative of the audio signal; and
an output device;
wherein the sound processor is configured to
receive the first and second output signals,
determine that a difference between the first and second output signals meets a threshold condition by
determining a distance between the first and second microphones,
determining a cutoff frequency for a low-pass filter definition in accordance with c/(X*d), where c is a speed of sound in air, d is the determined distance between the first and second microphones, and X is a value greater than three,
identifying a first filtered portion from the first output signal by low-pass filtering the first output signal according to the low-pass filter definition,
identifying a second filtered portion from the second output signal by low-pass filtering the second output signal according to the low-pass filter definition, and
determining that a difference between the first and second filtered portions meets the threshold condition, and

12. The system of claim 11, further comprising an ear hook assembly configured to connect to the housing, wherein the first microphone is coupled to the ear hook assembly.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the output device comprises one or more of a light-emitting device and a speaker.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the output device comprises a diagnostic interface.

15. A method comprising:
receiving, by a sound processor associated with a patient, a first output signal from a first microphone, the first output signal representative of an audio signal generated from a source external to the patient and detected by the first microphone;
receiving, by the sound processor, a second output signal from a second microphone, the second output signal representative of the audio signal generated from the source external to the patient and detected by the second microphone;
determining, by the sound processor, that a difference between the first and second output signals meets a threshold condition by
determining a distance between the first and second microphones,
determining a cutoff frequency for a low-pass filter definition in accordance with c/(X*d), where c is a speed of sound in air, d is the determined distance between the first and second microphones, and X is a value greater than three,
identifying a first filtered portion from the first output signal by low-pass filtering the first output signal according to the low-pass filter definition,
identifying a second filtered portion from the second output signal by low-pass filtering the second output signal according to the low-pass filter definition, and
determining that a difference between the first and second filtered portions meets the threshold condition; and
performing, by the sound processor in response to the determination that the difference between the first and second output signals meets the threshold condition, a predetermined action associated with a quality level of the first microphone.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the determining that the difference between the first and second filtered portions meets the threshold condition comprises:
averaging the first filtered portion to obtain a first averaged output signal;
averaging the second filtered portion to obtain a second averaged output signal;
generating a difference signal representative of a difference between the first and second averaged output signals; and
determining that the difference signal is outside a predetermined tolerance range of a reference signal maintained by the sound processor.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising generating, by the sound processor, the reference signal by:
receiving a first reference output signal from the first microphone prior to receiving the first and second output signals;
receiving a second reference output signal from the second microphone prior to receiving the first and second output signals;
generating a difference signal representative of a difference between the first and second reference output signals; and
designating the difference signal representative of the difference between the first and second reference output signals as the reference signal.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the performing of the predetermined action associated with the quality level of the first microphone comprises adjusting one or more control parameters that govern an operation of at least one of the sound processor and a cochlear implant implanted within the patient.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the performing of the predetermined action associated with the quality level of the first microphone comprises providing a notification that the quality level of the first microphone is below the acceptable level.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the providing of the notification comprises activating a light-emitting device communicatively coupled to the sound processor.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Winch Boom And Method For Trenchless Replacement

Technical Field and Background:
Trenchless pipe replacement is useful for replacement of pipes or other buried conduits without the need to excavate the length of pipe to be replaced. An example of trenchless pipe replacement includes pulling a cutting blade with an expander through the pipe to be replaced, and attaching a new pipe behind the cutting blade. The pipe to be replaced is split, and pushed into the surrounding soil, and the new pipe, of equal or larger diameter, is pulled into the new space within the split pipe. Splitters are commonly used for small diameter pipes, and for pipes of a material that lends itself to splitting. Another example of trenchless pipe replacement includes pipe bursting. Gas lines are one example of pipes where splitting is useful in pipe replacement. An example includes high density polyethylene (HDPE) gas pipe. For example, large quantities of 2 inch diameter HDPE gas pipes are currently in need of replacement. 300 miles of gas pipe in a single city in need of replacement is not uncommon. Given the desirability of minimizing trenches, it is also desirable to minimize the size of entry and exit pits for operating trenchless equipment. Cutting pipes in small entry and exit pits can be a challenge due to the small amount of available space to operate cutting tooling.

Invention Disclosure:
A pipe replacement system and method are shown. Configurations are shown that include a pulley that does not damage a bursting tool, as the bursting tool is pulled into a pit. Configurations are also shown that include a boom that does not need an extraction cage for the bursting tool.

[Assistant]
1. A method, comprising:
placing a boom into a pit diagonally from a winch corner to an exit corner, the boom including a first pulley at the winch corner, and a second pulley at the exit corner;
running a cable from a winch, through a pipe to be replaced, to a bursting tool;
pulling the bursting tool through the pipe to be replaced while pulling a new pipe behind bursting tool;
pulling the bursting tool around a pulley at a distal end of the boom, and into the pit, the pulley having a polymeric bursting tool guide surface; and
removing the bursting tool from the new pipe at a location parallel to the boom between the first pulley and the second pulley.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein pulling the bursting tool includes pulling a reciprocating hammer.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein pulling the bursting tool includes pulling an expander with one or more blades attached to it.

4. The method of claim 1, further including using a limiter to keep the pipe being replaced from pulling out of the ground and jamming the winch.

5. The method of claim 4, further including removing the limiter as the bursting tool exits the ground, and pulling an amount of the new pipe into the pit.

6. A pipe replacement system, comprising:
a bursting tool having a bursting tool diameter;
a boom, having a first end to couple to a winch, and a second end to deploy in a pit;
at least one reaction plate coupled to the second end of the boom;
a first pulley coupled to the second end of the boom, wherein the pulley includes a polymeric bursting tool guide surface having a width, the width substantially matching the bursting tool diameter.

7. The pipe replacement system of claim 6, further including a second pulley located at the first end of the boom.

8. The pipe replacement system of claim 7, wherein the first end of the boom includes a fork to removably couple the first end of the boom from the second pulley.

9. The pipe replacement system of claim 6, wherein the first pulley includes a cable groove in a center of the pulley, within the bursting tool guide surface.

10. The pipe replacement system of claim 6, wherein the first pulley is a single polymer casting.

11. The pipe replacement system of clai whe in the first pulley includes a. metallic pulley with a polymer coating.

12. The pipe replacement system of claim 6, further including a limiter to stop a pipe to be replaced from jamming the winch.

13. The pipe replacement system of claim 12, wherein the limiter is removable from a side surface of the boom.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Compact Portable Cooling Container And Keg Dispenser

Technical Field and Background:
Commercial Kegs: Commercial beer kegs are available in four sizes: Half Barrel, Quarter Barrel, Slim Quarter Barrel and Sixth Barrel. These kegs are also referred to as a Full-Keg, Pony Keg (a shorter version of the full-keg, but same diameter), Slim Quarter and Torpedo Keg (43% narrower than a full-keg but the same height). The approximate full weight and number of drinks in each are as follows: Half Barrel: 160 pounds/165.33-12 oz. drinks Quarter Barrel/Slim Quarter: 90 pounds/82-12 oz. drinks Sixth Barrel: 55 pounds/56-12 oz. drinks (60 cans of beer) The majority of commercial beer kegs sold each year are half barrels. However, the sixth barrel keg is becoming the choice for many establishments, breweries and consumers that wish to use kegs smaller than a half barrel. The small footprint of a sixth barrel allows retailers to have a greater variety of beer in a small space. For the consumer, at approximately 34% the weight of a half-barrel, the sixth barrel provides a more convenient way to enjoy keg beer at home. In addition, consumers are finding more reasons to purchase sixth barrels given their smaller quantity of beer. The Influence of Craft Beers: The popularity of the sixth barrel kegs is growing in response to the growth of craft beers. Craft beer generally refers to beer that is brewed using traditional methods, without adjuncts such as rice or corn, and focuses on flavor, creativity and originality rather than mass appeal. In the past decade, craft beers have gained in popularity in the brewing industry. According to the American Brewers Association, total beer sales dropped 1.9% in 2013. However, craft beer sales grew 17.2%. In addition, craft beer's share of the total U.S. beer market in dollars grew to more than 14% in 2013, up from 10% in 2012. Craft beers typically cost much more then mass-produced beers. In addition, studies have shown consumers drink less beer when drinking a craft versus a mass-produced beer due to the often higher alcohol content and fuller body of the craft beer. Due to these facts and its convenient size, establishments and consumers often purchase craft beer in the sixth barrel to avoid the costly impact of the beer going bad before it is consumed. Craft beer breweries have responded by making the majority of craft beers available for purchase in the sixth barrel size. In addition, mass produced breweries are making their more popular brands available in the sixth barrel to compete with the crafts. The convenient size and quantity of beer in the sixth barrel coupled with the craft beer trends are driving a change in the keg marketplace. Today, sixth barrels are more abundant than ever and are generally available at your local liquor store. Home Brewing: According to the American Homebrewers Association, there are an estimated 1.2 million homebrewers in the United States. There are two primary methods for containing home brewed beer, bottles and kegs. The Cornelius keg is designed for the home brewer and is similar in size and shape to the sixth barrel. Storing homebrew in a keg is often preferred due to the ease of kegging beer rather than bottling. Given the popularity and portability of the sixth barrel and Cornelius keg, it stands to reason that an ideal apparatus would be a portable container for storing, cooling and dispensing these type of kegs.

Invention Disclosure:
The present invention is directed to a fully self contained, portable apparatus specifically designed for storing, cooling, transporting both upright or on the side, and dispensing a beverage,

[Assistant]
1. A portable container comprising:
a lower receiver with an internal compartment that has a bottom and substantially circular sidewalls extending from the bottom to a rim at the top of the lower receiver, and a pair of wheels;
a removable lid that frictionally engages the lower receiver;
a handle that is pivotally attached to the lower receiver by an axel, the handle has a down position and an up position, and a hand slot;
wherein the handle has a regulator and a supply of CO2 contained in a component recess in the handle;
locking means for securing the handle to the lower receiver in the down position;
securing means for holding a keg in place in the internal compartment;
a keg tap located in the lower receiver that is removable attached to a keg; and,
a faucet for dispensing a beverage.

2. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the locking means includes:
an extension that protrudes above the rim of the lower receiver with a locking toggle on its distal end that fits through a locking slot in the handle so that the locking toggle can be rotated to lock the handle in the down position.

3. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the securing means includes:
a first substantially circular mating ridge and a second substantially circular mating ridge on the bottom of the internal compartment that are adapted to frictionally mate with a keg to hold it in place; and
a first substantially circular mating recess and a second substantially circular mating recess on the bottom side of the lid that are adapted to frictionally mate with a keg to hold it in place.

4. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the top of the lid has a handle recess extending from the back of the lid adjacent to the handle axel to the front of the lid adjacent to an extension that protrudes above the rim; and,
the handle frictionally engages the handle recess when the handle is in the down position.

5. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the handle is attached to the lower receiver substantially opposite the pair of wheels.

6. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the lower receiver has an upper band and a lower band, the pair of bands extending around the exterior circumference of the lower receiver; and,
a message area extending around the exterior circumference of the lower receiver in between the upper band and the lower band, wherein the surface of the message area is adaptive to receiving a message, theme, or advertisement.

7. A portable container according to claim 1 further comprising:
a badge button on the exterior of the lower receiver that is adapted to receive a badge.

8. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the lid has faucet recess to accommodate the faucet when the handle is in the down position.

9. A portable container according to claim 1 wherein the lower receiver and the lid are insulated to maintain a temperature differential between the temperature of the interior compartment and the external ambient temperature.

10. A portable container comprising:
a lower receiver with an internal compartment that has a bottom and substantially circular sidewalls extending from the bottom to a rim at the top of the lower receiver, and a pair of wheels;
a removable lid that frictionally engages the lower receiver;
a handle that is pivotally attached to the lower receiver by an axel, the handle has a down position and an up position, and a hand slot; and,
locking means for securing the handle to the lower receiver in the down position;
a regulator and a supply of CO2 contained in a component recess in the handle;
a keg tap located in the lower receiver that is removable attached to a keg; and,
a faucet for dispensing a beverage.

11. A portable container according to claim 10 wherein the locking means includes:
an extension that protrudes above the rim of the lower receiver with a locking toggle on its distal end that fits through a locking slot in the handle so that the locking toggle can be rotated to lock the handle in the down position.

12. A portable container comprising:
a lower receiver with an internal compartment that has a bottom and substantially circular sidewalls extending from the bottom to a rim at the top of the lower receiver, and a pair of wheels;
a removable lid that frictionally engages the lower receiver;
a handle that is pivotally attached to the lower receiver by an axel, the handle has a down position and an up position, and a hand slot;
an extension that protrudes above the rim of the lower receiver with a locking toggle on its distal end that fits through a locking slot in the handle so that the locking toggle can be rotated to lock the handle in the down position;
a first substantially circular mating ridge and a second substantially circular mating ridge on the bottom of the internal compartment that are adapted to frictionally mate with a keg to hold it in place; and
a first substantially circular mating recess and a second substantially circular mating recess on the bottom side of the lid that are adapted to frictionally mate with a keg to hold it in place;
a regulator and a supply of CO2 contained in a component recess in the handle;
a keg tap located in the lower receiver that is removable attached to a keg; and,
a faucet for dispensing a beverage.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Method And Apparatus For Processing Nas Signaling Request In Wireless Communication System

Technical Field and Background:
NAS corresponds to the highest stratum of a control plane between user equipment (UE) and a network node (e.g. mobility management entity (MME)) in a wireless communication system. NAS protocols include protocols for mobility management (NN) and session management (SM) between the UE and MME. For example, evolved packet system (EPS) MMM (EMM) protocol can provide procedures for controlling UE mobility and security of NAS protocols. EPS SM (ESM) protocol can include a procedure of processing EPS bearer context and can be used for bearer control provided by an access stratum (AS) and user plane bearer control.

Invention Disclosure:
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and an apparatus for processing a NAS signaling request. A method for performing a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling process by means of a terminal in a wireless communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of receiving a first message that includes information indicating a network failure from a network node of a first network; a step of starting a timer relating to a network selection; and a step of selecting a second network from among network candidates excluding the first network during the operation of the timer relating to a network selection.

[Assistant]
1. A method for performing a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling procedure by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the method comprising:
receiving, by the UE, a first message including information indicating network failure from a network node of a first network, wherein a radio access technology (RAT) of the first network is LTE;
starting, by the UE, a network selection related timer; and
selecting, by the UE, a second network from among network candidates while the network selection related timer is running, wherein at least one of the network candidates includes an LTE RAT, and wherein the network candidates are other than a network that corresponds to a same combination of a radio access technology (RAT) and a public land mobile network (PLMN) of the first network.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second network is:
a same PLMN as the first network and using a different RAT from the first network,
a different PLMN from the first network and using a same RAT as the first network, or
a different PLMN from the first network and using a different RAT as the first network.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising transmitting, to the network node of the first network, a second message for requesting of the NAS signaling procedure.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the first message is a rejection message indicating that the NAS signaling procedure requested through the second message is not granted by a network.

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein the second message corresponds to one of an attach request message, a tracking area update (TAU) request message, a routing area update (RAU) request message, or a service request message.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first message corresponds to one of an attach reject message, a TAU reject message, an RAU reject message, or a service reject message.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising setting an attempt counter to an upper bound thereof when the first message corresponds to one of the attach reject message, the TAU reject message, or the RAU reject message.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein a value of the upper bound is 5.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein an update status of the UE is set to NOT UPDATED.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a globally unique temporary identifier (GUTI), a last visited registered tracking area identity (TAI), key set identifier (KSI) information, or a list of equivalent PLMNs is deleted.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the UE is set to EMM-DEREGISTERED.PLMN-SEARCH state.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein, when the UE supports a A/Gb mode or an Iu mode, at least one of a packet temporary mobile subscriber identity (P-TMSI), a P-TMSI signature, a routing area identity (RAI), or a general packet radio service (GPRS) ciphering key sequence number is deleted.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the network node is a mobile management entity (MME).

14. A user equipment (UE) configured to perform a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling procedure in a wireless communication system, comprising:
a transmission and reception module; and
a processor,
wherein the processor is configured to:
receive a first message including information indicating network failure from a network node of a first network via the transmission and reception module, wherein a radio access technology (RAT) of the first network is LTE;
start a network selection related timer; and
select a second network from among network candidates while the network selection related timer is running, wherein at least one of the network candidates includes an LTE RAT, and wherein the network candidates are other than a network that corresponds to a same combination of a radio access technology (RAT) and a public land mobile network (PLMN) of the first network.

15. The user equipment (UE) of claim 14, wherein a RAT of the second network is LTE.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein a RAT of the second network is LTE.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Detecting Fraudulent Traffic In A Telecommunications System

Technical Field and Background:
As defined herein, fraud encompasses intentional deception made for personal gain or to damage another entity (e.g., a company and/or an individual). Defrauding entities of money or valuables is a common purpose of fraud. An example of fraud in the mobile telecommunications field is subscribers (users) who undertake deception in an attempt to be charged less for services than they should be charged according to their tariffs, which have been agreed with their operator. A specific type of fraud in the mobile telecommunications field occurs in a Policy and Charging Control (PCC) architecture. The PCC architecture permits integration of both policy and charging control. An exemplary architecture that supports PCC functionality is shown in FIG. 1 , which has been taken from Third Generation Partnership Protocol (3GPP) TS 23.203. 3GPP TS 23.203 specifies the PCC functionality for an Evolved 3GPP Packet Switched domain, including both 3GPP accesses and Non-3GPP accesses. 3GPP accesses include for example, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) Radio Access Network (GERAN), Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) and Evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN). Referring to FIG. 1 , a subscription profile repository (SPR) 100 is in electrical communication with a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) 102 via an Sp interface. The PCRF 102 is also in electrical communication with: a bearer binding and event reporting function (BBERF) 104 via an S7x interface; a traffic detection function (TDF) 106 via an Sd interface; a policy and charging enforcement function (PCEF) 108 via a Gx interface; and an application function (AF) 110 via an Rx interface. The PCEF 108 may form part of a gateway 112 . The gateway 112 is in electrical communication with a service data flow based credit control function 114 via a Gv interface. The service data flow based credit control function 114 forms part of an online charging system (OCS) 116 . The gateway 112 is in electrical communication with an offline charging system (OFCS) 118 via a Gz interface. To aid description of the methods and apparatus disclosed herein, certain features of FIG. 1 are discussed below. The PCRF 102 is a functional element that performs policy control decision and flow based charging control. The PCRF 102 provides network control regarding service data flow detection, gating, quality of service and flow based charging (except credit management) towards the PCEF 108 The PCEF 108 provides service data flow detection, policy enforcement and flow based charging functionalities. Deep packet inspection (DPI) functionality embedded in the PCEF 108 supports packet inspection and service classification, which may be undertaken on Internet protocol (IP) packets classified according to a configured tree of rules so that they are assigned to a particular service session The TDF 106 may be a stand-alone function or may be collocated with the PCEF 108 . The DPI functionality may complementary or alternatively be embedded in the TDF. The reader is directed to 3GPP TR 23.813 for further details The Sd reference point (or interface) is defined in 3GPP TS 29.212 and lies between the PCRF 102 and a standalone TDF 106 The Gx reference point is defined in 3GPP TS 29.212 and lies between the PCRF 102 and the PCEF 108 The Gy reference point is defined in 3GPP TS 32.299 and lies between the PCEF 108 and the OCS 116 The SPR logical entity contains all subscriber/subscription related information needed by the PCRF 102 for subscription-based policies and IP connectivity access network (CAN) bearer level PCC rules Online charging solutions based on a PCC architecture such as that shown in FIG. 1 charge for end-user traffic based on predefined tariffs. Those tariffs are established according to user subscription data and a mobile operator's strategy. Additionally, the mobile operator may apply a service classification to charge each of a plurality of services in a different way. There are a number of software programs that try to commit fraudulent activity by confusing a mobile operator's detection algorithms, which are designed to detect fraudulent user behaviour. The software programs aim to have traffic mistakenly classified as a free service or a cheaper service than it should have been according to a user's tariff. Exemplary software programs may obfuscate original traffic by disguising it as a new type of traffic.

Invention Disclosure:
Methods and apparatus for detecting fraudulent traffic associated with a user of a telecommunications system. A system comprises a monitoring network node comprising a traffic monitor configured to monitor traffic transmitted to or from a user in the telecommunications system, a fraud detector configured to apply to the monitored traffic a fraud profile associated with the user to determine whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, a transmitter configured to transmit data to a receiver of a profiling network node notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic. The profiling network node further comprises a fraud profiler configured to determine an updated fraud profile associated with the user based at least on the received data and a transmitter configured to transmit data identifying the updated fraud profile to one or both of a receiver of a subscription profile repository and a receiver of the monitoring network node.

[Assistant]
1. A monitoring network node for detecting fraudulent traffic in a telecommunications system, the monitoring network node comprising:
one or more processors configured to:
monitor traffic to or from a user in the telecommunications system; and
apply to the monitored traffic a fraud profile associated with the user to determine whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, wherein the fraud profile comprises rules for monitoring the user for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
a transmitter configured to transmit data notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises traffic determined to be fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic; and
a receiver configured to receive data identifying an updated fraud profile for the user, wherein the updated fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
wherein the one or more processors are configured to apply the identified updated fraud profile to detect further fraudulent traffic in monitored traffic transmitted to or from the user.

2. A monitoring network node according to claim 1, wherein the traffic monitor is configured to monitor the traffic based on the fraud profile, and wherein the one or more processors are configured to apply the identified updated fraud profile to monitor further traffic transmitted to or from the user.

3. A monitoring network node according to claim 1, wherein the data notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic further comprises one or more of: a service identifier identifying a service during which monitored traffic is determined to comprise fraudulent traffic and data identifying the user.

4. A monitoring network node according to claim 3, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine the fraud probability based on one or more of: a number of times that the monitored traffic has been identified as comprising fraudulent traffic in a user session; a change in a ratio of free services to chargeable services compared to historical data for the user; a change in a ratio of free services to chargeable services compared to other users.

5. A monitoring network node according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are configured to undertake one or more of the following, based on whether the monitored traffic is determined to comprise fraudulent traffic: drop a service during which monitored traffic is determined to comprise fraudulent traffic; limit the bandwidth of the user; trigger a session disconnection for the user; redirect the user to a fraudulent web portal; obtain a trace of a current service; mark the monitored traffic with a differentiated services code point code identifying that the traffic is fraudulent traffic; write one or more charging data records comprising a fraudulent user field.

6. A monitoring network node according to claim 1, and further configured to undertake the function of a PCEF or a combined PCEF and TDF.

7. A method for detecting fraudulent traffic in a telecommunications system, the method comprising:
monitoring, by one or more processors, traffic to or from a user in the telecommunications system;
determining, by the one or more processors, whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic by applying a fraud profile associated with the user to the monitored traffic, wherein the fraud profile comprises rules for monitoring the user for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
transmitting, by a transmitter, data notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises traffic determined to be fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic;
receiving, by a receiver, data identifying an updated fraud profile associated with the user, wherein the updated fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user; and
applying, by the one or more processors, the identified updated fraud profile to detect further fraudulent traffic transmitted to or from the user.

8. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising computer readable code configured, when read and executed by a computer, to carry out the method according to claim 7.

9. A profiling network node for determining a fraud profile associated with a user of a telecommunications system, the profiling network node comprising:
a receiver configured to receive data notifying whether monitored traffic transmitted to or from a user in the telecommunications system is determined to comprise fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic;
one or more processors configured to determine a fraud profile associated with the user based at least on the received data, wherein the fraud profile is for use detecting further fraudulent traffic and the fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user; and
a transmitter configured to in response to the notification that the user has logged onto the telecommunications system, transmit a request for data identifying the fraud profile associated with the user to a subscription profile repository;
wherein:
the receiver is further configured to receive the data identifying the fraud profile from the subscription profile repository; and
the transmitter is further configured to transmit the data identifying the fraud profile to a monitoring network node.

10. A profiling network node according to claim 9, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to determine the fraud profile based on a previous fraud profile.

11. A profiling network node according to claim 9, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit data identifying the fraud profile to a subscription profile repository for storage.

12. A profiling network node according to claim 9, further configured to undertake the function of a PCRF.

13. A method for determining a fraud profile for a user of a telecommunications system, the method comprising:
receiving, by a receiver, data notifying whether monitored traffic transmitted to or from a user in the telecommunications system is determined to comprise fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic;
determining, by one or more processors, a fraud profile associated with the user based at least on the received data, wherein the fraud profile is for use detecting further fraudulent traffic and the fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
transmitting, in response to the notification that the user has logged onto the telecommunications system, a request for data identifying the fraud profile associated with the user to a subscription profile repository by a transmitter;
receiving, by a receiver, the data identifying the fraud profile from the subscription profile repository; and
transmitting the data identifying the fraud profile to a monitoring network node.

14. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising computer readable code configured, when read and executed by a computer, to carry out the method according to claim 13.

15. A telecommunications system for detecting fraudulent traffic, the system comprising:
a monitoring network node comprising one or more processors configured to monitor traffic transmitted to or from a user in the telecommunications system;
the one or more processors configured to apply to the monitored traffic a fraud profile associated with the user to determine whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, wherein the fraud profile comprises rules for monitoring the user for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
a transmitter configured to transmit data to a receiver of a profiling network node notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic;
wherein the one or more processors are further configured to determine an updated fraud profile associated with the user based at least on the received data, wherein the updated fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user; and
a transmitter configured to transmit data identifying the updated fraud profile to one or both of a receiver of a subscription profile repository and a receiver of the monitoring network node.

16. A telecommunications system according to claim 15, wherein the data identifying the updated fraud profile is transmitted to the subscription profile repository, and wherein the subscription profile repository further comprises a fraud profile data recorder configured to store the received data identifying the updated fraud profile in a memory.

17. A telecommunications system according to claim 15, wherein the receiver of the profiling network node is configured to receive notification from the network monitoring node that a user has logged on to the telecommunications system, and wherein the transmitter of the profiling network node is configured to transmit the data identifying the updated fraud profile associated with the monitoring network node.

18. A telecommunications system according to claim 16, wherein the transmitter of the profiling network node is further configured to transmit a request for data identifying the updated fraud profile associated with the user to the receiver of the subscription profile repository,
wherein the profile data recorder is configured to retrieve the data identifying the updated fraud profile from the memory, the subscription profile repository further comprising a transmitter configured to transmit the retrieved data identifying the updated fraud profile to the receiver of the profiling network node.

19. A method for operating a telecommunications system, the method comprising:
monitoring, by one or more processors of a monitoring network node, traffic transmitted to or from a user in the telecommunications system;
applying, by the one or more processors of the monitoring network node, a fraud profile associated with the user to the monitored traffic to determine whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, wherein the fraud profile comprises rules for monitoring the user for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
transmitting, by a transmitter of the monitoring network node, data to a receiver of a profiling network node notifying whether the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic, the data comprising an indication of a probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic;
determining, by the one or more processors of the profiling network node, an updated fraud profile associated with the user based at least on the received data, wherein the updated fraud profile comprises updated rules for monitoring the user based on the indication of the probability that the monitored traffic comprises fraudulent traffic for fraudulent traffic and/or detecting fraudulent traffic to or from the user;
transmitting, by a transmitter of the profiling network node, the data identifying the updated fraud profile to one or both of a receiver of a subscription profile repository and a receiver of the monitoring network node.

20. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising computer readable code configured, when read and executed by a computer, to carry out the method according to claim 19.


[System] You are an expert US patent attorney. Draft a set of independent and dependent claims based on the provided invention description. Use correct USPTO formatting.

[User]
Title: Brake Assembly

Technical Field and Background:
A variety of braking systems are known and commercially available, and are used on all types of vehicles. For example, caliper brakes utilize opposed brake pads to apply a stopping force to the planar surfaces of a rotating disc. Similarly, drum brakes rely upon brake shoes to apply a stopping force to the interior of a rotating drum. Multi-disc brakes utilize a plurality of alternating stationary and rotating discs that, when compressed together, apply a braking force on a rotating hub or axle. In each case, the brakes must be mounted to the vehicle adjacent to one or several rotating wheels. Small openings near the wheels and the presence of other vehicle components can make mounting the brake in the desired position difficult, and can sometimes restrict the size or type of the brake that may be used on a specific vehicle. Available locations for mounting the brake must also be taken into consideration. In some vehicles the brakes are adapted to be mounted to the axle housing via a mounting flange extending from a distal end of the housing. A rotating hub is typically located outside the axle housing, and the brake must be adapted to apply a stopping force to the rotating hub or a drum that is rotationally secured to the hub. One such axle is the Model 18 axle manufactured by Dana Holding Corporation of Maumee, Ohio. Such a conventional brake and axle assembly is shown in FIG. 1 , and includes an axle A and a rotating hub H positioned on the end of axle A. A drum D is rotationally secured to hub H, and therefore rotates with axle A. A brake B is secured around hub H and includes brake shoes S that, when actuated, apply a braking force to the interior of rotating drum D. An axle housing X is positioned around axle A and includes a flange F at an end thereof adjacent hub H. A plurality of holes extend through flange F and are adapted to receive a plurality of bolts to secure brake B to axle housing X. Brake B includes a stationary plate P having holes that align with the holes through flange F and that acts to secure the brake to the axle housing. Due to the size of flange F, the mounting bolts extending therethrough must include a head having a flat portion Z on an outer radial surface so that the bolt may be fully inserted through the hole in the flange without engaging the axle housing X. Because the bolt cannot rotate within the hole, a nut must be positioned on the interior of brake B to secure the brake to the axle housing. The use of unique bolts to secure brake B to axle housing X increases costs, and also may make finding replacements difficult in some instances. In addition, the inclusion of a nut on the interior of brake B makes mounting or removal of brake B more difficult, and effectively limits the types of brakes that may be used. A wet brake, including lubricating and cooling oil in the interior of the brake, would present significant problems if such a mounting assembly were included. Access to the interior of the brake to allow for mounting or removal of the brake would require that all brake fluid first be drained from the brake. Conventional brake assemblies, as shown in FIG. 1 , also suffer from the disadvantage of not having an effective seal to prevent water and dirt intrusion into the internal braking area. Such a braking assembly includes only one gasket G that is compressed between the stationary plate P and a rotating journal J of the hub H. The gasket G fails to prevent water intrusion into the spline of the wheel hub H. The water that enters the spline of the wheel hub may then travel to the axle bearings in the axle housing. Water intrusion decreases both bearing and brake life. Thus, there is a need for an improved brake assembly that solves one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art.

Invention Disclosure:
A brake assembly adapted to be mounted to the flange of an axle housing. The brake assembly includes a stationary plate having a plurality of threaded holes therein. The brake assembly also includes a mounting sleeve positioned adjacent to the axle housing flange opposite the stationary plate. A plurality of holes are provided through the mounting sleeve and are aligned with the threaded holes in the stationary plate. A bolt is received through each of the holes in the mounting sleeve and the aligned holes in the axle housing flange and the threaded holes in the stationary plate to secure the brake to the axle housing. The mounting sleeve may be provided in two or more separate pieces in order to facilitate installation.

[Assistant]
1. A brake adapted to be mounted to a flange on the wheel end of an axle assembly, the brake comprising a stationary plate, a plurality of holes in said stationary plate, a longitudinally extending mounting sleeve capable of being positioned longitudinally adjacent to the flange of the axle assembly on a side of said flange opposite said stationary plate, a plurality of holes through said mounting sleeve, each of said mounting sleeve holes being capable of aligning with a corresponding hole of said stationary plate holes for receiving a bolt therein, said mounting sleeve having an outer circumferential surface, the entirety of said outer circumferential surface of said mounting sleeve being devoid of contact with another component of the brake.

2. The brake of claim 1, wherein said stationary plate holes are threaded holes extending only partially through said stationary plate.

3. The brake of claim 1, wherein said mounting sleeve is generally annular in shape and includes an interior diameter approximately equal to but slightly larger than an exterior diameter of an axle housing adjacent the flange of the axle assembly.

4. The brake of claim 1, wherein said mounting sleeve is formed from two or more pieces to facilitate installation, wherein each of said pieces includes at least two holes therethrough.

5. The brake of claim 1, further comprising a cover plate that engages said stationary plate to form an inner chamber, and a seal positioned between said cover plate and said stationary plate to form a fluid-tight seal.

6. The brake of claim 5, further comprising a cooling and lubricating fluid within said inner chamber.

7. A brake adapted to be mounted to a flange on the wheel end of an axle assembly, the brake comprising a stationary plate, a plurality of holes in said stationary plate, a longitudinally extending mounting sleeve capable of being positioned longitudinally adjacent to the flange of the axle assembly on a side of said flange opposite said stationary plate, a plurality of holes through said mounting sleeve, each of said mounting sleeve holes being capable of aligning with a corresponding hole of said stationary plate holes for receiving a bolt therein, said mounting sleeve having an outer surface that is not in contact with another component of the brake, said outer surface of said mounting sleeve being devoid of teeth.

8. A brake adapted to be mounted to a flange on the wheel end of an axle assembly, the brake comprising a stationary plate, a plurality of holes in said stationary plate, a longitudinally extending mounting sleeve positioned on a side of said flange opposite said stationary plate, said mounting sleeve being formed from two or more pieces, each piece of said mounting sleeve having two or more holes therein, each of said mounting sleeve piece holes being capable of aligning with a corresponding hole of said stationary plate holes for receiving a bolt therein, each of said bolts including a head displaced from said flange, wherein said stationary plate holes are threaded holes extending only partially through said stationary plate, thereby allowing the brake to be devoid of nuts positioned internally of said stationary plate, said outer surface of said mounting sleeve being devoid of teeth.

9. The brake of claim 8, wherein said mounting sleeve is generally annular in shape and includes an interior diameter approximately equal to but slightly larger than an exterior diameter of an axle housing adjacent the flange of the axle assembly.

10. The brake of claim 8, said mounting sleeve having an outer surface that is devoid of a component positioned laterally adjacent thereto.

11. A brake adapted to be mounted to a flange on the wheel end of an axle assembly and having an outer surface, the brake comprising a stationary plate, a plurality of holes in said stationary plate, a longitudinally extending mounting sleeve positioned on a side opposite said stationary plate, said mounting sleeve being formed from two or more pieces, each piece of said mounting sleeve having two or more holes therein, each of said mounting sleeve piece holes being capable of aligning with a corresponding hole of said stationary plate holes for receiving a bolt therein, said mounting sleeve having an outer surface, the entirety of said outer surface of said mounting sleeve forming at least a part of the outer surface of the brake, said outer surface of said mounting sleeve being devoid of a component positioned laterally adjacent thereto.

12. The brake of claim 11, wherein said stationary plate holes are threaded holes extending only partially through said stationary plate.

13. The brake of claim 11, wherein said mounting sleeve is generally annular in shape and includes an interior diameter approximately equal to but slightly larger than an exterior diameter of an axle housing adjacent the flange of the axle assembly.

14. The brake of claim 11, further comprising a cover plate that engages said stationary plate to form an inner chamber, and a seal positioned between said cover plate and said stationary plate to form a fluid-tight seal.

15. The brake of claim 14, further comprising a cooling and lubricating fluid within said inner chamber.

16. A brake adapted to be mounted to a flange on the wheel end of an axle assembly and having an outer surface, the brake comprising a stationary plate, a plurality of holes in said stationary plate, a longitudinally extending mounting sleeve positioned on a side opposite said stationary plate, said mounting sleeve being formed from two or more pieces, each piece of said mounting sleeve having two or more holes therein, each of said mounting sleeve piece holes being capable of aligning with a corresponding hole of said stationary plate holes for receiving a bolt therein, said mounting sleeve having an outer surface, the entirety of said outer surface of said mounting sleeve forming at least a part of the outer surface of the brake, said outer surface of said mounting sleeve being devoid of teeth.